​Joseph Frank Uva, “Sonny”, 89

Joseph Frank Uva, “Sonny”, 89, of Milford, beloved husband of Joan Biondino Smeland- Uva, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2023. Born on January 19, 1934 in Stamford, Connecticut, he was the son of the late Antoniette (Frattaroli) Uva and Canio Uva.

Joe was a graduate of Wright Technical High School Automotive Department Class of 1952, upon graduation Joe entered the U. S. Army and was a Veteran of the Korean War. Joe’s journey then led him into driving a truck for various transportation companies before settling on Vallerie Transportation. When Vallerie’s Transportation closed, Joe went to work at B & S Carting company doing various jobs, until retiring at age 84. Joe was a member of Teamsters Local 191 and served on the Board of the Local 191 Retirees for many years.

Joe enjoyed working, playing bocce, golf, and entering the pickleball world after retiring. The family UNO games on every holiday with his grandchildren were truly full of laughter and fun. Joe loved spending time with family and friends in North Myrtle Beach, SC. Even being recognized as Tony Bennett look-alike from his North Myrtle Beach Pickleball friends. Joe really enjoyed the dinners and wineries with his wonderful and caring cousins and friends. The time spent playing cards and concerts at Walnut Beach with friends are among the fun times. Let’s not forget his love for shopping.

A simple, kind, and generous man, he was a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and husband. Predeceased by his daughter, Sharon (Uva) Clark, siblings, Yolonda Ambrosecchio and Nicholas Uva. Joe is survived by his wife, stepchildren Joan M. Smeland and Richard P. Smeland, Jr. His pride and joys, three grandchildren, Tricia (Adam) Breen of Colorado, Alysse Smeland of Rhode Island, and Nicholas (fiancé Nicole) Smeland of South Carolina and great-grandson, Lando Breen. Numerous beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. Predeceased by his beloved pets, Goldie, Jake, Lucky, and Mama cat. In lieu of flowers a memorial donation can be made to St. Jude’s Childrens Hospital or CT Humane Society.

A funeral home service will be celebrated on Monday April 17, 2023 at 12:00 p.m., at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 BROAD ST., MILFORD, CT Interment will follow at Kings Highway Cemetery. 271 Cherry Street, Milford, CT. Friends and family may call from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 BROAD ST., MILFORD, CT.