I am not sure but this post may be a double post because I have the feeling I have already posted it. One thing I am sure about is that I didn’t post the original photos online. So if or not, here are the original photos sent to me by a relative of Raymond Crisp, as well as what happen to photos and documents sent to me by Veterans or relatives.
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Nov
29
2009
Jul
14
2009
Category : Veterans Taps
It is with a heavy heart and our deepest sympathy that we learn of the passing of another of our Distinguished Veterans and a Valued Comrade. Through a phone call from Tony Marincola we learned that Mr. Joseph (Joe) M. Vitale, Co C, 513th Prcht Inf Regt, 17th Airborne Division, passed away on July 11 2009 after an extended illness. With an assist from Tony Marincola and Ed Siergiej I was able to make contact with the Vitale Family to obtain the information for this message.
Following his service in World War II and the Korean War Mr. Vitale had a 20 year career with the Los Angeles City Fire Department working as a Firefighter, Paramedic and Helitac jumper. This was followed by another 20 year career as a Transportation Driver/Crane Operator for all the major Studios. Through out his career Mr Vitale was a Champion and Grandmaster at many “Handball” and “Racquetball” events. He was an avid sports enthusiasts. He joined our Association in 1962, became a Life Member in 1986 and attended several Reunions. The cause of death was complications from pneumonia at the age of 84 years.
The Obituary and Guest Book information is available at the following address : click here
The Obituary as posted is as follows :
Mr. Joe M. Vitale
Born : October 8, 1924
Died : July 11, 2009
Location : Van Nuys, CA
Mission Hills Catholic Mortuary
11160 Stranwood Ave
Mission Hills, CA 91345
Email : click here
Tel (USA) (818) 361-7387
Tribute & Message From The Family
Joe was born in San Marco d’Alunzia, Sicily on October 8, 1924. He passed away peacefully on July 11, 2009 in Van Nuys, California after an extended illness with his loved ones by his side.
He attended Lincoln High, 43’ where he excelled at tennis and gymnastics.
He is a decorated WWII and Korean War Veteran who fought at the Battle of the Bulge and Operation Varsity.
Joe had a 20-year career with the Los Angeles City Fire Department working as a Firefighter, Paramedic and Helitac jumper. He was a department handball champion and Grandmasters racquetball player.
Joe then continued with a 20-year career as a Driver-Crane Operator working for all of the major studios over the years.
A devoted husband and father, he enjoyed traveling the United States with his family.
He is survived by his wife Grace of 63 years and their 5 children and their spouses, James (Dale), Donna (Scott), Cynthia, Mark (Debbi) and Michael (Charity) and 6 grandchildren.
Dad instilled in each of us a love of family and friends, and independent spirit, a work ethic, a respect for authority and a vitality for life, for this, we are forever grateful to him.
The family would like to thank the staff of Providence – Saint Joseph Medical Center in Burbank who provided him with great care.
Mr. Vitale is survived by his Wife of 63 years, Mary Grace, three Sons, two Daughters and six grandchildren.
Correspondence and messages of Condolence may be addressed to the Vitale Family as follows :
Mrs Mary Grace Vitale
8036 Crosnoe Avenue
Van Nuys, CA 91402
E-mail : click here
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Vitale Family.
Del Townsend & Gunter G. Gillot Jr
