Joseph S. Forte

Joseph S. Forte died Thursday March 17, 2022 in Kingston, New York with his loving family by his side. Born March 26, 1929 in Kingston, he is the son of the late Machileo and Lillian (Turco) Forte. At the age of fifteen Mr. Forte became a member of the New York Guard and after turning sixteen he enlisted in the Army Air Corps during World War II, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and was an instructor for B-25 Gunner's. When it was discovered he was underage, he was discharged and returned home to work various jobs until he turned seventeen and then reenlisted. Mr. Forte auditioned and was accepted for the United States Military Academy Band at West Point. For the following twenty six years, he was a member of the band's "Hellcats" and traveled with the football team and performing other duties with the band. During his time in the service to our country, Mr. Forte competed in many marksmanship competitions in both rifle and pistol. He has won many competitions and received an "Excellence in Competition" Marksmanship Rating, as well as holding certifications for Expert Marksman in rifle, pistol, carbine, and machine gun. Following his retirement, Mr. Forte was actively involved in many local veteran affairs organizations. He held numerous offices in these organizations, and was inducted into the New York State Senate Veteran's Hall of Fame. He performed Taps at countless military services in the Ulster County area, stopping shortly after turning 91. He will be remembered as a man who would do anything for his family, friends, or veterans. Mr. Forte is the loving father to his children, Marian Apprich of Vincentown, New Jersey, Joseph P. Forte and his wife Mary of the Town of Ulster, SFC William J.J. Forte and his wife Doris of Kingston, Lawrence W. Forte of Kingston, Rose Forte-Piccoli and her husband Frank of Kingston, Lt. Col. Anthony K. Forte of North Carolina. Eighteen grandchildren, twenty four great-grandchildren and a sister Arlene Bruck also survive. His first wife and the mother of his children Teresa Forte, second wife Carol A. Forte. Children, Edward Forte, Teresa M. "Terri" Forte-Caballero, grandchild Anthony Sauro, siblings Teresa DeBrosky, Angeline Nelson and Michael P. Forte all predeceased him. Funeral arrangements are under the guidance of the Joseph V. Leahy Funeral Home, Inc. 27 Smith Avenue, Kingston. Friends will be received at the funeral home on Monday from 3-7 PM. A funeral service will be held Tuesday 11:00 AM at the funeral home. Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy in lieu of flowers may be made in the form of contributions to to the American Legion Post 150 or the Ulster County SPCA. https://www.lastingmemories.com/joseph-s-forte