Joseph C. Pero, Sr., 91, passed away peacefully after a period of declining health on Monday, June 14, 2021. Joe was predeceased by his wife, and mother to his nine children, Bonnie (1990), his youngest son David (1979) and granddaughter Sara Beth (2010). He was the third of seven children born to Philip and Josephine Pero who also predeceased him, along with brothers Angelo, Philip, and Anthony and sisters Jenny and Judy.

Joe is survived by his children, Michael (Bonnie) Pero, Patricia (Harold) Williams, Mary Jo (Paul) Kent, Phillip (Debra) Pero, Phyllis Pero, Lori (Ronald) Grace, Joseph Pero, Jr., and Thomas Pero; grandchildren Amy Jo, Brett, Nicole, Molly, Emylee, Adam, Bryan, Danny, Brieyn, Joey, Amanda, and eight great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Jeanette Ciotoli of Florida, three sisters-in-law and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Our father was strong, gentle, and generous; he loved his family unconditionally. He was a hard worker, retiring at age 55 from IBM then starting a new career selling real estate, not fully retiring until age 80.

He enjoyed all family gatherings, of which there were plenty; times spent with family were important to him. He also spent time with friends and will be missed by many, including those at Broome West Senior Center who met for exercise class and lunch on Tuesdays and Thursdays and a group that met weekly at McDonald’s where friends and relatives pooled lottery tickets with hopes of someday “winning the BIG one”! Joe enjoyed deer hunting and fishing trips to Canada with his buddies from IBM. He also enjoyed many golf outings and was proud of his two holes-in-one explaining that it’s all about using the right club off the tee, having a consistently smooth and relaxed swing, and yes, maybe a bit of luck, too.

He was a proud member and officer of the International Order of the Alhambra, assisting with the organization of the Special Olympics; past President of Endicott Seniors; and honorably served on Active Duty as an MP in the US Army. Joe truly enjoyed his time living at Ideal Living Center ACF. The family would like to thank the administration and staff, especially his niece, Cathy, for their unwavering support, compassion, and respect.

A Funeral mass will be celebrated Monday 12:30 pm at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 306 Odell Avenue, Endicott. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City. The family will receive friends at the Allen Memorial Home, 511-513 East Main Street, Endicott, Sunday afternoon from 2-4 pm.

Expressions of sympathy in Memory of Joseph C. Pero, Sr. may be made to Mercy House or St. Anthony’s Food Pantry.