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JOSEPH SARNESE Obituary
SARNESE, JOSEPH A. 53 - of Ventnor, passed away suddenly on Sunday, November 7, at home. He was born on September 6, 1957 in South Philadelphia to the late Anthony and Virginia Sarnese. He graduated Bishop Neumann High School in 1975 and Glassboro State College (Rowan University) in 1979 with a degree in Physical Education, where he was a football linebacker and an active member of Tau Kappa Epsilon. He worked at the Golden Nugget (AC Hilton) for 29 years as a dealer all the way up to Vice President, and then Bally's Park Place for a short, yet memorable 4 months as VP National Marketing. He is survived by his wife Jan, daughters Nicole Phillips (Frank) and Jaclyn Sarnese, son Joseph Sarnese, and brother Anthony Sarnese. He was expecting the arrival of his first granddaughter. He enjoyed playing racquetball at the JCC, riding his bike on the boardwalk, taking out his boat and jet skis with his family, and taking frequent ski trips to his house in the Poconos. He never missed one of his son's Holy Spirit football games...or the Chinese food afterwards. Joe was full of life. As quoted from a friend, "Joe's smile could light up a room, and now he will light up the skies in heaven." He lived every day to its fullest, living by his own quote, "If you're going to be a bear, be a grizzly." He will be truly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. Viewing will be held at George H. Wimberg Funeral Home, 1707 New Rd, Linwood, NJ, Wednesday from 2 to5 p.m. and 6 to 9 PM. Further viewing will be held at St. James Church, 6415 Atlantic Ave. Ventnor, NJ, Thursday from 9 to 10:30 AM, followed by funeral mass at 11 AM. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, Mays Landing. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Holy Spirit Athletic Department, in which his three children participated.
This obituary was originally published in The Press of Atlantic City.
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Memories and Condolences
for JOSEPH SARNESE
Sponsored by BRUNO.
Kitty
November 15, 2024
It's 14 years hard to believe!
Thinking and missing you always ... love you Joe
KATHLEEN P. LARKIN
November 3, 2024
I HAD THE PLEASURE OF MEETING JOE FROM MY HUSBAND. EVERY TIME WE WENT TO ATLANTIC CITY. JOE WENT OUT OF HIS WAY TO TAKE CARE OF US. HE WAS JUST SO SWEET. I MISS YOU AND SO DOES BRUNO.
Darnell Greene
November 3, 2024
Rest in Peace (RIP)
Ronald Salkow
December 24, 2023
Truly missed. A great friend. Thanks
Darnell Greene
November 16, 2023
RIP My friend Darnell
Kitty
November 8, 2023
I'm thinking of you today, Joe, and missing you as if it was yesterday!
Alyce Patrone Penna
November 4, 2023
13 years without your gregarious smile... Your name stills comes up in conversations, Joe... You will always be in the hearts of so many... Soar always with the Angels...
Peyton Harris
November 3, 2023
Joe,
The Family and I were discussing the good old days at The A.C. Hilton and how much we miss your jovial voice and wonderful spirit. God bless you my friend.
Peyton
Bobby Mauriello
November 9, 2022
Sarno, from our times on The Glassboro State College football field and PE classes to our moving to Brigantine then our move to 25 South Florida Ave in AC. Our start at Bally's as dealers and then our careers moved on. You were one of a kind. I am amazed at the people you touched who still post here. You were one of a kind. The stories I have about us for the most part will be shared. RIP Sarno. You will remain the most unique people I have ever met, lived with and shared time with. God bless.
Brigitte Zabbatino
November 9, 2022
I cannot believe 12 years have passed. We were with you the night before you passed. I still remember how you were smiling. We think of you all the time Especially when we are in AC. You will always be remembered and missed. You were a hard worker and a great guy with an amazing smile and a big heart. Rest In Peace. Deepest condolences to your family.
Alyce Patrone Penna
November 8, 2022
Happy Heavenly 12th Anniversary, Joe...... Still in the hearts of so many.... Still in the conversations of people who love you still..... AC stills lacks your energy and beautiful smile......
Cousin Robert
November 7, 2022
Cousin Joe
It has been 12 years since you left.
