Whitman – Joseph G. “Papa Joe” Forte 79, formerly of Tarpon Springs, FL died Friday January 29 after a period of failing health. He was the beloved husband of the late Phyllis (Byron) Forte.
Born in Boston he was the son of the late Joseph and Rose (Reina) Forte, and a graduate of the Boston Trade School. He had been a thirty year resident of Whitman before his move to Tarpon Springs Florida where he resided for the past ten years.
Joe worked as a printer for many years before opening the former Papa Joe’s restaurant in Brockton where, until his retirement, he was the owner and operator as well as head cook.
He is survived by his loving children William Forte of Holbrook, Joseph Forte Jr. of Manomet, Linda Shepherd of Hanson, Michelle Overstreet of Whitman, Patricia Mish of Brockton and Leigh Green of Florida, 4 sons-in-law and 2 daughters-in-law. He is also survived by his 17 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.
His funeral service will be held Tuesday February 2 at 10 AM in the Blanchard Funeral Chapel Plymouth Street (Rt. 58 at the rotary) Whitman. Visiting hours will be held Monday February 1 from 6 – 8 PM.