Joseph Charles "Joe" Colca

Joseph C. "Joe" Colca, age 75, of St. Augustine, passed away on November 24, 2024 at his home in the Cascades community in St. Augustine, FL. Joe was born on February 20, 1949 in Clifton, NJ to parents Joseph and Katherine (Misuraca) Colca. Joe grew up in Clifton and graduated in 1967 from Clifton High School. He furthered his education at Trenton State University, where he studied business administration.
Joe began his working career at Pfizer Pharmaceuticals before transitioning to the restaurant industry, where he found his true calling. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Susan Cartier, a fellow nursing student of his sister, Kathy. Joe and Susan married on January 19, 1975, and built a beautiful life together. He worked for Friendly's Restaurant as a District Manager and later became the Director of Operations for a McDonald's franchise in Pennsylvania. Throughout his career, Joe was known for his dedication, strong work ethic, and his ability to connect with people. He had an innate gift for building relationships, and his colleagues and employees held him in the highest regard.
In 2017, Joe and Susan retired to the Cascades community at World Golf Village in St. Augustine. Joe quickly became known as the "mayor" of the neighborhood, often seen cruising around in his golf cart, engaging with his neighbors, and bringing a warm, welcoming spirit to all. He served on various Homeowners Association (HOA) committees, always contributing to the betterment of his community. His commitment to family, friends, and the community was truly unmatched. He had a huge heart and could often be seen delivering cold water to the community landscapers on hot days.
More than anything, Joe loved his family. He was a great provider and dedicated family man. His favorite title was "Pops" and especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. Joe always loved having family together and enjoyed watching his kids and grandkids grow and flourish. He was especially devoted to his grandsons, as a much-needed father figure for them. Joe was passionate about spending time with his family at the beach and when he was younger, sailing Chesapeake on their sailboat with Susan and the kids.
Joe was a longtime catholic and a member of Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church.
In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his sister, Kathy Miragliotta. He is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Susan Colca; daughter, Erin Colca of St. Johns, Fl., son, Joseph Colca and his wife, Stephanie of St. Augustine; sister, Jane Colca of Pompton Lakes, New Jersey; brother-in-law, Anthony Miragliotta of New Jersey; grandchildren, James Joseph and his wife Frances, Connor, Emma, Lucas Joseph, Gianna; and a great grandson, Gabriel.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks to honor the memory of Joe, please consider making a donation to the CurePSP Foundation. A memorial service will be held at 10 am on Thursday, December 12, 2024 at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church with Father Guy Noonan officiating. Interment will follow at the church columbarium. Those unable to attend can view the service live-streamed at https://iframe.dacast.com/live/2a7a09ae1c0559a83ef537e05e6a14a6/0d926f14-3fd3-923f-c556-1f0bb777106f
St. Johns Family Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.