Obituary of Joseph A Ferrucci

South Carolina Cremation Society

3223 Sunset Blvd, Suite 104

West Columbia, SC 29169

Obituary for Joeesph A Ferrucci, Jr.

Joe was born on August 28, 1937 in Wampum PA to Joseph A. Ferrucci Sr. and Bessie McKinnis Ferrucci. He was educated in the Wampum school system, and upon graduation from high school enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. During his time in the Marines, Joe was a member of the 4th Platoon stationed at 8th and I in Washington DC. He was a member of the first Silent Drill Team, represented the USMC at numerous ceremonies as well as serving as Presidential Guard for President Eisenhower at Camp David. He started a Parachute Jumping Club and was instrumental in the development of a “new” method of jumping known today as HALO, High Altitude, Low Opening. Joe retired from the USMC on December 17, 1964 driven by his strong desire to be a pilot. He joined the Department of Transportation as an Air Traffic Controller, until the opportunity came for him to join the Federal Aviation Administration where he rose to the position of Operations Unit Supervisor for the Flight Standards District Office in Portland, Maine until his retirement on May 3, 1994, serving 32 years and 11 months. In June 1977, Joe met Melanie, and together they began an incredible life together, blessed with a retirement that lasted more than 25 years. Retirement was not defined as “leisure time” for Joe, it just allowed him to spend more time on his several passions including shooting sports, karate, skiing, scuba diving, archery, trips on their Honda Goldwing, bass fishing, upland hunting with his Labrador, dog training with best friends, Bill and Anna Clark and being a successful competitor in AKC competitions. Until his last breath, Joe was first and foremost a Marine, as was demonstrated by the life he led.

Joe is predeceased by his parents, brother Louis Ferrucci and son, David Ferrucci. He is survived by his wife and partner of 42 years Melanie, his sons Michael Ferrucci, Travis Dow (Angela Iannicelli) daughter Leigh Seymour (Ted), friends Bill and Anna Clark, brothers Ronald (Helen), Frank (Patty), sister Rose Goebel (John), grandchildren Ashley (Jon), Mandy (Shane) and several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Joe’s wishes were to be cremated and his ashes scattered around the property known as Sweetwater in Kershaw SC where he and Mel resided. A celebration of life will be held for friends and family in May or June.

Being a “forever” Marine, Joe would ask you to donate to a charity that benefits veterans and their families, or donate to your animal shelter of choice.