Joseph R. Aiello, 94, of Farrell, passed away Sunday afternoon Feb. 16, 2025, at Saint John XXIII Home in Hermitage.

Born on July 9, 1930, in Farrell, Joseph was one of six children, including a twin brother, Carmen J., who passed away in 2013, of Francesco and Caterina (Scalzo) Aiello. His parents, and eldest brother, Nicola, emigrated from Calabria, Italy.

A lifelong resident of the Shenango Valley, he graduated from Farrell High School in 1948. Upon graduation, he joined the United States Navy, training in Naval Station Great Lakes, and was assigned to the USS Kenneth D. Bailey, where he sailed round-trip to the Arctic Circle.

After his discharge, he began working in the track department at the former Sharon Steel, where he worked close-by his father. Later, he was assigned to the boiler shop, moving into a managerial role, where he remained until retirement.

Of many, perhaps the defining aspect of his recreational time was water. "Giuseppe" was a swimmer, boater, skier, lover of the ocean, and passionate fisherman — spending untold hours angling in Lake Erie, the Shenango River, Maryland, Florida, and Michigan.

On land, he devoted time to the Farrell Lions Club, with 40 years of community service. There, he helped install a bocce court for members and guests.

From the early 1950s, Joe was a member of the Farrell Italian Home, where he played bocce and enjoyed comraderies with his Italian-American community. He seldom missed a Farrell High School football or basketball game.

Joe was a member of Our Lady of Fatima Church, also in Farrell. He mastered gardening, generously giving tomatoes and peppers to his friends. For the last 25 years, Joe looked forward to seeing his Panera family, enjoying coffee and spirited discussions every morning at 6:30 am.

On Nov. 24, 1956, Joseph married Bernice B. Wlodarski, who passed away on Oct. 16, 2021.

In addition to his parents and his twin brother, he was preceded in death by his siblings Nicola "Nick" Aiello, Mary Russo, Anthony Aiello and Teresa Scully.

Joseph is survived by a daughter, Stephanie J. Aiello-Alfera (Ronald J. Alfera), of Canton, Mich.; four grandchildren, Mirissa, Matthew, Gabrielle and Ryan; two great-grandchildren, Gio'vanni and Carmella; and many adoring cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends.

In every way, Joe's life was filled with adventure.

AIELLO

Joseph R., 94, Farrell.

Calling hours: 4 to 7 p.m. Friday (2-21-25) at J. BRADLEY McGONIGLE FUNERAL HOME and CREMATORY Inc., 1090 E. State St., Sharon.

Mass of Christian Burial: 10:30 a.m. Saturday (2-22-25) at Our Lady of Fatima Church, 601 Roemer Blvd., Farrell, with Rev. Glenn Whitman as celebrant.

Interment: St. Anthony Cemetery, Hermitage.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.McGonigleFuneralHomeandCrematory.com