Rev. Joseph M. Gariolo (Giuseppe Gariuolo), CRSP, 95, passed away on April 7, 2019 at Kenmore Mercy Hospital in Buffalo, NY.  Born in Stigliano, Province of Matera, Italy, he was the son of the late Francescantonio and Maria (Iannicella) Gariuolo.

Fr. Joe was raised in Italy, entering the Barnabite minor seminary at 13.  His novitiate began in 1942 at San Felice a Cancello Italy, but World War II bombings forced his class to finish in Monza, Italy.  Having completed theological studies at the Barnabite Seminary in Rome, he was ordained a priest on April 8, 1950.  Sent to Argentina as a missionary, he studied to become a grade school teacher.  While teaching, Father continued his studies, obtaining a Master's Degree in Spanish Literature and began high school teaching.

In 1969 the Barnabites sent him to North America, ministering in parishes and at Our Lady of Fatima Shrine, he studied at the University of Buffalo where he earned a double Ph. D. in Spanish and Italian Literature.  His college teaching career included stops at Wells, Rosary Hill, ECC, and Buffalo State.  While at Buffalo State he was hired by Canisius College to teach Spanish and Italian.  He taught there from 1978 through 2008, when forced to retire for health reasons.

He published numerous books and articles including both scholarly and devotional works.  His academic career partnered with his love for priestly ministry. He was officially assigned to the Barnabite Fatima Shrine Community in Lewiston, NY, but asked permission to live in Buffalo to facilitate his work in the Spanish Apostolate.  When SS. Columba-Brigid faced closure he served as Administrator for 4 years until a new pastor was assigned.  His bond with that parish and the Hispanic Apostolate was sealed.

His enthusiastic preaching and love for teaching the Faith never waned even in the last weeks of his life.  Whether celebrating Mass, bringing food to the poor, or having coffee and conversation with the parishioners his smile and wisdom were always ready.  Father Joe loved life!  He enjoyed traveling, reading, the open air, and learning about everything.  He took American Citizenship and was an avid follower of history, politics, and cultural movements.

Father is predeceased by his parents and seven sisters.  He is survived by many nieces and nephews.  He will be missed especially by Dennis and Paula Hunt who cared for him lovingly in his retirement and final illness.  His Barnabite confreres will miss him and are grateful to Fr. Roy Herberger and the Hunts for the love and care shown to Fr. Joe.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 11 from 2 – 8 PM and Friday, April 12 from 8:30 - 9:30 AM at S.S. Columba – Brigid R.C. Church, 75 Hickory Street, Buffalo, NY 14204, where Joseph's Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday at 10 AM.  A Commendation Service will also be held on Friday at 2:30 P.M. at Our Lady of Fatima Shrine, 1023 Swann Road, Youngstown, NY 14174, with interment in the Barnabite Cemetery at Our Lady of Fatima to follow.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Family Promise Ministries or Our Lady of Fatima Shrine.  Arrangements by M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14304.  Visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.