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Show dedicated in Joe’s memory, a man who loved fire trucks

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“Joe would be very proud of what’s going on here today,” offered Richard Quetta, an official and dedicated member of the Rhode Island Antique Fire Apparatus Society. “He loved events like this!”

That may have even been an understatement of sorts, given how much – as Quetta and other people concurred – “Joe loved and did for this special organization.”

The late Joseph “Joe” Pingitore III was a Johnston native and respected business owner whose life was cut short unexpectedly when he passed away at age 60 on Oct. 25, 2021. He owned and operated J. Pingitore & Sons Paving and Construction.

“It’s safe to say Joe’s life revolved around trucks,” offered several people during an emotion-pitched ceremony Sunday inside the Masonic Youth Center off Long Street in Warwick. “He helped built the Rhode Island Antique Truck Haulers Association into one of New England’s best non-profit events featuring countless individually owned trucks.”

Perhaps that why, a Quetta said, “We have dedicated today’s show in Joe’s honor. His name and legacy will never – ever --- be forgotten.”

That’s also why nearly three dozen RIAFAS members drove their vintage vehicles to Sunday’s show that was highlighted with a special tribute and plaque presentation to the late Pingitore’s younger brother Dave, a ranking officer with the Johnston Fire Department and Treasurer of Local 1950.

“My sister (Dr. Fran Pingitore) and I really appreciate this terrific tribute to our brother,” Dave Pingitore offered. “We miss him dearly; he meant so much to many people.”

Moreover, the late Pingitore loved showing his family’s 1979 Mack CF Model Fire Truck as well as his 1952 chain-driven Sterling which were among the trucks on display Sunday during the super special 5-hour show that served burgers, hot dogs and refreshments provided by the Providence Canteen and RIAFAS during the 5-hour sun-covered show.

Backed by the music of DJ Joe Vingi of Pleasure Sounds Unlimited, Sunday’s show consisted of motorized fire apparatus and other fire memorabilia and a firematic flea market that was also highlighted by show-goers and members bringing a new unwrapped toy that will be distributed to needy children during the holidays.

fire, truck

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