LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION mourning the death of Joseph J. Vitale, distin-
guished citizen and devoted member of his community

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavor
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and the great
State of New York; and
WHEREAS, Joseph J. Vitale of Williamsville, New York, died on Tuesday,
May 17, 2016, at the age of 80; and
WHEREAS, Born March 27, 1936, in Buffalo, New York, Joseph J. Vitale
was a graduate of Emerson High School; he proudly served as a member of
the United States Army from 1955-1957, and was stationed in Europe; and
WHEREAS, Returning from service, Joseph J. Vitale became a barber and
operated Joe's Barber Shop and a number of other shops in West Seneca,
New York; in the mid-1960s, he was awarded the contract to cut hair in
the Erie County Holding Center, Buffalo, New York, and continued as a
barber there three mornings a week until last year; and
WHEREAS, Joseph J. Vitale distinguished himself in his profession and
by his sincere dedication and substantial contribution to the welfare of
his community; and
WHEREAS, From 1972 to 1986, Joseph J. Vitale managed Bond's Art Shop
in Williamsville when he purchased the Brewery, a Kenmore Tavern; after
acquiring the building that housed the tavern a year later, he fulfilled
a dream by transforming it into a restaurant; and
WHEREAS, Semi-retired in 1989, Joseph J. Vitale opened Jovi's Italian
Grille and Bistro, and maintained an active interest in the business;
the restaurant is now managed by his son, Mark; and
WHEREAS, Joseph J. Vitale's commitment to excellence, and his spirit
of humanity, carried over into all fields of enterprise, including char-
itable and civic endeavors; and
WHEREAS, Joseph J. Vitale is survived by his wife of 59 years, the
former Frances Grillo; two sons, Mark and Joseph Jr.; a daughter, Cheryl
DellaNeve; a brother, Charles; a sister, Concetta Zaccagnino, and five
grandchildren; and
WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, Joseph J. Vitale leaves behind a legacy which will long
endure the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all
he served and befriended; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Joseph J. Vitale, distinguished citizen and devoted
member of his community; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the family of Joseph J. Vitale.