Joseph Forte

Elmira: Age 88, passed away Wednesday, March 23, 2016 at the Chemung County Nursing Facility. Joe was born in Elmira a son of Virginia (Solometo) and Dominck Forte. He is predeceased by his grandchildren, Aaron and Vincent Henry, and brother-in-law Carmen Esposito. Joe is survived by his loving wife of 63 years Therese Esposito Forte; children, and their families, Michael J. and Diane Forte of Orlando FL with children, Dominic Forte, Margaret (Joseph) San Felippo, Jennifer (Don) Miller and Ian Adamich; Maureen A. Forte of Elmira; J. Paul and Monica Forte of Elmira Heights, with children, J. Paulie, Maria and Anthony Forte; Anthony G. and Kim Forte of Sterling VA; Jacqueline F. and Paul Henry of Leesburg VA, with daughter Trish Harrington; brother and sisters-in-law, Robert A. and Libby Forte of Elmira, Therese Esposito of Webster NY; along with several nieces, nephews and cousins. Joe was a U S Navy veteran serving his country during WWII and the Korean War. A retired Corrections Officer worked for many years at the Elmira Correctional Facility. After his retirement he went to work for BOCES delivering mail, working until the age of 80. Joe was one of the original volunteers of the Elmira soup kitchen, now the Elmira Community Kitchen. A devout Catholic, Joe was a long time communicant of St. Anthony's Church where he served as a Eucharistic Minister. He attended daily Mass at St. Casimir's Church and was very involved with the Adoration Chapel at the church. Joe was also a member of the 3rd Order of St. Francis. He was an avid woodworker, furniture maker and enjoyed gardening. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, May 7, 2016, 11:00 a.m., St. Casimir's Church. Military Honors will be accorded outside of the church at the conclusion of the Mass. Private interment will take place at St. Peter & Paul's Cemetery. Those wishing may remember Joe with a donation to either, the Elmira Community Kitchen, 215 E. Church Street, Elmira NY 14901 or the SPCA, Route 352, Elmira NY 14903. Joe's family extends their sincere thanks to Dr. Corbalan and the 6th floor staff at the nursing facility for the wonderful care Joe received.