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Joe was a man of many talents and passions. He graduated from Hamilton High School in 1968 and Pennsylvania Military College (PMC) in 1972, the last graduating class of PMC now known as Widner University. Joe embarked on a successful career as a Chemical Operator at Hercules in the 1970s.
Throughout his life, Joe shared a partnership with his wife Sally (Unkart), owning and operating Video Connection in Greenville and Forever Tan in Greenville and Pike Creek. Known as the dynamic duo, they exemplified dedication and teamwork. His dedication and hard work led him to finish his career as a project manager at Tri-State Carpet, Inc. in Wilmington.
A proud member of Tau Kappa Epsilon at PMC, Joe fostered lifelong friendships and brotherhood. Throughout his life, Joe found solace and joy on the golf course, forging friendships, weekly dinners, and creating lasting memories. His love for his family was unparalleled, as he shared 51 years of marriage with his beloved wife Sally and embraced his role as a devoted father to Brian C. Dawson, and to his daughter-in-law Amber Dawson and a doting grandfather to Brian, Lexi, and Lily. Joe was also preceded in death by his siblings, Pasquale Grillo, Jr. and Celeste Grillo. He was a man that was deeply devoted to his family and grandchildren, his love knew no bounds, exemplified through family vacations and cherished moments shared together.
Joe's legacy of love, hard work, and dedication will forever live on in the hearts of those he touched. A man of integrity and warmth, Joe's presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, November 8th, from 3 to 5 P.M. at the McCrery & Harra Funeral Home, 3924 Concord Pk., Wilmington DE. A Celebration of Life will follow at 5 P.M. Burial will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306, or www.t2t.org.
F or online condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
David Michaloski
November 8, 2024
I met Joe for the first time , working for Tri State Carpet. Instantly I took to his Marksmanship, as to detail and honesty . Didn´t take long to grow with respect as not just as a fellow employee , but as a friend. Avid Golfer and Sports nut we always had plenty to talk about. Joe , was the perfect Man . Will forever be remembered in my heart , Miss ya brother .......
Matt Bonanno
November 8, 2024
One of the best around.
Joe you and your infectious positivity will be greatly missed.
Sincerely,
MRB
James Fox
November 7, 2024
Joe was one of the nicest gentlemen I´ve ever met. I never saw Joe when he wasn´t positive , upbeat, caring , smiling , and fun to be around. I loved being on his team in the golf sweeps at Newark. Always a great time during golf, and then afterwards sharing a few beers in the 19th hole. You will be missed greatly Joe but you will never be forgotten. One of the very best! RIP Joe.
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James VanSciver
November 6, 2024
Joe was my Little Brother in Tau Kappa Epsilon. Paula and I forged a life-long relationship with him and Sally. He was also a football teammate, and a cadet classmate. Despite the regular and constant challenges that life threw at him, he never lost his sense of humor and caring disposition. Every time you met him, it was a moment to remember. Also, much credit to Sally for being by his side through all these years to give him support and encouragement. They were the "dynamic duo." We will all miss Joe but . . . his memory will live on.
Dr. James H. VanSciver
Scott McGinnis
November 5, 2024
His very funny sarcastic sense of humor and Joe being one of my ushers at my wedding in 1972
Michael D Keogh
November 5, 2024
My father and Joe were good friends. During my rearing years, my father told/taught me about the characteristics of a " Man´s Man". Joe checked every box.
When Joe and I finished our day of golf at NCC, playing our " Sweeps Game", we often sought out each other´s friendship. While bantering about anything and everything, Joe never, ever broached the subject of his medical maladies. A more upbeat, positive gentleman, I have yet to meet.
I am a much better man for knowing Joe Grillo.
Michael D Keogh
November 5, 2024
My father, a solid friend of Joes, explained to me, early on in my rearing, that there are men and then there are " Men´s Men". Joe was a gentleman that other men wished they could emulate.
When Joe and I finished our day playing our "sweeps game" at NewarkCC, I always sought him out to have a beer ( or two or three) with.
With all of Joe´s medical maladies , he never, ever complained. A more upbeat, positive " Man´ s Man", I have yet to meet.
I am a better man/person because of Joe Grillo.
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3924 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE 19803
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