TORRINGTON — Sebastiano Joseph “Joe� Vernali, 85, died April 11, 2008, at Glade Valley Nursing Home in Walkersville, Md.
Born in Torrington, Joe served in the Marine Corps during World War II and enjoyed a long career in private aviation as an aircraft mechanic. He enjoyed gardening and sports, but his real passion was golf. We will all remember him for his kindheartedness, optimism and enthusiasm for life.
He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Ellen M. Vernali of Frederick, Md.; his daughters, Jo-Ellen V. Knoerl and her husband, John, of Woodbridge, Va., and Christine V. Lutz and her husband, Drew, of Frederick, Md.; her beloved grandchildren, Emily Young and her husband, Alex, of Brentwood, U.K., Kevin Lutz and his wife, Stephanie, of Halethorpe, Md., Julie Lutz and Corey Lutz of Frederick; a sister, Mary Bradley, of Valatie, N.Y.; and a brother, Salvatore Vernali of East Canaan.
He was predeceased by his loving sister, Rose Clark.
Joe chose to donate his body to the Maryland Anatomy Board. A private family memorial will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the American Parkinson Disease Association.
