Joseph"Pops" Farina, 82, of Wheatfield, NY passed away on Monday March 16, 2009 at his residence while under the care of Niagara Hospice and his loving family. Born in Punxsutawney, PA he was the son of the late Joseph M. and Laura (Cimino) Farina.

Joseph moved to the Niagara Falls area in his youth. He was a self employed carpenter and worked on many different construction projects in the Niagara Falls area; retiring approximately ten years ago. During World War II, Joseph served in the United States Army 25th Medical Battalion as a Technician Fifth Grade from December 14, 1944 until his honorable discharge on November 10, 1946. In his leisure he enjoyed horseracing and going to OTB. Joseph was also an avid card player, but most of all enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

Survivors include five children Laura Ann Marsh of McLean, VA, Cindy Farina Ventresca, Denise Claire Farina both of Niagara Falls, NY, Richard (Lisa) Farina of Florida, Cheryl Oliver of Lewiston, NY; five grandchildren Scott Banks, Joseph Tullio Ventresca, Christina Marie Ventresca, Michael Oliver, Alicia Shepherd; his wife Grace Ann (DiFiglia) Farina; nieces and nephews Beverly (Lawrence) Ligammari, Larry Ligammari, Mark (Loretta) Ligammari, Lisa (William) Lobianco; great-nieces and nephews Gino Lobianco, Samantha, Sarah, and Sabrina Ligammari. He was predeceased by his sister Nancy (late Louis) Cacciatore.

Friends may call Thursday March 19th from 8:30 a.m until 9:30 a.m. at the M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD NIAGARA FALLS, NY where funeral services will begin at 9:30 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. in St. Vincent de Paul Parish at St. Leo's Church, 2748 Military Rd., Niagara Falls, NY. Interment with military honors in Riverdale Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport NY 14094 or to a charity of one's choice.