Obituary of Joseph J. DeFazio

Joseph John DeFazio, 81, passed away Saturday at home with his family by his side. He was born on August 15, 1935, Batavia NY the son of the late John and Josephine (Maniace) DeFazio. After graduating at age 16 from Batavia High School where he played in the marching band, he served 2 years in the US Army and 4 years in the Army Reserves. His made his career at Owens-Illinois Glass Container Division where he worked 36 years, retiring as the area Quality Engineer for the US East Coast and Canada. Joe was a founding member of St Elizabeth Ann Seton Church in Baldwinsville and avid sports fan. He was a die-hard fan of the Buffalo Bills, Syracuse Basketball and OCC Women's Basketball and owner of the racehorse Patricia Hal C at Batavia Downs. He was the best husband, dad, and grandpa ever, a kind and generous man and the rock of his family. Predeceased by his parents and sister, Rosemary DeFazio. Survived by his wife of 48 years, Ruth (Wiedrich) DeFazio, sons Joseph (Mary) DeFazio of Houston, TX, Patrick (Katherine) DeFazio of Baldwinsville, daughter Rachel (David) Briedis of Baldwinsville, the joys of his life, his grandchildren: Elise Briedis, Sam DeFazio, Hope DeFazio, Colin Briedis, Hannah DeFazio, Addison Briedis, Olivia DeFazio, John DeFazio, Thomas DeFazio, niece Annete (James) Gillam of Batavia, NY as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, January 4, from 10 am – noon at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, 3494 NY-31, Baldwinsville, NY 13027, with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at noon. Burial will be in Our Lady of Peace Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Smile Train, 41 Madison Avenue 28th Floor New York, New York 10010.