Joseph J. Dallao

Joseph Dallao passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at the age of 91, surrounded by his family. He leaves behind a life filled with stories, laughter, and love.

Joe was born in Fern Glen, Pennsylvania, to Elizabeth Gonda and Joseph John Paul Dallao. He spent his earliest years there before moving with his mother and stepfather, Paul Zanolin, to Ellenville, New York. It was in Ellenville that he continued to grow and thrive, carrying with him his love of sports and his natural ability to make friends.

From an early age, Joe showed a boundless love for athletics. Baseball and basketball were his greatest passions, but he was enthusiastic about all sports. Whether on the field, on the court, or cheering from the sidelines, Joe's energy was unmatched. His athletic years shaped his competitive spirit and instilled in him a lifelong belief in teamwork, friendship, and fun.

After graduating from Ellenville High School, Joe joined the United States Air Force. He served proudly from December 2, 1952, to December 1, 1956. His time in uniform instilled in him discipline, resilience, and loyalty -values that guided him throughout his life.

When his service ended, Joe discovered his calling in education. For more than twenty years, he taught mathematics at Lindenhurst High School in New York. He brought energy, humor, and heart into the classroom, making even the most challenging lessons engaging and memorable. He was more than a teacher; he was a mentor who cared deeply for his students. Many remembered him as a favorite because he inspired them and made learning come alive.

Joe also poured himself into the communities he called home. In Oak Beach, New York, he became the heart of the neighborhood, known for bringing people together and making summers unforgettable. Later, he moved to Clearwater, Florida, where he built new friendships, embraced a fresh chapter, and found joy in everyday life.

Family was always at the center of Joe's life. He shared a particularly close and special bond with his daughter, Kim Ann, a connection that brought him joy and strength throughout his years. He was also a devoted father to Joseph Jr. and took great pride in the families that grew through his children and their mother, Terri Dallao. Over the years, those connections deepened into lasting friendships that enriched Joe's life and extended his circle of love. He is survived by Kim and her husband, Tim; Joseph and his wife, Youngsook; his siblings, Vonnie, Paul, and David; his six grandchildren, Christy, Ashley, Christian, Alexander, Faith, and Grace; and his beloved wife, Linda.

Together, Joe and Linda created a marriage filled with love, laughter, and companionship. Linda was Joe's partner in every sense of the word. She shared in his happiest moments, stood by him through challenges, and filled his later years with warmth and joy. They built a home at On Top of the World in Clearwater, where Joe took immense pride in his condo and the life they created there.

Joe lived his life with enthusiasm and joy. He was a devoted sports fan who never missed an opportunity to cheer for his favorite teams: the New York Mets, the Tampa Bay Rays, the New York Jets, and the New York Islanders. His excitement was contagious, making every game more enjoyable for those around him. He also loved golf, became an avid bridge player, and was always eager to recommend a new movie or show.

Those who knew Joe will remember his warmth, humor, and magnetic presence. He was strong, kind, intelligent, and funny, with a gift for storytelling. His favorite saying, "Never let the truth interfere with a good story," summed up his approach to life: make it joyful, make it memorable, and share it with others. He also had a tradition of telling a joke before saying goodbye, a small but unforgettable gesture that ensured he always left others with laughter and light.

A father, husband, teacher, mentor, athlete, fisherman, beachgoer, and storyteller, Joe lived fully and loved deeply. His energy, laughter, and generosity will live on in his family, his friends, and the many lives he touched.

Funeral Service Information

Services will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 3:00 PM at Curlew Hills Memory Gardens Cemetery, Curlew Hills Road, Palm Harbor, Florida 34683.