Joseph Martorana was born in New York City and passed away on December 18, 2019 in Florida at the age of 98. Son of the late Domenico and Vincenza Martorana. Joe was predeceased in death by his brother Dominick, sisters Katherine, Grace and Dorothy and niece, Mary Celia. Joe is survived by his sister-in-law Rose, 5 nieces, 6 nephews, many grandnieces and grandnephews, and his former wife Audrey.

Joe was the youngest high school graduate from the Benjamin Franklin High School, NYC at the age of 15. Joe's first job was at a pen and stationery shop near Wall Street while he attended CCNY for business and accounting. Joe served his country in many capacities. His passion and devotion to people and country began with his service during WW II where he attained the rank of Sgt. Major. From his time in the military onward, Joe's passion for the life of a Public Servant became evident. Joe was elected to various Local Municipal and County Legislative positions. As time and opportunity came around Joe's career in Public Service began to grow as he was elected to serve in the New York State Legislature and New York Deputy Secretary of State. His dedication to the US Veteran community was well known and widely recognized as he held the esteemed positions of Deputy Director of New York State Division of Veterans Affairs and the National Commander of Italian American War Veterans. Joe was instrumental in the Ellis Island Foundation Restoration project. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.