Joseph Fontana

Joe was born on January 7th, 1927 in San Jose, California. His parents immigrated to Ellis Island, New York from Italy, later moving to California where Joe and his four sisters and one brother were raised. Joe grew up working with his father and brother picking grapes for Paul Mason Winery and his dear mother, Anna, worked in the cannery. Joe was always artistic and creative and in his early schooling years he was awarded for his kite-building and model airplane construction. At seventeen, Joe enlisted in the Navy, during World War II, and was stationed in Pearl Harbor when the Peace Treaty was signed. Upon return Joe entered trade school and became a skilled plumber, which would become his main profession working first for Santa Clara County and later the City of Mountain View. After Joe retired he continued to do side plumbing jobs for friends.When Joe was young his nickname was “Browndog”. He was given that name by friends of his older brother. As Joe got older his nickname changed to “Sierra Joe” for his love of the mountains and fishing in the sierras.

Joe’s interests were very widespread. He raised exotic birds for fun, was an avid bowler; winning many tournaments, and a very skilled yo-yo er who loved to entertain everyone with his yo-yo tricks. He also loved to rollerblade and ride his bike all over Carmel. He was an artist whose sketches and paintings came to life depicting ocean scenes, animals, flowers, still life and more. He worked with stained glass and wrought iron creating beautiful lamps, windows and furniture.

Joe had a special way with people and a strong affection for animals. “Minkya”, he would say, “you know I used to be a dog!”

Joe took pride in building his beautiful home in Carmel and with its majestic views of the valley and beautiful array of plants, flowers shrubs and trees, it was his paradise. Joe and Carole enjoyed taking trips together to visit family and friends and see new and exciting places. Most recently they had been on a cruise to Eastern Canada, a visit to family and friends in Pennsylvania, and a driving trip through Northern California and Oregon.

Joe is survived by his wife Carole, whose loving devotion and care through his lengthy illness was immeasurable. "Joey” loved Carole with all of his heart and treated her like gold. Joe is also survived by his sister Jenny of San Jose and his brother Frank, presently of Oregon, who meant the whole world to him and as they planned together many years ago, will one day rest alongside Joe in the Santa Clara Mission cemetery.

Joe is predeceased by Sarah, Mary and Rose.

Visitation will be Wednesday, July 24th from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Lima Family Santa Clara Mortuary, 466 N Winchester Blvd.; where the Funeral follows at 12:00. Interment will follow in Santa Clara Mission Cemetery.