Affectionately known as “Popo”, passed away on July 3, 2021 at the age of 90. Beloved husband of Mary Gianino (nee Smith), son to Orazio and Frances Gianino (nee Intagliata). Brother of Norine Alber (Karl). Loving father of Deborah Johnson (Jack), Sandra DeFonce (Jon), Michael Gianino (Sandra) and Victoria Keevak (Kevin). Dear Grandfather to Tara, Kelly, Scott, Frances, Anthony and Marissa. Great-grandfather to Alyssa, Kaden and Jase.
Joe received his Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from Washington University in St. Louis and spent four years in the army during the Korean conflict. He began his career at the White Sands Missile Proving grounds in Las Cruces, New Mexico writing and developing software for the US Army. He returned to St. Louis and began a 37-year career with McDonnell Douglas Co. He worked in several projects, including the F-15 Air Superiority Fighter Flight Simulator and the Gemini Spacecraft. Joe was a rocket scientist. His work shifted to telecommunications and computer systems in the company’s subsidiary McDonnell Automation Company, where he designed the first major full-scale fiber optic network and eventually retired in 1994. Joe had a passion for the outdoors, fishing, hunting and soccer, in addition, he loved watching his grandkids participate in youth athletics and school performances. You could always find him on the sidelines cheering and coaching.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to the American Cancer Society.
Services: Visitation at Kutis Affton Chapel, 10151 Gravois, 63123 on Thursday, July 8 from 11:00 a.m. until funeral service time at 1:00 p.m. Interment at Resurrection Cemetery.
I had the pleasure of knowing Popo through his son Michael and I don’t think I have ever met a kinder, gentler soul. He was always the calm spirit regardless of what he was doing or what the discussion was about. I haven’t seen him in many years and still feel a sense of loss like we never lost touch.
I had the pleasure of knowing Popo through his son Michael and I don’t think I have ever met a kinder, gentler soul. He was always the calm spirit regardless of what he was doing or what the discussion was about. I haven’t seen him in many years and still feel a sense of loss like we never lost touch.
Joe will live on in your memories and ours. He was a kind and caring man. So sorry for your loss Gianino family. Our prayers are with you.
Joe will live on in your memories and ours. He was a kind and caring man. So sorry for your loss Gianino family. Our prayers are with you.
Joe Not only was a friend but was a confidant he was a mentor and like a father figure to me I was always welcome to their home on all of the holidays and for many other occasions Joe was one of the kindest sweetest and most caring man I’ve ever met my life not only did he accomplish all the things Michael listed above but he also accomplished a great deal more. You will be truly missed see you in heaven my friend and this Budweiser is for you
Joe Not only was a friend but was a confidant he was a mentor and like a father figure to me I was always welcome to their home on all of the holidays and for many other occasions Joe was one of the kindest sweetest and most caring man I’ve ever met my life not only did he accomplish all the things Michael listed above but he also accomplished a great deal more. You will be truly missed see you in heaven my friend and this Budweiser is for you