Joseph Cannizzaro, Sr.

Joseph John Cannizzaro, Sr. was a loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle and friend. He entered into eternal life on October 29, 2022 at the age of 86. Joe was born on August 7, 1936 to Joseph Cannizzaro and Ethel Brunet Cannizzaro. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, June Raymond Cannizzaro, and his children Leslie Martin (Bryan), Lynette Savoie (Rusty) and Joey Cannizzaro (Jennifer). Survivors also include his grandchildren Nicholas, Noel and Angelle Martin, Holly, Russ, Justin and Lilly Savoie, and Jake and Luke Cannizzaro. He is also survived by his sister, Fay Cortello, and sister-in-law, Denise Cannizzaro, and numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, John Robert Cannizzaro, his brother-in-law George Cortello, and his nephew, Robert Cannizzaro. From the time he was a young boy, he loved sports and the outdoors. He loved to fish. Joe graduated from St. Aloysius High School and Louisiana State University with a degree in Geology. He attended LSU on a legislative scholarship and initially lived in student housing in Tiger Stadium. He was a student there when his beloved Tigers won the 1958 National Championship. He was a consummate Tiger fan and Saturday nights were spent cheering on LSU. Joe loved people. He made friends easily and his childhood friends were lifelong friends along with his roommates from LSU. He served his country for eight years in the Army National Guard and had an extensive career in the transportation industry. Joe was also a Charter Member and Past President of the Italian American St. Joseph’s Society. He served on its Board of Directors and was the St. Joseph’s Day Dance Chairman for over 40 years. He loved the club dearly and loved it even more when his children and grandchildren were maids and flag carriers in the annual parade in the French Quarter. His pride was bursting when he escorted his granddaughters during the gala after the parade for many years. He was imbedded in his Italian heritage and passed that pride onto his children and grandchildren. His happiest moments were when he was surrounded by his family. They were the center of his universe.

Family and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Mass on Thursday, November 3rd at 2:00 pm at St. Joseph Abbey, 75376 River Rd, St. Benedict, La 70457. Visitation will begin at 1:00 pm. A burial will immediately follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. Bagnell & Son Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. To view and sign the guestbook, please visit www.bagnellfuneralhome.com.

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