Joseph Michael SABATINO

SABATINO, Joseph Michael 1930 - 2019 Passed away peacefully with strength and courage at Hospice Peterborough on July 19, 2019 in his 89th year. Joseph was born in Lakefield, Ontario on June 7, 1930, the son of John Sabatino and Margaret Bissonnette. Beloved and cherished husband of Marianne Sabatino (nee Leonard) of 60 years d. March 31, 2019. Loving and proud father of John Sabatino (Fay), Michael Sabatino (Sandra) and Carla Sabatino (Vincent Zaffino). Dear Grandpa to Christina, Cara, Tyler and Jessica. Joe will be dearly missed by his brother Eugene and his wife Ruth of Toronto and their children Timothy and Jason and families. He will be fondly remembered by sisters-in-law Betty Lou Fair (late Robert) and Linda Pearson (late Robert), brother-in-law, Kevin Heffernan (late Barbara), and many nieces and nephews. Retired Principal of Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board. As a long-range thinker, concerned with what students learned for the 1980s, 90s and the 21st century, Joe Sabatino was attune to the ""information explosion"". He knew that students must be taught how and where to find relevant information. At the end of his 35 year career in education Joe was quoted as saying, ""We are in the midst of a major change in education"". Upon retiring from education Joe continued to operate several businesses. Born of an innovative father whose spirit fueled Joe, it is not surprising that most of Joe's life was focused in entrepreneurship. His success was a result of his vision, daring, hard work and good business sense. Joe's balanced values toward business, faith and community propelled him to positively impact life as he knew it. Joe had a kind, generous, optimistic and philanthropic nature. He was a happy person who loved life and would do it all again. His strength, determination, strong work ethic, guidance, words of wisdom and storytelling are fondly remembered and cherished. He will be forever missed. Joe adored his family and treasured his relatives and friends, always seeing the good in everyone. He loved and enjoyed music, especially jazz, blues and swing. A special verse from Louie Armstrong's ""What A Wonderful World"" is his heartfelt wish for all: I see friends shaking hands Saying, ""How do you do?"" They're really saying ""I love you"". Joseph's family would like to thank the many doctors (Dr. Beamish, Dr. Heidman, Dr. Matheson, Dr. Morelli and Dr. Whiting) and dedicated medical staff, nurses and paramedics at the Peterborough Regional Health Centre, Emergency Unit and Hospice Peterborough for their tremendous care and compassion during his time with them. Visitation at DUFFUS FUNERAL HOME, 431 George Street South from 5-8 p.m. on Tuesday, July 23, 2019. Funeral Mass at ST. ANNE'S CHURCH on Wednesday, July 24 at 11:00 a.m. Reception to follow at ST. ANNE'S PARISH HALL. In memory of Joseph, donations to Hospice Peterborough, Peterborough Regional Health Centre Foundation or Community Living Trent Highlands for CDA would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be expressed at duffusfuneralhome.com