Joseph E. Prochilo

In loving memory of Joesph E Prochilo of Worcester, MA

It is with broken hearts that we share the passing of beloved son, husband and brother, Joseph Edward Prochilo, who left this world on September 20th at the age of 64, peacefully, surrounded by love and prayers. He was an affectionate husband, a cherished son, and a treasured brother whose courage and perseverance encourage all who knew him.

He was the beloved husband of Victoria V. Prochilo, with whom he shared a deep and abiding love that will endure beyond time. He gave his Ukrainian wife a new, safe, happy, and fulfilling life, learning and patiently embracing cultural differences. He passionately guided her through every step, helping her to grow, identify and claim opportunities, overcome challenges and spread her wings to the heights she never dreamed.

He was the proud and loving son of Janet P. Prochilo of Manchester, NH and the late John F. Prochilo, Sr.

He was loyal and caring brother of John F. Prochilo, Jr., and his wife Cheryl of Florida and the late James J. Prochilo and his wife Dawn of Peabody, MA.

He is survived by nieces, nephews and cousins whom he loved.

He was a deeply loved and respected son-in-law whose kindness, humor and optimistic attitude earned a special spot in his in-laws' hearts. His mother-in-law, Dina Savelya of Ukraine, shared these words: "I could not have asked for a better son-in-law. He was a blessing to our family, and I will always remember his kindness, respect, and the love he gave to my daughter. His memory will forever live in my heart."

Despite his significant physical disabilities, Joe was able to pursue an extensive education and career. Joe, had a remarkable thirst for knowledge and education. Throughout his life, he embraced learning as both a personal joy and as a way to better serve others. His commitment to growth and understanding inspired those around him to never stop seeking wisdom and truth.

Joe graduated from Salem State University in 1985 studying Political Science and History. He achieved his MBA in Technology and Global Management from Clark University in 2004.

Joseph's journey was one of perseverance and vision. He was a tireless advocate for disability rights, dedicating his voice and energy to ensuring dignity, equality, and opportunity for all. Whether speaking out at public forums, working with organizations, or mentoring and guiding others, he left a powerful mark on this planet. He became involved in disability rights at early age, making multiple trips to Washington DC, meeting and speaking with members of Congress advocating for access and disability rights on both federal and state levels.

Joseph served as the President of Wheelingthrough.com for City of Worcester.

Joseph also was a proud and passionate member and chairman of City of Worcester Accessibility Advisory Commission. Living in the city, he has seen and faced some of the challenges that arise for the disabled every day. As an Advocate for the City of Worcester, Joe developed a first-in-the-nation access survey criteria for Mobility-impaired, Deaf, Blind, and Low-Vision populations. He instituted an access Gold-Silver-Bronze program to recognize access compliance for businesses and developed initiatives in the housing construction market to increase the number of accessible housing units from 5% to 20% of all newly constructed housing to ease a 35-year backlog for affordable accessible apartment units in the city. Joe became a devoted and valuable member of Massachusetts Architectural Access Board, making sure his voice for people with disabilities was heard and counted.

Joe was a leader in ADA design, training and certification. Joe's current employer was Direct Access, a worldwide leading accessibility and inclusion consultancy. In his Senior Accessibility Consultant role, Joe made a remarkable contribution to many cities and towns in Massachusetts, identifying barriers that prevent people with disabilities from fully participating in society and helping cities and towns to eliminate these barriers. He transformed organizations and communities by moving beyond basic legal compliance to create truly inclusive environments.

Joe's long and successful career includes working at the following companies:

First Data Corporation, Senior Technology Negotiator, PNC Global Investment Servicing, Senior Business System Analyst, Staples, Principal Business Analyst ,TJX Business Analyst Consultant, Accessibility Advisory Commission, Accessibility Advocates & Direct Access Group Senior Accessibility Consultant.

Due to his physical disabilities Joe faced significant challenges throughout his life, but he met them with courage and grace, teaching all who knew him that true strength comes from resilience and love. Though his life path has ended, his heart will continue to beat in each of us. His love, his fight for justice, and his devotion to family, friends and knowledge will echo through generations. His legacy will continue forever.

A service celebrating his life will be held on Thursday, September 25th from 11am-12:15pm with a prayer service at 12:15pm. Interment will be at the Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett, MA.

Joe's family would like to express their appreciation for the excellent medical care that he received from Tufts Medical Center and especially to Joe's longtime physician, Steven Spector, MD of Pratt Diagnostic Center.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Joe's memory to Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington St., #231, Boston, MA 02111 or to any organization whose mission it is to embrace and empower disabled individuals.