Joseph R. Veno – 78, of North Reading and formerly of Revere, passed away at his home on Sunday, April 27, 2025, after a lengthy illness.
Born in Boston, MA on December 8, 1946, son of the late Joseph A. and Lillian (Mailiette) Veno. Joe was a graduate of North Reading High School, Class of 1964. He was a U.S. Coast Guard Veteran of the Vietnam Conflict, he was an EN2 and served from 1965 to 1969. He received Vietnam Service Medal with a Bronze Star.
He was a Reading Police Officer and Safety Officer, he retired at age 55. Joe has been a resident of North Reading for over 70 years and a member of St. Theresa’s Parish for many years.
Joe served on many Boards for the town of North Reading. He was a member of the Board of Selectmen for 15 years, the Community Planning Commission for 4 years, Veteran’s Affair Commission for 20 years, Recycling Commission for 4 years, North Reading Housing Authority for 10 years, Veteran’s Memorial Commission for 20 years, Commission on Disabilities for 10 years, Council on Aging for 15 years and the Mystic Valley Elder Services for 15 years.
Joe was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, American Legion, Andover Sportsman Club and Knights of Columbus, where he was a 4th Degree Knight.
Joe loved gardening, traveling and was a NASCAR Fan. He coached Youth Football for 15 years and was the President of the North Reading Touchdown Club.
Family members include his loving wife of 54 years, Dianna (Sargent) Veno; his sons, Joseph A. Veno and his wife Nicole and Jonathan M. Veno and his wife Elizabeth; grandchildren, Jessica Prenney, Alicia and Abigail Veno. He was the brother of the late Donna Veno.
Visitation will be held on Friday, May 2 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. Graveside services will be held on Saturday, May 3 at 11:30 AM in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. A funeral procession will leave the Croswell Funeral Home at 11:15 AM. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one’s choice. www.croswellfuneralhome.com
So sorry to hear this. Condolences from Bob and I
Joe was a great man and we were blessed to have him as our brother-in-law. We are grateful for all the wonderful memories he has provided us with. Rest peacefully Joe. Forever in our hearts. Harry and Peggy Sargent
So very sorry for your loss Diane. Joe was always really nice guy and a good friend to my Dad and we will always remember him at Hampton Beach
Joe was a great guy and did so much for our NRHS Class of 64. We will be greatly missed.
Our hearts are full of sadness for the loss of our friend. Yet we are glad you no longer suffer. I will miss your laugh and our Christmas card competition.
Strength and love to Diane and family.
My condolences to the family. I knew Joe through his town volunteerism. He was a well respected and well liked guy.
Great man! Always fun to be around. Great working with him, many fond memories My deepest condolences. Karen Capadanno
My deepest condolences to Joe’s family and many friends. I grew up next to Joe when he was young on Haverhill Street. He and my sister, Susan Kirkland, went to school together. I have many childhood memories with Joe and his family. May Joe R.I.P. and sending prayers…..
Diane and Family, Diane and I were very saddened to have heard the news of Joe’s passing. As I mentioned when I messaged you he was well liked and always had a smile for people. Whenever we spoke ( when he was feeling up to it) he and I would spend the majority of the time laughing. He was certainly one of a kind in the best way possible. He will be sorely missed.