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Joseph J. Deliso, Sr.

Joseph J. Deliso was clearly one of the outstanding entrepreneurs as well as one of the major benefactors of Western Massachusetts. A self-made dynamo and consummate businessman, he also gave generously of his time, financial resources and energy to a myriad of institutions throughout Greater Springfield.

Joseph Deliso, who died in 1996, arrived in Springfield in 1939. Prior to then he had been one of the developers of the Merritt Parkway, one of the nation’s most beautiful highways, and built the water system for the 1939 World’s Fair on Long Island. After taking over the HBA Cast Products Co. in Springfield, he built it into the one of the region’s major industries and employers, making goods which played an important role in America’s World War II production. He also founded other successful area firms and was actively involved as director of the former Security National Bank, the Package Machinery and Channel 22.

Joe Deliso was an extremely generous man. Buildings, conference centers and scholarships in our region’s colleges, hospitals, and other non-profit agencies bear the name Deliso in recognition of gifts made by Mr. Deliso and the Deliso family. A major contribution to the Mercy Hospital resulted in the Joseph J. Deliso Sr. Conference Center at that facility. The Deliso Endowment at STCC makes it possible for several STCC students annually to acquire a college education and provides support for the Deliso Endowed Chair, given to an outstanding STCC faculty member each year. The Joseph J. Deliso Sr. Videoconference Center is a result of Mrs. Deliso’s gift to STCC. Mr. Deliso also provided funds for the renovation of a major facility at Western New England College where the main administration building is known as the Joseph J. Deliso, Sr. Hall.

Joe Deliso was generous with his time and talent as well. A founder of STCC and member of its original governing boards, he also provided key guidance to the City of Springfield and, as a former Park Commissioner, is acknowledged as the leader of the successful effort to restore Forest Park to its current status of a source of community pride. The Western Massachusetts Entrepreneurship Hall of Fame is pleased and proud that Joseph J. Deliso Sr. is included in its first class of inductees.