Joseph Francis Chieffo, 67, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026. Born in Chester, Pennsylvania on April 23, 1959, Joseph was the beloved son of Jean (Casey) Chieffo and the late Nicholas Chieffo. He was a devoted father, grandfather, and friend whose adventurous spirit and many talents touched the lives of all who knew him.

Joseph was the loving husband of his late wife, Pamela (Stevens) Chieffo, and the proud father of three children: Kristin Chieffo (40), Nick Chieffo (39), and Paul Chieffo (29). He was also adored by his beloved fur baby, Lucy (10).

In his early twenties, Joseph lived in the Florida Keys, where he worked various jobs and began his studies in the electrical trade. After meeting Pamela and starting a family, he moved to Claymont, Delaware, where he founded Chieffo Electric. There he built a second family among his employees and earned a loyal base of returning customers who admired not only his impressive skill but also his warm heart and kind spirit. As Chieffo Electric expanded so did Joseph’s family prompting them to move to Middletown Delaware where Joseph grew his large community of friends and clientele.

A man of many passions and remarkable abilities, Joseph lived life fully and fearlessly. He was a licensed pilot for both airplanes and helicopters, a scuba diver drawn to the beauty of the sea, and a motorcyclist who embraced the open road. He was also a gifted chef, musician, artist, electrician, and mechanic—someone who could create, repair, and inspire with equal grace. In his later years, Joseph settled in the Arden community, where he proudly served on the safety committee, contributing his time and care to a place he loved.

Above all, Joseph treasured his family. He was a devoted grandfather to his pride and joy, granddaughter Julianna Wardius, with whom he loved painting, playing guitar, and watching classic films and TV shows. You could often find the two of them in Joseph’s workshop, where he lovingly tended to his collection of vintage motorcycles—a hobby he found both healing and fulfilling.

Joseph’s legacy lives on through his children, Kristin, Nick, and Paul; his cherished granddaughter, Julianna Wardius (daughter of David Wardius); his mother, Jean (the late Nicholas) Chieffo; and his siblings, Linda (Gerald) Booth, Joan (Dave) Pepper, and Nicole (Mike) Jennings. He is also survived by his extended family: mother-in-law Helen Potter (the late Cecil Potter), and in-laws Mike Stevens, Patty (Mike) McCullen, Kim (the late Mike) Weathers, and Greg (Amy) Stevens.

Through his kindness, talents, and adventurous heart, Joseph leaves a legacy of love and inspiration. His memory will remain a source of comfort to all who knew him.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, May 30th 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Gebhart Funeral Home, 3401 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, DE 19703, followed by a Memorial Service at 12:00 p.m. Burial will be private.

In honor of his memory, may we be inspired to live life to it’s fullest—with gratitude for it’s challenges, blessings, and journeys.

To offer condolences, please visit:

Gebhartfuneralhomes.com

302-798-7726