Obituary of Joseph J. Napolitano

Joseph J. Napolitano Thompson Ridge, NY Joseph J. Napolitano, a longtime resident of the area passed away at his home with his family by his side on Thursday December 31, 2009. He was 89. The son of the late Victor Napolitano and Loretta Peteo Napolitano, he was born on November 7, 1920 in Ulsterville, NY. Joe was a lifetime member of the Middletown ELKS B.P.O.E #1097, and one of the founding members of the Glen Spey Rod and Gun Club. Joe was also dedicated to work as well as his family. He loved the outdoors and could always be found building something in his garage. He served proudly in the US Merchant Marines Corp, and started his own business, Napolitano Construction, shortly after his discharge, and after 51 years is still proudly operated by his son. He never gave less than 100% in anything he did. He will be sadly missed, but never forgotten. Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Minnie Romer Napolitano at home, his children, Sheri Lynn Lewis and her husband Randy of Wurtsboro, Joseph Napolitano and his wife Susan of Thompson Ridge, his grandchildren, Melissa Lewis of Albany, Steven Napolitano and his finance, Syrmo Papadakis of Thompson Ridge, Andrea Napolitano, and Caitlin Napolitano also of Thompson Ridge, and his beloved dog Ali. He is also survived by his brothers, Saverio and Samuel Napolitano and many nieces and nephews. Joe is predeceased by his siblings, John, Paul, and Johanna Napolitano, Mary Glorioso, Dorothy Zazersky, Nicholas and Veto Napolitano, and Rose Kaelber. The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Dr. Robert Dinsmore and his dedicated staff at Crystal Run Health Care and to all of the Hospice Nurses and aids that took such special care of Joseph; Colette, Amanda and Christina and special family friends, Mildred Ordway, Bunny Haskins and Lori Torchio. The family graciously acknowledges the acts of extra care and kindness during this difficult time. Without the special attention of Susan, Joe’s Beloved daughter in law, his time at home with his family would have been nearly impossible. Visitation will take place on Sunday January 3, 2010 from 2-6pm at the William M. Gagan Funeral Home Inc. 1525 Burlingham Road, Pine Bush, NY. A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday January 4, 2010 at 10:00am at the Church of the Infant Saviour with Fr. Kevin Gallagher officiating. Burial will be in New Prospect Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to: Hospice of Orange and Sullivan Counties, Inc. 800 Stony Brook Court, Newburgh, NY 12550. Arrangements entrusted to the William M. Gagan Funeral Home Inc. Pine Bush, NY. www.wmgaganfuneralhome.com