Joseph R. Paonessa, 90 of Youngstown, NY passed away on July 4, 2018 at Mt. St. Mary's Hospital.  Born July 17, 1927 in Niagara Falls, NY he was the son of the late Ralph and Emilia (Gatti) Paonessa.

Joseph was raised and educated in Niagara Falls and attended Niagara Falls High School.  On April 30, 1949, he married Catherine 'Kay' (Scimemi) Paonessa at St. Joseph's Church.  Joe was employed at Olin Chemical Company as a maintenance supervisor until his retirement after thirty years of service.  Joseph was a sports enthusiast and avid hunter and bowler.  He also enjoyed playing poker and pool, although his greatest pleasure came from spending time with his family.

In addition to his beloved wife of 69 years, Joseph is survived by his three children, Deborah (Russell Licata) Aloi, Darlene (Brad Clack) McQueen and David (Mary Talarico) Paonessa, three grandchildren, Brianne (fiancé Davonte Carter) Paonessa, David Paonessa, Jackie (Jonathan) Moyer, and was predeceased by one granddaughter Michelle McQueen.  He was the great-grandfather of Josefina Carter, brother of the late Louis (Elsie) Paonessa, brother-in-law of, Anne (Larry) Carella and late Edward Scimemi.  Joseph is also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be held on Monday from 3-8 p.m. at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY, where funeral services will begin Tuesday July 10 ^th at 10:00 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. at St. Bernard's Church 218 Hinman Street Youngstown, NY.   Entombment will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute PO Box 631 Buffalo, NY 14240. Visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.