Obituary: Joseph Della Gioia, Longtime Stratford Firefighter, 84

Joseph J. Della Gioia, age 84 of Stratford, beloved husband of the late Mary Margaret Kelly DellaGioia, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2013 in his home surrounded by his loving family.

Mr. Della Gioia, a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean War, was born in Stratford to the late Antonio and Leanarda (Intonte) DellaGioia and has been a lifelong area resident.

Joe, was a retired Fireman for the Town of Stratford serving for 35 years, and also operated Joe’s Trucking Company. He served as President and Secretary of Stratford Chapter #20 of the Disabled American Veteran’s Association.

Joe was an avid cribbage player, enjoyed many trips to Maine with his brother and cousins and most of all spending time with his family.

Survivors include his devoted children MaryAnn O’Connor and her husband Dennis of Stratford, Joann Gallagher and her husband Andrew of Newtown, Michele Torok and her husband Joseph of Stratford, and Kelly Della Gioia of Bridgeport, seven cherished grandchildren Joseph O’Connor and his wife Irasema, Kevin O’Connor and his wife Nikki, Elizabeth Lalama and her husband Joseph, and Joseph, Mary, Christopher, and Richard Torok, a great-granddaughter Malaya O’Connor, a brother Michael Della Gioia and his wife June of Milford, and several nieces and nephews.

Joe was deeply devoted to his sister-in-law Judy DeSocio, whom he thought of as his daughter. In addition to his beloved wife and parents Joe was pre-deceased by his sisters Laura Cannata and her husband Joe, and Kel Muzyka.

Our family would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the caring staff of Vitas and especially Candace, his nurse. In addition, a special thanks to Barbara and Susan who provided him with loving care and comfort.

Obituary courtesy of Adzima Funeral Home