Joseph Occhiogrosso, 60, passed away August 20, 2023 after a long illness. Born in 1963 to parents Jennie and Joseph Occhiogrosso, he was married for 13 years to his wife, Suzy.

Joseph grew up on East 35th Street in Brooklyn, surrounded by extended family in the neighborhood. He earned two Masters degrees from Brooklyn College and taught English for thirty years at John Dewey High School in Brooklyn, where he was known by colleagues and students for always going above and beyond in his passion and commitment. Before beginning his teaching career, he attended the Dante Alighieri language school in Siena, Italy. He lived in Siena for extended periods of time, became fluent in the language, and formed close friendships that continued for the rest of his life.

In addition to his interest in Italian culture, which included his family's roots in Bitetto, Puglia, Joe was passionate about music, bicycling, photography, and the NY Mets. He loved to join in and take part in things. He was an active member of the Beato Giacomo Men's Society, studied jazz bass in an adult class at Brooklyn Music School as well as stand-up bluegrass bass, and was a member of the Park Slope Food Coop for over 20 years. He will be remembered for his warmth, his special brand of humor, and closeness with his large extended family.

Joseph was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Suzy, and their adored cats Jasmine and Calypso; loving sisters Joanne (Rob), Marie (Steve), his niece Jessica (Jason), nephews Jeremy and Michael, grand-niece Avalee; Aunt and Uncle Carmela and Angelo Silecchia, Aunt and Uncle Angela and Stanley Pearlstein, and Aunt Connie Marzella, as well as many cousins and their children.


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In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Joseph's memory to:

SMS Bitetto Beato Giacomo
Check payable to: SMS Bitetto Beato Giacomo
3414 Avenue N, Brooklyn, New York 11234

or

Brooklyn Animal Action

or

Brooklyn Musical School

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Visitation

Wednesday (8/23)  6 PM - 9 PM
Thursday (8/24)  2 PM - 4 PM and 6 PM - 9 PM

Clavin Funeral Home
7722 4th Avenue
Brooklyn, New York 11209
* Complimentary Valet Parking Available *


Departing from Funeral Home

Friday (8/25) 10 AM


Interment Service

Friday (8/25) 11 AM

Saint Charles Cemetery
2015 Wellwood Avenue
Farmingdale, New York 11735