Joseph D. Cicero

CICERO - Joseph D., 90, Columbus Avenue, Cresson, passed away peacefully November 3, 2021, at the home of his son Joe Jr., surrounded by family. Born July 3, 1931, in Sankertown, son of the late Domenick and Anna (Bernard) Cicero. Preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, June (McClure) on June 21, 2004, and brothers, Angelo, John, and Jim. Survived by children, Carol, Denver Co. ; Joseph (Mary Greevey), Gallitzin; Richard (Catherine Penrod), Portage; Karen (Michael Calandra), Indiana Township; Roger (Terry Rotter), Perkasie PA; and Jayne (Fred Baldwin), Blacksburg Va.; and grandchildren, Ryan Cicero, Caleigh Williams, Rae Chele (Kelly) Latterner, Michele (Rob) Smith, Josh (Jill) Cicero, Danielle (Joe) Stanley, Nicole (James) ltle, Matthew (Keziah) Cicero, Anthony and Stephanie Cicero, Christina (Shane) Companey and Mark Calandra; eleven great-grandchildren; brother Phil (Norma) and sister- in- law Florence (Tom) Mack. Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Joe was a US Army Veteran of the Korean War and life member of San Pietro di Roma Society Cresson, aka The Italian Club, where he served as Secretary and Treasurer. While those positions were important, it's the one he held on Sunday mornings for over 50 years that he will be most remembered, bartender or "Father Joe" as his loyal customers referred to him.

Joe was also a member of Sankertown VFW 7377, Cresson American Legion 238, Cresson Sportsman's Club, Cresson Senior Citizens and St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. He served as an usher for the right aisle of the church where he might have 'accidentally' bumped you with the collection basket as he passed by you.

Joe was employed as a Pressman at Butterick and retired in 1991 after thirty years of service. In retirement he volunteered at the Altoona Hospital. He enjoyed watching sports on TV, fishing, woodworking, watching his grandchildren play sports and playing Cinch on Wednesdays at the VFW. Joe was a devoted and loving husband, father, Pap Pap, and a friend to many. He will be greatly missed.

Friends received from 4Pm to 8PM Sunday November 7. at Gibbons Funeral Home, 301 Church Street, Gallitzin where a vigil service will be held Sunday.                                                                                                                                                                                                                           Funeral mass will be con-celebrated Monday November 8, at 11 AM St. Francis Xavier Church Rev. Aron  Maghsoudi and Rev. Leo Arnone Celebrant. Interment St. Francis Xavier Cemetery. Military Honors provided by Sankertown VFW, Cresson American Legion and other local military organizations.

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