Marlborough – Joseph “Joe” Dedecko, 92, died the morning of Saturday, May 10, 2014 after a long period of failing health. He was the husband of the late Celeste (DiPasquale) Dedecko, who died in in 2013. They were married for 69 years.
He was born in Hudson, the son of the late William and Elizabeth (Hoffman) Dedecko, and lived in Marlborough for 70 years.
Mr. Dedecko was a United States Navy of WWII, seeing battle on the USS Tripoli.? Upon his return for the war, he went to work as a licensed plumber, working for himself and many years for the former Fay Burns plumbing in Marlborough. After retirement, he and his wife enjoyed spending part of the winter in Aruba and summering at their home at Wells Beach in Maine.
He was an original member of the Riverside Rod and Gun Club in Hudson, where he won many tournaments and awards at skeet shooting and trap shooting. He was also a longtime member of the Immaculate Conception Church in Marlborough.
He is survived by his devoted daughter, Deborah Gardner of Marlborough, who was his caregiver these last few years; his son, Nicholas Dedecko and his wife Deb of Northborough; two grandchildren, Kenneth and Kelley Gardner; and his beloved niece, Barbara DiPasquale of Marlborough, who helped take care of him for many years. He is also survived by his two dogs, Nikki and Mandy. He was predeceased by five brothers.
His funeral will be held Friday, May 16, at 9 a.m., in the Immaculate Conception Church, 11 Prospect St., Marlborough. Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery in Marlborough. Visiting hours at the William R. Short and Son Funeral Home (www.shortfuneral.com), 95 West Main St., Marlborough, will be held Thursday, May 15, from 5-8 p.m.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Buddy Dog Humane Society, PO Box 296, Sudbury, MA 01776.
