Joseph Bertone Obituary: On March 11, 2024, Pinehurst, North Carolina, lost a pillar of its community as Joseph “Joe” Frank Bertone passed away peacefully at the age of 89. Born on May 3, 1934, to Italian immigrants Francesco (Frank) and Caterina (Romeo) Bertone, Joe’s journey from humble beginnings to a life of profound impact is a testament to the enduring power of hard work, compassion, and love.
Growing up alongside his sisters, Rose and Mary, Joe’s early years were marked by the challenges of adapting to a new country and language. Despite the obstacles, Joe’s determination and the support of a dedicated tutor propelled him to excel academically, graduating from South High School in Youngstown, Ohio, in 1952.
Joe’s patriotism and sense of duty led him to enlist in the Navy shortly after high school, where he served as a Hospital Corpsman during the Korean War. His compassionate nature shone brightly as he cared for infants in the Guantanamo Bay nursery, a role he cherished and often recounted with pride.
Upon his honorable discharge in 1956, Joe pursued higher education, becoming the first in his family to graduate from college. With Bachelor of Science degrees in Business Administration and Education, with an emphasis on History, Joe embarked on a diverse career path that would span decades and touch countless lives.
Joe’s journey led him to Jefferson, Ohio, where he began a distinguished 30-year tenure in the Ashtabula County Juvenile Court system. Rising through the ranks to become Court Director and later a Magistrate, Joe’s unwavering commitment to justice and compassion left an indelible mark on the community he served.
In the midst of his professional pursuits, Joe found love in the form of Patricia Anne Alexander, a stylish secretary who captured his heart. Their union, though initially unconventional in proposal, blossomed into a lifelong partnership marked by love, devotion, and occasional off-color stories.
Beyond his professional and personal achievements, Joe was a devoted servant to his community. His list of civic engagements is a testament to his generous spirit and desire to uplift those around him. From serving as President of various organizations to his involvement in church and charitable endeavors, Joe’s impact reverberated far and wide.
Yet, amidst his many roles and responsibilities, Joe’s greatest joy came from his family. As a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Joe’s love knew no bounds. He dedicated himself wholeheartedly to caring for his loved ones, whether it was tending to his mother in her time of need or chauffeuring his grandchildren to various activities.
Joe’s legacy of love, laughter, and service lives on in the hearts of his daughter, Eva Marie Bertone-McGann, and son-in-law, William McGann, along with his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His passing leaves a void in the lives of all who knew him, but his memory will forever be a source of comfort and inspiration.
A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at Fleming and Billman Funeral Home in Jefferson, Ohio. Mass will follow at St. Joseph’s Church, with burial at Evergreen Cemetery in Geneva, Ohio. As we bid farewell to Joe, let us remember his enduring legacy of love, laughter, and service, and strive to honor his memory in all that we do.
Rest in peace, dear Joe, knowing that your kindness and compassion will continue to echo through the lives of those you touched.