Joseph D. Petronella, 93 of the Sitrin Health Care Center passed away on Wednesday, June 2, 2010. Joseph was born in Utica on March 30, 1917 son of John and Grace (Perrine) Petronella. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was the recipient of the Purple Heart. In Patterson, NJ on October 15, 1950 Joseph was united in marriage to Betty Barnard. For many years he was employed with Oneida County Department of Social Services and then after his retirement with Grossman's Lumber Co. Joseph was also a musician and played with many of the Big Bands including the Glen Miller Band. Most of all, Joseph treasured his family especially enjoying the time he spent with his wife, children and grandchildren at the family Sunday dinners. These times brought much joy to Joseph. Joseph is survived by his wife Betty, a daughter and son-in-law, Suzan Petronella Patterson and John Patterson, Utica, five sons and daughters-in-law; John (Mickey) and Rose Petronella, Deerfield, Jeffrey and Brenda Petronella, WI, Joseph Gary and Barbara Petronella, Deerfield, Jack and Genevieve Petronella, Owego, NY, and Jody and Deborah Petronella, TN, a sister, Claire Cassaletta, Utica, two sisters-in-law, Frances Thurston, Clinton and Marilyn Gleason, SC, and a brother-in-law, Harry Kushner, NJ. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. Joseph was predeceased by three sisters and two brothers-in-law, Carmella and John Piela, Ann and Anthony DeFuria and Pauline Kushner. Mr. Petronella's funeral service with military honors will be held on Monday, June 7, 2010 at 10:30 from the Heintz Funeral Home, 408 Herkimer Rd., Utica. Burial will be in Carr Cemetery, Marcy. Calling hours at the funeral home are Sunday from 4-7. The family would like to thank the staff of the Chestnut Unit of the Sitrin Health Care Center especially April for all the loving care given to Joseph.