Joseph John Cipriano

Joseph John Cipriano, 60, of Ravenna, Ohio, passed away on August 16, 2026. Born January 3, 1966, Joseph was the youngest of ten children of Guido and Vivian (Pitzer) Cipriano, and he was affectionately known to many simply as Joey.

Joey graduated from Happy Day School and worked at Portage Industries for many years until his retirement. He participated in Special Olympics in the events of Race Walking, Shot Put and Bocce Blue Streaks. In addition, he bowled with his co-workers. Joey carried forward a steady, gentle way of being that drew people close. With a kind heart and a thoughtful presence, he had a gift for making others feel seen and at ease. His warmth was constant, his loyalty unwavering, and his humor—often quiet, always well-timed—had a way of lifting the moment.

Those who knew Joey will remember how he could light up a room, not by asking for attention, but by giving it—freely and joyfully. He loved with an open, unconditional spirit, and he seemed to measure a good day by how much better he could make someone else feel.

Among the many memories his family and friends will hold close is Joey’s love of song—especially his heartfelt tradition of singing Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York” at weddings and family functions, moments that reliably brought smiles and joined voices together.

Joey’s family was his world. He is survived by his siblings Patricia Cipriano, Steve (Colleen) Cipriano, Tina (Larry) Hutchinson, Sam (Karen) Cipriano, Mike Cipriano (Lisa), Marianne Cipriano, and Lorrie Cipriano (Chris), his sister-in-law Kemberly Cipriano, along with generations of loving nieces and nephews who absolutely adored him, including his niece, Layla Cipriano, who grew up with him as more of a younger sister than a niece. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brothers Vince and Chip Cipriano. In addition, Joey leaves behind his best friend, Calvin Garrett.

Friends and family will be received Monday, August 24, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, followed by a Funeral Service celebrated by Joey's cousin, Monsignor Michael Cariglio at 12:00 pm at the Wood-Kortright-Borkoski Funeral Home, 703 E Main St, Ravenna, Ohio. Entombment will follow at St. Mary Cemetery.

The family extends special thanks to Epic-Independence Elevated (formerly Independence of Portage County) and Gardens of the Western Reserve Home Care & Hospice for their care and support.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial donations be made in Joey’s memory to Gardens of Western Reserve Home Care and Hospice, 3792 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio or to Special Olympics Ohio Portage County, 2500 Brady Lake Road, Ravenna, Ohio 44266.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.wood-kortright-borkoski.com