Sebastian Joseph Tronto (Joe) of Hockessin DE., passed away peacefully on January 1, 2025, surrounded by family, following a brief illness. He was 87 years old.
Joe was born in November of 1937, in the Bronx, NY. He moved to NJ with his family as a teenager, where he met his future wife of 64 years, Patricia (Pat). He was a loving father to his two children, Tammy Stiles (Edward) and Gregory Tronto (Karen). He was also the proud grandfather of 5 grandchildren: Taylor Trivits, Dalton Trivits, Payton Baker (Kyle), Natalia Tronto and Tristan Tronto. They brought him immense joy and pride.
Joe had a lifelong passion for home remodeling and meticulously fixing things, a skill he applied not just to his own countless projects, but also to helping others. He loved to teach his family how to do things for themselves, empowering them with his knowledge and skills. For him, no project was too big, and he approached every challenge with determination and focus. He enjoyed sharing his skills with anyone in need, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer guidance. Known for his kind heart and generosity, he touched the lives of many through his selflessness and dedication.
A lifelong fan of the New York Giants, he rarely missed a game and closely followed the team through many generations of ups and downs. Joe also had a love for fine automobiles, particularly sports cars and Corvettes. He was an avid Jeff Gordon (NASCAR) fan and took immense joy in following #24 during his peak racing years. Joe’s admiration for cars was reflected in his personal collection over many decades, where he found joy in learning about and discussing their history, design, and craftsmanship.
He later developed an interest and talent for repairing German anniversary clocks, finding satisfaction in restoring their intricate mechanisms to working order. This unique hobby reflected his meticulous nature and love for precision, and he took pride in bringing these timeless pieces back to life.
Joe was happiest when surrounded by family any day, but especially on holidays, when enjoying a large Italian meal filled with laughter, love, and tradition. These gatherings brought him immense joy and exemplified his deep love for family, extended family and togetherness. He always ensured that everyone felt welcomed and valued, making these moments special and a family tradition.
Joe graduated from Rutgers University with a Mechanical Engineering degree in 1960. He worked his entire 37-year professional career at Dupont in Engineering in various hands-on, plant leadership and divisional roles. After he retired, he kept busy working on many large home renovation projects, while working part time as a starter at Hartefeld Country Club in Avondale, PA. where he enjoyed many rounds of golf with good friends.
The family wants to thank Christiana Care for the wonderful care he received while hospitalized and the loving and compassionate care from visiting RN’s Michele Evans and Katie Pare while he was able to stay at home in his final months with family.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cancer Research Institute (www.cancerresearch.org), reflecting Joe’s battle and the someday hope for a cure for others.
Rest in peace, Joe, you will be dearly missed. Your love, generosity, and legacy will endure.
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