Joseph "Papa Joe" R. Bloss

February 14th, 1927 - August 14th, 2024

On Thursday, August 14th 2024, Joseph Bloss went home to God. After 97 years, he leaves the legacy of being an adoring husband, a devoted and loving father, grandfather, brother, and friend. The best Valentine’s Day gift of all, Joe was born on February 14, 1927 in the Bronx, New York to Herbert and Anna Bloss. He was one of 7 kids, all of whom he has joined again in Heaven. Keeping his roots in the Bronx, Joe and his wife Catherine Schafer married in 1956, and welcomed three children: Stephen, Joseph, and Kathryn. Joe is now reunited with Catherine and his son Stephen in Heaven.

The family enjoyed many cherished trips down to the shore.

Later in life after working hard, Joe and his lovely second wife Miriam moved their NY roots to Tampa, Florida. He also joins her in Heaven.

Charming and kind to all, he earned the nickname “Papa Joe.” He enjoyed hanging out at the Brick Yard, Acropolis and Glory Days, where everyone knew his name. He was a loyal friend to all. He loved the Yankees (when they were winning, of course). He adored his grandchildren and often told stories of his upbringing during The Great Depression and his service in the Navy. Papa Joe and his daughter Karen spent many vacations together in Cancun, where they formed lasting friendships with people they met there.

Joe is survived by his children, Karen Bloss, Joseph Bloss, Jessica Merced and Rebecca Gerideau, as well as his grandchildren, Kellie Balfe, Thomas Balfe, Kaitlin Balfe and Lakisha Gerideau, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Joe loved his country and was a proud World War II Veteran. He will be buried with military honors.

Funeral services for Joe will be held on Thursday, August 22, 2024 at 12pm at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 9715 N. 56th St., Temple Terrace, FL 33617.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 21, 2024 from 4-7 pm at Florida Mortuary, 4601 N. Nebraska Ave., Tampa, FL 33603.

Burial will take place the following day, Friday, August 23, 2024 at 1pm in Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, Florida.

We Entrusted Joseph Bloss's Care To

Florida Mortuary Funeral & Cremation Services

Since 1987, Florida Mortuary Funeral & Cremation Services has been committed to offering accessible, high-quality funeral and cremation services. Our dedication to providing personalized guidance, empathetic support, and meticulous attention has been unwavering. We take pride in our ability to meet the unique needs of each family, with a diverse range of plans that honor and respect all cultural traditions. Whether you're seeking a direct cremation or a traditional burial, our team is dedicated to arranging services that not only honor your preferences but also celebrate the life of your loved one in a meaningful way.

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Tributes

Share a favorite memory, send condolences, and honor Joseph’s life with a heartfelt message.

LaKisha Gerideau-Rabess

late night frozen Snickers and ice cream, swim lessons, big warm hugs, and laughter. all the necessary things that make a wonderful grandfather. everything i had hoped he would get to share with his great grand child (my son). I'll be sure to share whatever I can remember for as long as I can remember so my son can one day be as good of a grand father as Grandpa Joe was. love you Grandpa, give Grandma a hug for us!

Published August 23rd, 2024

Eddie Alverio

My name is Eddie Alverio, I have known Joe for over 50 years and in those 50 years it’s been an honor and pleasure to participate in Joe’s life! Joe was an incredible husband to my cousin Katy! As a father, he was an amazing man! He was a regular in Tampa Palms acropolis. He was loved by all the patrons there and they named him Papa Joe.. Joe, you may be gone, but you’ll never be forgotten.

Published August 21st, 2024

JESSICA Merced

Published August 20th, 2024

JESSICA Merced

Dad, You have been in my life since i was 3 yrs old you've taught me so many wonderful things throughout my life, it was a pleasure no an honor to be in your life , My heart aches but knows your with all family that's been waiting for you gave a kiss to Mom from me.

Published August 20th, 2024

Rebecca Gerideau

What I loved most about Joe was that he remained ALWAYS the straight-up, honest, Bronx boy who called a thing what it was with no apologies--a straight shooter. His "tough love" was as evident in his service as probation officer as it was in life. But more than that, there was a big ol' teddy bear in there. Whenever we had conversations, they were deep. The most memorable one for me was when I thanked him for loving my mom and for caring to bring joy to her life. We both got choked up. He simply said, " I couldn't deny those Spanish eyes." Then we hugged each other. Thanks for being in my life. You were truly Papa Joe. Cya later! Love always, Becky

Published August 21st, 2024

Jessie

Beautiful visit papa happy .

Published August 21st, 2024

JESSICA Merced

The heart hurts but your memories will linger on forever love you, Jesse and Adrian

Published August 20th, 2024

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