Obituary of Joseph Furno

Joseph (Joe) Furno, 88, was born in Meadville, Pennsylvania March 17, 1930. He is proceeded by his mother and father Raffaele and Josephine Furno and brother Albert Furno.

Joe proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1948 – 1952 and is a Veteran of the Korean War. In 1952, after marrying his beloved wife, Velma Furno, the couple moved to Tucson, Arizona to start their life together. Joe worked for the American Aerospace Defense Contractor, Hughes Aircraft Company as a Quality Assurance/Quality Control Inspector for 30+ years.

After retirement in 1986, the couple moved to Elgin, Arizona where Joe became a fundamental part of the Santa Cruz County Community. He served 3 terms (9 years) on the Sulphur Springs Board, Commander of the Sonoita American Legion Post 113, Vice President at the Patagonia Food Bank, and president at the Patagonia Senior Center. Twenty-two years ago he was one of the founding members who created the Veterans Day celebration that is held annually at the Elgin Elementary School. During the holidays Joe worked with the Santa’s Helpers organization collecting and delivering food to the less fortunate in the area. He also spent many years working and volunteering at the Sonoita Fairgrounds. Joe was proudly named the Grand Marshal at the Patagonia Fourth of July parade, as well as, citizen of the year due to his endless contributions in the community. 

Joe had a special devotion for his family and friends. Nothing made him happier than spending time with his loved ones. Our most memorable and enjoyable pastime spent with him was sitting on the front porch of his home in Elgin watching the sunset on the Santa Rita Mountains. 

Joe’s laughter and humor was contagious and kept everyone smiling from ear to ear. His genuine and charismatic personality has had an everlasting influence on us all. Joe was known for his big smile, great sense of humor, caring for others, and volunteerism.  He has left behind a legacy and will be greatly missed!

He is survived by his wife Velma Furno of 66 years, 4 children Ralph Furno, Patty Martinez, Jane Long, Joseph (Joey) Furno, 10 grandchildren Ralphie Furno, Dominic Ingle, Nicholas Martinez, Jennifer Murrietta, Jacqueline Urquijo, Danielle Long, Patrick Long, Anthony Furno, Christian Long, Allison Furno and 10 great-grandchildren.

Services are as follows:

Thursday May 10, 2018 –

Brings Broadway Chapel, 10 visitation 4 pm – 6 pm, Rosary 6 pm

Friday May 11, 2018 –  

Mass will be held at St. Therese of Lisieux Catholic Church (9:00am)

222 N 3rd Avenue, Patagonia, Arizona 85624.

Interment to follow at Holy Hope Mausoleum

3555 N Oracle Rd Tucson, Arizona.

After the interment please join us for a lunch (1pm) celebrating the life of Joe at the Elgin Community Club – 475 Elgin Road Elgin, Arizona 85637.