Obituary: Joseph A. Petrozzi

Founder of Capitol Cleaners and Coats for Kids

Joseph A. Petrozzi, 95, of Niagara Falls, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2023. Born in Niagara Falls, he was the son of the late Russell Petrozzi and Frances (LaMantia) Petrozzi. 

Joseph graduated from Niagara Falls High School before proudly serving his country in the U.S. Army from 1946 until his honorable discharge in 1947. On Oct. 28, 1950, he married Grace (Chiarenza) Petrozzi at St. Joseph Church. Mrs. Petrozzi predeceased him on March 10, 2015.

Joe began operating his businesses, Capitol Cleaners and Feldman Furs, in 1948, which he operated together with his wife and son. He founded Coats for Kids 54 years ago, which is now a nationwide charity accepting, cleaning and donating coats for children in need. Joe was involved with the Better Business Bureau, serving as a board member, and also had the distinction of being its longest-tenured member. He was a member of the National Cleaners Association, and the longest-standing board member of Health Association of Niagara County (HANCI). 

Despite being so dedicated to his businesses and community activities, the most important thing to Joe was family, and he adored spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Joseph is survived by his children: Russell (Susan) Petrozzi and Marcia (Robert) Britton; his grandchildren: Anne (Kevin) Burgess, Katherine (Wesley) Walker, Robert Britton Jr., Alexa Britton (Matt McCormick), Rachael (Craig) Goldenberg, and John (Lynda) Marino; great-grandchildren: Joseph, Tucker, Chase, Claire and Logan; his brother, Chuck Petrozzi; and his sisters-in-law: Mae (Late Anthony) Minicucci, Marie (late Vincent) Chiarenza; and brother-in-law, David (late Carol) Donato; as well as nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. 

In addition to his wife of 64 years, he was predeceased by his siblings: John (late Joyce) Petrozzi, Marie Hackett, and Angie (late Grant) Herod; and siblings-in-law: Charles (late Mae) Chiarenza, Florence (late Anthony) Cheff, and Lawrence (late Jenny) Chiarenza. 

Visitation will be held from 2-6 p.m. Sunday, June 11, at M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, where funeral services will begin at 9:45 a.m. Monday, June 12. Joseph’s Mass of Christian Burial will follow, at 10:30 a.m., in St. Joseph’s Church, 1413 Pine Ave., Niagara Falls.

Entombment with military honors in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Niagara Falls.

If desired, memorial offerings may be made to Niagara Hospice.

Visit www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.