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Joseph F. “Joe” Bergonzi, 82, of Chester, passed away peacefully on Feb. 25 at Bayview Health Care Center in Waterford, surrounded by the care and comfort of his loving family. Joe fought a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease with the utmost grace and dignity. He was born in Middletown on April 20, 1934, beloved son of the late Joseph and Mildred (Spencer) Bergonzi.

Joe learned early in his life to be a hard worker. He lost his Dad at the age of 14 and supported his loving mother by working a paper route and for Zanardi Oil Company. “Little Joey” was her pride and joy. He served as an altar boy at St. Joseph’s Church. He continued to support his own family with his Mow and Snow business. Joe began his career with the Soneco Service Concrete Plant in Essex. He then became the concrete plant manager for Tilcon in Old Saybrook and played a big role in the construction of the Baldwin Bridge. Joe was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 478 for 42 years prior to his retirement.

Joe became a selectman in 1983 and served on the board until 1999. His dedication to the town was immeasurable. He was instrumental in the reconstruction, overlaying, and maintenance of the road systems, as well as establishing the Road Committee. He served on the Water Pollution Control Authority and the Town Office Building Committee, showing his dedication to the Town of Chester. Joe was a trustee and lifelong member of the Chester Hose Company, Inc., providing his service and commitment. He served diligently on the Police Commission for 13 years. On Dec. 7, 1999, by vote of the residents, the Town of Chester proclaimed the day as “Joe Bergonzi Day,” in recognition of his years of service.

After retirement, he worked at Congregation Beth Shalom maintaining the facility. Joe enjoyed vacationing in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida, with his wife and family. He enjoyed bike riding at Hammonasset State Park, watching his grandchildren participate in sporting events across the state, and attending many ceremonies. With his great love for basketball and baseball, Joe was an avid follower of the UConn women’s Huskies and the Mets and Boston Red Sox. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend. He will be remembered by his devotion and care toward others. His love and strength will live on forever.

He leaves his beloved wife of 56 years, Barbara (Koritkoski) Bergonzi. He also leaves his loving children Kimberly (Frank) Sauro and Kelly (Matthew) Duda; his four loving grandchildren, Adam and Alex Duda, and Ryan and Rachel Duda; his sister-in-law Betty French; and his dear nephew James (Jimmy) Spencer.

The family would like to thank the staff at Bayview Health Care Center in Waterford and Beacon Hospice for the outstanding care, friendship, and love Joe received over the last six years.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on March 2 at the Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home, 34 Main St., in Centerbrook. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on March 3 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Joseph’s Church, 48 Middlesex Ave. in Chester. Burial will follow in Saint Joseph’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. To share a memory of Joe or send a condolence to his family, please visit www.rwwfh.com. Arrangements by the Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home in Centerbrook.