Peacefully, on Sunday, September 22, 2024 at the Meadows of Dorchester at the age of 97. Beloved husband to the late Lucy (née Bartolucci, formerly Di Fruscio). Loving Dad to Karen Blackley (John Brown) (the late Keith Blackley). Uncle Gumpy will be fondly remembered by Mary Anne, Teresa, Peter, Francis, Robert and Patrick, and missed by his extended family in Canada, the US and Italy. He is predeceased by his parents Phillip and Rosa (née Fortura) and his siblings Helen (Mike) Zaroda, Frederick (Mary) Gabriele and Anthony “Nanny” Gabriele. Joe was most proud to have been the first letter carrier to deliver door-to-door in Beaverdams, and later to spend most of his career delivering in Thorold South. Upon his retirement, he got to travel with the love of his life, Lucy. Having come into Lucy and Karen’s life, he truly changed their world. According to Joe’s wishes, no formal service will be held, but an open house in honour of a life well lived will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at Overtime Pub 206 Richmond Street, Thorold from 1:00 – 4:00 PM. Donations to Hotel Dieu Shaver and online condolences in Joe’s memory may be left at www.Bocchinfusofh.com.
Special thanks for the care and love shown to Joe by the staff at Cobblestone; cousin Anne and the staff at Hotel Dieu Shaver; Dr. Gerald Kandasamy and nurse Becca.