A Swansea man has a big day coming up in March and his daughter wants to make sure it’s a day to remember. Joseph Bucko will be turning 102 on March 20, and Joanne Bucko Frizado has a favor to ask of the community.

Last year, the town of Swansea proclaimed March 20 as “Joe Bucko Day” as dozens of cars and neighbors joined in for his birthday parade. Frizado shared photos from that joyous day, and the happiness on his face said it all.

Frizado and her father have always been close, but after the passing of her mother four years ago, their relationship grew stronger.

“I come (see him) every day,” Frizado said. She spoke so fondly of her father, and it seems the community thinks very fondly of him.

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“He just loves people,” she said. “He’s got a funny sense of humor and he’s always telling jokes. Whenever you mention his name around town, people say ‘he is such a good man.’”

Joseph’s 100th birthday was overshadowed by the pandemic, but birthday cards kept his spirit high. For 101st, the parade was a hit, but for his 102nd, Frizado is opening her mailbox for anyone who wants to send birthday wishes to this World War II Navy veteran.

Bucko is quite the social butterfly, but for his and his family’s safety, they will be celebrating Bucko’s birthday in a quiet setting.

However, Frizado’s hope is to spend the birthday opening card after card from friends and kind strangers.

“He really enjoys them, he reads every single one,” said Joanne.

If you would like to send birthday wishes to Joe Bucko, send your cards to 43 Laurel Avenue, Swansea, MA 02777 before March 20.

Happy birthday, Joe!

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