Joseph James Mandina, Sr., 95, of Belleview, FL, passed away on April 1, 2023.
Joe was born in New Brunswick, NJ, on October 1, 1927, to his parents, Paul and Anna Mandina. He graduated from East High School and studied metallurgy at Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, NY. He served in the United States Army, stationed in Korea from 1946 – 1948 as a mechanic. He married the love of his life, Elvira Petito, on August 19, 1950.
Joe had a career in tool and die-making for XEROX Corporation. He was a member of the Kiwanis Club and a leader of the Boy Scouts of America. He had a passion for restoring antique cars and toys, and coaching Pop Warner football.
Joe is survived by three children, Joseph (Jay) Mandina, Jr., Suzanne Payne, and Christine (Tina) Hotchkiss; four grandchildren, Matthew Brule, Rachel Nieto Gallardo, Ashley Kern, and Morgan Antinarelli; a great grandchild, Alexander Joseph Kern; a brother, Sebastian (Paul) Mandina; and family friend, Ronald Permoda.
Joe was predeceased by his parents, Paul and Anna Mandina; a brother, Anton (Micky) Mandina; and a sister, Nina Panipinto-Weber.
Services for Joe will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers please make charitable donations to Hospice of Marion County.