Joseph Cianci Jr.

Joseph M. Cianci, Jr., 82

Worcester - Joseph M. Cianci, Jr, born September 30, 1932, passed away on February 24, 2015 after a long courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease. He leaves his loving wife and best friend Jean of 57 years, two sons, Michael Cianci and his wife Lisa of Worcester, Steven Cianci of Grafton, MA and one daughter, Doreen Cianci – Ciuffredo and her husband Chick of Millbury. Two grandchildren, Shaun Cianci and his wife Jill and Gianna Cianci of Worcester, A great grandson on the way. He also leaves a brother, sister, nephews and nieces. Joseph was born in Worcester, son of Joseph and Jennie (Andolina) Cianci of Worcester and Sicily, Italy.

Joseph graduated from Grafton Street Junior High School and St. Stephens High School where he excelled in sports winning 8 "letters" for baseball, basketball and football. He was captain of his basketball team graduating in 1951. He then enlisted in the Navy in the Korean War for 4 years and was honorably discharged in 1955 with the rank of Radioman third class Petty Officer. He then attended night school at Worcester School of Business Science for education in computers. One year later, he was teaching that same class at the school. He worked for United States Steel Corporation, Worcester in the data processing department for 7 years and also for Parker Metal Corporation as a data processing manager for Jordan Levy. He later worked for ITT Surprenant Wire & Cable, Clinton, MA for 34 years, retiring as a programmer and senior systems analyst. As Wang supervisor, he installed and taught a telecommunications system that saved the company thousands of dollars in time and effort with fewer repairs and maintenance calls. Shortly before retiring Joe received a recognition award for his loyalty, knowledge and self-sacrificing attitude, for being helpful to every operator with advice and personal counseling without thought to himself. If you needed help "call Joe" was the slogan.

Joseph was a man of all trades, he excelled in everything he did, building stone walls, carpentry work around the house, golfing and you could always find him in his garden, where he took great pride growing his tomatoes, cucumbers & peppers. He loved holiday dinners together and made the best apple pies that will be forever missed.

Joseph was a family man who enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandson Shaun who was the light of his life. He made sure he was at every baseball game from t-ball to college. He truly had a great spirit for life and would always find good in everything and everyone.

Joseph had a heart of gold and will be sadly missed by his family and all who knew him for his loving, caring, generous, self-sacrificing attitude towards life right up til the end. Husband, Dad, Grandpa, Great-grandpa will always be in our hearts.

An Alzheimer's Poem: Do not ask me to remember. Don't try to make me understand. Let me rest and know you're with me. Kiss me cheek and hold my hand. I'm confused beyond your concept. I am sad and sick and lost. All I know is that I need you to be With me at all cost. Do not lose your patience with me. Do not scold or curse or cry. I can't help the way I'm acting, Can't be different though I try. Just remember that I need you, That the best of me is gone. Please don't fail to stand beside me, Love me 'til my life is done.

The funeral will be held on Monday March 2, 2015 with a service at 11:00 AM in DIRSA-MORIN FUNERAL HOME, 298 Grafton St. Burial will be in St. John's Cemetery. Calling hours in the funeral home are Sunday March 1, 2015 from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer's Association 480 Pleasant St., Watertown, MA., 02472. www,worcesterfuneral.com