Joseph Vito Colarusso, a man known for his quick wit, resourceful nature, and deep love for life, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2025, in Reading, PA, at the age of 93, due to heart failure. Born on July 8th, 1931, Joe's journey took him from his roots in Pittston, PA, to adventures across the world and a fulfilling retirement in Florida, leaving a trail of cherished memories.
Born on July, 8th 1931, he was the eldest of the three children born to Patrick and Lena (Forlenza) Colarusso. As a graduate of Pittston Area High School's class of 1949, he played the saxophone and clarinet in a local band. He joined the Navy in 1951 and served his country proudly during the Korean War. Following his service, he graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Electrical Engineering. Joe enjoyed a long, successful career at RCA, where he traveled extensively throughout Asia.
He wed Graceann Ardoline on May 28th 1960 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church where they were active members. He retired with his wife to Heritage Palms Golf and Country Club in Ft. Myers, Florida. During his 30 plus years of retirement, he deeply cherished his friendships and family in FLA and PA. He enjoyed golf, reading, working out, traveling, and just about any game of cards.
He is survived by his three children Amy (Allentown, PA) and Scott Dietrich, Patrick and wife Casey (Reading, PA) and Joseph and wife Kathy (Encinitas, CA). Also surviving is Joe's brother-in-law Charles Scarantino (Raleigh, NC). Joe was a close friend and source of wisdom to his 4 grandchildren - Brandon, Kira, Siena and Tarah.
Joe was preceded by his parents and sisters Phyllis Manganello and Mary Rita Scarantino, as well as his brother-in-law John Manganello.
Joe will be remembered as a fun-loving, wise, caring, man who truly loved his friends, family and country. His warmth, humor, and insightful nature will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Visitation will be held on Friday, April 4, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM with a Mass of Christian Burial to begin at 11:00 AM at Church of St. Benedict, 2020 Chestnut Hill Rd., Mohnton, PA 19540. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of Joe and Graceann's favorite charities: School Sisters of Notre Dame, 6401 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21212. Attn: Sister Mary Lennon. Lutz Funeral Home, Inc., 2100 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading, PA 19606. For online condolences, please visit www.LutzFuneralHome.com
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Joseph Vito Colarusso, please visit our flower store.Church of St. Benedict
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