Joseph A. Vita Sr., 62, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Joe was born on June 6, 1963 in Pittsburgh to the late Joseph and Harriet M. (Riotte) Vita. He was a 1981 graduate of Central Catholic High School. Joe was a deeply devoted husband, a loving father, and an adored grandfather whose greatest joy in life was spending time with his family. An avid Pittsburgh Penguins fan, he was truly happiest aboard his fishing boat, La Dolce Vita. The open water was where Joe would cast a line and enjoy the simple beauty of life alongside the people he loved most. As a gifted carpenter, Joe possessed a remarkable talent for building and fixing anything, a skill he proudly used to help his children remodel their homes. He loved the moments spent grilling on his smoker for his family and, most importantly, treasured every minute with his precious grandchildren. The quiet strength, unwavering hard work, and profound kindness that defined his life will never be forgotten.
Joe is survived by his wife of 43 years, Tina M. (Francioni) Vita; his children Amanda (Chris) Devola of Natrona Heights, Erica Vita and her husband (Nick Mendicino) of McCandless Twp., and Joseph A. (Allison) Vita Jr. of Evans City; and his beloved grandchildren Joanna Devola, Jaxon Devola, Cecilia Vita, and Norma Mendicino. He also leaves behind his cherished “granddogs,” Gunner, Cami, Daphne, and Bear. He is further survived by his sisters-in-law and brother-in-law: Brenda (Tony) Acri of Etna, Douglas (Patty) Francioni of West Deer, and Andrea (Todd) Rooney of Shaler Twp., as well as many loving nieces and nephews.
Joe’s legacy of love, devotion, and family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Friends will be received Saturday from 2-4 PM & 6pm until the time of the blessing service at 8pm in the SIWICKI-YANICKO FUNERAL HOME, 23 McKrell Road, Russellton, West Deer, with the Rev. James P. Holland, officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. View obituary online and leave condolences at www.siwicki-yanickofh.com/obituary/Joseph-Vita
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