Obituary of Joseph J. Marino (“Big Joe”)
Joseph J. Marino, 66, of Howell Township, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank, surrounded by his adoring family. Born in the picturesque town of Arrezzo, Italy, Joseph embarked on a remarkable journey at the age of 3, when he was chosen through adoption by his loving parents, finding a nurturing home in Brooklyn filled with boundless love and care.
A man of deep love and dedication, Joseph's life blossomed when he married his beloved Susan. Together, they started a beautiful life that saw them traverse boroughs, settling first in Brooklyn, then Staten Island, and finally planting roots in Howell Township in 1997, where they lovingly raised their children, Joseph and Alexandra. Through every twist and turn, their bond and shared commitment to family remained steadfast, reminding all who knew them that, together, their love for their family was the most important treasure of all.
Joseph's tenure at C.C.C. Service Corporation in Lyndhurst spanned over 30+ years, during which he became an indispensable member of the team. His hard work and dedication to his craft were driven by a singular purpose: to ensure his family was supported and provided for.
Known affectionately as "Big Joe," he had an infectious love for life's simple pleasures—good music, the warmth of the Christmas season, the joy of dancing, and charming others with his magnetic personality. Big Joe also had an evident fondness for expanding his vocabulary, relishing the richness of language and the beauty of articulate expression. Big Joe’s bond with his son, Joseph, was forged through their shared passion for sports, particularly their beloved New York Mets, Knicks, and Jets. Their shared love for sports became a cornerstone of their relationship, a source of endless conversations, laughter, and cherished memories that will forever be etched in their hearts. —Big Joe’s passion for sports was matched only by his love for the game of golf, where he found both challenge and camaraderie.
Yet, amidst his own passions, Joseph found his greatest pleasure and joy in cheering on his daughter, Alexandra’s athletic & professional endeavors. His heart swelled with pride as he witnessed her triumphs, a testament to his love and support for his children. In every achievement of Alexandra's, Joseph found immense happiness, his support and encouragement served as a beacon, lighting her path to success.
Joseph leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter, woven into the hearts of all who knew him. He was predeceased by his loving parents, Joseph and Carmela Marino, his uncle, John Catania, and his aunt, Joann Catania. He is survived by his devoted wife of 40 years, Susan (nee DeBenedetto) Marino, his cherished children, Joseph and Alexandra, his daughter in-law, Mariel, Megan Douty, who held a special place in his heart as a second daughter and his grand pups, Cori and Bowie.
Joseph's legacy extends beyond his immediate family, as he was cherished by his extended relatives and loved ones who regarded him not only as family but as a father figure. His dear aunt, Phyllis Catania, and uncle, Santo Catania, along with his in-laws, Rocco and Angelina DeBenedetto, shared a special bond with Joseph, basking in his endless love and support. His brother and sister-in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews found solace in his comforting presence, turning to him for advice and reassurance. Joseph's role as a beloved family man transcended bloodlines, leaving an unforgettable mark on the hearts of those he held dear.
In the tapestry of life, Joseph Marino's presence was a vibrant thread, weaving love, laughter, and boundless joy into the lives of those he touched. Though he may no longer walk among us, his spirit will forever dance in our hearts, a beacon of love and light guiding us through the darkest of nights. Joseph's legacy of love will endure for generations to come, a testament to the extraordinary man he was. Rest in eternal peace, dear Joseph—your light will never dim.
Visitation will be held at the Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home, 100 Elton-Adelphia Road (Route 524), Freehold Township on Tuesday, March 26, 2024 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM. Relatives and friends are invited to gather at the funeral home on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at 9:30 AM for the procession to his 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at the Church of St. Veronica, 4219 Route 9 North, Howell. Entombment will follow at Holmdel Cemetery and Mausoleum, 900 Holmdel Road, Holmdel.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to All Lax LLC to be turned over to a foundation that will be established in Joseph Marino's honor. Joseph and his daughter, Alexandra, developed a strong bond over their shared passion for the sport of lacrosse, and we aim to perpetuate his love for the game by establishing a scholarship fund for lacrosse athletes in our community. Additionally, the foundation may be utilized for other charitable purposes, reflecting Joseph's spirit of generosity and compassion and enriching the lives of individuals in our community. Your generosity in honoring Joseph Marino's memory will be deeply appreciated.. For information, directions, or to leave condolence messages to the family, please visit www.claytonfuneralhome.com .
Visitation
Gathering for the Procession
Funeral Mass
Entombment