Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Obituary: Joseph Justiliano - Class of 1935

MADISON - Joseph Justiliano, age 97, passed away on Sunday, March 10, 2013, surrounded by his loving family. Joe was born on Aug. 29, 1915, in Madison, to Maria and Jacob Justiliano. He grew up in the Bush neighborhood in Madison and was always proud of his Sicilian heritage. He was active in sports, playing football, basketball, and ran the mile in track. Joe graduated from Madison Central High in 1935. After graduation, he started his career as a women’s shoe salesman. Joe later enjoyed retirement by traveling to Florida. Joe was a member of St. Peter Parish in Madison. Also, a member of the Elks Club, The East Side Club, Moose Club, and the Italian Workman’s Club. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Irene (Poloni) on June 22, 1940, who gave him three beautiful children, Veronica, Jo Ann, and Joe. He is survived by his children, Jo Ann Suchomel (Ron) of Sun Prairie, and Joe Justiliano (Pat) of Oconomowoc. His grandchildren, Brian Suchomel, Eric (Lisa) Suchomel, Brenda (Rick) Hansen, Mike Justiliano, and Julie Justiliano. And great-grandchildren, Dylan, Tyler, Zack, Caden, Maddie, and Halle. He was preceded in death by his wife, Irene, in 1984; infant daughter, Veronica; mother and father, Maria and Jacob Justiliano; and siblings, Mary, Vito, Nick and Ann. Also, his Poloni family, who meant so much to him. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 16, 2013, at ST. PETER CATHOLIC CHURCH, 5001 North Sherman Ave., with Msgr. Charles Schluter presiding. Burial will follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass at the church on Saturday. Even into his 90s, Joe remained active, always finding time to take his hikes. We know he is at peace and is finally reunited with his love, Irene, after hiking the last 29 years without her. A special thanks to Roxy, Cheryl and the staff at Harmony Living Center in Sun Prairie for all their love and support, and to Agrace Hospice for making his last weeks so comfortable.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on March 13, 2013. Submitted by Sandra Sabroff Weber.

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