April 20, 1938 — March 29, 2026
Joseph Pontone, of Reading, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 29th, 2026. He was 87 years of age.
Joe was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. Joe was a man whose quiet strength and kind heart touched all who knew him.
Born in Cassino, Italy, he carried with him a deep appreciation for life’s simple joys—family, hard work, and togetherness. He came to America as a proud citizen in search of independence and the opportunity to create his own path. In 1962, he was drafted into the army and proudly served his country. He created a life here with Nancy (Gariepy) Pontone and had two sons, Paul and Michael. Through tenacity and hard work Joe built a successful landscaping company that he ran until his last days.
He experienced profound loss with the passing of his first wife, a sorrow he carried with quiet grace. In time, he found love again and is survived by his beloved second wife, Carola (Sal y Rosas) Pontone, who stood by his side for 39 years.
Joe was a hard working perfectionist who was quiet and self assured. He lived his life with integrity and humility. Joe had the “gift of the gab” and an ability to relate to anyone. He had a sense of humor with the ability to make people laugh. Joe loved nature and the outdoors. He enjoyed his Dunkin’ donut coffee and a well worn baseball hat.
Though he lived simply, his life was rich in what mattered most—love, laughter, family, and kindness. He was remarkable and unforgettable
Joseph is the beloved husband of Carola A. (Sal y Rosas) Pontone and the late Nancy (Gariepy) Pontone. He is the cherished father of Paul Pontone and his wife DeAnne and Michael Pontone and his wife Mindy. Loving grandfather of Luca, Camille and Sarah. Dear son of the late Ignazio and Benedetta (Giagante) Pontone. Brother of Rosina Evangelista and her late husband Emilo, Maria Evangelista and her late husband Gaetano, and Giovanna Sinagoga and her husband Armando. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
Funeral from the Barile Family Funeral Home 482 Main St. (RT28) STONEHAM on Thursday April 2, 2026 at 8 am followed by a Funeral Mass Celebrating Joseph’s Eternal Life in St. Patrick Church 71 Central St. Stoneham at 9 am. Interment St. Patrick Cemetery, Stoneham.
Family and friends are kindly invited to gather and share memories with the family on Wednesday April 1, 2026 from 4 pm to 7 pm in the funeral home. Parking attendants and elevator available.
Donations can be made to Lazarus Center for Healing ( healingshrine.org )
