Joseph C. Thorp, decorated Marine

Lt. Col. Joseph C. Thorp, USMC (Ret.), 89, of Milton, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family, Friday, Feb. 28, 2025.

Born June 2, 1935, in Wilmington, Joe was the son of Charles and Mary Thorp (Cunane). He graduated from Newark High School and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from University of Delaware in 1953. Joe furthered his education with a master’s degree from George Washington University in 1957.

Following his graduation, Joe was commissioned into the U.S. Marine Corps and married the love of his life, Ellen Jane Gallaher, July 20, 1957, in Newark. He dedicated 23 years of service to his country, retiring as a lieutenant colonel. During his military career, Joe was awarded numerous honors, including the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “U,” the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Meritorious Unit Commendation, the Vietnam Service Medal with four stars, the Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation Gallantry Cross with Palm and Frame, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

After retiring from the USMC, Joe transitioned to civilian life, working as a project manager at Gilbane Construction, where he contributed to the development of significant projects, including the U.S. Vietnam War Memorial. From 1989 to 2005, he served as vice president of facilities at the Federal Reserve Bank in Cleveland.

Joe was passionate about skeet shooting and Blue Hen baseball. He cherished spending time with his family, especially following his granddaughters' sports and activities. He enjoyed talking with them and was a constant source of love and wisdom.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Mary Thorp (Cunane); and his beloved wife, Ellen Jane Thorp (Gallaher). He is survived by his children, Mark Thorp of Milton and Kathleen Weisblatt (Eric) of Alexandria, Va; his cherished granddaughters, Molly (Peter Christmas) and their daughter Maeve, and Madeline and Lilly Weisblatt of Alexandria, Va.

Funeral services will be held at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Joe's memory to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, the American Cancer Society, or Beebe Healthcare Tunnell Cancer Center.

Joe will be remembered for his service to his country, his dedication to his family, and the love he shared with all who knew him.

Visit Joe's Life Memorial at parsellfuneralhomes.com.