Joseph S. Puleo, Jr., 52, affectionately known as "Dirt Bag",  a resident of Hopewell Junction since 1995 and formerly from Rye Brook and New Rochelle, died suddenly and unexpectedly on Thursday, February 11, 2010 at his home with his family.

Born in Port Chester on July 9, 1957, he was the son of the late Joseph S. Puleo, Sr. and Frances Hinson. He was a proud member of Teamsters Local 707 in Mount Vernon, NY as a truck driver for the past 20 years with Yellow Freight. He had numerous safe driving recognitions through the years. Joseph also drove for Marvel Mystery Oil, Preston Trucking, and Howard Express. Joey loved playing with his dog Harley and his 2 large birds. Joey's love for Harley Davidson Motorcycles, local car shows, and spending time with his friends and family was his life. He enjoyed bike rallies, donated to cancer benefits and fulfilled his dream of taking a trip to Sturgis, South Dakota. Dirtbag's favorite place to hang out with the guys was Urchin Cycle in New Rochelle with his best friends, Richie and Ronnie, just to name a few in a vast amount of friendships. He also enjoyed trips to Florida with his wife and spending time with best friends and school buddies, Skip and Pat.

Joseph married Janet Mangione, who survives at home, on January 8, 2000 in Poughkeepsie. He is also survived by his stepdaughter, Michele Jones (Orlando) and her husband Anthony of Hopewell Junction; his new granddaughter, Gabrielle Vera Lynn; his sister Tracey Mojica of Poughkeepsie; and two nephews, Gregory and Justin.

Joseph's cousins include Kelly, Maria, and Salvatore Puleo. In addition Joseph's first cousins include the Carroll family, Debbie, Donna, Steve, Richard, Ronnie, and David. Joseph's family also includes multiple second and third cousins.

In addition to his parents Joseph was predeceased by his aunts, Josephine Puleo, Beulah Carroll and Betty Jean Harswick; Iggy Puleo; and two cousins, Beverly Carroll and Terry Snuggs.

A statement from Janet and Michele reads, "Words can not express all the friends that Joey (Dirtbag) has made throughout his life. Remember him always as a great guy, happy go lucky and always willing to be there to help anyone as his heart was so big for his body. I can truly say he will be greatly missed by all of his family, and those who were lucky enough to have their lives touched by Joe."

Calling hours will be held Wednesday, February 17, 2010 at McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. The funeral services will be held during the calling hours at 8:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Joey's family.  Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.