LICIARDELLO Joseph J. Liciardello, Sr. of Secane died Aug. 27, 2013 at the age of 75. Joseph was born and raised in South Philadelphia and after his marriage to Concetta settled in Southwest Philadelphia where he raised his four sons. He enjoyed vacationing in Brigantine, N.J. where he resided after his retirement. Joe attended Southeast Catholic where he excelled in both his studies and athletics. Joe was a standout baseball player and member of the SE Catholic Baseball team coached by the legendary Coach Bartolommeo. The team won the city championship his senior year. The New York Giants recruited Joe into the minor leagues in 1955 where he practiced with the legendary Willie Mays. Joe then moved up to the St. Louis Cardinals for the ’56 and ’57 seasons, practicing with Stan the Man Musial. Joe entered the Philadelphia Police Department (PPD) in 1960 where he rose through the ranks to the position of Captain before retiring in 1990. Known by his fellow officers up to the Commissioner as a man of his word who carried out his commitments with highest integrity, Joe was often tapped by many commanding officers for critical projects. One of the roles Joe enjoyed the most was as commanding officer of the Police Athletic League where he turned the organization around using his talent and love of sports. He made a difference in the lives of many of the city’s less than fortunate youth. Joe had several business ventures including Southwest Sales and Service and JL Auto Tags in SW Phila. He was an authorized door to door repairman for Zenith. Known as “BO” to his close family and friends he enjoyed cooking especially with alot of garlic. In his down time he would sit on his Brigantine porch and watch the thunderstorms come in. He always enjoyed a good round of pool or a road trip. While raising his sons he loved fixing cars or collecting trains with them by his side. Joe will be sadly missed. Son of the late Salvatore & Helen Liciardello. Survivors: Former husband of Concetta Patricia Liciardello. Loving companion of Mary Anne Melazzo. Devoted father of Joseph, Jr. (Janet), Marc (Peg), Steven (Linda), Michael (Leonora). Also survived by his grandchildren Stefani, Jennifer, Kristine, Michele, Marc, Michael, Joseph, his 7 great grandchildren and his brother Thomas (Maureen) Liciardello. Visitation: Relatives and friends are invited to his gathering Thurs. eve 7-9 PM at the Danjolell-Stigale Memorial Home 3260 Concord Rd. Aston. Funeral Service and Interment will be private
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