Published January 10, 2020
MELROSE – Joseph J. Milligan, 41, of Melrose and Albany, New York, passed away unexpectedly at home on Saturday, January 4, 2020.
Born on May 6, 1978 in Melrose, Joe graduated from Arlington Catholic High School and from West Virginia University with a degree in Political Science. Joe was currently a Resident Agent in Charge for the ATF in the Albany, New York Field Office. He previously served as a Senior Agent in the Miami and Houston Field Offices before relocating to be closer to his family.
Methodical, fearless and mentally strong, Joe was a consummate professional in his work as an ATF Agent. With a strong work ethic, Joe pushed himself to excel in everything he did. Most recently, he took genuine pride in mentoring newer agents, and pushed others to grow in their careers. Fiercely loyal and a good judge of character, Joe was a man of honor who built unbreakable lifelong bonds with fellow agents and freely shared his wisdom and experience with others.
Joe was married to his best friend and the love of his life, Jennifer Ricatti on October 19, 2013 in Coral Gables, Florida. While Joe was assigned to offices in Florida, Texas, and New York, he and Jen flourished wherever they landed. They established a home full of love, and were so excited to welcome a son, James D. Milligan II in 2018. Joe was a doting father who was happiest spending time with his family, and with his son whom he nicknamed “Skunk.”
In his free time, Joe enjoyed day trips with Jen in his 1968 Camaro or adventures together on the back of his Harley. With his innate confidence, Joe also never hesitated to take on a home project and was always deepening his knowledge of car mechanics. Known as a lifelong hellraiser, Joe enjoyed shooting and fireworks, but always remembered his mother’s home cooking. He also was an animal lover who loved country music, and Boston sports.
Joe leaves this world tragically too soon, but the impact he made on his family, friends, and colleagues will be imprinted in their hearts and minds. He will be forever remembered for his quick wit, his fearless courage, and unmatched loyalty given to all those he loved.
Joe was the beloved husband and best friend of Jennifer M. Ricatti with whom he shared six years of marriage. Proud father of James D. Milligan II. Cherished son of Patricia A. Milligan and the late James D. Milligan of Melrose. Loyal brother of Frank D. Milligan and Peter C. Milligan and his wife Jennifer, both of Melrose. Caring uncle of Gracelyn Milligan. Also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, colleagues, and friends. He also leaves his two beloved dogs, Riley and Jake.
Relatives and friends will gather in honor of Joe’s life for visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Friday, Jan. 10 from 3-8 p.m. and again on Saturday at 9 a.m. before leaving in procession to the Church of the Incarnation, 429 Upham St., Melrose for his funeral Mass celebrated at 10 a.m. Interment at Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. For online tribute, or directions visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com
