Obituary of Joseph C. Asselta

Joseph Asselta of Vineland, NJ passed away on April 16th at his home. He was 88. Being one of 12 siblings, Joe learned the real meaning of family and social responsibility at an early age. His lifetime achievements illustrate a man who honored his commitment to his country, to his community and to his belief that "helping those in need is the right thing to do." He served in the US Army in World War II in Belgium, France and Germany, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant in the 69th Infantry Division, earning the Bronze Star for Meritorious Service, The Purple Heart, and The Victory Medal among other awards. After his military service ended, Joe opened his own business, Jay-Cee Market, which he operated for over 40 years, proudly serving the local retail and wholesale trade of Vineland. He was well known for his generosity, and for his special gifts of food given to those in need. Joe's dedication to community service included coaching baseball, his love, as well as spearheading major fundraising projects for the Newcomb Hospital, and as chairman of Special Gifts at the Sacred Heart House of Charity. Another significant contribution to the community was his 30 year relationship with the Vineland Housing Authority, including his role as chairman of the Board's Budget Committee and Housing/Building Committee for over 10 years. In 2002, the Vineland Housing Authority honored Joe by renaming their complex on Axtell Avenue to Asselta Acres. Joe was a devoted husband of 47 years to his late wife, Marie and to his wife of the last 4 ½ years, Edythe (Lolio). Joe was also the proud father of 5 sons: Dennis, who passed away in 1988; Joseph and his wife Deborah, Brian and his wife Darlene of Vineland; Richard and his wife Lauren of Newtown Square, PA; and Mark and his wife Claire of Mt. Holly, NJ. Among his extended family, Joe had 10 grandchildren: Joseph D. Asselta, Courtney Richards, Brooke Tolson, Adrienne Ford, and Gregory, Charles, Christopher, Joy, Vincent and Noelle Asselta. Joe is also survived and missed by 9 great-grandchildren: Blake, Bryce & Brynn Richards, Graham, Wyatt, & Riley Tolson, Siena and Maia Asselta and Garrett Ford and numerous nieces and nephews. Joe is survived by brother Daniel and sisters Rita Abba and Anne Vianni. He is predeceased by his siblings: James, John, Mary (Fiocchi), Angie (Bongiorno), Rocco, Guy, Anthony & Lucy (Abriola). In lieu of flowers the family has asked that donations be made to either; Compassionate Care Hospice of ADDRESS? Marmora, NJ or the Cumberland County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, ADDRESS?.