Joseph Careri, 94, died peacefully at his home in East Meadow, NY on Thursday, October 11, 2018. He is survived by his two children, Catherine Lowe (Gene) and Jerry Careri; his two grandchildren, Susan Lowe (John Armour) and Greg Lowe; and his three sisters, Terry, Mary, and Ida and their families, including many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Vera. Joseph and his recently departed wife, Mary, were married for 70 years -- a journey that began in 1947 with marriage at Our Lady of Sorrows in Corona, NY, followed by a reception at Community Gardens in Queens Village.

Joseph was born in Bayonne, NJ on January 8, 1924 to Catherine and Girolamo Careri. The eldest child and the only boy among 4 sisters, Joe grew up in Jamaica, Queens with a fiery, adventure-seeking personality that often resulted in humorous hijinks. As a young man, Joe enjoyed working at his family's luncheonette, flying pigeons (leading to a fall from a roof) and climbing the neighbors' fruit trees with his friends (leading to being chased around the neighborhood). Joe also enjoyed music, playing the guitar and dabbling with other instruments. In his later years, Joe liked to regale his family with tales of his youthful adventures. An avid bowler, Joe played in leagues for many years, sometimes alongside his sisters and brothers in law. Joe was also very active in the senior community, especially the West Hempstead Senior Citizen Club, where he served as president and enjoyed many fun-filled years of camaraderie.

Joseph was a devoted husband to Mary and took careful and attentive care of her as she aged, advocating for her wherever he could. An active and independent senior (complete with his unfailing sense of humor) until his final days, Joe beamed when he received visits from his family, and was happy with the life he had lived. We will miss him immensely, but take comfort that he had a full life and is at peace. We picture Joseph and Mary together again, joyriding in their '69 Buick Wildcat. Rest in peace, Joseph.

A wake is scheduled for Sunday, October 14, 2-4pm and 7-9pm, at Leo F. Kearns Funeral Home in East Meadow. A short religious service is scheduled for 9:30am on Monday, October 15, followed by burial at Calverton National Cemetery. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Joseph Careri's life.