Fanelli, Joseph "Joe"
Joseph Fanelli passed away on December 27th at the age of 99 ½ yrs old. He is survived by his wife of 77 years, Lois Fanelli, 4 sons Mike (Sue), Pat, Bruce (Meshell), and Nick (Chiaki), 7 grandkids, and 7 great grandkids. Joe was born in East Dayton in 1925 and lived on Suman Ave. for many years. Joe graduated from Stivers High School in 1943. He helped start the Stivers Alumni Association and was inducted into their Hall of Fame in 2015. After high school Joe went directly into the US Navy during WW II and served on the USS Maddox destroyer. He wrote a book about his adventures at sea. Joe went on to serve his community in the Dayton Fire Department for 25 years where he attained the rank of Captain. Joe and his wife Lois were active members of the Sons of Italy Club for over 40 years. His hobbies include woodworking, fishing, nature study and photography. Joe was a member of the Tripod Camera club for over 40 years. He won many awards for his photographs. Joe is probably best remembered for his kindness to other people. He found joy in his many friends and family. Joe continues to serve others by donating his body to Wright State Medical School for education and research. A Celebration of Life gathering is planned for this Spring.