Obituary published on Legacy.com by Michael Hegarty & John Vincent Scalia Home for Funerals & Cremation Service on Sep. 22, 2025.
Joseph B. DiMattina, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Joseph was born on October 25, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York, to Frank and Catherine DiMattina. He grew up in Brooklyn with his two loving brothers, Frank and Bart, and attended Boys High School, graduating with the class of 1954. After high school, Joseph proudly enlisted in the United States Army, serving his country with honor. Upon his honorable discharge, he joined the New York Police Department. While pursuing his career in law enforcement, Joseph also attended John Jay College at night, furthering his education. In June 1958, Joseph married the love of his life, Geraldine. They would begin their family in Brooklyn, with their first daughter, Geri, and they would go on to continue to raise their family in Staten Island, New York, where they had a son, Joseph. Joseph was a dedicated and respected member of the NYPD, rising to the rank of Sergeant Detective. During this time, he also worked with the FBI, bringing his expertise and passion for justice to serve his community. After 20 years of dedicated service, Joseph retired from the force. Following his retirement, Joseph remained committed to service. He volunteered as a gym teacher at St. Joseph by the Sea and worked as an investigator for Merrill Lynch. After moving to New Jersey in early 2000, he would continue to contribute to his community as an active member of many organizations. Joseph was an avid fan of the New York Yankees, and whether attending games at the stadium or watching from home, his passion for the team was undeniable. Joseph also enjoyed coaching baseball and basketball for his son when he was younger. He loved taking trips to Atlantic City with his wife, and he was known for his smooth moves on the dance floor, often dancing with his wife to the timeless music of Frank Sinatra. Joseph was a devoted family man, and above all, he cherished the time spent with his loved ones. He was a proud husband, father and grandfather, who never missed a school sporting event, family gathering, or celebration. He was happiest when surrounded by his wife, children, and grandchildren, creating lasting memories together. Joseph had a gift for telling stories, and his anecdotes, filled with humor and wisdom, will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He was a man of integrity, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. Joseph is predeceased by his parents, Frank and Catherine, and his brothers, Frank and Bart. He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Geraldine, his children, Joseph and his daughter-in-law Shawna, and Geri and Son in law, Jack. He is also survived by his adored grandchildren, Patrick (and his wife Gillian), Jacklyn (and her fiancé Brendan), Paul, Joseph, and Nicole. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Tunnels to Towers or
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Joseph's memory. https://t2t.org/donate/ OR https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?sl=donate-now&sc_dcm=137187318174&sc_cid=kwp&gclsrc=aw.ds&ds_rl=1291300&ds_rl=1285465&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17681679263&gbraid=0AAAAADuyZN7Nd_z1IoLHaEY6Sfs9Gjs3E&gclid=Cj0KCQjw58PGBhCkARIsADbDilz_Qwgsd7E8dkgMd55WQasLqvffjBB96ud8CcaRaAxLSEKA9QUfY0kaArLLEALw_wcB