Joseph Pasquale Sarino

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our father, Joseph Pasquale Sarino, at Scarborough Birchmount Hospital on April 6th, 2026, at the age of 75.

Loving father of Angela (Scott), Andrea, Natalie (Vivek), and Rebekah (Ivan). Proud Papa to Nathan, Rachel, and Kai. Loving partner and lifelong family to Nancy Huntley, with who he shared a deep and enduring bond. Beloved brother of Anthony (Ricky) Sarino. Cherished uncle to Gus (Cathy) and Rose (Ross), and great-uncle to Michael, Stephanie, Madelene, and Samuel. Predeceased by his mother Rose (Remonde) and his father Augustine Sarino, and his nephew Daniel Cohen.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the staff, nurses, and doctors of St. Michael’s Hospital. A special thank you to Dr. Robert Yanagawa and his surgical team for their excellent and compassionate care. We are also grateful to Dr. Wayne and Dr. McFarlane of Scarborough Birchmount for their aftercare. Additionally we would like to thank Dr. Susan Taylor for her heartfelt care as his Family Doctor. Our deepest appreciation to Joy-Ann and Venus, his devoted PSWs, who shared many hours of stories and laughter while caring for Joe. In keeping with his generous spirit, Joe graciously gave the gift of tissue donation, helping others even in his passing.

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Joe was a generous, joyful soul, known for his quick wit and unforgettable “dad jokes.” He had a curious mind and a creative spirit that shaped every part of his life. Whether it was music, art, design, or technology, Joe had an incredible depth of knowledge—an encyclopedia of information he was always eager to share. Even in his later years, he continued learning, often exploring new ideas and interests with enthusiasm.

He had a remarkable gift for connecting with people. Anyone who met Joe felt seen, heard, and valued. He was a great listener, a steady presence, and someone others leaned on in both joyful and difficult times. He was also a lifelong prankster, delighting in simple mischief—from changing the TV channels from outside the home, to surprising family with playful antics, Joe found joy in creating moments, especially during the holidays. Whether it was elaborate Halloween displays with spooky music or animated Christmas decorations lighting up the home, he brought magic and laughter to every celebration.

Born to Augustine and his beloved mother Rose, to whom he was deeply devoted, Joe grew up surrounded by family. He spent hours tinkering in the garage with his father, developing a lifelong passion for fixing, building, and restoring. From a young age, he learned to see value in what others might discard—a philosophy he carried throughout his life. After losing his father at 29, Joe carried that loss with him, always wishing for more time.

Family was the cornerstone of Joe’s life. He shared a close bond with his brother Anthony and his cousin Peter, who was like a brother to him. The three shared a relationship filled with laughter, shared interests, and deep love. His sister-in-law Ricky became a true sister to him over more than six decades, offering guidance and warmth. He also shared a special relationship with his in-laws, Bernard and Ruth Huntley, with Bernard becoming a strong supporter and champion in his life.

Joe’s lifelong friendship with Tom Crocco began in Grade 2 and remained one of the most important relationships of his life. They stood by each other through every milestone, and Tom’s passing in 2011 was a loss Joe carried deeply.

In 1965, at a neighbourhood dance, Joe met the love of his life, Nancy Huntley. Despite cultural differences that made their relationship challenging at the time, Joe was unwavering in his love. They married on October 2, 1971, and built a life rooted in love, resilience, and family. Together they raised four daughters, instilling in them the values Joe lived by: family first and kindness above all. Their home was filled with laughter, creativity, and shared adventures.

Joe was a loving and devoted father whose greatest pride were his four daughters: Angela, Andrea, Natalie & Rebekah. His relationship with each of them was rooted in unwavering support, deep love, and a shared sense of joy. He celebrated their individuality, encouraged their paths, and took immense pride in the women they became. His presence in their lives was constant—a source of strength, laughter, and guidance—and the bond they shared will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

Joe shared a loving and uniquely close bond with his sons-in-law, Scott and Vivek. He welcomed them not just as family, but as true friends—built on mutual respect, humour, and countless conversations. Each relationship was special in its own way, reflecting Joe’s ability to connect deeply and authentically. He was also beginning to build a meaningful relationship with Ivan, who was new to the family, and whom Joe valued deeply for the love and happiness he brought to his daughter Rebekah.

Joe shared a special and evolving bond with his grandchildren. He held a deep connection and was incredibly proud of his grandson Nathan, and his granddaughter Rachel, cherishing the new and meaningful relationships they were building as they grew from children into adulthood. He was also a devoted and doting Papa to baby Kai, whose arrival just six months ago brought a renewed sparkle to his eye and immense joy to his heart.

Music was one of Joe’s greatest passions. From playing drums as a young boy to performing at school dances and local venues, music was a constant in his life. He later became a DJ, spinning records at high schools and even between sets for legendary Motown acts when they toured through Toronto—memories he cherished deeply.

Professionally, Joe was a true creative. Though he initially dreamed of a career in radio and television, he built a remarkable path in design and woodworking. Beginning in advertising and printing, he followed his passion into woodworking, founding Jona Woodworking and later working for many years with 3J Display. Over decades, he became a master craftsman, known for his ability to bring ideas to life.

He designed and built countless custom pieces and was recognized for his innovation, including an award-winning starburst coffee table. He also developed a patented framing technique that influenced modern woodworking. His work could be seen across the city—from retail spaces to film sets, including contributions to productions like Short Circuit and installations for Mirvish Productions.

Above all, Joe believed in the value of things—and people. Whether restoring a broken object or supporting someone in need, he approached life with patience, care, and heart.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation at Paul O’Connor Funeral Home; 1939 Lawrence Avenue East, Toronto, Ontario, M1R 2Y8, on Friday April 10, 2026, from 3-5pm, 7-9pm & Saturday April 11, 2026, from 12-1pm. Chapel Service to follow 1-2pm.

If you are unable to attend the Chapel Service in person, but would like to view the livestream, for your optimum viewing, please use Google Chrome and clicking the following link:

https://funeraweb.tv/en/diffusions/122662

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation would be greatly appreciated.

“Goodbye Dad, you were the best Dad.” ~ Andrea