Joseph DiStefano passed away peacefully at the age of 83, surrounded by his family, on July 7, 2024, after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Born on August 2, 1940, in Fort Plain, NY, son of the late Frank and Victoria DiStefano

He was a graduate from Fort Plain Central School, after which he was owner and operator of Frank DiStefano & Son Corp. and Highland Enterprises Inc.

On August 9, 1958, he married the love of his life, Carol DiStefano. They had a blessed life with many memories. His talents included building and piloting planes, gardening, golfing, and heavy machinery operation. He was a kind, caring, compassionate man who was always there to lend a hand to someone when needed, he will be missed by many.

Survivors include his loving wife of 65 years, Carol DiStefano, of Fort Plain; sister Karolann (Robert) Grimm, of Fort Plain; two daughters, Joann DiStefano and Paula (Thomas) Colvin; two grand-daughters, Heather Harder and Kelly Colvin (Jason Reome), of Fort Plain; and the light and joy of his life, two great-grandchildren, Alaina and Carsten Harder.

Calling hours will be held at Houghtailing and Hanley Funeral Home in Canajohaire, NY, on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, between 2-4 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, July 11, 2024, at 10 a.m., followed by a church service at Our Lady of Hope in Fort Plain. The final interment will take place at the Fort Plain cemetery.

The family would like to thank Mountain Valley Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations to be made to St. Jude's Children’s Research Hospital, ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105