Joseph Strazzo

New London - Joseph John Strazzo of New London died Nov. 19, 2007.

He was born in New London on June 8, 1924, the son of the late Fortunato and Mary (Calanda) Strazzo. He attended local schools and graduated from the former Chapman Technical High School, class of 1943, where he played football.

Mr. Strazzo enlisted in the Marine Corps during World War II. He participated in the recapture of Guam and the battle of Iwo Jima. He was part of the occupation forces in Japan and China at the end of hostilities. He attained the rank of sergeant before leaving the service in 1946.

He was employed by Charles Pfizer Inc. for 39 years, his last position was as a supervisor of maintenance in the research division. After retiring he served as dock master at Thamesport Marina, surrounded by his good friends, Ron, Willie and Fred.

When his sons were involved in sports, he was active in minor league baseball and Pee Wee football.

Mr. Strazzo was an avid golfer and reader.

He is survived by his wife, Rose Anne (Leary) Strazzo; his daughter, Margaret Strazzo and her children, Elizabeth and Remington Richards of Stanwood, Wash.; his son, John and his wife, Alicia, and their children, Giada, Joseph and Michael of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic; his son, Joseph and his wife, Diana, and their son, Daniel, of Quaker Hill; his daughter, Louise Hanrahan and her husband, Kevin, and their children, Patrick and Catherine of New London; a brother, Anthony Strazzo of Sattelite City, Fla.; and two sisters, Anna Strazzo and Angeline Christiansen, of East Lyme.

He was predeceased by his brothers, Alphonse and John Strazzo and a sister, Mary Benvenuti.

Family and friends are asked to gather for a Memorial Mass of Christian Burial on Friday at 11:30 a.m. at St. Joseph Church, 17 Squire St.,New London. There are no calling hours and burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Hospice of Southeastern CT, PO Box 902, Uncasville, CT 06382.