STAMFORD - Joseph John Kovaluskie Sr., 79, of Stamford, formerly of Queens, passed away Saturday, April 10, 2021, at Albany Medical Center.

Born on Aug. 15, 1941, in Brooklyn, Joseph was the son of Adele Basanavage and Joseph Charles Kovaluskie.

Besides his parents, Joe was predeceased by his sister, Geraldine Davidson.

Joe is survived by his wife of 45 years, Ruth Kovaluskie; children, Veronica Poole of Jefferson, Valerie (Dan) Gorke of Stamford and Joseph Kovaluskie Jr (Aryn Smith) of Gilboa. He is also survived by six grandchildren, who were the spring in his step; Evangeline Gorke, Riely Poole, Daphne Poole, Easton Gorke, Alexandra Gorke and Adam Gorke.

Born and raised in New York City, Joe proudly worked for the New York City Transit Authority for more than 20 years. He moved his family to Stamford in 1992 and commuted between the two residences until his retirement in 2007.

After retirement, Joe never really stopped. He and his wife's days were always filled with caring for grandchildren and helping their children in any way possible. There was nothing he wouldn't do for his family.

Aside from his family, Joe's favorites included the NY Mets, baseball cards, collecting movies, watching wrestling and he always enjoyed his Chinese food. He was known for his storytelling, jokes and card tricks during family get togethers. We always knew when one was coming.

Friends and family are invited to attend a viewing at MacArthur Funeral Home in Stamford from 4 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, April 14, and a funeral Mass at Sacred Heart Church in Stamford at 11 a.m., Thursday, April 15. Social distancing and masks will be required for all in attendance.

Joe will be missed so very much.

Contributions in memory of Joseph may be made to the Stamford Volunteer Fire Department at 111 Main St. in Stamford. We can't thank these volunteers enough for their dedication and service to our community.

Share condolences with the family online at www.macarthurfh.com.