Joseph M. DeLucia

JOSEPH M. DELUCIA, 91, OF BARTO Joseph M. DeLucia, 91, of Barto, PA, formerly of Pottstown, and Flying Hills passed peacefully in his home, surrounded by family. Born in Reading, Joe was a highly decorated World War II veteran and Pearl Harbor survivor, who spent over 30 years defending his country serving in the Air Force. His sacrifice and bravery during combat at Pearl Harbor, Midway, and Guadalcanal, combined with furthering and strengthening our country's peacetime efforts, earned Joe honor, recognition, and commendation. Joe was awarded 13 medals including the prestigious Distinguished Service Medal. A member of the 11th Bomb Group known as the Grey Geese stationed at Hickam Field during the attack, Joe never forgot the 245 out of the 350 members of his Bomb Group who were lost, along with the thousands of others who paid the ultimate sacrifice. He and his beloved wife, Madeline, returned as often as possible to Pearl Harbor on the anniversary of the attack to pay their respects. A gentle and loving family man, Joe met Madeline, the love of his life at age 12. The two shared 78 wonderful years together. An avid golfer, if not shopping with his wife, Joe could be found on the course at Flying Hills, where they owned a home. It was he who, at Flying Hills, began the annual postal service Columbus Day golf outing. Known for his integrity, warmth and gentle spirit, Joe was loved by, and often in the company of, children and animals. Those lucky enough to share his company will miss his trademark "whatever's customary". Joe was predeceased by his beautiful wife, Madeline; two brothers, John and Angelo, and a sister, Anna Bellanca. Joe is survived by two daughters, Sherry Keene of Barto and Cindy Nowry of Ephrata; four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Joe will be buried with full military honors in Arlington National Cemetery where he will be laid to rest next to his beloved wife. Details with date and time will be announced later. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to support military families and veterans through Fisher House Foundation; online at fisherhouse.org; by mail to: 111 Rockville Pike, Suite 420, Rockville, MD 20850; or by phone at 1-888-294-8560.