Joseph Greco Obituary

Retired Lt. Col. Joseph J. Greco, 73, of Sun City West, Arizona, passed away suddenly on December 9, 2008. He was born May 23, 1935, in Pueblo, Colorado and graduated from Central High School in 1953. He was a distinguished pilot in the U.S. Air Force for 30 years and served two tours in Vietnam. During those two tours, he flew 306 combat missions. Joe held several medals, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal with 12 oak leaf clusters. In addition, he was the 11th person to receive the Sertoma Club of Pueblo American Way of Life Award in 1967, for contribution to American freedoms. Joe is survived by his mother, Sylvia of Pueblo; daughter, Terri (Greg) Hellem of Las Vegas, Nevada; son, Mike (Suzanne) Greco of Eagle River, Alaska; sister, Shirley Delahoyde of Colorado Springs; grandchildren, Greg Hellem, Michael Hellem, Kevin Greco, Max Greco; and his dear friend, Eileen. Also survived by his aunt, Sadie Tishma; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his wife, Wilma; daughter, Susan; and father, John. Out of respect for Joe's wishes, no services will be held. In lieu of food and flowers, donations may be made to the charity of the giver's choice. Please visit and sign the guestbook at legacy.com.