Joseph C. Sanzio

Joseph C. Sanzio, a beacon of love and faith, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on September 17, 1937, in Brooklyn, NY, to Barney and Natalie Sanzio, nee Levatino, Joseph's life was marked by dedication to his family, especially his wife of 64 years, Anita, his faith, his country, his many dear friends, and his community.
Joe grew up in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn and was close with his aunts, uncles and cousins. With so many boys in the extended family named Joseph, he became known as Sonny at family gatherings, which were frequent.
Joe proudly served in the U.S. Navy, an experience that instilled in him a sense of discipline and camaraderie that he carried throughout his life. He served during peace time and liked to joke that all his fighting took place in bars! Joe always had the soul of an artist and was a talented illustrator and painter. After serving his country, he tried his hand at a range of careers until he found his true calling. He channeled his artistic spirit into being a hairstylist. He was an entrepreneur and focused his creativity and work ethic into establishing Sanzio Salon on 57th Street in Manhattan before he moved the salon to Matawan, which would be home for decades. "The shop" became a cornerstone of style and community, a place where many clients and co-workers became lifelong friends.
Joe raised his family and lived his life in Matawan and Marlboro, before moving to Belmar in the early 2000s. As a member of the Knights of Columbus in Marlboro and Belmar, Joe found a brotherhood that shared his values of charity and community service. He was an active member of the organization, always ready to lend a thoughtful hand or a comforting word to those in need.
Joseph's legacy is carried on by the love of his life, his wife, Anita Sanzio, nee Elkins; his son, Anthony Sanzio and daughter-in-law Amy; his daughter, Nicole Sanzio; his sister, Maryann Coleman; and his two grandchildren, Chelsea and Charles, who adored their Papa.
Joe lived in the moment and always had fun. He was a dashing figure with a big appetite for life. Joe enjoyed a glass of wine or a bourbon on the rocks. He loved to finish a celebratory meal with a shot of Sambuca with espresso beans! He loved to cook. His spaghetti alla puttanesca sauce, his pesto, and his famous banana muffins were legendary and will be sorely missed.
Those who knew Joe will remember him as a kind and caring man who greeted everyone with a warm smile and an open heart. He listened intently and never judged people. Joe had a way of making those around him feel special. Whenever anyone asked Joe how he was doing, his standard response was, "Fannn-Tastic!"
A life beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Joseph C. Sanzio will be deeply missed, yet eternally cherished in the memories and stories of his family and friends.
Friends and family are invited to attend a Visitation on Monday, March 31, 2025, from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm at Waitt Funeral Home, 501 Highway 79, Morganville, NJ 07751.
There will also be a Visitation on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, from 9:45 am - 10:45 am at The Church of Saint Rose, at 603 7th Avenue, Belmar, NJ 07719, with Mass to immediately follow at 10:45 am.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Joseph's memory to The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.