Joseph Ferris, 84, of Utica, went to be with the Lord and so many beloved, departed, family members on July 4, 2012. Joe was born on October 24, 1927, in Utica, New York, the son of Roger and Josephine Ferris. Joe served his country in the U.S. Army as part of the occupation forces in WWII and in the Korean War. He was educated in Utica schools and made his career in law enforcement, retiring from the Oneida County Sheriff's Department in 1992. On October 3, 1953, Joe married Catherine Lewis. Kay passed away on January 28, 2002. Joe was a member of St. Louis Gonzaga Church in Utica. Joe spent his retirement "making the rounds" to his favorite haunts in Utica, including the "joint" on Mohawk Street and M & M Auto on Rutger Street. He also enjoyed spending time with his four grandchildren, who were the light of his life. Joe was one of WKTV's most loyal viewers, rarely leaving the house without his WKTV golf shirt. Joe held his head high, triumphing over numerous health issues over the past 10 years, including heart and kidney disease. He showed his strength and resilience, driving himself to radiation treatments for cancer at age 79. Joe is survived by his daughters, Lisa and David Gallimo, Utica, and Joleen Ferris, Deerfield; beloved grandchildren Eric Tuttle, Jillian Tuttle, Devon Gallimo and Brooke Riscica; sister Gloria Sakran of Naples, Florida and brother Anthony Ferris of New Hartford. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews Joe was predeceased by brothers Fred, Moses and Roger and sister Helen. He was also predeceased by several in-laws. Mr. Ferris' funeral will be held on Friday, July 6, 2012, 11:00 a.m. from St. Louis Gonzaga Church, Rutger St., in Utica, where the Divine Liturgy of the Faithful Departed will be offered. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the Liturgy. Entombment will be in Calvary Mausoleum. There are no calling hours. Those wishing to do so may make contributions in Joe's name to the Abraham House, 1203 Kemble Street, Utica. Staff there offered Joe and his family a loving, secure, place to spend his last days, turning a difficult time into a time of peace. Joe's family would like to thank his caregivers, Karen, Stacey and Deanna, who cared for Joe as if he were their own family member and whose loving care allowed him to remain in his home longer than otherwise possible.