Joseph R. Sylvia, Jr., 97, of Fairhaven died July 3, 2009 at Our Lady's Haven.
He was the husband of the late Catherine M. (Ariagno) Sylvia.
Born in New Bedford, the son of the late Joseph R. and Julia (Sylvia) Sylvia, he lived in Fairhaven most of his life.
He was a communicant of St. Joseph's Church, Fairhaven.
Mr. Sylvia was formerly employed by Lesco Tobacco & Candy as a salesman for many years until his retirement.
He served in the U.S. Army during World War II in Italy and Africa. He was the recipient of the European-African Middle Eastern Campaign Ribbon. Mr. Sylvia was a member of the American Legion Post #166 in Fairhaven and a former member of the Reservation Golf Course. He was an avid golfer who enjoyed time traveling and spending time with his family.
The family would like to thank the entire staff of Our Lady's Haven, for the love and care that our father received.
Survivors include a son, Joseph D. Sylvia and his wife Diane of Fairhaven; 2 daughters, Patricia O'Donnell and her husband Michael of The Villages, FL, and Louise Vandal of Mattapoisett; 4 grandchildren, James O'Donnell, Christopher Vandal, Neil Vandal, and David Sylvia; 9 great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was the brother of the late William Sylvia and Aldina Cabral.
His Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, July 9th at 12 Noon in the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home For Funerals, 50 County Rd. (Rt. 6) Mattapoisett. His family will receive guests on Thursday morning from 11 AM to 12 Noon prior to his service. Burial will follow in the Massachusetts National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Our Lady's Haven, c/o the activities center, 71 Center St. Fairhaven, MA 02719.