Joseph (Joe) Brocato

Joseph “Joe” Brocato, 94, peacefully went to be with the Lord, on March 10, 2025, while at home surrounded by his loving children. He was born on March 25, 1930 to Manuel Brocato and Katie (Centinaro) Brocato in Tampa, Florida. Joe is preceded in death by his beloved wife Mary Brocato, his parents, and sisters Josephine Brocato and Mary Mestas.

Joe was a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather (Nano), great-grandfather, uncle, son-in-law, brother-in-law, and friend to many.

Joe’s family moved from Cherry Street in West Tampa to Columbus Drive in East Tampa in 1948. That same year Joe graduated from Jefferson High School and the family opened Manuel and Joe Brocato Grocery, which later converted to Brocato’s Sandwich Shop. Joe proudly served his country as a member of the Army National Guard in his younger years. He was a devoted member of Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus, where his faith guided his life and relationships. He was a recipient of the St. Jude Medal and Don Bosco Award. He loved his church family deeply and found great joy in his spiritual community.

Joe is survived and will be sadly missed by his daughters, Kathy Celeiro (Edwin Celeiro), and Nancy Nowakowski (Sam Nowakowski); son, Michael Brocato (Kelly Brocato); grandchildren Vincent Celeiro, C.J. Celeiro (Amanda); Frank Nowakowski (Adriana); Sammy Nowakowski (Kaycee); Nicholas Brocato, Lauren Brocato, and Alex Brocato; great-grandchildren Finnian Buck-Celeiro, Andrew, Mark, Michael, and Anthony Nowakowski; along with many nieces and nephews. Grandsons will serve as Pallbearers.

Joe will be remembered for his generosity, dedication to family, and the lasting impact he made on the community.

The family will receive visitors on Sunday, March 23, 2025 from 4:00-7:00 PM at the Blount & Curry Funeral Home at Garden of Memories, 4207 E. Lake Avenue, Tampa.

A funeral mass will be held on Monday, March 24, 2025 at 11:30 AM at Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church, 6400 E. Chelsea Street, Tampa. Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be prayed at 11:15 AM, prior to Mass.

Following the service, Joe will be laid to rest at Myrtle Hill Park, 4202 E. Lake Avenue. Reception immediately following at Blount & Curry Funeral Home at Garden of Memories.

During the Lenten Season, in lieu of flowers, please make donations to Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church in memory of Joseph Brocato.