Joseph "Joe" Molinaro

Joseph “Joe” Molinaro, 91, of Washington, passed away Tuesday, October 15, 2024, in Transitions Healthcare, Washington. He was born April 5, 1933, in Washington, a son of the late Salvatore “Sam” Molinaro and Vincenzia “Virginia” DeSarro Molinaro. On January 8, 1955, he married Claudia Ward Molinaro, who survives. Joe served in the U.S. Navy from 1953 to 1957. He received medals for the Korean Conflict and Good Conduct. He worked 13 years at Hazel Atlas plant, followed by 32 years at Jessop Steel. Joe and his colleagues at Jessop Steel created numerous specialty steel products that were used around the world. He was known as a hard worker and often outworked younger employees, being the first to tell you that “the Jessop couldn’t function without him.” Joe graduated from Trinity High School in 1952, after attending Wash High for two years. He was known for his football prowess, especially when Trinity planed Wash High. He was a devoted fan of Wash High sports and could be seen at the 50-yard line directly below the press box with his wife and close friends, cheering on the Prexies during both successful and challenging seasons. His love of football extended to coaching children in the West End. He also loved watching Wash High basketball. He was an officer for several years at the Jessop Club and a longtime member of the Alpine Club, where he excelled in bowling. Those who knew Joe might recall the “Italian Table” in the food court of the Franklin Mall, where he and is Italian friends gathered to reminisce about the old days and discuss high school sports over a cup of coffee. The “Italian Table” Christmas parties in the food court were legendary, and Joe cherished those moments. “JoJo” was also known for his jokes, which he shared over and over with family, friends and strangers. He was a skilled carpenter and handyman, able to solve any household problem. He also had a talent for gardening, growing the best tomatoes and making spicy tomato juice. In the summer, he would challenge neighborhood kids to eat his hot peppers. During retirement, Joe enjoyed traveling with friends and family and working on projects around the house. He loved family gatherings, especially Italian feasts, and of course, telling jokes. Joe will be dearly missed and fondly remembered for the wonderful memories he created over the years. Surviving are his loving wife, Claudia Molinaro; four children, Steven Molinaro and his wife Colleen, David Molinaro and his wife Ruth, Mark Molinaro and his wife Alicia and Karen Kenny and her husband Jim; eight grandchildren, Stefan (Vanessa), Justin, Ashley, Alexa (Gene), Arica (Justin), Juliet, Matt and J.D. (Amanda); six great-grandchildren, Lainey, Derrick, Bennett, Bailey, Jeremiah and Jaleiah; and many nieces and nephews. Deceased are his siblings, Guy, Thomas “Tinker,” Mary, Tony, Frank, John, Pete, Angelina, Sam, Jimmy and Carmine. Family and friends will be received from 1 to 3 p.m. Friday, October 18, 2024, in William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington. Services and burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer's Association, 2835 East Carson Street, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15203 or at or at www.alz.org.