Joseph Ralph Midolo, a dedicated public servant, decorated veteran, and beloved family man, passed away on March 18, 2025, in Queens, New York, at the age of 78. Born on March 7, 1947, in Red Hook, Brooklyn, to parents Virginia and Frank Midolo, Joe grew up with his younger siblings, John and Barbara, in a close-knit family home on Hicks Street. He attended school in Red Hook through high school, where he built the foundation of the strong and determined man he would become.
In 1968, Joe was drafted into the Vietnam War, where he served with distinction as a combat veteran in the U.S. Army Military Police. He endured unimaginable hardship as the sole survivor of his platoon. He was honorably discharged in 1970, returning home only to face the heartbreaking loss of his brother, John, to a tragic accident, followed by the passing of his father just months later.
Back in Brooklyn, Joe established himself in his community, owning two gas stations off Hicks Street. His athleticism and talent in baseball earned him the attention of the Pittsburgh Pirates’ farm team, though life took him on a different path. His dedication to public safety led him to serve as a Sky Marshal before beginning a career with the New York City Taxi & Limousine Commission. Starting as an inspector, he worked his way up to Deputy Commissioner, a position he held for an impressive 28 years. He worked alongside former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani to improve transportation services for the city he cherished deeply. Joe retired in 2005, following a major heart attack that he bravely survived.
Joseph was a man of strong faith and deep spirituality. Raised Roman Catholic, he carried his beliefs into his daily life by helping others and serving his community in countless ways. His generosity extended beyond his career – he was passionate about supporting fellow veterans and ensuring their sacrifices were honored.
Throughout his life, Joe found joy in many pursuits. He was an avid reader with an insatiable thirst for knowledge and had a deep love for sports, particularly as a devoted fan of the Knicks, Yankees, and Giants – though he secretly harbored a soft spot for the Mets and Jets as well. He had a deep love for horse racing and could often be found at Belmont or Saratoga, placing bets and hoping for that winning number.
Among his greatest joys were the friendships he formed over the years, particularly with his lifelong best friends, Bobby and Sonny, along with many others from his cherished TLC family.
Above all else, Joseph treasured his family. He is survived by his three children: daughters Johanna Burch (Tommy) and Jennifer Cloke (Thomas), and son Frank Midolo (Samantha); as well as eight grandchildren: Joseph Burch, Brooklyn Burch, Frank Midolo, Grace Midolo, Rocco Midolo, Thomas Cloke, Alessandra Cloke, and Cassandra Cloke. He also leaves behind his sister Barbara Midolo. He was predeceased by his parents, Virginia and Frank Midolo, and his brother, John Midolo.
Joseph Midolo leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and dedication to family, friends, and career. His memory will forever be honored by those who knew and loved him.
