Joe Ingrasci

Surrounded by his loving family, Joe Ingrasci, age 95, passed away on Sunday, September 14, 2014, at his daughter’s residence in Madison. Joe was born in Niagara Falls, NY, on March 25, 1919, son of the late Joseph and Mary (Nee: Bruno) Ingrasci.

Joe moved to Racine, Wisconsin, in 1924 and has been a part of the Racine Community for the remainder of his life.

Joe proudly served during World War II as a first lieutenant in the United States Army Infantry. In 1944 he was wounded in Germany and was awarded the Purple Heart. This past June 7th, he went on the Stars and Stripes Honor Flight and was the oldest World War II veteran on the flight.

On May 28, 1947, he was united in marriage to Esther G. Nelson, who preceded him in death on September 25, 1992.

Joe was employed by Western Publishing Co. as an accountant for 31 years, retiring with Esther to Sun City West, AZ, where they lived for 28 years. He was a former member of Meadowbrook Country Club and Roma Lodge. Joe was an avid golfer who was proud to have made six holes-in-one. His last round of golf was played just one month ago. He also enjoyed playing cribbage (he had a perfect hand of 29), playing poker, and reading.

More than anything, he treasured the time he spent with family. “Grandpa Joe,” as most people knew him, was a man who had a smile for everyone. He was a role model for us, displaying integrity, strength, independence and dignity. He will be dearly missed.

Survivors include his children, Susan (David) Cook of Racine, Ingrid (Josiah) Dilley of Madison, Charles (Liza) Ingrasci of San Anselmo, CA; grandchildren, Jennifer (Michael) Qualley, Stephen Cook, Christopher (Elaine) Rich, Rebecca (Jim) Norton, Marissa and Michael Ingrasci, Margret Cook; eight great-grandchildren, Hannah and Maxwell Cook, Katherine, Jackson and James Qualley, Jacqueline and Henry Rich, Josiah Norton; two sisters, Josephine Porcaro and Rose Malone; nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends.

In addition to his parents and wife he was preceded in death by his brothers, Charlie who was killed in WWII, Paul (Laura), and Tom (Marie); his sister, Mary (Paul) Tewagian; son-in-law, Josiah Dilley; brothers-in-law, Earl Porcaro and Don Malone.

A Memorial Service will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, September 20, 2014, at 11:30 a.m. with Judy Chiappetta officiating. Private entombment will be held at Holy Cross Mausoleum, Hwy 32. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Saturday from 10 a.m. until time of service. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Stars and Stripes Honor Flight P.O. Box 636 Port Washington, WI 53074 have been suggested. 

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine, WI   (262) 634-7888