Joseph P. Balestrini, 80, of Plains, passed away Wednesday evening, December 31, 2014, in the Post Acute Medical Specialty Hospital at Wilkes Barre General Hospital. He and his wife, Helen Yackowski Balestrini, celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary on February 16, 2014.

Born in the Keystone section of Plains, he was a son of the late Joseph and Margaret Kinney Balestrini. He was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1952 and the Dorrance Street Vocational School, Kingston. Joseph was a Navy veteran, having served during the Korean War. He retired after 22yrs. of service with the rank of Machinery Repairman First Class. Prior to retirement, he was employed by Chamberlain Corporation, Scranton, as a machinist.

He was a member of SS Peter & Paul Church, Plains and formerly a member of Sacred Heart Church, Plains, prior to its closure. He was also a life member of the National Rifle Association.

Joseph was a beloved husband, father, grandpa and uncle, who cherished his family, especially his grandchildren. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Surviving in addition to his wife; his four sons, Leo Balestrini and wife, Karen, Houston, TX; Joseph Balestrini and wife, Mary, Plains; David Balestrini, Lake Placid, NY; Mark Balestrini and wife, Sharon, Henrietta, NY; grandchildren, Lori Dionne, Anthony Balestrini, David, Christopher, and Danielle Balestrini; four great grandchildren; brother-in-law, John Yackowski, Scranton; several nieces and nephews, including special nieces, Theresa Schubel and Mary Ann Wegleski and husband, Joseph.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Leo Balestrini.

The funeral will be held Monday, January 5, 2015, at 8:45AM from Baloga Funeral Home, Inc. 1201 Main Street, Pittston (Port Griffith), with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 AM in SS Peter & Paul Parish 13 Hudson Rd. Plains. Interment will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains.

Military services will be conducted by the AMVETS Honor Guard of Greater Pittston.

Relatives and friends may pay their respects Sunday, from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M., at the funeral home.