Joseph "Joe" Lewis

Mr. Joseph G. "Joe" Lewis, age 72, of Whitesboro, passed away on Tuesday January 20, 2015 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer and the love of his family that gave him the incredible will to live.

He was born on November 6, 1942 in Lebanon a son of the late George and Nebeha Zeina Lewis. He came to the United States at the age of 9 years old and attended Utica Schools. On October 24, 1982 he was joined in marriage to Linda Rocco, and they shared their life together for 32 years.

Joe was a butcher by trade, employed by the Utica Veal Co. from 1962-1993 for the Broccolis. From 1973-2012, he worked at the Vista Bowling Lanes for John Leogrande and Mel Allen. He also worked at Gold Medal Packing for Joe Rocco, then at New York Custom Processing for Joe Rocco, Jr., until he became ill in 2011. He also spent time bartending at Michael T's Restaurant and enjoyed every minute of it.

Surviving are his beloved wife, Linda, and their children Laurie and Patrick Maglione of Syracuse, Richard and Michelle Lewis of FL, Ronald and Stacie Ricci of Vernon, Bryan and Shawna Ricci of Whitesboro; beloved grandchildren, Kayla Gerstner, Bryan Ricci, Jr., & Cortnee Howe, Joshua Ricci, Brianna Maglione, Alyssa Maglione, Gabriella Ricci, Bianca Ricci, Dylan Lewis, Isabella, Chloe and Ashton Ricci; beloved great-grandchildren , Arianna and Bella Gerstner and one on the way; two sisters, Georgette Nehme and Rosie Lewis; one brother and sister-in-law, Charles and Sharon Lewis; his mother-in-law, Mary Rocco; in-laws, Janice Rocco and Lynde Schultz, Anthony and Lorraine Rocco, Sandra and Robert DePerna, and Robert and Mary Kennedy; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Anthony (Tony) Lewis, his sister Leona Lewis and his father-in-law Anthony Rocco Sr.

Joe loved to hunt and fish. He especially loved to play poker and relax and have a few cocktails. But most of all he loved his family. He was the most patient, loving and wonderful man that lived. He was the best grandfather, father, and husband anyone could ask for.

Our family wishes to thank Dr. Brownstein, for always calling and caring so much. The nurses and staff at St. Luke's Hospital, Dr. Butala and the nurses in chemotherapy, the wonderful nurses of Hospice, especially Irene for her compassion. Also, a special Thank You to Joe's loyal friends, Mel Allen and Barb, Bob Smith, Marilyn LaBarbara, John Davis, The Curtain Brothers and especially Scott Augustine and everyone who went to the Vista. We can't forget his best friend and brother-in-law Bob Kennedy.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral services on Friday morning 10:00 a.m. in St. LouisGonzagaChurch, where the Divine Liturgy of the Faithful Departed will be celebrated by The Very Rev. Chorbishop John Faris. Private interment will be in CalvaryCemetery.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday (today) from 4 to 7 p.m. at The Scala & Roefaro Funeral Home Inc 1122 Culver Ave. The Prayer of Incense will be at 6:30 pm.

Service

Friday, January 23 2015