Whitehall, N.Y. – Joseph J."Coach" Marcino, Jr., 91, of Whitehall, died Monday, October 20, 2014 at Glens Falls Hospital surrounded by his loving family by his side following a brief illness.

He was born on May 25, 1923 in Whitehall, N.Y. the son of Joseph and Angela (Bagnacelli) Marcino.

Joseph was a member of the American Legion Post #83 of Whitehall. He was also a member of Our Lady of Hope Roman Catholic Church of Whitehall.

Joseph was a graduate of Whitehall High School.

He then enlisted into the United States Marines Corps serving in WW II, achieving the rank of Sergeant. While serving with Company A, Fifth Tank Battalion, Fifth Marine Division on Volcano Islands on Iwo Jima on March 18, 1945, his tank became disabled forward of the enemy lines. Under heavy enemy fire, he and his crew dismounted the tank and made repairs enabling them to continue forward on their mission. For his devotion and courage, he was awarded the Bronze Star.

Upon returning home, Joseph entered the State of New York University at Cortland receiving his Masters Degree in Education. He was first employed at Lindenhurst High School in Long Island, N.Y., where he taught and coached their football team. Taking the opportunity to develop their football and wrestling programs, Joe moved on to Wantagh High. He spent his remaining years at Freeport High as the school's athletic director.

Upon retiring, Joe continued coaching football for Clark High School, C.W. Post University, and St. John's University to name a few, he also spent time in Finland with the St. John's team implementing their football program. "Coach" was a true inspiration and had touched many in the athletic community, creating bonds that have lasted a lifetime and beyond.

In 1990, Joseph moved back to his hometown of Whitehall, got himself a parcel of land and fulfilled his dream of building "a cabin on the hill" with the help of his three sons, spending his days tending to his apple trees and garden, enjoying visits with family and reminiscing with long time friends.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brother; Melio "Duce" Marcino, his three sisters; Mary Osowicki, Rose Ross and Esther Ross, and one grandson; Nicholas Marcino.

Survivors include his three sons, Michael J. (Chiara) Marcino of Newton, N.J., Brian J. Marcino of Pembroke Pines, FL., and Joseph J. (Charlene) Marcino of Middle Granville, N.Y., two daughters; Maria J. Marcino and Vicki J. Marcino of Massapequa, Long Island, N.Y., and one sister; Anne Soothcage of Glens Falls, N.Y. He is also survived by seven grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was a humble man who did his best for his family and all that knew him. Always having a positive attitude and some words of wisdom or encouragement, "stay focused" and "keepa going" was amongst them. His memory will be embedded in their hearts forever.

Graveside services with full military will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, October 25, 2014 at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, Whitehall, with Reverend Rendell Torres, pastor of Our Lady of Hope Roman Catholic Church officiating.

Following the graveside services, the family invites everyone to join them to continue the celebration of Joe's life by joining them at Our Lady of Hope Church Hall, Skene Street, Whitehall.  The family will be inviting his friends and students to gather following the reception at the Church.  Please ask them for detailed information at the reception

The family suggests that in lieu of flowers memorial contributions be made in his memory to the Whitehall American Legion Post #83, 148 Main Street, Whitehall, N.Y. 12887.