Joseph Michael Iurato

Joseph M. Iurato, age 85, of Fairfield, beloved husband of 64 years of Florence E. Iurato, passed away peacefully Tuesday, February 16, 2016 in his home surrounded by his loving family. Born in New York City, the son of the late Rosario and Jennie Iurato, he had been a Fairfield resident for the last 54 years. Joseph proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict where he received three Purple Hearts and the Korean Service Medal with one Bronze Star. Following his military service Mr. Iurato began his career as a Steam Fitter. After moving to Fairfield he worked many years for Standard Oil and retired from Arnie's Heating and Air Conditioning. Joseph was a3rd Degree member of the St. Francis X Cabrini Council Knights of Columbus and a member of the American Legion Post 143 in Fairfield. He served for 38 years as a Special Police Officer for the Town of Fairfield and as a Quartermaster for the Fairfield Colonades Drum and Bugle Corps. Joe will be fondly remembered as a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather who delighted in time spent with his family and assisting his wife with all the chores around the home. Survivors in addition to his loving wife Flo include four beloved children, Joann Iurato and James J. Ligouri, III of Fairfield, Mary Bennett and her husband Edward of Naugatuck, Joseph R. Iurato of Fairfield and Michael Iurato and Kelly of Stratford; seven grandchildren, Dana, Shannon, Jessica, Joey, Ashley, Michael and Cindy; 11 great-grandchildren and his best friends, Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Soares of Bridgeport. He was predeceased by a sister, Jennie Rizzo. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, February 22, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. meeting directly at Holy Family Church, 700 Old Stratfield Road, Fairfield. Interment with military honors will follow in Lawncroft Cemetery. Friends may call Sunday from 3-7 p.m. in the Spear-Miller Funeral Home, 39 South Benson Road, Fairfield. For information or to sign an online guest register please visit www.SpearMillerFuneralHome.com