Joseph Ferdinand "Fred" Gladu, Jr.

Joseph Ferdinand "Fred" Gladu Jr., 86, of Woonsocket, passed away June 18, 2026, in Golden Crest Nursing Centre, North Providence. Born in Sheldonville, MA he was the son of the late Joseph Ferdinand Gladu, Sr. and Leona (Leboeuf) Gladu.

Mr. Gladu began working for the Woonsocket Call, and then became the owner of Coney Island on Main St., Woonsocket, and Deals on Wheels on Pulaski Blvd., Bellingham, retiring in 2005. During his younger years, Fred was a member of the Catholic Young Adult Council, and he enjoyed bowling, jogging, swimming, running, working in the yard, and he had an exceptionally witty sense of humor. He was a member of the Woonsocket Harriers Runners Club and the Woonsocket Field of Dreams softball league.  

He is survived by his children, Michelle Phaneuf and her husband, Gerald, of North Smithfield, and Michael Gladu of Burrillville; three grandchildren, Jason, Luke, and Keith Phaneuf; a great granddaughter, Cora Phaneuf; his former spouse and friend, Antoinette Gladu of Woonsocket; two nieces, and two nephews. He was predeceased by his siblings, Marcel Gladu, Lillian Fleurant, Doris Hoyt, and Lorraine Roberts; and his longtime companion, Virginia Menard.

His funeral service will be held Saturday, June 27, 2026 at 9 AM in the Holt Funeral Home, 510 South Main St., Woonsocket. Burial will follow in St. John the Baptist Cemetery, Wrentham Rd., Bellingham. Calling hours are Friday from 5-7 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 24 Waterman St. #306, Providence, RI 02906.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph Ferdinand "Fred" Gladu, Jr., please visit our floral store.