Joseph Robert Ames, Sr.

Joseph Robert Ames, Sr., 66, of Dunmore, died Saturday night at Allied Services Hospice Center in Scranton. He and his wife, the former Arlene Telesco, were married on May 2, 1987.

Born in Lynwood, California, son of the late William D. and Ann Mae Matusevich Ames, he was a graduate of Pittston Area High School Class of 1979 and a member of St. John Paul II Parish in Dunmore.  A true working man who enjoyed what he did, he was employed by Cinram from 1992-2010, then went on to Dunmore School District, and most recently at Allied Services. 

A proud U.S. Army Reserves veteran, Joseph always looked forward to putting out flags for the Fourth of July, sitting on the back deck, and grilling up some burgers. Spending quality time with his family was most important to him, but he also had fun playing darts and horseshoes at Brown’s Patch, and playing Santa at Christmas time. 

The family would like to thank Allied Hospice for their kindness and compassion shown to Joe and his family during this difficult time. 

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Joseph Ames, Jr. and wife Jessica of Daytona Beach, FL; Elizabeth MacNelley and husband Robert of Olyphant; and Richard Ames of Dunmore; grandson Matthew MacNelley, of whom he was so proud and loved being his Gramps; his brothers Robert Ames and wife Terri, and Stephen Ames; his father-in-law, Eugene Telesco; his sisters-in-law Gina Sheehan and husband Joseph, and Arlene Bahn; as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was also preceded in death by his brother William D. Ames, Jr., his sister Ellen M. Ames, and his mother-in-law Patricia Telesco. 

The funeral will be Thursday from the Carlucci-Golden-DeSantis Funeral Home, Inc., 318 E. Drinker St., Dunmore, with Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. in St. Anthony of Padua Church, Smith St., Dunmore. 

Interment will be privately held at a later date.

Family and friends may pay their respects that morning from 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. at the funeral home.