Obituary: Joseph Mario Cricchi, 86, of Guilford

Obituary courtesy of Guilford Funeral Home:

Wednesday, February 9, 2022 Joseph Mario Cricchi or “One Joe” (as marked on his license plate of his white Thunderbird), longtime resident of Guilford passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by loved ones. Born May 14, 1935 in New Haven to his parents Vincenza (Genovese) Cricchi originally from Naples, Italy and Mario Cricchi originally from Antrodoco, Italy. He leaves behind his sister Vilma (George) Powers, predeceased by his sister Theresa Cricchi. The love of his life, Marion McNally passed away many years ago leaving him to raise 4 boys. He was the beloved father to Richard Cricchi from East Haven and Mark (Katheen) Cricchi from Guilford. Joe also lost two sons way too soon, Joseph Cricchi and Donald Cricchi. He had 7 grandchildren, Erica Cricchi from Guilford, Lisa Cricchi from East Haven, Holly Cricchi from Scotland, Jo-Anne McFadden (Andrew) from Scotland, Kimberly Cricchi from Guilford, Kristopher (Julia) from Guilford, Michael (Carleigh) from Vermont. He also has 5 great grandchildren.

Joe served as a sergeant in the Marines until 1962. He then worked for 3M Corporation for over 35 years. After retirement, he worked in Mark and Kathleen’s deli-Old School House Deli in Madison and then their restaurant in Guilford, Pasta Avest & Pizzeria just for the fun of it. He loved to make customers laugh while whistling show tunes.

Family meant everything to Joe. In his early years as a dad, he coached little league and was the president of the PTA in Foxon. He was often on the sidelines when his sons and grandsons played sports and he was always in the audience when his granddaughters danced. He loved Sunday dinners, trips to NYC for a show, the Disney ride Small World (which he rode countless times) and cruises which took him all around the world.

Friends are invited to calling hours on Wednesday, February 16 from 5 – 8 pm at the Guilford Funeral Home, 115 Church St, Guilford. Funeral Service will be held Thursday, February 17 at 11 a.m. at Guilford Funeral home, 115 Church St, Guilford. Burial with military honors will follow in East Lawn Cemetery, 58 River St, East Haven.