Joseph Michael Merlesena was born on Wednesday, March 19, 1947 in Watertown, MA to Viola Tirabassi and James Merlesena. Joe leaves wife Almitra Merlesena, sister Rose Jodice, brother Robert Merlesena, stepson Jonathan Vaughn, stepdaughter Ashley Wiggins, grandson Athans Deslis, and granddaughter Athena Deslis. Joe graduated from Watertown High School at the age of 18. He then enlisted in the US Army and was off to Vietnam cold turkey. During his time in the Army Joe traveled the world. He took himself to New York, Hawaii, & Frankfurt, Germany, amongst many other destinations. He went on to work as a delivery driver for Colgate Palmolive, Table Top Pies, and Pet Food. Joe liked to go to the track and bet on the horses and dogs. Also he enjoyed traveling, time at the beach and simply enjoying life. He is the only person I know who always said he had a marvelous day.  Joe was very funny and witty. Many of his sayings we will remember forever. He will be greatly missed.

A graveside service with military honors will be held on Tuesday August 6, 2024 at 2:00 pm in The Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne, MA. Relatives and friends are invited to attend.