Joseph Caprio

Joseph Gerald Caprio, 68, of Penrose, Colorado, died in a tragic ATV accident on September
13, 2024. Joseph was born on September 26, 1956, Joseph, affectionately known by many as
Papa, Smokin Joe, and WA0OA, lived a life marked by his wit, humor, and insatiable love for
learning.
Joseph proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1973 to 1979, where he was
recognized as a Rifle Sharpshooter with the M-16 and was awarded the National Defense
Service Medal. Following his military service, Joseph dedicated 35 years to the United States
Postal Service in Colorado Springs as a letter carrier, earning the nickname “Smokin Joe”
among his peers. He was a committed member of the National Association of Letter Carriers.
A man of diverse interests and hobbies, Joseph was an active member of the Royal Gorge
Amateur Radio Club, where he was known by his call sign WA0OA. He also contributed his time
to the Pueblo County Beekeepers Association as a passionate beekeeper. Joseph cherished
camping trips with his grandchildren, bird watching from his back porch with his wife, reading
books, and playing Runescape.
Joseph is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Pamela (McSchooler) Caprio; children, Joshua
(Lisa) Caprio, Bethany (Dusdin) Hancock, and Timothy Caprio; grandchildren, Zane, Abby,
Cora, Amelia, and Connor; father, Joe Caprio; sister, Patty (Lindall) Flewelling; brother,
Raymond Caprio; and his dear friends, Dan & Ashley Simmerman. He is also survived by nieces
,nephews and many friends . His beloved pet, Huey, also survives him. He was preceded in
death by his mother, Martha Caprio; sister-in-law, Patricia Caprio; in-laws, Mary Ann and Morris
McSchooler; and his cherished German Shepherd, Roscoe.
A service to celebrate Joseph's life will be held at Wilson Funeral Home, 1449 South 9th Street,
Canon City, Colorado, on Friday, September 27, at 2:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to My Neighbors Cupboard of Penrose and the
Penrose Volunteer Fire Department in honor of Joseph's commitment to his community.

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