Joseph Monacelli

Joseph John Monacelli, 87, of South Haven, died Wednesday, September 26 at his son’shome. He was born on October 1, 1924 to Livio and Elizabeth (DiLaura) Monacelli in Albion, New York. Joe served his country during World War II attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant with the 28th Pennsylvania Division serving as a combat infantryman and scout. Joe was captured in 1944, becoming a prisoner of War with eventual liberation in 1945. He was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star. Joe worked as a plant manager at FMC Corporation for 34 years before retiring in 1983. He was a member of St. Basil Church and was active in the Knights of Columbus.
Joe enjoyed bowling, golf and his favorite – playing the lottery! Joe loved his family and by his example set a high standard for his children and grandchildren. He loved being with people and would always ask “is there anything I can get you?” He always put the needs of others before his own.
He is preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Reynold Monacelli, sister, Geraldine Marble and brother-in law, Tom Pahura.
Joe is survived by his wife of 63 years, Arlene; his children; Doug (Vickie) Monacelli, Mark (Geralyn) Monacelli, and Cheryl (Charlie) Hamlin; 2 sisters, Corinne Pahura of Albion, New York and Jean Marie (Harold) Hefke of Clarendon, New York, brother-in law, Les Marble, grandchildren, Michael, Adam, Christopher, Paul (Megan) & Jennifer Monacelli, Justin & Tyler Hamlin and great-grandson Dominic Monacelli, and many nieces and nephews.
Visitation will take place Thursday, October 4, from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home. A scripture service will be held at 7:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, October 5 at 11:00 a.m., St. Basil Catholic Church with Fr. Robert Flickinger officiating. Joe will be laid to rest at Lakeview Cemetery. Memorials can be made to St. Basil Catholic Church or The American Lung Association. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333.