Joseph Lafaro, PhD

JOSEPH R. LAFARO, PhD

Joseph Lafaro, PhD, entered into eternity on April 19, 2023, after 81 years of living a life of notorious wisdom and wit. Born to parents Antoinette and Joseph Lafaro, he was raised with his sister Mary Ann in Brooklyn, NY, a place that distinctly influenced his colorful character. He grew up in a devout Catholic family and aspired to become a priest, specifically a missionary. He graduated from Cathedral College minor seminary in Brooklyn and spent time in Maryknoll Seminary before he transferred to Saint Vincent Seminary in Latrobe, PA. His missionary aspirations changed direction when he met his future wife of 55 years, his devoted soulmate and intellectual confrère Marjolaine, whom he lovingly nicknamed “Rose.”

As a new husband and father, Joe boldly continued his education in theological and philosophical studies as well as in blue-collar skills. During this time, he worked both as a construction worker and as a taxicab driver in Brooklyn, positions that developed in him habits that he would never lose (much to the dismay of other motorists on the road). He furthered his academic career at St. John’s University in New York, obtaining his PhD in philosophy. A passionate enthusiast of logic, a seeker of truth, and an avid (and stubborn) debater, philosophy was Joe’s profession and his way of life.

The Lafaros moved to Erie, PA when Joe got the position of philosophy professor at Gannon University. There he spent 28 energetic years in the classroom, fiercely defending truth and reason, at times amid opposition (which he never hesitated to confront). To this day, Dr. Lafaro is remembered by many students as their favorite professor and cited by others as their least favorite, a dichotomy that Joe always found amusing.

Joe and Rose have five children: Robert, Daniel, Deirdre, Marielle, and Laura, as well as six grandchildren: Zachary, Madalyn, Nova, Octavia, Tyson, and Angelyn. Joe had an exceptional love for his family and a boundless devotion to each one of his family members. His wife and children have been forever shaped by his legendary personality and his profound faith. Their worlds will never be the same without his booming voice, brilliant mind, playful demeanor, and, of course, relentless opinions.

Joe’s family invites friends to pray for his soul’s journey and to pay their respects on Friday, April 28, from 2:00-4:00 pm and from 6:00-8:00 pm at Burton Quinn Scott Cremation and Funeral Services West Ridge on 3801 West 26th Street, Erie, PA. All are encouraged to attend a 10:00 am funeral Mass on Saturday, April 29th at his longtime church, St. Julia’s Parish, on 638 Roselyn Avenue in Erie. A public burial service will be held at Gate of Heaven Cemetery immediately following the Mass.

Marjolaine and her children request that, in lieu of flowers or monetary donations, friends schedule Masses in Joseph’s honor at any Catholic church. He devotedly prayed for the souls of the departed by regularly scheduling Masses of remembrance. Now, after living like a giant of faith and devotion, it’s his turn for prayers. Volare, Joe.

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