Balls Creek
It is with great sadness that we, the family, announce the peaceful passing of our loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Joseph Anthony Vassallo at Harbourstone Enhanced Care on Saturday, July 29, 2023.
Born on April 2, 1952 in Sydney, Joe was the son of the late John and Nan Vassallo.
Joe is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Carmella; children, Wanda (Wil) and Ricky (Amanda); grandchildren, Hayden, Paige, Madison, Matteo, David, Gavin, Brooklyn, Jacob and Ariya; goddaughters, Menette and Grayse; godson, Andrew; sisters, Peggy, Mary, Anne, Lorraine and Theresa; brothers, Bernie, Robert and Pat, and numerous nieces and nephews that he loved dearly.
Besides his parents, Joe was predeceased by parents-in-law, Malcolm and Peggy MacPherson; brothers Mike, Johnny and Frankie, and sister, Carmelita.
Next to his family, “Backhoe Joe’s” passion was being a heavy equipment operator. For over 50 years he worked for several construction companies, then in 1988 he decided to start his own backhoe service business. He was a kind, gentle man. Always ready to help anyone, no job was too big or too small. His backhoe was an extension of his arm, someone once commented, “He could scratch your back with that bucket.”
On behalf of Joe, the family would like to extend a heart felt thank you to the staff of MacDougall Court and most recently Steelworkers Lane for the loving care, compassion and dignity they provide everyday over these past years.
Memorial service to celebrate the life of Joseph Vassallo will be held at Pier Community Funeral Home, 1092 Victoria Rd. (entrance on Church St.), Whitney Pier on Thursday, August 3, 2023, at 2:30 p.m. in the All Faith Chapel with Rev. Sheldon Chant officiating. Interment will take place in Saint Columba Cemetery, Upper Leitches Creek Road.
Donations in memory of Joe may be made to a charity of one’s choice.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.
Online Condolences
Our prayers and love to all Joes families. He was a great guy. I played Darts with him for a few years and all we did was laugh he sure made you feel good. Alice and Gerard McNamara🙏🌹🙏🌹🙏
From: Alice McNamara
My condolences Wanda, Ricky and family.
Condolences to all of the Family. Memories to hold on to can help you through this sad time.
so sorry to read Joe passed away our condolences to hisbrother Robert n Cathy
This makes me feel so sad Joe always had a smile and made me laugh . Wish I could wipe away your hurt know that I’m thinking about you all
I send my sincere condolences during this time of sorrow. The Bible gives a real hope that your loved one will soon live again in a paradise earth when death is no more. (John 5:28, 29; Revelation 21:4)
Carmella so sorry for you and your families loss…
Wanda, I am so sorry to hear of your father’s passing. May he rest in peace.
Our deepest
condolences to Wanda ,Ricky and family. May he REST in PEACE
To Joe’s family: So sorry to hear of Joe’s passing.
He was a great person and as others have said allways willing to help out.
On more than one occasion Joe’s skills on the backhoe came to our rescue. (I could watch him operate a backhoe all day)
Joe was a kind generous humorous man.
RIP Joe
My heart goes out to the Vassallo family. Joe was such a good guy. He will be missed.
Oh my gosh Carmella…so very sorry to hear about Joe. To the entire family, he will always be alive in our hearts, happy and fun loving. Thinking of you all and sending our most sincere condolenses. Cuzin’ Evelynn and Ken. Xx
RIP JOE My condolence to the family. Joe always made me smile and feel good after talking to him. God Bless you all.
Very sorry to hear that Joe has passed. He was always so pleasant , with a great sense of humour! He will be missed!
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. Cherish your memories of him. They are yours forever! Sincere Condolences! Tommy and Cheryl Curry
My sincere condolences to all. May each happy memory remain a joy in your hearts forever💕
Mary Sue MacKinnon
Ingonish
My sincere condolences to Joe’s family on his passing. I went to school with Joe. He was an all round good guy.
So sorry for your loss. Condolences to all the family and friends. He was good guy.