Joseph Francis Falco

Joseph Francis Falco Mar 19, 1924 - May 21, 2013 Resident of Aptos "He Made a Difference" Born in Worchester, Mass. to Italian immigrants from Calabria, Joe was the fourth of eight siblings. From an early age he exhibited exceptional physical strength and willpower. He was the first of his family to complete high school, then he made sure that his younger siblings -- Fred, Eleanor, Jeanie, and Tony-all had the same opportunity. While Joe was serving in World Was II his family relocated to Fresno, CA. After discharge he found employment in Fresno working the evening shift at the Juvenile Detention Center, which allowed him to study math at Fresno State by day. He met and married Barbara Jarvis during this time and they had three wonderful children-- David, Christina, and Michael. In 1968 Joe and Barbara who had both been teaching in Fresno were able to relocate the family to Santa Cruz County, with teaching jobs in Watsonville. In his career caring for the juvenile detainees and also later as a teacher Joe was noted for standing up to bullies, and also for protecting and encouraging the vulnerable. While teaching math he always strongly emphasized the importance of education and that math is not just for academics but a necessary task for all to address. Later he often ran into former students who thanked Mr. Falco for greatly improving their school focus and effort. He did make a difference! Many will miss his large arsenal of jokes and stories. A celebration of his life will be scheduled in the future to share stories and photos of Joe.