Obituary of Joseph A Viola

Joseph A. Viola, 97 years of age, died on February 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.  Joe was born on April 19, 1927, to his parents Sophia (nee Camarda) and Baldassare Viola, in Branchburg, NJ. 

Joseph married the love of his life, Angelina Elmo, they celebrated 75 years of marriage.  Together they raised their children Robert and Denise.  Joe was a hard worker.  He worked as a butcher for 25 years at Costas Market; as a maintenance mechanic for Somerset County, and Evonik (formerly Tenneco) for over 15 years, in Piscataway.

Joe proudly served his country during the Korean conflict, earning the Korean Service Medal, two Bronze Service Stars, Presidential Unit Citation, United Nations Service Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. He was a communicant of St. Ann Church, in Raritan.  He loved to garden, play golf, and was a great cook.  His special recipe was “Steak Viola” (Joe’s family secret).  

 Joe was a beloved husband, loving father, and dear grandpa.  He is survived by his wife Angelina, son Robert and partner, Alana Lessard, daughter Denise and son-in-law Bart Calabrese, grandson Daniel and Samantha Calabrese, sister Katherine Daidone. Joe was predeceased by his parents, grandson Joseph Calabrese, brother Frank Viola, sisters Mary Viola, Jean Viola, Lena Viola and Mae Commandini.  His kind and caring ways will be missed by all who loved and knew him.

Services were private and under the direction of Bongiovi Funeral Home, 416 Bell Avenue, Raritan, NJ. (908)725-1887

                                               "Forever in Our Hearts"