Obituary: Joseph Taruska Jr., 72, of Southbury

Information and photo via Carpino Funeral Home

Southbury - Joseph Taruska Jr., 72, passed away unexpectedly surrounded by his family on December 14, 2018 at Waterbury Hospital. He was the beloved husband and best friend of Patricia (Hopkins) Taruska for 52 years.

Joseph was born on November 29, 1946 in Derby, CT and grew up in the neighboring town of Ansonia. Upon graduating from Pine High School, he enlisted in the US Navy and served on the USS Pictor and USS Virgo. He was honorably discharged with the rank of MR3, in addition to the award of Sailor of the Month for his hard work and proficiency. During most of his career he was a truck driver, working for Stone Construction for many years.

Joseph also worked for the Town of Southbury. His passions included the trades of welding, metal fabrication, carpentry, and machinery repair. He was always willing to help those in need with a keen practicality of how to solve problems. He was a dedicated husband and father; extremely proud of the accomplishments of this family, especially of his grandchildren.

In addition to his wife Patricia, he is survived by two sons, Peter Taruska of New Haven and Alexander Taruska of Southbury; his daughter, Diana (Taruska) Robert and her husband, David of Morris; and two grandchildren, Naomi and Jonathan Robert. He is predeceased by his parents, Joseph Taruska Sr. and Anelia (Zdanis) Taruska as well as his brother, John Taruska.

The family would like to thank the staff at Waterbury Hospital ICU for their prompt response of care and concern for Joseph's well-being during his final moments.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, December 20, 2018 at 11:00 AM at Sacred Heart Church in Southbury. Friends are invited to call upon the family at the church on Wednesday, December 19, 2018 from 4-6 PM. Burial with military honors will be at Mt. St. Peters Cemetery in Derby. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made in Joseph's name to Disabled American Veterans Charity. The Carpino Funeral Home, 750 Main St. South has been entrusted with the arrangements. To leave a message of remembrance, please visit www.CarpinoFuneralHome.com.