Northborough Joseph W. Picone, 72, passed away Saturday, June 13, 2015 at UMass Memorial - University Campus in Worcester, after a long battle with cancer. He leaves behind his wife of 47 years, Ellen L. (Monette) Picone; two daughters, Sherryl Ripel and her husband Craig of Epson, NH; Kim Romanelli and her husband Paul of Charlton; four grandchildren, Kevin, Aaron, Maia and Aidan; his favorite walking companion Dixie. Born and raised in Marlborough, he was the son of Stephen and C. Caroline (Silk) Picone. Mr. Picone lived in Northborough for the past 43 years. Joe graduated from Marlborough High School, class of 1961. He was a ceramic engineer by trade employed by Norton Co./Saint Gobain in Worcester. Mr. Picone worked there for 35 years and traveled around the world for his company. Joe lived for his family. He loved spending time with his grandchildren by attending their many sporting events and activities. Mr. Picone loved gourmet cooking. The family wishes to thank the dedicated doctors and nursing staff at UMass Memorial Univ. Campus ICU for their compassionate care. A private graveside service will be held at the family plot in Howard St. Cemetery, Northborough. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen St. Framingham, MA 01701. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Hays Funeral Home of Northborough. To share a memory or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.haysfuneral home .com