Joseph A. "Joe" Novella, Sr, 86, of Newtown and formerly of New Fairfield, died unexpectedly on July 19. He was born in September of 1930, in Danbury, son of Jenny (Petrizzo) and Michael  Novella.

His wife, Patricia L. (Anderson) Novella; his children, Sandra, Joseph, Robert, Steven, and Jay; as well as his grandchildren, Chelsea, Joseph III, Alec, Ashley, Faith, Julia, Autumn, Dylan, and Olivia Novella, survive him.

Mr Novella was the beloved brother to the late Russell Novella, Mary Russo, Anna Galla, and Jack Novella.

Besides his immediate family, Mr Novella was a father figure and support system for many others throughout his entire life.

He was drafted into the Marines in March of 1950.

Mr Novella and Patricia were married for 58 years. They raised their family in New Fairfield, where Mr Novella first worked at Barden Corporation in Danbury. He then earned a stellar reputation as a builder/developer. As the owner of Novella Construction, he built 1,000 custom homes in the greater Danbury area over a period of 40 years. Mr Novella valued and contributed to his community in New Fairfield as the chairman of the Zoning Board, the High School Building Committee, second selectman, and chairman of the Board of Education.

He was known as an extraordinary husband, father, and friend. Over the years he touched countless lives with his selfless generosity, his wonderful sense of humor, and his limitless capacity to love.

Mr Novella took pride in his work, his family, and his country. He was a proud American and Marine, and he loved what his country stood for. His children say "Semper Fi, Dad, we all love you."

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on July 24, at St Joseph Church, Danbury, with the Rev Samuel V. Scott, Pastor, officiating. Interment was in St Peter Cemetery, Danbury.

For further information or to express an online condolences, visit thegreenfuneralhome.com.