Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1931
DIED
2021
FUNERAL HOME
Joseph Tranchina Obituary
1931 - 2021
Resident of Santa Cruz
Born in 1931 in San Francisco to Salvator "Jim" and Katherine (Jelich) Tranchina, Joe grew up in San Jose, graduated from Lincoln High School, and served in the US Navy. A Pac Bell lineman for over 40 years, he made true friends whom he kept for life. Moving to Santa Cruz in 1985, he continued his cigar smoking, airedale spoiling, 49er Faithful ways.
Preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife Margaret Kay "Maggie" (Lynch) Tranchina.
Throughout his life, Joe traveled extensively, collecting coins, hats, masks, and phallics from around the world. He loved a great restaurant, a neighborhood dive, and he knew a real martini could only be made with gin.
Joe is missed and fondly remembered by his daughter Julia (Jean); stepdaughters katherine (Don) and Cynthia; brother Walter; grandchildren Ramona, Hector, Rhiannon, Lauren, and Cameron; nephew Jeff; and former spouse Norvelle.
Gravesite service for Joe and Maggie will take place at 2 p.m. on Wednesday 22 December at Oakwood Memorial Park (3301 Paul Sweet Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95065) with reception following at The Chaminade. In lieu of flowers, the family asks you honor Joe's love of dogs and donate to Santa Cruz Animal Shelter scanimalshelter.org/donate.
View the online memorial for Joseph Tranchina
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Tranchina
Sponsored by santacruzsentinel.com.
2 Entries
Jefferey James Tranchina
December 21, 2021
My sincere condolences for my Uncle Joe. He was my Godfather. I loved him dearly. He was always so good to me. I am down in the Yucatan, Mexico, and just heard today 12/21, and won't be able to make it to the funeral. To all family and friends, my sympathies for this very great man. He will always be with me.
Andrea Schacter
December 17, 2021
Dear Julia,
I'm thinking of you fondly as I read this morning's newspaper. I remember your very handsome father. One day he walked into the West Valley Branch Library and asked for you. He stated he was your dad. When I told him how much I liked you and how I enjoyed working with you, his chest puffed up and he got a big smile on his face. He told me how proud he was of you. That totally made my day. I wish you comfort and warmth.
Showing 1 - 2 of 2 results
Make a Donation
in Joseph Tranchina's name
Memorial Events
for Joseph Tranchina
Funeral services provided by:
Santa Cruz Memorial - Oakwood Chapel3301 Paul Sweet Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95065
How to support Joseph's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Joseph Tranchina's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
