On January 7, 2022, Joseph Angelo Federico, 97, passed away at his home…surrounded by his loving family…in his favorite chair…just as he wanted. The song “My Way” comes to mind when looking back on the life…and death of a man who truly did just that.
He leaves behind two sisters, Virginia R. Federico of North Tonawanda, NY and Camille (Anthony) Steeb of Depew, NY, two beloved sons, Carmelo “Mel” (Sandra) of Springfield, and Paul (Susan) of Agawam, seven cherished grandchildren, David (Stephanie) of Agawam, Michael (Amy) of Endwell, NY, Corey (Megan) of Dover, PA, Casey (Caitlyn) of Suffield, CT, and Paul-Michael, Dina & Joseph Federico, and six adored great-grandchildren, Brayden, Alexi, Hunter, Declan, Harper & Luca.
Joe was predeceased by his beloved wife, Marie “Mary” (Serafino), daughter, Diane, parents Carmelo (Rose Coppola), brother, Frank, and three sisters & their husbands, Sara & Joseph Devaney, Rose & Jack Heinen, & Josephine & Salvatore Maiore.
Born in Depew, NY, Joe proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II on the U.S.S. PC791, attended Springfield College, and remained as a resident of the city, working as a Lieutenant with the City of Springfield’s Fire Department until his retirement thirty years later.
That was his job, but his passion, his true calling in life, was to serve as coach to hundreds of youths throughout his life. Whether it was his beginnings at the South End Community Center, The Boys & Girls Club, Palmer High School, Cathedral High School or countless tournaments. Joe’s philosophy never wavered; he worked tirelessly to give of his time, expertise, passion and life experiences to every single player that crossed his path. These were “Joe’s kids” no matter where they came from. He erased barriers because he didn’t see them. His hope for these young people was for them to hone their skills, learn about the game and how to be a teammate, but most importantly to work hard to get a good education so they would grow into men of character and carry with them, on their journey, strong life messages and warm memories of their time with him as family members.
Joe has been recognized and honored over the years by the South End Community Center, and as the first inductee into the Springfield Boys & Girls Club’s, “Reach for the Stars,” and awarded the Heroes Award by the Buoniconti Foundation.
If one can measure the success of a man by his accomplishments and kindnesses bestowed to others, then Joe Federico left us as the richest man in the world!
All services and burial, with full military honors, will be private at the request of the family.
Memorial contributions may be made to the South End Community Center, 99 Marble St., Springfield, MA 01105, or the Springfield Boys & Girls Club, 481 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104.
Please visit www.TazziniFuneralHome.com for condolences.