Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
JOSEPH DONATI Obituary
Joe graduated from Lodi High School in 1975, where he lettered in varsity tennis. He graduated from Delta Community College and attended Santa Barbara City College. In 1984, he married Starr Henderson and together they shared 39 years of marriage and raised two sons, Todd and Chaz.
From an early age, Joe was happy with a hammer, nails and wood that developed into a love for carpentry, his lifelong career. He was a hard-working, accomplished builder, specializing in both commercial and residential real estate. He also found joy designing, creating and working in his yard. His most cherished memories were made at the hockey rink, where he proudly supported his sons on the ice and faithfully served as a penalty box attendant. He never missed a game or event. Joe also enjoyed skiing, backyard barbecues, driving the ski boat, playing tennis and golf, and, above all, spending quality time with his grandchildren. Joe was a devoted father, husband, son, grandfather, and brother.
Joe is preceded in death by his father Joseph C. Donati. He is survived by his mother, Ann Donati, his two sons, Todd (Jennifer) and Chaz Donati and the mother of his children, Starr Donati He also leaves behind his beloved grandsons, Joseph H. and Jackson Donati, his brothers, Jeff (Jerri) and John (Lisa), as well as his nephew, Joseph D. (Tacie) Donati and niece Jordan (Rob) Maitland.
His family will celebrate his life in a private service.
May he rest in peace.
February 3, 1957 – September 10, 2025
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for JOSEPH DONATI
4 Entries
Paul McGarry
October 14, 2025
I would like to send my heartfelt condolences to the Donati family regarding Joe´s passing. I had the distinct pleasure of getting to know Joe, Starr, and Chaz when I served as the mentor to SBCC´s field hockey team and took trips with Joe, Chaz, and the team to San Jose, CA, Madison, WI, Salt Lake City, UT, and Corona, CA. He was a very good guy and loving parent. Sending my love and deepest sympathies to Chaz, Starr, Todd and family. Sincerely, Paul McGarry
Karen Hutz
October 4, 2025
I am so sorry. Joe and I went to school together and grew up in Lodi. My mother was also a frequent customer at Starr´s clothing store in Lincoln Center. I will miss Joe, but I know he is forever in heaven with his dad, and my parents. Love, Karen Hutz
Bob Synowicki
October 4, 2025
Dear Donati Family, my deepest condolences for your loss. I am heartbroken. Joe and I go back 50 years. I met him my sophomore year in English class. Through thick and thin, Joe was always a good friend, dependable and hard working. I have so many fond memories growing up in the Donati household. Wonderful meals and a loving family. He will be missed. See you on the other side, Brother.
Connie Warren
October 2, 2025
Starr, sending love, hugs and prayers to you and your the family. I worked with Joe at State Savings/American Savings. Such a handsome, kind man and boy did he have a smile that would light up a room. He and Starr were such a beautiful couple. Heaven gained a handsome angel. He will be missed. Rest in Peace Joe!
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results
Make a Donation
in JOSEPH DONATI's name
Memorial Events
for JOSEPH DONATI
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 DONATI'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
