JOSEPH (JOE) JOHN GRACEFFO

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JOSEPH (JOE) JOHN GRACEFFO It is with great sadness that the family announces the peaceful passing of Joseph (Joe) John Graceffo on Tuesday, September 29, 2009 at the Victoria General Hospital at the age of 80 years. Joe was predeceased by his parents, Serafina (Mantello) and Leonardo Graceffo; his brothers, Charles, Emil, Jimmy, Frank and Sam; and his sisters, Eva Hallikas and Maria. He was also predeceased by his two closest friends in life, Tony Papero and Gig Gigliotti. He will be lovingly remembered by his son Leonard; his daughter Joanne; their mother Shirley (Davidson); sisters, Florence and her husband Harry Aslin, Mafalda Moroz, Yolanda; brother Leonard and his wife Lynn, along with numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Joe was born in Winnipeg on August 19, 1929 and was raised in Fort Rouge on Carlaw Avenue. Many good times were had growing up being a part of such a large family and Joe would recount these times often during his life. After graduating from Kelvin High School, Joe worked for Air Canada until his retirement. In his youth, Joe participated actively in baseball and hockey. He was a star second baseman and was often referred to as Flash Graceffo on the ice. The enduring loves of his life were horse racing and opera. The family would like to thank the staff at the Victoria General Hospital for their kindness and professional care. A funeral mass will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to the Riverview Health Centre, 1 Morley Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3L 2P4 or to a charity of one's choice. If family or friends so desire, visit Assiniboia Downs and place a bet on any race and / or think of Joe the next time you listen to an aria.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 03, 2009