Joseph Tacchini

1941 - 2018

"Big Joe" Tacchini passed away on Monday night. He was at home, surrounded by family, in his final moments.
Son of Ermalindo and Dena (Bellotti), he was a lifelong Klamath Falls resident and faithful Catholic. He graduated from Henley High School and attended Southern Oregon College before returning to care for his siblings. He married Jean Rabdau in 1971. They welcomed a treasured son and two beloved daughters.
Joe worked most of his life in Klamath mills, retiring in 2006. A lifelong sports fan, he believed that athletic competition builds strong communities. Fall Saturdays were reserved for college football (especially Notre Dame); spring was consumed by MLB and Yankee baseball. He coached Klamath youth for many years. His proudest moments were spent watching his children and grandsons competing in youth sports. Most recently, he watched his son coaching his grandson and the Falcons at Kiger Stadium.
Joe was famously generous. He allowed none to go hungry in his home, loved mushroom hunting, and cooked many inherited Italian recipes. He always distributed money so loved ones could "get themselves a hamburger" as they went on their way. A steadfast provider, he loved taking his family on impromptu adventures to Reno and the Coast.
Big Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Jean; children, Joe (and Aleasha), Jeanine (and Andy) and Judy (and Tom), whom he loved dearly; grandchildren, Joey, John, Abby, Kaylynn and Jacoby, of whom he was so proud; and dearly loved brothers, Jim, Mike, Bob, Ern and Ron, whom he loved to tease. His parents, two sisters and a brother preceded him in death.
Rosary (10:30 a.m.), funeral mass (11 a.m.), and graveside (noon) services will take place Monday, Aug. 6, 2018 in St. Pius X Catholic Church and a parish hall reception to follow (1 p.m.). Memorial contributions to Klamath Youth Baseball.