Joseph Mario Masciave passed away peacefully in the company of his loving family at Broward North Hospital of Pompano Beach, FL on March 11th. He was 83. Born and raised in Corato, Bari, Italy, Joe was the son of the late Nunzio and Teodora Norina (Fiore) Masciave.

As a young man Joe served in the Italian military and then came to the United States where he met his beloved wife of 58 years, Carmela. They soon began their beautiful family of four daughters and also started their own business. Joseph’s Italian Bakery and Deli opened its doors on Palm Sunday in 1967 at K and 4th in Southie and soon became a Boston Landmark. For over 50 years Joe, Carmela and their family and staff worked hard to put out a delicious and consistent line of breads, sweets, meals, and catered events that were the centerpiece of daily life and special occasions for generations of locals and many others who found the trip to Southie worth every minute.

Possessed of an exceptional work ethic, Joseph was equally committed to his family and friends. A loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle, he always enjoyed relaxing and fun times with those he loved. Sunday dinner, Saturday night cards, winters in Florida, visits to Italy or a week on the beach in Aruba were opportunities to connect with those who meant the most to him.

The beloved husband of Carmela (Santoro) Masciave, Joseph was a devoted father to Noreen Masciave-Dennett, Nancy Masciave, Melinda Masciave and Joanne Fedele and her husband Paul. He was a loving grandfather to Joseph, Samantha, PJ, Janelle, Olivia and Melina. He was a proud great-grandfather to Jianalise and Jenaro. Joseph was the dear brother of Franca Dimodugno, Lisa Tortora, the late Aldo Masciave, Nina Falco and Rosa Moccia. He also leaves many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to visit with the family at the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., Medford on Tuesday, March 18th from 4 – 8 PM. Joseph’s funeral procession will gather at the funeral home on Wednesday morning, March 19th at 8 AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 10 AM in Gate of Heaven Church, 615 E 4th Street, South Boston. Services will conclude with burial at Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford.