Joseph Peter Angelini

Joseph Peter Angelini, age 83, of Newark, DE, passed away Friday, October 3, 2025. Born in Wilmington, DE on January 19, 1942, he was the son of the late Medora “Caggie” and Rose Nacchia Angelini.

Joseph was born with an unwavering work ethic. He began working at just 12 years old after school, helping a local shoe repairman in his neighborhood. That early experience sparked a lifelong passion for craftsmanship and hard work. He later took a job as a stock boy, steadily working his way up through the ranks of the footwear business, including several years at Storm’s Shoes. Through decades of dedication and perseverance, he eventually retired at 20-plus years as Vice President of MIA Shoes, a position he held with pride and humility.

He also served his country with honor in both the United States Marine Corps and the National Guard.

Outside of work, Joseph was a man who cherished the simple joys of life. He was a proud and loving father to two daughters, whom he adored beyond measure. He shared a beautiful life with his late wife, Diane, with whom he spent countless happy days surrounded by close-knit friends, “The Gang” from Little Italy. Together, they danced the jitterbug, played endless hands of cards, and spent weekends boating and making memories full of laughter, music, and love.

Survivors include his beloved daughters, Deborah Hrivnak (Joseph), and Lynne David (Charles), both of Newark, DE; grandchildren, Hunter Hrivnak, Japan, Morgan Moyer (Bryan), Clayton, DE, Alexandra Hrivnak (Mallory Cunningham), Ojai, CA, Dominick David, Newark, DE,  Mimi Hrivnak (Liam Sacks), Redondo Beach, CA, and Isabella Hrivnak (Tausifer Rahaman), Wilmington, DE; great-grandchildren, Owen, Lulu, and Grant Moyer. He is also survived by his companion of over 20 years, Dana Doyle, with whom he shared a deep bond and a mutual love for traveling the world together. St. Martin, in particular, held a special place in their hearts and was their favorite destination.

In addition to his parents, Joseph was preceded in death by his loving wife of 38 years, Diane Maloney Angelini; and brother, Michael Anthony Angelini.

A funeral service will be held at 11:30am on Saturday, October 11, 2025 at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808, where family and friends may visit beginning at 10:00am. Interment will be held privately at Cathedral Cemetery.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Delaware Hospice for their exceptional care, compassion, and support during Joseph’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Delaware Hospice and Parkinson’s Disease Foundation. 

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