Joseph Difranco

Father, Grandfather, Great-grandfather, jeweler, artist, author, civic leader, friend, and beloved by all who knew him, Joseph was one of the last of the Great Generation. He passed quietly and peacefully, surrounded by his family on November 12 at his Cedar Living home.

Throughout life, “Joe” was a leader, from President of Kirtland City Council, to presidency of all the groups to which he belonged: the Jeweler’s Guild, the NEO Photographer’s Guild years ago, and others. He organized the reunions around America for his 862nd Corps of Army Aviation Engineers as well.

He authored a cookbook, an autobiography, and a biography of his wife Josephine. He began to nurture and explore his artistic ability and worked on his art daily until the last two weeks of his life.

A proud veteran and staunch American, he fought in the World War II Battle of the Bulge and earned four Bronze Stars and a Purple Heart,

Even though it has been 77 years since the end of World War II, the French have not forgotten the role of the American service men and women who helped to liberate them. Joe was honored for his role in that liberation, by an ever-grateful country, far across the ocean. He served in France, Belgium, and Germany from 1943-1945. His French Legion of Honor medallion is a magnificent award for that effort.

He was awarded the Army Good Conduct Medal for distinguishing himself by exemplary behavior, efficiency, and fidelity during his active service.

The Purple Heart was earned for injuries suffered during a bombing by the Luftwaffe. In the event, the barracks suffered a direct hit. Joe was seriously hurt but survived. Despite that, in a feat of inexplicable strength, he was able to lift a 12” x 12” beam to free a fellow brother who was hurt and screaming for help.

He also was awarded an Honorable Service Lapel Button and the Expert Army Marksmanship Qualification badges the M1 Rifle. The World War II Victory Medal was awarded as well, by an act of Congress on July 6, 1945.

His legacy includes his proud and grateful family, children Diana Everett (Morris), Steven (Linda), and Steven (1954-1956.) His grandchildren are John W. Ours Jr. (Alicia), Alice Vitiello (Tim Stafford), and Adam Ours (Halle); step-grandchildren, Morris Everett III (Jennifer) and Elizabeth Everett. His great - grandchildren are Audrey Ours, John Parker “JP” Ours, Wyatt Ours, Amalina Vitiello, Calvary Morris Vitiello, Spencer Ours, and Tyson Ours.

His beloved wife Josephine DiFranco passed away in 2014 after 68 years of marriage.