Obituary of Joseph A. DiTrolio

Joseph “Joe” Anthony DiTrolio passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at CareOne Assisted Living in Parsippany. He had shared 60 years of unconditional love, infectious laughter, and unforgettable memories with family and friends.

Joe was born in Calabritto, Italy to Maria and the late Antonio DiTrolio. He was the eldest child and only son to bless the DiTrolio household. In 1968, the happy family of three immigrated to the United States. After graduating Bloomfield High School, Joe went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from Rutgers University. Rutgers is where he met his best friend and soulmate, Carolyn Dann. They were married on April 29, 1989 and settled into the Leonardo Section of Middletown Township, NJ. That is where Joe & Carolyn began a family of their own before finding their forever home in Rockaway Township. Joe proudly served our country in the United States Army and the Army National Guard for 20 years before his Honorable Discharge in 2006. He was stationed at Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, guarded the bridges and tunnels into New York City during 9/11, and served in the Global War on Terrorism, just to name a few accomplishments during his service. Joe was also employed with Picatinny Arsenal in Wharton as a Business Analyst for over 20 years. He always worked hard to support his family and was dedicated to lending a hand to those in need. He was truly one of a kind and will be sorely missed and forever treasured.

Joe was a history buff; specifically, military history! He loved historical fiction and you can bet money that he had seen every war movie ever released. He also enjoyed watching Marvel movies, his beloved Yankees, Giants, and The Rutgers Scarlet Knights. He was the ultimate host of many BBQ’s, always dishing out delicious sausage and peppers and delivering a smile and witty one-liner to make you laugh. He loved to indulge in the finer things in life – Wendy’s, chocolate ice cream, Reese’s Pieces, and Pop-Tarts. The next time you enjoy one of these, please think of Joe, and know he is shining down, savoring this treat with you. Although we are deeply saddened by his passing, we take comfort in knowing he is reunited with his loving father, Antonio, and his faithful cat companion, Pearl.

His legacy will live on in the hearts of his beloved wife of nearly 35 years, Carolyn; his adored daughters, Faith and Olivia; his loving mother, Maria; his sister, Milena (Carl) Gerson; his goddaughter and niece, Francesca Nasseh; and his cats, Tonks and Freddie.

Public Visitation will be held on Sunday, February 25th from 1 - 5 pm at Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville, NJ 07834. Funeral Service will take place on Monday, February 26th at 10 am at Norman Dean Home for Services, Denville. Burial will immediately follow with a Committal Service at 2 pm at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 350 Province Line Rd, Wrightstown, NJ 08562. Memorial Donations are being accepted for Joe to The Gary Sinise Foundation by clicking here ~ please select "In Memory Of" and include this email, axthelt@verizon.net, to ensure receipt of your donation. Please leave a condolence, light a candle, and share your favorite memory of Joe here to continue to celebrate his life and let his light shine on.