Joseph M. Flamini of Mahanoy City (also known as “Swing” Flamini because of his career as a big band musician) passed away peacefully Wednesday morning at Shenandoah Senior Living Center.  He was 88 years old.  Swing was born to Rose and Fortunato Flamini on May 8, 1926 at the family home on Pine Street.  He attended elementary grades at the Pine St. school building and graduated from Mahanoy City High School in 1943.  He was drafted into the Navy immediately upon graduation and served, during WWII, on the USS Texas in the Pacific theater of operations where he was also a member of the Navy band. He was honorably discharged at the conclusion of the war and returned to live in Mahanoy City for the rest of his life.   He opened his first barber shop on Center St. and shortly thereafter organized the popular combo, The Millionaires, which played many local restaurants and clubs.   He married Rose DiJinio in 1954.  He was a member of the Blessed Teresa of Calcutta RC Church in Mahanoy City, the Lions Club, The Elks Club and the board of directors of Mahanoy City’s Pennsylvania National Bank. He was also a lifetime member of the musicians’ union.  He is survived by his wife, Rose, his son, Michael of New York City, his brother Henry Flamini of Steelton, PA , as well as nieces, nephews and cousins in PA and across the US.  Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated by the Rev. Kevin P. Gallagher on Saturday morning at 11 AM from Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Church. Interment with military honors will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Mahanoy Township.  Friends may call at the church on Saturday morning beginning at 9 AM.  In lieu of flowers contributions in his name to Activities Fund of Shenandoah Manor   which provided such good care to Swing in his final days would be appreciated by the family.
David D. Jarrett Funeral Home of Mahanoy City is entrusted with arrangements.  Please visit www.jarrettfuneralhome.com for more information.