May
6, 1918 - April 11, 2010MISHAWAKA - Joseph A. Perri, 91, of Mishawaka, passed away Sunday evening, April 11, 2010, in the Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka. Joe was born May 6, 1918, in South Amboy, New Jersey, to Ross and Frances (Fotia) Perri. At a young age he moved to Mishawaka with his family and lived in the Michiana area most of his life. He was a graduate of Mishawaka High School. Joe served his country in the U.S. Army during both World War II and the Korean War. He received numerous medals in honor of his service, including the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. Joe owned and operated Perri Fireworks, a business started by his father. He was considered the oldest living pyrotechnician in the country. He lived for fireworks and the Fourth of July celebration. Joe was Chicago Cubs fan, and greatly enjoyed his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was a former member of the Diloreto Society and the VFW. Joe's surviving family includes three children, Ross (Gail) Perri of South Bend, Frances Martin of Mishawaka and Michael (Roslyn) Perri of Phoenix, Arizona; three sisters, Catherine Klinedinst of Mishawaka, Mary (Frank) Linner of Elkhart and Margaret "Mickie" Catanzarite of Italy; five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Joe was preceded in death by three brothers, Emilio, Charles and Frank Perri. Friends may spend time with Joe's family Thursday from 5 - 7 p.m. in the Thallemer, Goethals & Wells Funeral Home, 503 West 3rd Street, Mishawaka. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 7 p.m. in the funeral home, with Rev. Jeffery Largent officiating. Burial will be Friday at 10 a.m. in Fairview Cemetery, Mishawaka. Military honors will be provided by the VFW 360 / American Legion 161 Burial Squad.