My name is Matt Perrone. I am Joe’s youngest son. Today, along with my family, I am here to sadly write that my Dad, Author, Joe Perrone, passed away last week. He was surrounded by loved ones.
In time, I I hope to keep this blog going, as I know that would make him happy. Whether it is with posts of my own, my family, guests posts from Dad’s friends, but I will continue it. But for now, I will share his obituary. Rest in peace, Dad. We love you.
Joseph Perrone, Jr., of Indian Land, SC, passed away peacefully at the age of 79 on April 15, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Lyle Perrone and his mother-in-law, Armenie Giragasian, who was like a mother to Joe. He is survived by his beloved wife, Rebecca Perrone, with whom he shared countless cherished memories and unwavering love during their over 40 years of marriage. He will be deeply missed by his sons, David (wife Robin Perrone) and Matthew, who admired him for his laughter, wisdom, and love. Joe leaves behind his stepson, Jared Ruban, and stepdaughter, Lauren (husband Brad Padden), who were like children of his own and shared unconditional love. His granddaughters, Abigail and Alice Perrone, brought immense joy and laughter into his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Joe’s brother, Gene Perrone, shared a bond of camaraderie and brotherhood that will be remembered fondly. Joe was a loving brother-in-law to Andy and Linda Kabasakalian and cherished by his niece and nephew and countless cousins and friends who loved him dearly. His dog, Willow Mae, loved to be by his side.
Born in Richmond, Virginia, he spent the majority of his life in northern New Jersey. Throughout his life, he found his way through a variety of careers, including: sports writer for the Herald News, owner of a sporting goods store, longtime handyman and manager of Ramsey Outdoor Store. He found his true calling when he became a professional fly fishing guide on the historic Beaverkill River in New York’s Catskill Mountains.
His love for fly fishing was matched only by his love for writing, as evidenced by his long-standing blog and his numerous literary works and novels, including “Escaping Innocence” and his five-book “Matt Davis Mystery Series.” His literary talents brought joy and inspiration to countless readers everywhere, not only in his writing, but also in his editing and design, as he assisted other writers with his company, Escarpment Press.
Family was so important to him. He beamed with pride for his four children. He was elated when he became a PeePaw — not once but twice. And for more than 40 years, he was devoted to the love of his life, Becky.
He was an avid sports fan, from the Jets to the Panthers. From the Mets to the Rangers. From golf to tennis. He loved movies. He loved music. From John Denver to Jimmy Buffett. From symphonies to soundtracks. He loved to laugh; he loved to make people laugh. He loved to make voices. He loved cooking; he loved eating. He loved chocolate; he loved snacks. Things weren’t “good”; they were “the best.” However, that meant that if you were his friend or family, he loved you to the fullest.
He was an author, a fisherman, a friend, a PeePaw, a brother, a son, a father of four, a husband and so much more. And will be deeply missed.
A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on May 6 at 2:00 pm
St Stephen United Methodist Church
6800 Sardis Road, Charlotte, NC 28270
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Melanoma Research Foundation at https://melanoma.org/
Author Joe Perrone Jr's Blog 