Joseph Iadeluca

Joseph (Joe) Iadeluca passed away peacefully with his family by his side. Joe is survived by Cathy Iadeluca, his wife of 47 years, his children Andrew Iadeluca and Christine Diaz, and his grandchildren Kathryn, Sadie, and Victor Diaz.

Joe was born in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, New, York. Joe graduated from Brooklyn Technical High School and Columbia University before proudly serving as an Army Corps of Engineers Officer working on structural infrastructure in Vietnam.

Following his service, Joe earned his Master’s in Aerospace Engineering from American University. After receiving his masters, Joe had a distinguished career supporting the FAA — including authoring the 1989 NAS-SR-1322 (Approach & Departure Sequencing Operational Concept), leading the FAA “Safety Benefits Subteam” for the ASDE-X ground-collision-avoidance program, and his work continues to be cited in NASA and FAA research (See Barnett, Paull & Iadeluca on fatal runway collisions). Joe completed his remarkable career dedicated to aviation safety and innovation with Northrop Grumman.

Joe will be remembered for his infectious smile that could light up any room, his intelligence and genuine disposition, and as an open minded, impartial, kind, loving and thoughtful man. Joe was the kindest and most genuine man one could meet. Curious about everyone he met, Joe could make a friend anywhere — whether people wanted to talk to him or not. If you asked him a question, you would get a thorough answer with a full background story. He never raised his voice or spoke badly about anyone. Always calm. Always humble. A lifelong patriot who loved God, his country, and his family above all else. 

Joe loved a good party and celebrating momentous events with family and friends by his side. Amazing memories were made celebrating holidays, engagement parties, weddings, First Communions, High School reunions, Bar Mitzvahs and so many other occasions. Joe really enjoyed traveling with his wife, especially going to Alaska and Italy. In his later years, Joe moved to Texas to spend this precious time with his grandkids - his pride and joy, who will always remember his love and smile.

There will be a mass celebrating Joe's life at 11:00 a.m., Monday, October 27, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church; with a visitation prior to the mass from 10:00-11:00 a.m.

Joe will be laid to rest with military honors following the mass at 2:00 p.m., at the Dallas/Ft Worth National Cemetery. Exactly as he wanted; a fitting honor for a man who lived with faith, love, humility, and quiet strength. 

Rest in peace, Dad. Forever guardian angel. 

❤️🇺🇸