Joseph V. Carafa, Sr.

Joseph V. Carafa, Sr. passed away Sunday August 2, 2020 at his home in Bear, Delaware with his loving and devoted wife of 50 years by his side.

Joe was born in 1946 in Philadelphia,  Pennsylvania. He grew up in Springfield but spent many years raising his family in Ridley Township before eventually moving to Bear, Delaware upon his retirement from Boeing. He married the love of his life, Marlene Zurlo Carafa on Valentine’s Day 1970 and they went on to have 2 children.  Joe had a passion for fire arms, trains and racing cars. From 1987-1992 he raced his pride and joy; a medium shadow blue metallic 1987 Mustang “Giddy-up-gone”.  Many race magazines have featured articles about him and his mustang, his family and friends were so proud of him.

Joe is survived in life by his loving wife Marlene, son Joseph V. Carafa, Jr., daughters Kimberly Carafa and Maria Bochnowicz, son in law Steven Bochnowicz and 6 loving grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sister Patricia Doonan and in-laws Charles Doonan, Connie Bennett, Charles and Eddie Zurlo, Tommy Zurlo and many adoring nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father Vinicio Carafa and mother Rose D’Alessandro Carafa.

In the race of life, it doesn’t matter if you come in first, middle or last as long as you enjoyed the ride and cross the finish line. Joe most definitely crossed the finish line after a life well lived. All who know and love him will remember his life, his story and his devilish smile until we see him again across the finish line.

Funeral services will be private.

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