JOSEPH W. JANELIUNAS

JOSEPH W. JANELIUNAS, of Woburn, died peacefully, with his family by his side, at the age of 97.

Born in Cambridge, Joseph was the beloved son of the late Joseph Janeliunas and Alexandra (Lukosis) Janeliunas, both Lithuanian immigrants. He was raised and educated in Cambridge, graduating from Ridge Technical High School before continuing his education at Bentley, where he earned his associate degree.

As a young man, Joseph proudly served his country during the Korean War. He served in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Sergeant and spending time overseas before being honorably discharged in 1953. Throughout the years, he remained connected to his fellow veterans as a member of VFW Post 543 and the American Legion.

Following his military service, Joseph began a long and dedicated working career. He eventually joined the United States Postal Service, where he worked for more than 20 years before retiring at the age of 73.

The greatest chapter of Joseph’s life began with Eleanor W. (DiRusso). The two met through his sister’s husband, and from there began a love that would last a lifetime. Together, Joseph and Eleanor shared 74 years of marriage and made their home in Woburn for more than five decades, raising their family and building a life centered around love, loyalty, and togetherness.

Joseph was a devoted husband and father who worked hard to provide for his family and took tremendous pride in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Family was always at the center of his life, and he cherished his role as “Grandpa” to his six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Throughout the years, Joseph and Eleanor enjoyed traveling together, particularly cruises and bus tours. When their children were young, family trips created many treasured memories. As the years went on, Joseph became equally content simply being at home. Quiet and unassuming by nature, he enjoyed watching sports, spending time with friends, and sharing his wonderful sense of humor.

Above all else, Joseph’s life was defined by his dedication to Eleanor and their family—a life of service, hard work, steadfast love, and devotion to the people who mattered most.

Along with his beloved wife of 74 years, Eleanor W. (DiRusso) Janeliunas, Joseph is lovingly survived by his children, Donna Marie Janeliunas of Woburn, Joseph P. Janeliunas and his wife Cecilia of San Diego, California, and James M. Janeliunas of Billerica. He was the cherished “Grandpa” of six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Joseph was predeceased by his brother, Stanley Janeliunas, and his sister, Louise Brennick.

His Funeral Mass will take place on Monday, September 21st at 10 a.m. in St. Barbara Church, Woburn. Burial and Military Honors will follow in Woodbrook Cemetery, Woburn. Calling hours will be held in the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 Main Street, Woburn, on Sunday, September 20th from 1–4 p.m. Remembrances may be made in Joseph’s memory to The Salvation Army.