Joseph M. Germele, 86, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away on September 15, 2022 at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, NY.  Born in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Michael and Philomena (Coney) Germele.

Joseph was a graduate of Niagara Falls High School.  He proudly served in the United States Army 82 ^nd Airborne Division as a Paratrooper from 1953 until his honorable discharge in 1955.  He earned a Bachelors' Degree with a focus in Social Work from Michigan State University.  On September 9, 1967, he married the love of his life, Patricia M. (Campbell) Germele at St. Theresa's Church in Niagara Falls, NY.  Mrs. Germele predeceased him on December 12, 2021. Joseph was employed for over 35 years as a Social Worker with Niagara County, working both in Child Protective and Adult Protective Services prior to his retirement.

Joseph was very nostalgic, which was evident through his love of baseball, old movies and old books.  A very well read and curious individual, Joseph was a wealth of knowledge, and especially enjoyed history.  He loved watching baseball, tennis and the Olympics on television, and even took up downhill skiing later in life.  An adventurous spirit, Joseph enjoyed riding motorcycles in his younger years and traveling the United States with his wife.  Joseph also had a creative side, which was evident through his work as a playwright and actor at various local theatres.  He had a great love of animals, especially dogs.   Above all, Joseph found his greatest pride in the time he spent with his children and grandchildren.

Joseph is survived by his children, Sharon Elizabeth Germele and Dianne Rose (Salim) Elmedawar; his grandchildren, Nicholas Germele, Allie Germele, Katherine Elmedawar and Julia Elmedawar; his sisters, Mary Louise (Domenic) Bozzo, and Frances 'Kathy' (Carmen 'Charlie') Bozzo, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.  In addition to his wife of 54 years, he was predeceased by his son, Dean Michael 'Harmonica Dean' Germele.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 22 from 5 – 7 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14304, where funeral services will be held at 7 PM.  Private entombment in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston, NY, at the convenience of the family.  If desired, memorial offerings may be made to the Niagara County SPCA, 2100 Lockport Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14304.  Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.