Joseph M Lanava

Joseph M. Lanava, 80, of Worcester, a retired Sheriff's Department Captain, passed away on Friday, September 3, 2010 in Holy Trinity Easter Orthodox Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. He is survived by his wife of two years, Ruth (Maranaho) Lanava. Mr. Lanava is also survived by his brother, Donato A. Lanava and a sister, Ann Walsh, both of Worcester; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was born in Worcester, one of twelve children of Santo and Vincenza (Grima) Lanava, and has lived here all his life. He was predeceased by four brothers and five sisters, Michael, Fred, Anthony and Thomas Lanava, Mary, Lucy and Lena Lanava, Millie Morelli and Angelia Lucciarini. Joseph graduated from Commerce High School in Worcester and attended Niagra University on a football scholarship. He then served his nation proudly in The United States Army. He worked for the Worcester County Sheriff's Department for many years, before retiring as a Captain. He was a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, the Italian American Post 3 and the Retired State, County and Municipal Employees Association. He enjoyed sports, especially football. Joseph's funeral will be held on Wednesday, September 8, from MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester, with a Mass at 11 a.m. in Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 24 Mulberry Street, Worcester. Interment will follow in Saint John's Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited to gather with his family for calling hours on Tuesday, September 7, from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. in the funeral home In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Holy Trinity Eastern Orthodox Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 300 Barber Avenue, Worcester, MA 01606