Joseph Charles Caligiuri, 76, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 25, 2024, surrounded by his family. Joe was born in Des Moines, Iowa on June 18, 1947, to Ilena and Dominic Caligiuri.
Joe grew up on the south side of Des Moines and graduated from Dowling Catholic High School, class of 1965. Upon graduation, Joe attended Drake University, at which time he decided to pursue his passion of golf. This passion began at the young age of 10, caddying at Wakonda Club. His dedication and expertise of the sport led him to the role of superintendent at Echo Valley Country Club, where he left an indelible mark on the course and the community alike. In Joe's retirement years he was a tax preparer and maintenance man for apartment complexes. In every job he had, he enjoyed helping others.
Joe also served honorably in the United States Army alongside his twin brother, Jim. He dedicated himself to the service of his nation during the Vietnam war from January 20,1969 to September 16, 1970.
Joe was a man whose life was deeply rooted in family values and hard work. Born into a bustling household with six siblings, he learned the importance of dedication and the bond of love and hard work from an early age. Growing up in such a dynamic environment, Joe developed a strong sense of responsibility towards his family, a trait that would be passed on to his children. Joe's love of sports was evident in every aspect of his life. Whether it was cheering from the sidelines as his children participated in various sports or passionately rooting for his beloved teams. He was a devoted fan of the Boston Celtics, ISU Cyclones, Chicago Bears and the Chicago Cubs, finding joy in every victory and resilience in every defeat. As the years passed, Joe's love of sports only deepened; especially as he proudly embraced the role of "Papa Joe Joe". It gave him great joy to cheer on his grandchildren at their tee ball games or watching their excitement as they opened ball cards he had gifted them.
He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Chris; children, Ashley Sinclair (Ryan) and Aaron Caligiuri (Jessica); grandchildren Mia, Parker and Addison; brothers Jim Caligiuri, Mike Caligiuri (Sue) and John Caligiuri (Karen); sisters Linda Anderson and Terri Blaylock (Steve); and many nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents Ilena and Dominic Caligiuri, and brother Dominic Caligiuri.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, from 4-7 p.m. with a Rosary service at 6:30 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Chapel, 7601Fleur Dr, Des Moines, IA 50321. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at Christ the King Catholic Church, 5711 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315.
Memorials may be directed to the family.
