Joseph Angelo Campodonico left us too soon on March 5, 2026, leaving family and friends shocked and deeply saddened. Joe passed away leaving a void that can never be filled. He left behind a legacy of laughter, adventure, and deep love for family and friends. He was 49 years old.
Joe was born on June 10, 1976, in Mountain View, California, to Richard Angelo and Rebecca Ann (Milana) Campodonico, sharing the special distinction of being born on his father’s birthday. He grew up in Fresno, where he built lifelong friendships and proudly attended Forkner Elementary, then graduated from Bullard High School. Joe continued his education at Cuesta College and Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo. Joe was a true jack of all trades having an endless curiosity and passion for trying new things.
From an early age, Joe developed a love for the mountains and snow skiing. His skill and enthusiasm earned him a place on the Sierra Summit Peak Race Team, where he spent many memorable days racing and enjoying the slopes. Joe was known for his quick wit, humor, and natural ability to make people laugh. Whether among family or friends, he brought energy, storytelling, and joy to every gathering. He loved adventure and the outdoors—jeeping, boating, scuba diving and exploring whenever he could. Some of his most treasured memories were the many family trips to his dad's cabin on the Klamath River, fishing for salmon and picking blackberries.
Joe was a gifted cook and master barbecuer, a passion that led to the creation of Smokey Joe’s in Medford, Oregon. His one of a kind pulled pork and barbecued ribs became favorites among friends, family, and customers alike.
More than anything, Joe’s greatest pride and joy was his son, Vincent Angelo born in 2012. Joe loved spending time with Vincent, especially cheering him on and sharing moments together at many BMX races. He is a proud member of The Body D team in Reedley. Vincent will especially miss long road trips with his dad, talking about life, listening to their favorite songs, and camping at various BMX tracks.
Joe is survived by his mother, Rebecca, his beloved son Vincent, his sisters Aimee Campodonico, Cristin Campodonico and niece Lauren Campodonico, his nephew Bradley Pring, and niece Rachel Baird. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard, grandparents Alfred and Kathleen Milana, Angelo and Elena Campodonico, cousins, Joshua Milana, Angela Joy Gengler and William Gavin.
Joe will be remembered for his humor, generosity, adventurous spirit, and the love he shared so freely with those around him. His presence brought warmth and laughter to many lives, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
With deep gratitude, the family wishes to thank Dr. Connor O'Brien, Dr. Kristen Vossler and their team of doctors and nurses at UCSF Medical Center in San Francisco for their tireless dedication, compassion and exceptional care for Joe.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Joe's memory may be made to the American Heart Association or the charity of your choice.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Whitehurst Sullivan Burns & Blair Funeral Home, 836 E. Nees Ave., Fresno, CA 93720, US, on March 25, 2026, at 11:00 am.
