Joseph J. Dalessio, Jr. 70, of Manchester, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday (August 22, 2012). Born in Hartford on February 15, 1942, a beloved son of the late Frances and Joseph Dalessio, Sr. He attended Hartford Public Schools and worked many years as a Sales Representative for Wall Trends International and Seabrook, where he was responsible for covering the New England territory. He worked at other wall covering companies prior to his retirement. A few years after retirement he went to work for Enterprise, in Windsor Locks as a part time driver. He enjoyed going to work each morning and took pride as a driver there. He made many friends during his short time there. Joe leaves his adoring wife, Joann Dalessio of 46 years. In addition to his wife, he also leaves three daughters, Debbie Gianni and her husband Michael of Kensington, Judy Vaillette and her husband Jason of Vernon, and Joanie Dalessio of Berlin. He leaves his two cherished granddaughters who were the apples of his eyes; Alessia Gianni and Parker Vaillette. He also leaves an unborn grandchild. He leaves his two sisters Dorothy Garrity of Granby and Rosella Neales and her husband Donald Neales of East Hartford, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a sister Agnes Reynolds and a brother Richard Dalessio. He held a special place in his heart for his beloved four legged yorkie pals, Bert, Ernie and Rusty. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Former Council 11 of Hartford, where he achieved 4th Degree Knight status. While a member he served as Past Grand Knight and Former Financial Secretary, Member of the Board of Directors, and Chairman of the House Committee. He was a member of the Manchester Elks #1893 where he currently served as a Trustee. As a member he spent many hours and devoted much of his time serving the community at various events. He cooked Friday night meals at the Elks and was often spotted flipping burgers at Elks sponsored events. Joe was also a member of the Connecticut III Chapter of UNICO National. Joe was loved by many and will be sadly missed by all. A loving husband, father, nonno, uncle, brother and friend to all who knew him. In memory of Joe, per his request, please make a toast to celebrate his life. Funeral services will be held on Monday at 9:15 a.m. from the John F. Tierney Funeral Home 219 West Center St. Manchester with a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 10 a.m. at the Church of the Assumption 27 Adams St. South, Manchester followed by burial at Mt. St. Benedict Cemetery in Bloomfield. Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Sunday from 4-7 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Manchester Elks CT Children's Medical Center fund 30 Bissell St. Manchester, CT 06040. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the Manchester Police Department, especially officers Bernie Hallums and Belinda Vennart for their kindness and care and the Emergency Department at Manchester Memorial Hospital especially Nurse Jane Packer for her attentiveness, kindness and care. For online condolences please visit www.tierneyfuneralhome.com