Joseph David Tatko

Wells, Vermont – Joseph David Tatko passed away on April 23, 2022, five days after his 70th birthday at Rutland Regional Medical Center following a long illness.

Joe held close the legacy of the slate business started by his father John M. Tatko Sr. Joe loved to share the story of how his father’s brothers went to war and that his duty was to be sure that they had a home and business to return to. Like his father, and the Tatko family members before him, Joe was raised learning that hard work and family were first.

Joe was particularly close to his mother who passed May 7, 2009, and brother James E. Tatko who passed Jan. 12, 1979. He took the role of caregiver for his mom, spending hours going to the hospital to ensure she was receiving proper care. Though devastated when she passed, he felt grateful and blessed for the time he had with her.

He attended Granville Central School, Manlius Military Academy and Norwich University of Vermont.

Joe was the president and CEO of Jet Inc., a helicopter transportation business, and Southern Vermont Helicopter Co. for years with pilot Steve Hellus.

He enjoyed spending time at the family cottage on Lake St. Catherine.

Joe was grateful in his health decline to have his friends Eric Baker, Bob Wilcox and Janet Ventrella to help him.

Joe was predeceased by his parents, brother James E. Tatko Sr. and sister Mary Tatko DiMenno.

Survivors include his sister Ann Tatko Prezio (Dr. Joe), brother John Tatko Jr. (Beverly), sister Joan Tatko Meegan (Robert), brother-in-law Michael DiMenno and many nieces and nephews.

A private burial will be held at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Online condolences may be made at robertmkingfuneralhome.com.