Webster: May 10, 2025. Joe is survived by his sisters, Cindy (Tom) Kaminski & Jeannette (Renald) Hammond; also survived by sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins & dear friends.

Joe’s life story will be shared during his visitation at the funeral home, 1411 Vintage Lane (Between 390 & Long Pond Rd.), Wednesday, May 14th, 5-7 PM. All are welcome to meet the family, Thursday, May 15th, 12 PM at the Dewey Ave. Gate of Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to, Veteran’s Outreach Center, 459 South Ave., Rochester, NY 14620 in his memory.

Joseph W. Santangelo
May 15, 1951 – May 10, 2025

Joseph “Joe” Santangelo, a proud son of Rochester, New York, passed away on May 10, 2025, just shy of his 74th birthday. Stubborn to the core, with a wit as sharp as his tools and a heart of pure gold, Joe lived life on his own terms — and he lived it well.

Born at St. Mary’s Hospital on May 15, 1951, to Al and Betty Santangelo, Joe was the only boy in a bustling household of five children. He was the middle brother of Patricia, Carolyn, Cindy, and Jeannette, and he knew exactly how to hold his own. Al worked hard at Kodak, while Betty kept the family grounded at home — together, they built a strong foundation that Joe never forgot.

Joe grew up in the Plymouth Avenue area, attending School #5 before moving on to Jefferson High School, where he developed a knack for fixing things — and for making people laugh. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served with pride during the Vietnam War. He would often joke that he went on to study “how to stay alive” at the University of Southeast Asia, a reflection of his trademark humor in the face of hard-earned wisdom.

After his service, Joe returned to Rochester and took a job with Rochester Gas & Electric as a gas main inspector. Later, he worked as a mechanic and RV finisher at Johnson RV, where his mechanical skills and problem-solving instincts earned him the respect of colleagues and friends alike. He was the guy who could fix just about anything — and if he couldn’t, he’d find a way to make it work anyway.

Joe was a confirmed bachelor who valued his independence, but he was never alone. He had too many close friends to name — many of whom he had known since childhood — and his circle only grew larger with time. Whether in the garage, at the racetrack, or watching the New Orleans Saints on a Sunday, Joe was in his element when surrounded by good people, a cold drink, and some lively conversation. He had little patience for phoniness, but he had endless time and generosity for those he loved.

He was known for his love of NASCAR, his passion for gambling (especially when he thought he had the “hot hand”), and his devotion to shows like NCIS and JAG. His favorite saying, “Know what I mean?”, was a familiar refrain to anyone lucky enough to spend time in his orbit.

Joe’s legacy is one of laughter, loyalty, and love. He was stubborn, funny, giving, caring, and undeniably sweet. He never married, but his life was full — of family, of friendships, and of fierce determination. He faced every challenge head-on, and despite his strong will, he always made room for others in his heart.

Joe’s greatest influence wasn’t any one person — it was his entire family. They shaped him, supported him, and stood by him through thick and thin. In return, Joe showed up for them in the way only he could — with quiet strength, quick humor, and unshakable loyalty.

He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Joe Santangelo leaves behind a legacy of authenticity and love, a reminder to live each moment to the fullest, just as he did — stubbornly, sweetly, and with a wink that said, “Know what I mean?”