Obituary of Joseph F. Miletta

Joseph F. Miletta, 86, of Cortland, NY, formerly of Delray Beach, FL, peacefully passed away on the morning of October 15, 2025, after navigating the challenges of dementia with courage and resilience. He embodied his faith, wisdom, and compassion, inspiring all who were fortunate enough to know him. Joseph was predeceased by his parents, Frank & Mary Miletta of Cortland; his beloved wife of 33 years, Eliece Lagerkvist Miletta, in 2004; and his brother-in-law, Kenneth Buggs Jr, in 2019. He served honorably in the U.S. Army National Guard from 1962 to 1968. After his service, he traveled to Tokyo, Japan, to visit his sister, Toni, and brother-in-law, Ken, where Ken was serving in the U.S. Army. Joseph and his wife shared a love of travel, exploring many countries by both land and sea. He also enjoyed many annual fishing trips to Canada with his fraternity brothers, as well as numerous skiing trips to Switzerland and other destinations across Europe. Joseph dedicated his life to his customers, working as a pharmacist for nearly 60 years. He owned a pharmacy in Buffalo, NY, for many years before he and his wife relocated permanently to Florida. There, he worked in several pharmacies before finding his professional "home" at Walgreens, where he served for 35 years. He is survived by his siblings: Antoinette (Toni) Buggs, John Miletta & Maryanne Burlew (sons: Ken, Kevin); and his nieces, Amy Buggs (Ryan Riese) and Jennifer Buggs (Shaun Sample) to whom he entrusted his care during the last few years of his life. A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025, 11:00am at St. Anthony's Church in Cortland, NY, with a private burial immediately following. There will be no calling hours. The family would like to express our deepest gratitude for the exceptional support and care provided during his time on 4N at Upstate Community Hospital. Your dedication, compassion, and professionalism were evident in every interaction. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Anthony's Church of Cortland, 59 N. Main St, Cortland, NY or to Friends Forever Animal Rescue, 174 Gristwood Road, Pennellville, NY 13132 or the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation – www.npcf.us/donate/