Onofrio Joseph Florio

Onofrio Joseph Florio, 89, longtime Alaskan resident, died December 26th, 2019 due to complications from Alzheimer's disease. He went peacefully surrounded by family. Joe was born on December 8th, 1930, in Furore, Italy. He came to New York when he was thirteen with his father and sister, and was joined shortly thereafter by his family. He enlisted in the army at seventeen, and his military career brought him to Alaska where he met his wife of 55 years, Gail. Joe was a Command Sergeant Major, and had an illustrious military career. He served in Korea and two tours in Vietnam. He was an enlisted co-pilot of helicopters, received a Purple Heart, a Silver Star for gallantry in action against an enemy, and multiple Bronze Stars for heroism. He had a strong work ethic and served for 25 years in the military, and worked as the Regional Manager of Loomis Armored Car for another 25 years. Even after retirement, Joe still put family first and played an active role in his family's lives, often going camping, traveling, and attending numerous sporting events. He was a pilot, wilderness guide, ski instructor who wrote a winter survival guide for the army; an avid fisherman, hunter, and a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. Whether it's yelling "hustle" on the sidelines, going to church on Sunday, or telling an animated story, Joe will be greatly missed by all. He is survived by his son, Joseph Florio; his daughters and sons-in-law, Alison and Shawn O'Donnell and Kristina and Ray Blackadar; granddaughters Michaela Florio and Mckinlee O'Donnell; sisters, Maria Florio and Nicoletta Signore; brothers, Salvatore Florio, Luigi Florio, Pasquale Florio, and Dominick Florio; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his wife, Gail Florio; his daughter-in-law, Wendy Florio; his parents, Giuseppa and Salvatore Florio; his brother, Anthony Florio; and his sister, Antoinette Santullo. His funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, December 31st at 3:00 PM at St. Patrick's Parish. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to Alzheimer's Resource of Alaska. A special thanks to his lovely caregivers, Rebecca and Gloria, who became family. We are eternally grateful for your generosity, patience, and kind hearts.