Joseph Martino Pepitone, Sr.

Joseph Martino Pepitone, Sr., our beloved Father and Grandfather, almost 95 years of age, passed away peacefully at his home in Cromwell, CT on Sunday, September 17, 2023. Joe or Joey as he was fondly called, was born in Brooklyn, New York on November 10, 1928 to Salvatore and Lucy Pepitone who both emigrated from Italy. He was predeceased by his three older brothers, Tommy, Anthony and Johnny and younger sister, Kay. His family lived through the difficulties of WWII where his brothers fought in multiple battles in Europe and the Pacific. Not being able to serve in the war because he was the fourth son, Joe spent his time on the streets of Brooklyn, playing sports, boxing, and the story told is that he was anywhere trouble could be found. His experiences taught him to be tough, a survivor and a faithful watchdog over his family. He always desired a better life for himself and his family. He completed classes at a fine arts school (Mechanics Institute in NYC) where he earned a degree in Jewelry Designing. Joe was predeceased earlier this year by his loving wife Elba (‘‘Ellie’’) of 72 years whom he met while working at a jewelry factory. Their marriage started in Brooklyn, NY, then they moved to North Babylon, NY, before relocating to Madison, Connecticut in 1969 where they raised their four children. Joe established his own jewelry business in Rhode Island and worked endlessly into his late seventies. Always loving sports, Joe was a great athlete, coached many sports teams and played tennis, racquetball, and golf with his kids. Baseball was his favorite sport and his heart was with the Brooklyn Dodgers prior to becoming an avid NY Yankees fan. Joe’s life focused on family and his kids were truly his proudest accomplishment. He strived to steer his children to opportunities for education and what he referred to as “a better life.” He was a fun Dad, always up for an adventure, but without a doubt, very strict and demanding of his kids. We are grateful for this – because he instilled into his children kindness, confidence, discipline, work ethic and the incredible meaning of family value. He loved to cook and especially eat, which stemming from his Italian roots was a crucial element in life. He also loved and adored his nine grandchildren and was always in attendance at their sporting events, graduations, and birthday parties. He was constantly telling funny stories, half true and half maybe not so true, but he liked to joke and laugh and have fun. We will cherish our memories of him always and he will forever be in our hearts. Rest in peace our dearest Dad, Grandpa and Papa. We thank you for giving us life, for showing us respect, confidence, a sense of humor, the incredible value of family and the love of food! You will be forever missed! Joe is survived by his children, Denise Sweeney (Tom), JoAnn Quinn (Darren), Joseph Pepitone Jr. (Christine), and his daughter-in-law, Silvana Pepitone (Salvatore); and he is predeceased by his loving and devoted wife, Elba Pepitone and his son, Salvatore Pepitone. He is also survived by his 9 grandchildren, Cara Benham ( Jeffrey), Sean Sweeney (Kristin), Darren Quinn, Jr., Ryan Quinn, Kerriann Quinn, Julia Pepitone, Victoria Pepitone, Joseph Pepitone, and Sofia Pepitone. Joe was blessed with his loving caretaker Caroll, whom he loved and relied on every day for the last two years until his passing. A memorial mass to celebrate his life and love will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 30, 2023, at St. Johns Church, 5 St. Johns Court, Cromwell, CT 06416, followed by a burial at St. Sebastian Cemetery in Middlefield, CT. In lieu of flowers, a donation in the memory of Joseph M. Pepitone, Sr. can be sent to the wonderful hospice care network of Amedisys Foundation, 111 Founders Plaza, Suite 1803, East Hartford, CT 06108. To share memories or express condolences online, please visit www. biegafuneralhome.com.