Joseph J. Velleca Jr.

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Joseph J. Velleca Jr., age 79, of Warwick, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday, October 14, 2017, at the Philip Hulitar Hospice Center after a courageous battle with prostate cancer. He was the husband of Elizabeth A. “Betty” (Norman) Marquis.

Born in Fall River, MA, a son of the late Joseph J. and Yolanda L. (Vivenzio) Velleca, he lived in Warwick for 40 years. He graduated from Colt Memorial High School in 1956 and Providence College in 1961. He served with RI Army National Guard. During the mid 1970’s, Joe and two partners founded New England Data Services in North Providence, of which he was president until his retirement in 1998.

Joe took great pride in his gardening and home. He enjoyed traveling to Florida. Providence College, the Boston Red Sox, and the New England Patriots were his favorite teams. His favorite passtime was his fantasy baseball league. Joe never missed dinners at his parents’ home on Sundays and special holidays. He was always there for family members in times of need, and will be greatly missed by those he leaves behind.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Laurie Sinclair (Ronald) of Warren and Cheryl Velleca Vecchio (Peter) of North Providence; a brother, Richard Velleca (Susan) of Bristol; two grandchildren, Christina and Ryan Sinclair; and his beloved dogs, Tommi and Mocha. He was the brother of the late Michael and Anthony Velleca.

His funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 17, at 10:30 a.m. in the Barrett & Cotter Funeral Home, 1328 Warwick Avenue, Spring Green, Warwick. Burial will be in Pawtuxet Memorial Park, Warwick.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Hope Hospice & Palliative Care RI, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904. www.barrettandcotter.com