Joseph (Joe) J. Buzzelli, a lifelong resident of Old Forge, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday morning with his loving family by his side. He was 67 years old.
Left behind to cherish memories of him are his beloved wife and the love of his life, Bonnie (Daniels) Buzzelli; sons, Jamie Longhenry and wife Carly of Matamoras and Josh Longhenry and longtime companion Jes of Bedford; his grandchildren, Mason, Chloe and Cooper; his siblings, Jackie Bacon and husband Karl of S.C. and Bill Buzzelli of Old Forge; nieces and nephews; father-in-law Michael Rittle of Old Forge, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law; cousins, and countless friends including his loyal motorcycle-riding and racing buddies.
Son of the late James and Dora (Morisaki) Buzzelli, he was also preceded in death by brothers, Tony and Jimmy, and infant brother Robert.
A graduate of Old Forge High School, Class of 1976, Joe was also a graduate of both Lackawanna College and Johnson School of Technology. He owned and operated a Pepperidge Farm franchise for 37 years prior to his recent retirement.
He dearly loved his precious wife, sons, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family and especially his mother-in-law, the late Michelina “Mickie” Rittle, whom he considered a second mother.
After being given countless model cars by his father as a youngster, Joe developed a lifelong love for both collecting cars (now classics) and the speed of NHRA, and he inherited his kind and gentle spirit from his mother. Joe will be remembered for his tender soul and gentle spirit, as well as his charm, kindness, work ethic, generosity, contagious laughter and endearing smile.
His family would like to acknowledge and thank the entire staff of Great Valley Cardiology as well as Joe’s physician, Dr. Armando Sallavanti, for years of care and genuine compassion and Hospice of the Sacred Heart for helping care for him in his last days.
Blessing services are scheduled for Friday at 6:00 PM in the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 N. Main St., Old Forge. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Friday from 3:00 PM until services.
Saturday’s burial at Old Forge Cemetery will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Joseph’s name to the Hillside Society S.P.C.A. c/o PO Box 233, 51 SPCA Road, Pottsville, PA 17901.
Please visit the funeral home’s website for directions or to leave a condolence.
Print
