Joseph Palumbo

Joseph Palumbo

Age 74 years, passed away unexpectedly on March 4th, 2021, reuniting with his parents, Aldo and Jennie (Vetta), many relatives, and many of his friends, including Robert Cherney.

Beloved father of Jason and Shannon, and brother of Rosetta (Tom) LaLicata. Also survived by his uncle Nick (Maria) Vetta of Australia, niece Annelisa (Tom) Giannaris , nephews Dominic (Rula) LaLicata and Dino (Minerva) LaLicata, and many other relatives and friends.

He was born July 14th, 1946 in San Felice del Molise, Italy and came to America in 1953 with his family, settling in Milwaukee, where they founded Aldo's Pizza.

He attended St. Nicholas elementary school and graduated from Messmer H.S. in 1964 where he excelled in track and field. He went on to studying at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee before joining the Army in 1968. After being discharged in early 1974, he founded Amore Cars LTD where he and co-founder, Gary Minor, created the legendary Cimbria, Cimbria SS, and Viper 2000 sport cars. Their successes brought them features in many magazine articles, auto show awards, and building a car exclusively for Mohammad Ali, called the Ali 3WC (3 Times World Champion). As the market changed, Joe designed and built another award-winning car that he named after his father, the Aldino K/O, resembling the great supercars of that era.

In retirement, Joe turned to another of his many talents, singing and entertaining. Blessed with the voice of an angel, he sang in a couple vocal bands including Smarty Pants and his favorite, Looking Back, with his dear friends, Pat and Kalani Pieper. He hosted Karaoke nights regularly at many venues where there never was a shortage of great singers and great fun. Joe also spent much of his time drawing concept sport cars, including the M80, featured on the cover of The Manufacturer, and much later turned his artistic gifts towards drawing and painting more of a variety of artwork.

Joe was most happy socializing with family and friends, spending time with his children, taking long rides in the car, and enjoying a good pepperoni pizza. Joe will be missed by his loving family, many great friends, and even "some" adoring fans.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, March 16th, at Schaff Funeral Home, 4:00 PM until time of service 7:00 PM. Private entombment Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials to a charity of your choice appreciated.