Joseph James Apicello

Joseph Apicello, a man who truly lived life to the fullest, peacefully passed away on January 19, 2025, at the age of 76 in Creve Coeur, Missouri. Born on November 17, 1948 in Staten Island, NY, Joseph was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to all who knew him. His bright spirit and endless curiosity will be sorely missed by his family and friends.

Joseph is survived by his devoted wife, Linda, whom he promised to marry when they met in third grade—a promise they honored for 53 wonderful years. He leaves behind two daughters, Joellen DeRobertis (married to Christopher) and Jaclyn Tietz (married to Geoff), as well as four beloved grandchildren: Anthony, Gianna, Rebekah, and Elliot. His face lit up every time he spoke about them, and he never missed a chance to share how lucky he was to be their grandfather.

Joseph was also deeply loved by his brother, Ciro (married to Carlys), as well as their children Danielle LeMunyon (married to Peter) and her children Michelle and Matthew, Evan Apicello, and Andrew Apicello (married to Lauren). He was also cherished by his niece Lisa Capasso (married to Peter) and their children Lorraine and Peter. He is predeceased by many loving family members including his parents, Leo and Ann. He is surely having a heartfelt reunion with them all.

Joseph's professional journey was dynamic as he mastered emerging technologies, gaining new skills and abilities at the Public Health System in Staten Island and VA of Brooklyn, New York. He started out as an X-Ray technician, adding expertise as a CT scan tech, then as an MRI tech, and ultimately joined the VA's Radiation Therapy Unit in Brooklyn. Wherever he worked, he made countless friends and earned the respect of all his peers.

Joseph was more than just a skilled technician in the hospital—he was a true renaissance man. Whether he was fixing a broken kitchen gadget, building a computer from scratch, or creating beautiful drawings and portraits, his creativity had no bounds. He also wrote music, including musical comedies, and even posted some of his creations on YouTube.

Joseph was known for answering every phone call or text with his signature “Yaha!”— a greeting that will be sorely missed by all who heard or read it. He also had a passion for woodworking, often creating beautiful pieces from a random branch or scrap piece of wood. He was an avid horticulturist as well. His love for planting trees, particularly black walnut and citrus (both notoriously difficult to grow), was a testament to his patience and determination.

Joseph had a heart as big as his talents. He was a friend to all, whether it was a child who thought they were talking to Santa Claus or a stranger he met in line at the store. He always had time to listen, offer advice, and share a joke. His warmth and generosity made him an adored figure in every corner of his life.

In the last two years, as a resident of the Westchester House in Chesterfield, Missouri, Joseph served as the President of the Resident Council. He was a strong advocate for his fellow residents, ensuring their voices were heard and their needs were met. He even rekindled his love for the piano during this time, and his music added joy to the Sunday services.

Joseph’s passing leaves a hole in the hearts of all who knew him, but his legacy of creativity, kindness, and unwavering love for his family will live on. He may have left us too soon, but he has given us countless memories to treasure.

A visitation will be held at Newcomer Funeral Home in St. Peters, MO from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm on Monday, January 27, 2025 followed by the funeral service at 12:30 pm, where family and friends can gather to celebrate a man who filled their lives with joy, humor, and love. Rest in peace, Joseph. Your "Yaha" will echo in our hearts forever.

Joseph will be laid to rest in Bellefontaine Cemetery.

Joseph's funeral service will be live streamed at the scheduled date and time. Please see the viewing link below.

To share a memory of Joe or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.