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Joseph Fanelli Obituary
Joseph Fanelli passed away on December 27th at the age of 99 ½ yrs old. He is survived by his wife of 77 years, Lois Fanelli, 4 sons – Mike (Sue), Pat, Bruce (Meshell), and Nick (Chiaki), 7 grandkids, and 7 great grandkids. Joe was born in East Dayton in 1925 and lived on Suman Ave. for many years. Joe graduated from Stivers High School in 1943. He helped start the Stivers Alumni Association and was inducted into their Hall of Fame in 2015. After high school Joe went directly into the US Navy during WW II and served on the USS Maddox destroyer. He wrote a book about his adventures at sea. Joe went on to serve his community in the Dayton Fire Department for 25 years where he attained the rank of Captain. Joe and his wife Lois were active members of the Sons of Italy Club for over 40 years. His hobbies include woodworking, fishing, nature study and photography. Joe was a member of the Tripod Camera club for over 40 years. He won many awards for his photographs. Joe is probably best remembered for his kindness to other people. He found joy in his many friends and family. Joe continues to serve others by donating his body to Wright State Medical School for education and research. A Celebration of Life gathering is planned for this Spring.
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Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Fanelli
Pamela Geiser (Peaches)
January 23, 2025
Mike, Mrs Fanelli, and brothers~~~~~~
Im sorry for the loss of your father. He was a kind man.
I extend my sincere sympathy.
Brian Blacker
January 10, 2025
I was Joe's computer guy. I kept his computer going for the last few years.. He was a wonderful man, kind and enjoyable to be with......I will miss him....
Edward R. Donovan
January 8, 2025
Mr. Fanelli - what a tremendous person. It's nearly impossible to find someone who is as nice, and such an upright person as Joe. The world was a much better place with Joe. We'll miss him
Nancy Morand-Thurston
January 6, 2025
So sorry to hear of Joe´s passing. WOW, 99 and a half wonderful years! I´m sure he´s fishing with my dad and smoking cigars. Many fond memories of Joe and his family at Camp Marydale and fishing at our house. Love to you, Lois and family.
Connie Crist
January 6, 2025
Mike, So sorry to hear about your father. Prayers for your family during this time.
Rick & Connie Crist
Rosemary Ramsey
January 5, 2025
The world lost a beautiful person when Joe passed. My thoughts to his family. Hope you celebrate his amazing life.
Amy Fox Schalle
January 5, 2025
To the family of Joseph Fanelli,
My family also lived on Suman Ave, and I was friends with Nick while we attended Kemp School. What a life of service Mr. Fanelli had. My sympathies are sent to Nick and his family.
Bobbie Battaglia
January 5, 2025
I always looked forward to talking to Joe at MCL. He was so interesting. He was the only one left that remembers the Stivers that I remember. He will be missed.
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