Joseph DeLuca, a custodian at the College for 42 years, died on Jan. 4 at home.
Hired on Feb. 12, 1979, Joe retired last year after working in a variety of buildings, including Colton Chapel, Ruef Hall, Skillman Library, Kunkle Hall, Hugel Hall, and Olin Hall. His farewell tribute from the College stated, “Dedicated to creating a wonderful home away from home and classrooms for our students, Joe spent most of his time on College Hill cleaning and disinfecting various buildings on campus. During the challenging time of the COVID-19 pandemic, he was dedicated to providing a safe, clean environment for our students, faculty, and staff. Joe was well-liked by his co-workers and would often be heard talking about the New York Yankees.”
“He was dedicated to serving his building occupants with a pleasant and friendly demeanor wherever he was assigned,” says Bruce Ferretti, assistant to the vice president of finance and administration and former executive director of facilities operations. “Joe was a friend to his colleagues and a dependable partner who instinctively said yes to any request. Joe was other-centered, humble, and enjoyed his work. He is fondly remembered by all of us at Lafayette College who had the pleasant circumstance of meeting and working with Joe, and we mourn his passing.”