Joseph P. Sirianni a/k/a “Joe Red Card Sirianni”

Gates, NY – Joseph P. Sirianni Sr. passed away peacefully at age 87, on July 12, 2025, surrounded by loved ones, after a courageous battle with cancer.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 36 years, Rosaline Sirianni, and his cherished parents, Michele and Filomena Sirianni.

Joseph is survived by his children: Victoria Mills, Joseph (Rick) Sirianni, and Sue Sirianni; his grandchildren: William (Leanna) Mills, Aaron (Kristen) Mills, and Matthew (Riley) Mills; and his great-grandchildren: Rowan, KanyonAnn, Hudson, Payton, Ellison, Isaiah, and Isabella.

He is also survived by his devoted sister, Anna Mongiovi; his loving companion of 25 years, Anna Femiano; her daughters, Yvonne and Yvette Femiano; and their children.

Joe will be fondly remembered by many beloved nieces and nephews across Rochester, Italy, and Australia, as well as by cousins in Canada.

A special thank you to Ursula, Jaime, and Mary for their constant love, care, and support.

Born Giuseppe Sirianni in Soveria Mannelli, Calabria, Italy, Joe immigrated to the United States in 1954, arriving in Rice Lake, Wisconsin, with his parents and sister. He began working at his Uncle Peter Sirianni’s Soda & Beer Company before the family eventually settled in Rochester, NY.

Joe’s strong work ethic defined his life. He began his career at Hickey Freeman, worked as a butcher at Arpico, and later became a machinist at Davenport Machines. There, he served as Union President before eventually moving into management. After retiring from a long and dedicated career, Joe turned to volunteering, which became his next full-time job.

Soccer was one of Joe’s greatest passions. He played a vital role with the Rochester Lancers, serving as team trainer and earning the affectionate nickname “Joe Red Card Sirianni”-the only trainer in league history to receive a red card after a heated (and memorable) disagreement with a referee. His love for the sport extended to supporting the Flash Soccer Team and co-hosting the radio show Soccer Is a Kick in the Grass every Monday night for 31 years.

Joe’s commitment to connecting with others extended far beyond the soccer field. Determined to better communicate with players and coaches, he taught himself Spanish, Portuguese, and even some Czechoslovakian. His warmth, humor, and generosity earned him the nickname “Uncle Joe” from many-a testament to the lasting relationships he built throughout his life.

He was a proud and active member of the Italian American community, deeply involved with the Italian American Community Center and the Italian American Sports Club, serving as President of the Board and a longtime member of the Board of Directors for both organizations. He was honored as Citizen of the Year by the Italian Civic Association for his unwavering dedication and service.

Joseph will be remembered for his consistency, compassion, and selflessness. No matter the circumstances, he remained the same kind, loving man, always putting others before himself. His light, wisdom, humor, and empathy left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

He will be profoundly missed-but never forgotten-by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.

Family and friends are invited to call on Thursday, July 17th from 4-7 PM at Bartolomeo & Perotto Funeral Home, 1411 Vintage Lane. A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, July 18th at 11AM at The Parish of the Holy Family, 4100 Lyell Ave Rochester 14606, followed by interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, 2461 Lake Ave, Rochester 14612: Section South 37, Lot 885.