Joseph Stagliano

Double Purple Heart Recipient (U.S. Army) Joseph A. "Joe" Stagliano of Herkimer, peacefully went to be with the Lord on Sunday morning, January 16, 2005 in his home with his family by his side. He was 88. He was born on May 20, 1917 in Herkimer a son of the late Nicholas and Filomena (Barbuto) Stagliano, was educated in Herkimer schools and lived his entire life in Herkimer. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he enlisted in August of 1943 and served in the European Theatre of Operation until 1945. Throughout his longtime affiliation with the Army, and ever since, Joe was justly proud of his faithful and conscientious service to his country. He reserved a special room in his house to display his hard earned medals which include the American Immigrant Wall of Honor, New York State Wall of Honor Award with one cluster, European-African-Middle Eastern Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. Joe received the bronze star, two Purple Heart's with one Oak Leaf Cluster and Bronze Arrowhead from being wounded twice while serving during World War II. This was the hallmark of his military career. He was honorably discharged on October 9, 1945 holding the rank of Private, First Class. His was affiliated with the following Military Organizations: Herkimer VFW Michael S. Pliseck Post #4915 where he was a charter member, previously served as commander for three years and was a founding member of the committee to erect their building , life member of the Order of the Purple Heart and a life member of the Herkimer American Legion Post #38. Joe was rightfully proud of his dedication to our country. His visit to the World War II Memorial was something he dreamed of doing and his wish was granted last year when his family brought him to the site. Before entering the service, he was employed by Remington Arms, Ilion and was last employed as a cabinet maker for Art Craft Novelty Company which he owned and operated. He was an accomplished woodworker and handy man. In his spare time he enjoyed hunting and fishing and was a very active member of the East Herkimer Fish and Game Club and was a past member of the Herkimer County Volunteer Fireman Association . A man of strong and deep faith he was a member of Sts. Anthony and Joseph Church, Herkimer and counted on religion to get him through the hard times. He celebrated St. Joseph's Day every year by making his famous pasta cecci. A truly loving and lovable man, Joe welcomed people into his life. He extended his affectionate spirit, his concerned attitude and his generous nature to his family members and also to his many friends who were touched by his warm smile, his caring, his compassion and his warmth. While he illuminated the lives of all those who knew him, it was his family members who were the light of his life. His strength of character and his selflessness provided his loved ones with staunch and dependable support throughout the years: he could always be relied upon for help, advice, encouragement and understanding. A part of Joe will live forever with his family and friends through his legacy of love and the inspiration of his values. Survivors include seven loving children, Nicholas Stagliano and wife Deby of Sonora, CA., Alan Martel and wife Jan of Grand Gorge, NY, Joseph Stagliano and wife Gloria of Pleasant Valley, NY, Lynda Tadayeski of Alexandria, LA, JoAnn LaDue and husband Layne of Herkimer, Mary-Pat Varlaro and husband Chris of Blossvale, NY, and Philomena Stagliano and John Piseck of Herkimer, a brother, Sam Stagliano of Clinton, three sisters, Lena Sgroi of Frankfort, Antoinette Stasilli Sr., and husband Nick of Herkimer and Patricia Madison and husband John of Ilion; thirteen cherished grandchildren, Shari, Jules, Scott, Nicholette, Shannon, Mark, Shawn, Jennifer, Brianne, J.C. (John), Michael, Andria and Dane, three adored great grandchildren, M.J. (Mark), Toby and Erin; many nieces, nephews and cousins. Also surviving are many friends including his companion Joan Ratajczak, John Piseck, Tony and Jacki Annotto. He was predeceased by a sister, Mary Barberio, a brother Joe Stagliano, a sister in law, Dolores Stagliano and a brother in law, Carl Sgroi of Frankfort. The family will be present to receive relatives and friends in the Holleran-Enea Funeral Home, 220 N. Washington St., Herkimer, on Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2005 from 4-8 p.m. Joe's funeral will commence at 8:30 am on Wed, Jan. 19, from the chapel of the funeral home where prayer will be offered. Funeral procession will follow to Sts. Anthony and Joseph Church, South Main Street, Herkimer where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 am by the Rev. Anthony Ligato, pastor. Following the Mass full military honors will be accorded. He will be laid to rest next spring in Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of floral offerings, kindly consider memorial offerings to the World War II Memorial Trip Fund. Donations may be made at the funeral home and envelopes are also available. The family offers their heartfelt thanks to Little Falls Hospital and Syracuse Veteran's Hospital and all his close friends and lifelong neighbors. For directions to the funeral home, click the facilities link above.