Obituary of Joseph Furlano

January 15, 1931 – August 12, 2025 Joseph L. Furlano Known by many as Papa Joe, passed away at the age of 94 while in hospice care. Born on January 15, 1931, Joe lived a long life defined by helping others, an unwavering work ethic, and pride in his Italian heritage. He was married to his beloved wife, the late Fannie Mae (Daniel) Furlano, for 68 years, and together they raised five children. Sharon (Tom) Pope, Susan (Domenic) Argento, Joseph D. Furlano, Dominic (Jill) Furlano, and Sallie (Mark) Herberger. Joe was the proud Papa of twelve grandchildren Dominic (Kristina), Randy (Lindsey), Leigh (Lance), Aaron (Elizebeth), Bradley (Lisa), Eden (John), Stephen (Megan), Jacob (Aashima), Jessica (Randy), Courtney, Arielle, and Eric (Courtney) and the great-grandfather of twenty great-grandchildren—with two more on the way. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Paul (Dolly) Daniel and many loving nieces and nephews. Joe proudly served in the United States Army from 1950 to 1954, achieving the rank of Sergeant. As a paratrooper, he not only completed jumps himself but also trained others in airborne operations—an experience that shaped his discipline, strength, and toughness. A master welder and mechanic, Joe retired from Bethlehem Steel and Boilermakers Local 007, but he never truly stopped working. Known as the man who could fix anything, people from all around came to the family farm in Brant, New York, for his help. Neighbors, friends, and even strangers would show up with something broken—and Papa Joe usually found a way to make it work again. Joe’s parents immigrated to the United States, instilling in him a deep pride in being an American citizen and passing along strong Italian values: pride, strength, determination, and a healthy dose of stubbornness. With those values, Joe bought land in Brant and built the family home himself, where he and Fannie raised their children. Above all else, Joe was a provider. He worked hard his entire life, working multiple jobs to support his family, and he passed along a fierce work ethic to his children and grandchildren. He will be remembered for his strength, his ability to fix anything, and his willingness to help others. The family will be present for visitation on Friday from 10AM-12 PM at the ADDISON FUNERAL HOME, Inc. 262 N. Main St. Angola, NY, where services will follow at 12 Noon. Interment will follow in Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Brant, NY. The family extends their deepest appreciation to the dedicated caregivers with Hospice Buffalo for the care and compassion shown to Papa Joe in his final days. Their support brought great comfort and peace to all of us. In lieu of flowers, the family graciously requests that donations be made in Joe’s memory to the Center for Hospice and Palliative Care of Buffalo, whose unwavering service provides dignity and kindness to so many in their time of need. Donations can be made at: www.hospicebuffalo.com