A WWII Veteran, Joseph R. DeCola, affectionately known as 'Daddy Joe', passed peacefully in his sleep, on July 15, 2023, in his home in Lake Grove, NY. 'Daddy Joe' was 99 1/2 years young and young at heart he was. Born January 23, 1924 in NYC, he was married to Gloria DeCola for 54 years, before her passing in 2011. He is survived by his three daughters: Donna (Arnie), Lorraine (Bruce), and Susan (Peter); 8 grandchildren;  Joseph, John, Kristin, Lynette, Maria, Jeffrey, Stephanie, Jessica and spouses; and 17 great grandchildren. Predeceased by his parents, Martin and Theresa, and siblings-Harry, Martin Jr., and  Eleanor 'Dolly'. Daddy Joe's presence brought immense joy to our lives, and his absence leaves a void that cannot be filled. His kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love touched the hearts of all who knew him.  Proud of his contributions utilizing radar, Sgt. DeCola earned a Bronze Star Medal, the fourth highest award a service member can receive for heroic achievement in a combat zone. He was in the Battle of the Bulge, the Landing in Normandy, and the Battle of Britain. After the war, Joseph started his own company, North Shore Electric Contractors Inc, which grew to be one of the largest contractor companies on Long Island.

Visitation will be held at St. James Funeral Home in St. James, NY, on Tuesday, July 18, 2023 from 4-8PM. Interment to follow on Wednesday, July 19th at Calverton National Cemetery in Wading River, NY. Family and friends to gather at St. James Funeral Home on Wednesday, July 19th, at 9:30AM.

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