Mr. Joseph D. "Spunky" LoRusso, Sr., of Peabody formerly of Malden, passed away peacefully, Thursday, July 28, 2022, at the Melrose Wakefield Hospital. He was 78. Spunky as he was affectionately known to his family and friends, was the beloved husband for 56 years of Petrina "Boobe" LoRusso. Born in Everett he was the son of the late Rocco and Marianna (Miele) LoRusso.
Spunky was raised and educated in Everett and was a graduate of Everett High School. He worked for many years as a truck driver and was a proud member of the Teamsters Union Local 25. He owned and operated the Knotty Pine Cafe in Everett for ten years, and was a member of the Eastside AA Club of Malden.
Spunky loved cooking, especially traditional Italian dishes. He always looked forward to traditional Sunday dinners with his family and especially cherished his time with his grandchildren sharing his culinary delights. He was happiest when he was surrounded by those he loved. In the winter months Spunky and his beloved Boobe, traveled to Ft. Myers, FL where he enjoyed spending time at the beach, golfing, and playing cards with friends. He will be greatly missed.
In addition to his beloved wife, Spunky is survived by his children, Joseph LoRusso, Jr. and his companion Kathy of Peabody, and Michael LoRusso and his wife Paula of Woburn. He was the loving grandfather of Damiana, Andrew, Zachary, Isabella and Amethyst LoRusso. Former father-in-law of Erin LoRusso of Peabody. Cherished brother of Phyllis Assetta and her husband John of FL, Josephine Vakerlis and her husband George of Malden, Carol Logrippo and her husband Louis of Saugus, Edward LoRusso and his wife Tara of RI, and the late Domenic LoRusso and his surviving wife Donna of Burlington. He is further survived by many nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend a memorial service conducted in the McLaughlin - Dello Russo Family Funeral Home, 60 Pleasant St., Woburn, Saturday, August 6th, at 12 p.m. and visit with the family prior to the service from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. It has been requested that in lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Spunky's memory to the charity of one's choice.