Joseph A. LaValla

Little Falls, New York-Joseph A. "Joey" LaValla, age 62, a lifelong Little Falls resident, passed away in the comfort of his Little Falls home on Wednesday evening, Nov. 30, 2022, with the love and support of his devoted family, at his bedside, following a long battle with cancer.

Joe was born on June 30, 1960 in Little Falls son of the late Louis and Mary A. (Colangelo) LaValla and graduated from Little Falls High School, "Class of 1978".  In 1981, he was united in marriage with Linda A. Perrino at St. Joseph's Church, Little Falls with Father John Lanese, officiating. They were blessed to share 41 years together. In their relationship, Joe radiated warmth, and Linda graciously supported him with much love throughout their life together.

Joe was a self-taught, talented musician and followed his lifelong dream and ambition playing the drums and the keyboard with several local bands throughout the area, over the span of several years. He was well established in his music career and respected by his fellow band members. it is safe to say that Joe is now "jamming" with many of our late local musician legends in heaven.  In his leisure time, Joe loved golfing where he always faced the fairways in the good company of his friends.  He and his wife enjoyed going on cruises traveling to Greece, Italy and the Caribbean, just to name a few where they immersed themselves in the culture.  He treasured the moments spent with his canine companions, Teddy and Cody. Joe had no regrets and lived a full and wonderful life.  As a family man, Joe was kind, loving, and gentle and had a special bond with his nieces and nephews, who he treated as his own children and shared much love with.  He was also light-hearted and witty, always treasuring the times with his many friends.  His characteristics, especially his unforgettable smile, will be forever remembered by all those fortunate to have known him.  He was of the Catholic Faith and a communicant of Holy Family Parish, Little Falls.  

Survivors include his beloved family; his wife, Linda at home; his brother, David LaValla and wife Pam of Little Falls; in laws, Gina Buckley and husband Joe; sister in law, Kathy Dennison; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.  He was predeceased by his parents Louis (whom he always considered his guardian angel) and Mary; in laws, Anita and John Perrino; sister, Kathy Grande, sister in law, Anita Leuzzi and half brother, Howard Dennison.

In keeping with his wishes, a memorial Mass at Holy Family Parish, corner of East Main and John Sts.,  Little Falls, will take place at 11 am on Saturday, December 10, 2022, with the Rev. Brian Slezak, pastor, celebrating a Mass of Christian Burial.  There are no calling hours.  His family will receive relatives and friends in the church vestibule, following the Mass.  Interment will be private and at the convenience of his family.  Kindly consider and send memorial offerings in Joe's name to the Hope Lodge, 1120 S. Goodman St., Rochester 14620 or to the Herkimer County Humane Society, 514 State Route 5s, Mohawk, NY 13407.

Arrangements for cremation were pre-arranged and are under the direction and care of Mohawk Valley Funerals and Cremations, 7507 State Route 5, between Little Falls and St. Johnsville, 315-508-5131.