Joseph DelBianco, the former chief of the Village of Mamaroneck Police Department, died on Sunday, Dec. 25 at the age of 93, according to his obituary.
A member of the department for 43 years, DelBianco eventually became chief and led modernization efforts during his tenure, including the addition of computers in all police vehicles and the hiring of the village's first female officers. He also created the Bay Constable Position to run the village's Harbor Police Unit, his obituary said.
Even after his retirement, DelBianco continued to serve the village and involve himself in police affairs, helping to start the Westchester County Police Juvenile Officers Association, as well as serving as the former Executive Director of the Westchester County Chiefs of Police Association for 37 years.
Additionally, DelBianco was awarded the title of “Honorary President” of the New York State Association of Chiefs of Police, which he also involved himself with.
DelBianco was also dedicated to serving the county's youth, leading the Larchmont/Mamaroneck Youth Employment Services, and also served in various positions with the Board of Education for both Mamaroneck and Rye Neck.
Throughout his life, DelBianco was a recipient of "countless awards, accolades and recognitions" and also received commendations from governors, mayors, congressmen, state senators, and former FBI Director Louis Freeh, according to his obituary.
"His civic duties knew no end," his obituary said.
Ossining Police Chief Kevin Sylvester memorialized DelBianco, who he affectionately referred to as "Uncle Joe," in a series of tweets.
"He understood good policing decades before policing needed to be 'reinvented.' He taught us to be good to people and to look after our neighbors," Sylvester tweeted, adding, "He became 'Uncle Joe' to my wife and I because through thick and thin we could rely on him for support and encouragement."
DelBianco leaves behind his wife of 67 years and high school sweetheart Doreen; his children, Tina Lividini, Laura Sanquiolo, and Alfred DelBianco; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A service for DelBianco will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 28, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Coxe & Graziano Funeral Home in Mamaroneck at 767 East Boston Post Rd. A funeral mass will also be held on Thursday, Dec. 29 at 10 a.m. at St. Gregory the Great Roman Catholic Church in Harrison at 215 Halstead Ave.
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