Joseph "Joe" Serrao

Joseph “Joe” Serrao, a first generation American, born on January 18, 1936, in Oakland, California, to Antonio and Mary (Nunes) Serrao. He passed away October 1, 2023, at MercyOne Medical Center, at the age of 87.

Joe served in the United States Navy during the Korean War. He and his first wife Joan, had three children together before her death in 1968. Joe remarried and he and his wife Patricia had a daughter together and moved from California to Iowa in 1990.

Joe was always a farmer at heart, and never wanted for more than what he needed. He retired at age 80, from the United Way, where he had been a building engineer for 25 years. A true testimony of his dedication, commitment and strong work ethic, the legacy that he passed on to his children and grandchildren. Joe never feared a challenge. Instead, he accepted it and taught his children to do the same, setting an example of the importance of being self-sufficient. Joe’s family will remember him as being a loving husband, father, grandfather and provider.

He is survived by his children, Tony (Debbie) Serrao, Steve Serrao, Vicki (Rusty) Gainor and Trisha Fant; grandchildren, Robyn, Sarah, Mike and Joey; seven great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; as well as a host of extended family and friends.

Joe was preceded in death by his father, Antonio; mother, Mary; step-father, Antone Gomes; brother, Manuel Serrao; sister, Marie Virgin; first wife, Joan in December 1968 and his second wife, Patricia in March of 2000.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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