Joseph Joel Cappello

A beloved husband, father, brother, and grandfather, Joseph married the love of his life, Antoinette, in 1964, beginning a 57-year love story that produced three children, Sam, Maria, and Joann.

As a young man, Joseph joined the U.S. Army and later served in the Army Reserves. A graduate of Brooklyn College, he was a true entrepreneur; he initiated many independent ventures, including owning an ice cream shop, a gas station, and a laundromat. He also worked in the Brooklyn Navy Yard and later sold real estate and life insurance. His true career calling, however, came as a teacher of young people. He taught 30 years in the New York City school system, molding the minds of countless young people.

His true passion was love of family. He grew up as the oldest of four boys and loved all his brothers and parents dearly. As a husband and father, every decision he made was guided by what was best for his family. In 1979, he relocated with his family from New York to Florida for a true adventure. He spent the rest of his days enjoying the Florida lifestyle, surrounded by family and new friends.

Whether it was bike rides, sailing, or Corvette racing, one or more of his family members was at his side. As his children grew up, married, and started their own families, Joseph was a rock for all of them. His seven surviving grandchildren cherished every moment they had with him, and so did he.

The foundation of Joseph’s life was his faith. He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus for much of his adult life, and his faith had a profound effect on his family and friends. His family was named Florida’s family of the year for the Knights on multiple occasions. He taught religious instruction classes to children and served as a sponsor for multiple people making confirmation as well as being a godfather to many others.

Joseph was born on Constitution Day and married on Independence Day, which was a true reflection of his passion for his country, reflected in his military service.

He is survived by his wife, Antoinette; children, Sam (Tracey), Maria (Jim); and Joann (Matthew); grandchildren, Elizabeth (Sherman), Alex, Victoria (Kevin), Zoe, Simon (Allie), Joseph, and Mario; brothers, Frank (Cathy) and Christopher (Doreen); and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Sam; grandson, Andrew; and brother, Paul.

In lieu of flowers, Joseph’s wish was for donations to be made to the Knights of Columbus Charities at https://www.kofc.org/en/what-we-do/charity/index.html

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.beachmemorial.com for the Cappello family.