Joseph F. Halligan Sr., 77, also known as "Cadillac Joe," a Franklin resident for more than 44 years, died at his home Thursday, Jan. 24, 2008, with his family at his side. He was the husband of Emma F. (Sperguiro) Halligan.
Born in Boston, Dec. 25, 1930, he was raised by his grandparents, Joseph and Ida Bagnoli, and lived with them until their deaths, when he was 17.
Mr. Halligan was an industrious worker who did many things. He was a crane operator and longshoreman for many years for the International Longshoremen's Association. He also owned and operated the former "Down on the Farm" Lounge in Franklin, and with his son, also operated the former "Club Cadillac" in Franklin. He loved automobiles and worked as a car salesman, and in later years assisted his son in the operation of his automobile business. Mr. Halligan was a most familiar personality in town and could always be recognized easily by the highly polished late model Rolls Royce cars he drove. He was a great story teller and will be remembered for his many amusing tales.
He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He attained the rank of corporal, and was stationed in Korea with the 8th Cavalry Regiment. He was awarded the Korean Service Medal with two bronze stars, the United Nations Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. He was honorably discharged in December, 1953.
Although Mr. Halligan had many interests in life, none were more important to him than his family. Family was his passion, and in addition to his wife of 56 years, he leaves his son, Joseph F. Halligan Jr. of Franklin; a daughter, Deirdre Lorusso, wife of the late Chuck Lorusso, of Norfolk; his grandsons, Michael and Timmy Lorusso and Marcus Halligan.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral, with military honors, Monday at 8:15 a.m., from the Charles F. Oteri & Son Franklin Funeral Home, 33 Cottage St., www,franklinfuneral.com, with a funeral Mass in St. Mary Church at 9 a.m. Interment is private. Calling hours are Sunday, 4 to 8PM.
Donations in his memory, sent to VNA Hospice, 175 Highland Ave., Needham, MA 02492, would be appreciated.