In Memory of Joseph Butch Langella Joseph Langella was born on March 18, 1921 in Brooklyn, New York to Italian Immigrants Sabatino & Theresa Langella. After the birth of Joseph’s two sisters Rosie & Sarah, Sabitino Langella perished in a fatal accident. Shortly thereafter, Theresa Langella was remarried to Carmelo Messina also an Italian Immigrant who recently lost his wife. They went on to have 4 more children as follows: Frank Messina, Matty Messina, Louie Messina and Philly Messina. “Butch” as he was known by his family and friends grew up on Columbia Street in downtown Brooklyn here he quickly became know for his boxing skills (especially his left hook). He served in the United States Army in Iran during World War II. In 1950 he met Roberta Greany, a beautiful young woman of Irish decent and they were married in 1953 and resided in Bay Ridge Brooklyn. In 1955 they had their first of six children Dolores,(who passed away from cancer in 1995.) They went on to have five more children; William, Susan, Roberta, Joseph, and Steven. In the early 1970’s Butch retired from his job on Pier 11 in Red Hook Brooklyn where he worked as a Long-Shoreman. Butch will be remembered as a fun-loving father and friend who brought much laughter and joy to all who loved him. He had a passion for boxing, cooking and singing Italian American Classics. His was especially well-known for his Napolitan -style meatballs and sauce, and delighted in cooking for hours for his family and friends. Butch could be found at all the family events, singing his repertoire of songs, including: “I Am Jealous of You, Darling” by Jerry Vale, and “I Left My Heart in San Francisco (or “Fran Sancisco”, as he always sang it), by Tony Bennett. In the latter years of his life, Butch became very aware of his need for a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and repented and placed his trust in Christ alone for salvation. Joseph “Butch” Langella will be greatly missed by his family and friends and will always have a special place in their hearts. He is survived by the following; Sons; Billy, Joseph & Steven Langella. Daughters; Susan Elazm, Roberta Langella & Manuela Gallagher. Grandchildren; Jasmine & Joseph Elazm. Brother: Louie Messina. And a host of other relatives and friends. youtu.be/eInpI5ggeO0
Posted on: Wed, 07 Jan 2015 12:43:59 +0000