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Joseph Bellantoni, a lifelong resident of Port Chester, NY, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. He was 96 years old. Born on August 12, 1928, to Nicola and Francis Bellantoni, Joseph was one of seven children, growing up alongside six brothers.
Affectionately known as "Jo Jo," he was a skilled mechanic, serving the Port Chester Police Department in that capacity. A dedicated member of the community, he also volunteered as an auxiliary officer for the Village of Port Chester for many years. His talent for fixing anything mechanical was remarkable, and his love for his family was paramount.
In his late teens, Joseph met the love of his life, Mary. Their bond was immediate and enduring, leading to a beautiful marriage and the creation of a close-knit family. Together, they raised four daughters: Francine, Sandi, JoAnn, and Marie. Joseph cherished his time with his daughters and was a devoted grandfather to eight grandchildren. He also leaves behind nine great-grandchildren, who brought him immense joy.
Joseph was a man of many passions. In his youth, he was a formidable football player, earning the nickname "Crazy Legs" for his exceptional speed and agility as a running back. His Italian heritage was a source of pride, particularly when it came to his culinary traditions. He was famously particular about his pasta and took great pleasure in preparing his signature sauce every Sunday, a ritual that brought his family together.
Joseph was predeceased by his beloved wife, Mary Bellantoni, his daughters Joann Pecora and Marie Gonzalez, his grandson Robert Vilato, and his brothers John Bellantoni, Alfio Bellantoni, Frank Bellantoni, Alfred Bellantoni, and Louis Bellantoni, as well as his sister, Maria Bellantoni.
He is survived by his daughters, Francine Vilato (Robert) and Sandi Barcia (Pete), his seven grandchildren, Patrice Arita (Sean), Alison Arita (Pat), Peter Barcia (Aileen), Michael Vilato (Kim), Amanda Gonzalez, Gina Caraballosa (Justin), and Lauren Greco (Chris), and nine great-grandchildren.
Joseph's warmth, his dedication to his community, and his unwavering love for his family will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 9:30AM on Monday February 24, 2025 at Our Lady of Mercy Church 260 Westchester Ave. Port Chester, NY. Interment to follow at Saint Mary's Cemetery Rye Brook, NY
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph J. Bellantoni, please visit our floral store.