Joseph LaVecchia

March 21, 1939 - November 1, 2024

Joseph LaVecchia of Galloway NJ passed away peacefully on November 1st 2024, surrounded by his loving family at the age 0f 85. Joseph would light up any room with his infectious smile, and upbeat personality.  He was happiest when surrounded by his family, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, making them laugh with his silly songs and voices.

Joseph served in the Vietnam War as a field cook/mess sergeant, where his love of cooking began, and he later owned and operated Dion's Pizzeria in Audubon, NJ. There, he met the love of his life, and best friend JoAnn LaVecchia at the age of 38. They married in 1993, and shared 48 wonderful years together.  Joseph was a long-time employee at Ceaser's/Golden Nugget/Hilton casino in Atlantic City, NJ where he started as a cook, and retired as a dealer/floor person. After retirement, he started 5 Star Carpet Cleaning in Galloway, NJ with his wife JoAnn, which they ran for many years.

Joseph is survived by his four children Joseph (Donna), Michael, Dion, Danny LaVecchia (deceased), and his four stepchildren Dolores, Lori, Frank Mammoccio, and JoAnn (Dan) Pirillo. He ia also survived by his sister Dolores Bowers, niece Kim Bowers, nephews Mark (Teresa), and Scott (Judy) Bowers. He was blessed with six beautiful granddaughters Kristin Manera, Brianna, Ashley, Scarlett LaVecchia, Sheri and Ashley Mammoccio; eight wonderful grandsons Michael Hodson, James (Geanie), John (Carmen) Taylor, Ryan Mammoccio (deceased), Danny (deceased), John, Steven, and David Pirillo; fifteen amazing great-grandchildren Nicholas, McKenna, Logan, Dillon, Jade, Bradley, Cami Rothenbiller, Alaina Basso, Juliana Quartucci, Michael Jr., Domonic, Gabriel, Lorenzo Hodson, Stefany and Tiffany Taylor.

"Joe Joe" enjoyed entertaining family and friends at home, as well as spending as much time as he could at the campground. He was known for his love of sitting by the fire, whether it was toasting marshmallows with the kids, or relaxing in the comfort of his own home. Joseph was a loyal Eagles and Phillies fan, which led to many Sundays spent around the TV.  He also took pride in cooking his traditional Italian food for his family to enjoy. Joseph will be greatly missed by all, and his memory will continue to live on through his family and friends with every passing moment.  Everyone that knew him finds comfort in knowing that he is now at peace, and has been reunited with his late parents Elivera Neri, Gaetano LaVecchia, and his son Danny Lavecchia.  May god bless his soul.  In Joseph's memory, donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.