Joseph A. Ruggiero

1923 - 2018

Joseph A Ruggiero

La Quinta - Joseph A Ruggiero passed away peacefully early Sunday Morning July 15, with family by his side.

He was born in Rockland Mass, July 31, 1923 to Michael and Filomena Ruggiero who arrived in the United States through Ellis Island in the early 1900's and later settled in East Boston. He was the oldest of four siblings, his brother Ralph Ruggiero, Anthony Ruggiero and sister Dora Auriemma, all preceding him in death.

Joe graduated from East Boston High School. After graduating from high school Joe's plans were changed by World War Two. Answering the call of the country, he joined the Marine Corps. After bootcamp and Navy training on aircraft and specifically aircraft engines, he was shipped over seas to Guadalcanal. Months later Joe's squadron VMA 232 received new aircraft and they rotated stateside for training. It was during that time he was granted a short leave and returned to East Boston to marry his high school sweetheart Eleanor Casato, December 13, 1942. After a short honeymoon, he was back in the South Pacific to the Island of Bougainville .

Joe received a "Meritorious Mast" signed by Admiral Nimitz, a Marine Corps commendation for saving a pilot and other victims of a burning wreckage of an aircraft. Joe received his Honorable Discharge from the Marine Corps September 1945. Returning to East Boston and after the war their daughter Joanne was born, being the center of their world.

Joe was employed as an auto mechanic after returning home. A short time later found himself in the printing and lithography business, later teaching Lithography at LA Trade Tech. He remained in the printing business until his retirement.

Having lived in Laguna Beach while Joe was stationed in El Toro the lure of Southern California drew them back in 1958 and they settled in Alhambra near Eleanor's aunts and uncles, where they lived until the passing of Joe's beloved wife Eleanor in October of 2006. They were married nearly 65 years.

Joe then moved to the desert to be near his daughter and son in law, Joanne & Richard Glazar. He resided in Trilogy, LaQuinta until his passing. He touched many lives , as they did his and was known as Papa Joe by all who knew and loved him. He was a family man, loving and devoted husband and father. A true gentleman, loved and respected by all.

He is survived by his daughter Joanne, son in law Richard, sister in laws, and nieces and nephews from both ends of the continent. He will be sorely missed.

This is the passing of a Truly American Hero. Rest In Peace Papa Joe.

Services, Monday July 30, Forest Lawn Chapel Cathedral City. Viewing 4;00 pm to 8:00 pm with Rosary at 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 31 , 10:00 a.m. Funeral Mass St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church 47225 Washington St. La Quinta. Celebration of Life Luncheon to follow in Church Hall.