Joseph Francis Miele

Joseph Francis Miele March 4, 1927 – October 24, 2025

Joseph Francis Miele, 98, passed away peacefully on October 24, 2025, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of love, service, and family. A proud member of the “Greatest Generation,” Joe lived a full and remarkable life that touched countless others through his warmth, humor, and steadfast character.

Born March 4, 1927 in Philadelphia, Joe was the only child of William and Martha Miele. He grew up in the Overbrook section of the city, attending St. Callistus School and St. Thomas More High School. During his senior year, as World War II raged on, Joe volunteered for the U.S. Navy. He served with distinction as a Seaman First Class and Combat Air Crewman and Radio Gunner aboard the USS Gearing and USS Solomons.

After the war, Joe graduated from Drexel University in 1950 with a degree in mechanical engineering. He joined his father’s business, Miele Plumbing and Heating, where his expertise helped shape some of the region’s best-known facilities, including Metropolitan Hospital, Haverford State Hospital, and buildings on the campuses of University of Pennsylvania, LaSalle University, St. Joseph’s University, and his alma mater, Drexel University.

In 1939, at age 12, Joe met the love of his life, Lucia DiNenno, at a St. Donato’s Church carnival. Joe and Lu married in 1951 and shared 73 extraordinary years together until her passing in March 2025. Together they raised seven children, built a life rooted in faith and hard work, and created a home that was always full—of family, food, and laughter.

Joe’s professional life was marked by leadership and integrity. He served as Chairman of the City of Philadelphia’s Plumbing Advisory Board; Commander of VFW Post 5426; President of UNICO’s Philadelphia chapter; Treasurer of the Columbus Club; a multiple past president of the Haven Beach Association on Long Beach Island; International President of the American Society of Sanitary Engineering; Trustee for both Plumbers Local 690 and Steamfitters Local 420; and President and Director of the Mechanical Contractors Association of Eastern Pennsylvania.

But Joe Miele was more than his titles—he was a character. Whether performing his signature Mummers strut at weddings, “cracking” backs with questionable chiropractic skills, or keeping a running tally of who called first on his birthday, Joe’s humor filled every room he entered.

He was a man of deep faith, attending Mass regularly and living his beliefs quietly but clearly. He was also a devoted family man who led by example, teaching his children right.

from wrong, quietly cheering them on at every game and recital, and later taking immense pride in his 16 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Joe had many passions: his beloved Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles (where he was a season ticket holder all the way back to Franklin Field), Sundays with Frank Sinatra and Sid Mark, poker games with friends and neighbors, Scotch in hand, and summers spent with family on Long Beach Island.

Above all, Joe loved his wife, Lu. Their marriage was a model of devotion, patience, and enduring affection. In later years, he was her constant companion and advocate, caring for her with unwavering tenderness.

Joe’s life embodied conviction, devotion, integrity, and loyalty. He was a man who knew who he was, what he believed, and whom he loved—and he lived those truths every day.

In addition to his wife, Lucia, he was predeceased by his parents, William and Martha Miele; his son-in-law, Robert Boyd; and his grandson, Gordon Miele. He is survived by his children William (Colleen), Philip (Deborah), Maria Boyd (Robert), Linda Benton (Charles), Joseph Jr. (Laura), Michael (Joyce), and Martha. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and a wide circle of extended family and friends who will carry forward his humor, faith, and example.

Relatives and friends are invited to Joe’s visitation at D’Anjolell Funeral Home of Broomall, 2811 West Chester Pike, Broomall on Wednesday, October 29 from 6-9pm, and on Thursday, October 30 from 9-9:45am at St Colman Church, Ardmore PA, followed by his funeral Mass at 10am. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, Yeadon.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joe’s name to the St Thomas More Alumni Association, PO Box 294, Drexel Hill, PA 19026.

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