Joseph "Smokey" Lafratta, 87, of Falls, passed away Saturday, May 3, 2014, in Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains Township.

Born in Pittston, he was a son of the late Giacomo (Jesse) and Carmela DaMario Lafratta and was educated in the Pittston schools. Joseph was a proud veteran of the U.S. Merchant Marines having served from 1944 to 1970. During his service time, he had traveled to all parts of Europe and the Far East, delivering war material. He retired as First Assistant Engineer.

He was a member of St. Joseph Marello Parish, Pittston.

Smokey most enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing and baseball with the Red Devils.

He was a beloved son, brother, uncle and friend, who made a lasting impression on the lives of those he touched.

Surviving is his sister, Rosella Mulcahy and husband, Joseph, Minneapolis, Minn.; nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister, Teresa Fitzpatrick; brothers, Dominick and Andrew "Dean" and lifelong companion Evelyn "Sissy" Polak.

The funeral will be Saturday, May 10, 2014, at 9:00 A.M. from Baloga Funeral Home, Inc. 1201 Main Street, Pittston (Port Griffith), with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 A.M. in St. Joseph Marello Parish 237 William St., Pittston. Interment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Carverton.

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

Relatives and friends may pay their respects on Friday, from 3:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M., at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish Center 237 William St., Pittston, PA 18640.