Mr. Joseph John Montella, age 75, of Pentwater, passed away Thursday, November 24, 2011. He was born October 3, 1936, in Chicago Heights, Illinois to John and Anna (Wenkus) Montella. He served in the Marine Corps. He married Joan Galfano on September 24, 1955, at Sacred Heart Church in Lombard, Illinois. They celebrated their 56th anniversary this year. Joe was employed at Pentwater Wire Products as an electrician and maintenance supervisor until his retirement in 1999. He also worked at Cal-Van in Hart.

Known as "The Mayor of the Ramp", Joe was an avid fisherman and ice fisherman, a member of the Pentwater Sportfishing Association, an accomplished machinist and woodworker, a motorcycle enthusiast, and also enjoyed casino trips. His pride and joy was his fishing boat, "The Director" and he spent over thirty years as her captain. He served his community as past president of the Pentwater Chamber of Commerce, and was involved in both the Pentwater Fire Department and the Ambulance Service.

Joseph is survived by his wife, Joan; their two sons, Joseph Francis (Diane) Montella of St. Joseph and Jeffrey (Lurinda) Montella of Twin Lake; and four grandsons, John Lola, Mark Lola, Nate Fordham, and Shane Fordham. His aunt, Katherine Landolina of Olympia Fields, Illinois, also survives. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Thomas and Robert Montella.

Memorial services for Mr. Montella will be Saturday, December 3, 2011, at 11:00 am at King Funeral Home in Hart with Rev. Fr. Phillip Sliwinski officiating. Interment will be in Pentwater Cemetery