Joseph M. Notaro

Joseph M. Notaro, 84, of Kelayres, passed away Sunday evening at home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born January 5, 1938, in Kelayres, he was the son of the late Joseph and Santa (Tornabene) Notaro.

Joe was a member of Church of All Saints, McAdoo, and a graduate of McAdoo High School, class of 1955.

Joe was in the Army from 1959 to 1961. He was stationed in Korea at the demilitarize zone with the Seventh Infantry Division.

Joe attended McCann School of Business. While at McCann, he was recruited by the Air Force as a stenographer.

Joe moved to Virginia in January of 1966 and started working for the Air Force in the Pentagon as a stenographer. He attended school at night studying computer science. While with the Air Force, he was temporarily assigned to the White House Steno Pool providing evening clerical support. Joe was proud to attend a Christmas party at the White House in 1966.

Joe returned to the Pentagon and after a while was selected as a computer programmer trainee. He worked as a programmer for supporting various Air Force Agencies for years. In 1985, he was promoted to the Air Staff Deputy Division Chief and Data Base Manager of all aircraft, bases, and units throughout the world. 

After 32 years, Joe retired on October 3, 1997, and was awarded the Air Force Distinguished Civilian Employee Medal.

In retirement, Joe was an avid golfer and played regularly at local golf courses. He furthered his love for golf by going to Florida every winter. He had a hole in one while playing golf in Florida. Joe also loved to go to the casinos and to do the daily and Sunday crossword puzzles.

Joe was an avid gardener. He planted most vegetables but was noted for his pumpkin/zucchini flowers, and of course his garlic. The garlic seeds have been handed down for over 100 years. He always had a good assortment of beautiful flowers as well.

Preceding him in death, were his brothers Frank and Stephen Notaro; and sisters Santa Porpiglia, Nancy Riccio, Virginia Bumbulsky and Anita Rossi.

Surviving are his sister Mary Lerario of Springfield; brothers Jerry Notaro of Kelayres; and Mauro Notaro and wife Grace of Kline Twp.; sister-in-law Elaine Notaro of Plymouth Meeting; best friend and companion Franny; nieces and nephews; and many other loving family members. 

His funeral will be held Thursday. Rev. Msgr. William Baker will celebrate the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. in Church of All Saints, McAdoo. Interment will follow in Immaculate Conception Cemetery, McAdoo.

A calling hour will be held Thursday from 10 to 11 a.m. in the church.

The Damiano Funeral Home Inc., McAdoo, is assisting the family.

Condolences may be entered and information is available at www.damianofhinc.com.      

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