Always in my thoughts.
Kitty Leidy
September 22, 2022
Happy Birthday Joe!!!
Think of you often and miss you so much !
Darnell Greene
September 5, 2022
Sarno my friend... RIP - A great friend & confidant. What a personality... We will never forget you. In my thoughts & prayers. Darnell
Robert Pitts
November 8, 2021
In my thoughts.
Cousin Robert
Our 35th Reunion
Robert Mastropaolo
November 22, 2020
It's so hard to believe that 10 years have passed already. Your big heart, infectious smile and gentle warmth are still missed by so many of your friends and family. Thinking of you and knowing you are watching over us. God rest your soul, Joe.
Alyce Patrone Penna
November 9, 2020
10 years already......The world could sure your smile, Joe! Always in the hearts of so many still........
Robert Pitts
November 7, 2020
10 years today and thinking of you often.
Cousin Robert
Peyton Harris
November 6, 2020
Joe,
Its been 10 years since you left us, but in our hearts you are still here. You were a great friend and always made us smile. We miss you!
Peyton Harris
Stephen A. Bressi
November 6, 2020
Joe, tomorrow will be ten years yet it still seems like forever. I will always love and miss our fun times together. You are the best.
Robert Pitts
November 7, 2019
It's been 9 years cuz.
Alyce Patrone Penna
November 4, 2019
Nine years rapidly approaching since you left us.... Just the other day, we were talking about your contagious smile and laugh...... I know my hubby, Lou Penna, and you are probably booking Football games..lol. Rest In Peace, Joe, and know you are so missed still by so many!!
Bernie Kerner
November 3, 2019
Despite leaving much too soon, Joe has enriched many of us with wonderful memories that are everlasting.
As a great friend with an extraordinary personality, he will always be top dog, and unforgettable.
Roxanne Fagan
November 8, 2018
Your name comes up often...RIP
Alyce Patrone Penna
November 8, 2018
Eight years since the World lost one good human being! You are still in the hearts of so many! Sing with the Angels, Joe!
Robert Pitts
November 7, 2018
Its been 8 years. Miss you Joe.
Cousin Robert
Bobbi Lastella
January 26, 2018
still miss you Joe..its not the same...you were such a good friend..Bobbi
January 22, 2018
Every time I visit AC I think of you. You always made me and my wife feel special.
AC is not the same with out you.
November 8, 2017
Missing you & years later.
Cousin Robert
August 2, 2017
Missing you cuz.
November 9, 2016
Miss you Joe, gone but not forgotten
Alyce Patrone -Penna
November 8, 2016
Joe, you are still in the hearts and minds of so many..... Gone, but never forgotten...Say Hello to the Salter Street Gang!!
Robert Pitts
November 7, 2016
Thinking of you today cousin.
Bobbi Lastella
January 20, 2016
Its been so long since you left us and everytime I go to AC with Jessica I wish you were there, your smile...you were a true friend...I miss you still so much everyday...
Robert Pitts
November 7, 2015
Joe Sarno-It seems longer than 5 years.
Alyce Patrone Penna
November 8, 2014
Joe...Thought of you yesterday, and uttered a prayer ....My hubby, Lou, is with you now, as well as my cousin Antoinette from 702 Salter Street....what a party you guys are having.. Lou and you are betting on the football games...lol If any one was a good and decent human being, it was you....Rest in peace and know you are loved still by so many...
November 8, 2014
Miss you Joe,
Al Caz
November 7, 2014
Joe--It's been four years since you left us. Mom's up there with you now. Take care of her. Miss you dude.
Cousin Robert
Charlie Pitts
November 7, 2014
Joe, you're still in my thoughts.
April 27, 2014
RIP my friend miss you my brother
Lou & Alyce Penna
April 27, 2014
Joe......There is never a week or month that goes by, when your name is not mentioned by someone whose life was touched in some way by you! Please know you are still in our hearts.....
Devon Beckefeld
April 27, 2014
Well it is almost Derby time, I think of you every Derby, you were a really beautiful person and very missed
Mike Daddy Tymash
April 26, 2014
Joe some time has passed I still see your vibrant smile as if it was yesterday. We shared many times together, your word was your bond and you lived your life with that same passion. U remain in my heart and soul forever.
