Joseph "Joe" Mascolino 

August 31, 1931-June 20th, 2026

Joseph "Joe" Mascolino, devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, Navy veteran, and faithful servant of his community, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Wellsburg, West Virginia, Joe was the son of the late Joseph and Rosalie "Rose" Mirasola Mascolino. He graduated from Wellsburg High School with the Class of 1949 and attended West Virginia University before beginning a life defined by service, hard work, faith, and family.

Joe proudly served in the United States Navy from 1951 to 1955 during the Korean War era. He attained the rank of Petty Officer Third Class and served aboard the USS Elokomin (A0-55). During his service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal, Navy Occupation Service Medal (Europe), and Navy Good Conduct Medal.

On August 8, 1954, Joe married the love of his life, Rose Vendemia, beginning a partnership that would span more than six decades. Together they built a home centered on faith, family, hospitality, and unconditional love. Rose preceded him in death on January 9, 2017.

A hardworking entrepreneur and businessman, Joe owned and operated the Red Barn liquor store, an ice cream shop and a successful mesquite products business before building a distinguished career in the beverage industry. He spent many successful years with Washington Wholesale, earning numerous sales awards and recognitions throughout his career. His professional achievements provided opportunities for him and Rose to travel extensively and create lasting memories together. He retired from Washington Wholesale in July 2002.

Joe was a devoted Catholic whose faith guided every aspect of his life. He was an active member of St. Ambrose Catholic Church for many years. Following his retirement, he continued serving others by working for nearly a decade at St. Mary's, where his skills, generosity, and willingness to help made him a beloved presence.

Joe was known for his craftsmanship and creativity. He could build almost anything—furniture, shelves, artwork, holiday displays, and countless projects for family and friends. He especially loved creating traditions, making Christmas magical with his beloved train village, hosting family gatherings, and bringing people together around his table.

To know Joe was to know his generosity. There was always room for one more guest, one more chair, and one more plate. He welcomed family, friends, neighbors, and strangers alike with warmth, kindness, and a genuine interest in others.

Above all else, Joe was devoted to his family. His greatest pride was the life he built with Rose and the love they shared with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Through every stage of life, he provided strength, stability, encouragement, and unwavering support.

Joe is survived by his daughters, Jo Rita McEwen, Julie Mascolino, Andi DeLeon, and Teri Fitch; his grandchildren, Jenna Walcott, Joey Leaman, Cole Drury, and Albert Fitch; and his great-grandchildren, Chase Walcott and Lily Fitch. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Lou Ujcich, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

In addition to his wife, Rose, Joe was preceded in death by his daughter, Karen Leaman; his sister, JoRita "Jay" Anile; and his sister, Jessie Karkenny.

Joe's legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the traditions he created, the faith he practiced, and the countless lives he touched through his kindness, generosity, and steadfast love.

His family finds comfort knowing that the lessons he taught, the memories he created, and the love he shared will continue to guide them for generations to come.

Funeral Services 

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Joe's life on Friday, July 17.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. at:

Short Funeral Services 609 E. Market Street Georgetown, DE 19947

Following the service, military honors and interment will take place at 2:00 p.m. at:

Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery – Sussex County 26669 Patriots Way Millsboro, DE 19966

Reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, an organization whose mission of honoring and supporting America's veterans, first responders, and their families reflects the values Joe held throughout his life.

Donations may be made at: https://dogood.t2t.org/give/320847#!/donation/checkout

Services are in the care of Short Funeral Services in Georgetown, Delaware. Online condolences may be shared online at https://www.shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com/