Joseph K. Karmuza

Mr. Joseph K. Karmuza, 87, passed away peacefully on December 3, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Keturvalakia, Lithuania on April 21, 1938, he was the son of the late Joseph and Anele (Lieponis) Karmuza.

Joseph’s early years were shaped by the challenges of the Cold War, and with courage and determination he immigrated to the United States to build a better life. He proudly served his new homeland in the U.S. Air Force as an air traffic controller, a role in which he excelled and for which he remained deeply proud throughout his life. After his honorable discharge, he worked as an aircraft technician and retired before later finding renewed purpose as a taxi driver- a job he took on after his sons were born so he could provide for them in every way possible.

Joseph had a deep love of life’s simple joys. He cherished good food, especially the meals lovingly prepared by his sons and family members. His second greatest love after his family was sailing. The ocean was where he felt most free, and where he found peace, adventure, and the purest expression of joy.

Steadfastly proud of his Lithuanian heritage, Joseph kept his culture alive in every aspect of his life. He loved dancing to Lithuanian folk music (he was very light-footed on the dance floor!) and was an active, devoted member of Lithuanian organizations, including the Knights of Lithuania and the American Professional Partnership for Lithuanian Education (A.P.P.L.E). Through these communities he forged lifelong friendships and continuously celebrated the traditions he held so dear.  In recognition of Joseph’s commitment to his Lithuanian heritage and community service, he was honored as Waterbury’s Lithuanian Mayor for the Day July of 2024.

Joseph was known for his generosity, both of spirit and of resources. He supported numerous causes over the years and offered help without hesitation. A benevolent, fun-loving, and kind man, he opened his home- and his heart- to anyone in need. He delighted in hosting friends, sharing stories, and connecting with people from all walks of life.

He is survived by his closest friend and former wife, Daiva Karmuza, his beloved sons, Joseph S. Karmuza and Dainius Karmuza, all of Waterbury; his sister, Eugenia Possick, and her husband, Sidney, of Florida; and several cherished nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Charlie Karmuza.

Joseph’s legacy is one of love, generosity, resilience, and joy. He will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know him.

Arrangements:  Funeral Mass will be celebrated for Joseph on Thursday, December 18, 2025 at 10am at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 785 Highland Ave., Waterbury, CT 06708 followed by military honors.  All those planning to attend services are asked to meet directly at the church. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family. 

Prospect Memorial/The Palmerie Family Funeral Home is honored to care for Joseph and assist his family during this difficult time. Please leave your condolences, memories, and words of comfort on Joseph’s Tribute Wall on our website.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph K. Karmuza, please visit our floral store.