Joseph Motzi Jr. passed away on June 12, 2015. He was 93 years old.
The son of Italian immigrants, Joe was born and raised in Everett, MA. He attended the Nichols School and Everett Vocational High School. In 1942 Joe joined the military and began a long and distinguished career that spanned World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam. He is a recipient of the Soldier’s Medal, Bronze Star, Army of Occupation Medal, American Campaign Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, National Defense Service Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Air Force Commendation Medal.
Joe was a member of the 104th Infantry Division known as the Timberwolves, whose accomplishments included the battle for the Remagen Bridge, the liberation of the Nordhausen-Dora Concentration Camp and the crossing of the Rhine leading to the ultimate defeat of Nazi Germany. Following WWII he returned to Europe as part of the Allied Occupation Forces. Joe transitioned to the Air Force and served during the Korean Conflict. In the 1950’s he was one of the Air Force’s top recruiters. Joe will be remembered for his love of country, sense of humor, warm smile, and kind heart.
Joe was the devoted husband of 59 years to Barbara (Girouard) Motzi. He was the beloved father of Michele Motzi and her fiancé John Kane of Middleton, Joseph Motzi of Acton and Jack Motzi of Wenham. Joe was the brother of the late John and Michael Motzi, Madeline Alexander, Angie Rawlinson and Catherine Centola. He was the cherished grandfather of Joey and Carolyn Motzi, Allison Motzi-Guttadauro and the late John Motzi. He is also survived by 5 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
The funeral will be held from the A. J. Spadafora Funeral Home 865 Main Street, Malden on Tuesday June 16th at 8:00a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Joseph’s Church 770 Salem Street, Malden at 9:00a.m. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Visiting hours are Monday June 15th from 4-8p.m. Interment will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Everett.
In lieu of flowers donations in Joe’s memory may be made to Little Sisters of the Poor, Jeanne Jugan Residence 186 Highland Ave. Somerville, MA 02143.