Joseph A. Arcifa, 94, of North Andover passed away Saturday, September 2, 2017 at Ashland Farm of North Andover surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Lawrence and was the son of the late Alfio and Carmela (Scandura) Arcifa.
Joseph was a graduate of Lawrence High School, Merrimack College, and Northeastern University with a degree in engineering. He worked as a cutter for Grieco Brothers and retired from Western Electric where he worked as an engineer. He was a W.W.II U.S. Army veteran and a member of the Disabled American Veterans.
Joseph was an extraordinary handyman who could tackle any job from cabinetry and carpentry to plumbing and landscaping. He put himself through engineering school at night while supporting his family with a full time job, and did it all with a quick smile and a sparkle in his eye. His wit and charm will be sorely missed.
Joseph was predeceased by his sisters, Anna Didio and Nellie Esile; and a son-in-law, Charles Dancy.
He is survived by his cherished wife of seventy-two years, Rita M. (Piro) Arcifa; son, Alfred Arcifa and his wife Astrid of Andover; daughters, Carol Courtney and her husband Donald of Gettysburg, PA, Marie Dancy of Merrimack, NH, and Annette James and her husband Russell of North Andover. He also leaves 16 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Joseph's family would like to thank the entire staff of Ashland Farm in North Andover for the tireless and cheerful care they gave to him in the final year of his life.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend visiting hours on Friday, September 8, 2017 from 4:00-8:00 PM at Cataudella Funeral Home, 126 Pleasant Valley St., Methuen. His funeral mass will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on Saturday, September 9, 2017 at St. Michael Church, 196 Main St., North Andover. Burial will follow at Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Lawrence. Donations may be made in his memory to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America at www.alzfdn.org
For directions or to send condolences, please visit www.cataudellafh.com.
Service Information