Obituary of Joseph Martino

Joseph Martino, 92, of Westerleigh, a dear husband, father and grandfather, passed away on February 1, 2021. Joseph was born in Monacilioni (Campobasso), Italy and emigrated to the United States in 1952. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 69 years, Benedetta Martino. Joseph retired from the MTA as a bus mechanic in 1983, and then enjoyed many years of travel along with his wife, Benedetta, spending summers at their house in their hometown in Italy. He and Benedetta also enjoyed traveling with their children, son in law and granddaughter to many destinations. Joseph enjoyed playing bocce and competed in many tournaments over the years, and even won several trophies in the sport. He had a passion for opera and even had the privilege of meeting Andrea Bocelli at the Metropolitan Opera House for his 90th birthday. Family was everything to Joseph, and he will forever be known for his incredible sense of humor and gift of storytelling. He was very proud of his Italian heritage and instilled that same pride in his children. He especially enjoyed telling stories from his youth and growing up during WWII. Joseph dedicated time to raising funds for the patron saint of Monacilioni, Italy -Saint Benedetta. He was known to all his neighbors for tinkering outside and in his garage on all his latest projects. Joseph was a devoted father to his daughters Anne Marie Martino and Joanne Buscemi, as well as his son in law, Peter. The bright light in his life was his granddaughter, Angela, with whom he had a special bond. Joseph was loved and adored by his family and friends and will be forever missed and remain in the hearts of his loved ones. Funeral from the Matthew Funeral Home Inc., 2508 Victory Blvd. On Saturday, 2/6/2021, departing at 8:45 AM. Funeral Mass will be held in Our Lady of Mount Carmel-St. Benedicta and St. Mary of the Assumption Church at 9:30 AM. Entombment will follow in Moravian Cemetery. Family and friends may visit on Friday, 2/5/2021, from 3:00 to 8:00 PM. Due to the Covid pandemic, visitors to the funeral home must wear a mask and the number of guests allowed in the funeral home will be limited. Social distancing will be enforced for everyone's safety.