Joseph A. Albarelli Jr., 70, known affectionately as JoJo to his friends and siblings and a longtime Burlington/Winooski resident, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on October 14, 2025.

Joseph was born on December 16, 1954, being the fifth child born of 10 children to Joseph and Carlotta Albarelli. He is preceded in death by his parents, brother John Albarelli and sister Joan Blondin. He is survived by his siblings Connie Hamel, Mary Albarelli, Patrick Albarelli, Phyllis Bissonette, Mark Albarelli, Carl Albarelli and Thomas Albarelli. In addition, Joseph shared a special relationship with Cathy Alexander, who passed away in 2022.

Joseph spent most of his early childhood growing up in the old Burlington Italian neighborhood, better known as Little Italy, next to his grandparents (Mama and Papa Albarelli). During this period of his life, he made countless enjoyable memories, hanging around with the Dutra and Merola family members, who remained close friends to him.

Joseph was of a quiet strength, with a competitive fortitude throughout his life. This competitive drive allowed him to excel in basketball when he played for the Rice Memorial High School varsity team. In 1973, as the starting guard, he scored 16 points in leading Rice to a historic 81-48 win over defending Burlington High School, 1972 state champions. This game was the largest point spread defeat ever recorded between the two powerhouse teams at that time.

Although Joseph never married, he was a devoted uncle to several nephews and nieces whom he cherished and loved dearly.

The family would like to extend a special thank-you to the dedicated staff at the McClure Miller Respite House.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, 11:30 a.m., at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church with burial to follow in New Mount Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Joseph’s memory to the McClure Miller Respite House (uvmhealth.org) and the Wounded Warrior Project. Arrangements are in care of LaVigne Funeral Home & Cremation Services. To send condolences to his family, please visit vtfuneralhomes.com.

This article appears in The Tech Issue 2025.