BUKOWSKI, JOSEPH A.

Joseph A Bukowski, 73, of Port St Lucie, Florida (formerly of CMCH), died peacefully at home on February 16, 2021, with his wife Lisa, brother in law Anthony and sister in law Gladys by his side.Joe is survived by his wife Lisa (nee Lauriello), his two beloved children, son Joseph L. Bukowski (Christine), daughter Alyssa L. Kirwin (Daniel) and his precious grandson Daxton. He is also survived by his sister Geri Abel (George), brother Frank Bukowski (Karen), brothers-in-law Joseph Lauriello, Leonard Lauriello (Lois), Benjamin Lauriello (Charlotte), Paul Lauriello, Anthony Lauriello (Gladys), Steven Lauriello (Maryann), and many nephews, nieces, grand, and great grand nephews and nieces, all of whom he loved and cherished.Joe was a member of the US Air Force, was stationed in Korea and was a Vietnam Vet. His early work included time as an organizer for the International Local of the Retail Clerk’s Union. He spent most of his life in Law Enforcement, beginning with a position as a Summer Police Officer in Wildwood, where he met his wife. His main career was as a Senior Correction Officer for the State of NJ at Bayside Prison, most notably in the tag shop, where he worked for almost 30 years. His love of unions stayed with him and he was elected Vice President of their union, PBA Local 105, where he served for 8 years, then subsequently was elected President, serving almost 6,000 members, a position of which he was very honored and proud to hold. Joe was an extremely kind and generous man, with both strong opinions and a tremendous sense of humor. He loved spending time on the beach, kayaking and fishing. He also volunteered for the South Jersey Marine Mammal Rescue. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love and adventure to his children, for their childhood memories are full thanks to him.He was predeceased by his parents, John and Helen Bukowski, his brothers John (Lydia) and Charles (June Greiser), a brother-in-law Richard Lauriello and several good friends, most notably, Bill Keller and Freddie Mayer from the Firehouse Tavern. His friends there are numerous and will forever remember him as “Catch You Later Joe”. His network of friends here at the Legion and Mumbles will feel that same loss, for Joe was always there to lend a hand.His accomplishments were numerous, but his pride lay in his children and in his grandson.Per Joe’s wishes, services will be private.As per my promise years ago, Joe was a “Charter Member” of the Tool Club of America.