Joseph Anthony Parello

Joseph Parello Obituary
Joseph Anthony Parello, "Joe," passed away on January 11, 2024, at the age of 72 in Long Branch, New Jersey, after a 7 week fight with pneumonia, followed by the flu. He was born on April 16, 1951, in Plainfield, New Jersey. Joe was a well-loved, strong, and resilient man who showed his love through food, feeding his family and friends delicious creations. He was also a handyman, having a skill for fixing or building anything, and if he couldn't, he "knew a guy" who could. He loved spending time with his wife, kids, and grandchild (nicknamed "babyboo" and "babyface" by him) who brought him so much joy and fulfillment. He was also well-loved by many in the local neighborhood who visited Fine Fare, his long-time place of employment. His love for family, friends, and community shines through in the way he made everyone feel welcome and appreciated.
Joe is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Wild Parello, his children Nicole Ashley Parello (married), Joseph Michael Parello, and Rachel Grace Parello, as well as his grandchild Kai Patrick Murray. He is also survived by his sister Christine Moronese of Glen Gardner, NJ, his nephew and niece Joseph Moronese and Kristen Moronese (married), and nephews John Parello and Christopher Parello. Joe was preceded in death by his parents Angelo and Violet Parello, and his brother Angelo Parello of Middlesex, NJ.
Joe attended Plainfield High School and furthered his education through culinary trainings. He had a successful career in the food industry, starting from cooking behind the food line to training in French cuisine and owning his own restaurants. He rescued failing restaurants and turned them into profitable establishments, along with opening his own restaurants, The Goose and The Gander in New Jersey, and Jakes in Florida. This deep love of food and cooking showed in the way he cooked meals for his family and friends, and how he had an eye for good food when he went on his many adventures with his wife and family. You knew if Joe was cooking, you were getting a top-notch meal filled with so much love and flavor, and always left with a full belly. His family was lucky to have enjoyed his amazing meals most days of the week.
In addition to his culinary pursuits, Joe had owned trotters (horses), and a fleet of classic cars. He also served in the Army National Reserve for 7 years and was proud of his military associations and the skills he acquired during his service.
Joe had a deep interest in sports, particularly football, baseball, and wrestling, and loved going antiquing. He also had a love for classic TV shows such as Adam 12, Gunsmoke, Bat Masterson, and Wagon Train, as well as 1950s music and Sports radio.
Joe's dedication to family, friends, and community, as well as his military service, love for cooking, adventure, antiquing, and various interests speaks volumes about the kind of person he was. Although he is gone too soon, he had a life well-lived and filled with joy.
Services for Joe will be held at Damiano's Funeral Home in Long Branch, New Jersey, on Thursday, January 18, from 4 to 7 p.m. A funeral mass will take place on Friday at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Trinity Church in Long Branch, open to family and anyone who wishes to attend.
Please join us in remembering and celebrating the life of Joseph Anthony Parello
The family is requesting donations to help establish a college fund at https://gofund.me/efe11dda