February 28, 2014
JOE SARNESE, A WOUNDERFUL FRIEND. MISSED BY DIANA AND I. WE PRAY FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. R. I. P. AND WATCH OVER YOUR LOVED ONES.==LOU ( THE SHOE) PORECCA.
February 13, 2014
Linda and I spoke about you once again last night. You will out live us all with memories. You were the best of the best, miss you everyday Joe Hill
Norman Myers
February 13, 2014
Joe we were like brothers was talking about our birthday dinner at the cellar last weak I miss u bro until we meet again
KEVIN CROSSON
February 13, 2014
A CLASS ABOVE ALL .......SURELY MISSED
February 12, 2014
Cousin Joe---I really miss you.
Cousin Robert
Pamela Abbruscato
February 12, 2014
Thinking of you doll!! I know if u were around you would of saved our place and kept us open!! I truly believe that!!! Miss u!!:(
Alyce Patrone Penna
February 12, 2014
Lou and I still talk about you all the time! It is as if you never left all of us, Joe! Please know you are so missed and still loved by many! Rest with the Angels! Say hello to the Salter Street gang too!
Old Friend
February 11, 2014
you are still in my thoughts, I cant help but think of you every time I visit AC
November 20, 2012
A year has gone by and it's still so hard to believe you are not here with us still...sadly missed, never forgotten...Minj
Lou "The Shoe" Porecca
November 12, 2012
Joey, Thinking of you, can't believe 2 years have gone by. I was at the Atlantic Friday night and the first thing I thought when I walked in was "I wonder if Joe is working tonight" I miss you Buddy.
November 9, 2012
A smile that could lite up the world.Always remembered R.I.P Joe Sarno
November 8, 2012
Sarno missed but not forgotten your friend forever!
jerry pers
November 8, 2012
Not a day goes by that I don't think of you.
Al Casalnova
ERNIE
November 7, 2012
ALWAYS IN MY HEART,ALWAYS IN MY PRAYERS,NEVER FORGET THE MEMORIES FAMILY DAY AT WILDWOOD "GET HER" SARNO IN THE POOL WITH THE KIDS LIKE IT WAS YESTERDAY
Robert Pitts
November 7, 2012
Cousin-Thinking about you today.
Kathleen Mauser
November 7, 2012
Joe, I still think of you so often. I see a picture or hear your name, and I become so sad. You will always be in my heart, and my memory. Love You
November 6, 2012
Joe is in my top 5 of GREATEST GUYS i have ever know. I met you 14 years ago and then lost you 2 years ago. I remember like yesterday getting that phone call as i was walking into the Eagles game. Joe please look over us as we have a long battle ahead. We were looking out for you when you needed it so please return the favor
Robert Pitts
September 7, 2012
Joe: It's been almost 2 years since you left and you will always be remembered. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Cousin Robert
lenny destefano
August 7, 2012
he was the nicest guy i knew in atlantic city, i will miss him
Pamela Abbruscato
August 7, 2012
We all miss u Joe!!!
Lou (the Shoe) Porecca
August 6, 2012
Joey:
I think of you almost everyday. I can't go to AC without thinking, I have to go see Joey, and then it hits me, you are not there. But you are in my thoughts, prayers and in my heart.
Lou the Shoe (Porecca)
Louis & Alyce Penna
August 6, 2012
Just yesterday at a party, a few of us were sitting and reminiscing about the days in South Philly and of course your name came up..Lo and behold, we chatted about what a good and decent human being you were and how many lives you touched... We just wanted Jan and your family to know that there is not a day that goes by, that your name is not whispered by some one who loved you...You were a wonderful friend to many, and you are still missed by all.....
Richard Steele
August 4, 2012
Joe I just found out that you passed away. I'm in shock. I'm devastated. We were like brothers. When you left Hilton we lost touch. We both were so busy at that point and time.I'm sitting here reflecting on some things we did. Every Thursday I would get a call from you asking me what time should I have limo pick you up. When limo pulled up to door, you would open it and say " any luggage sir". Then we gave eachother a kiss on each side of our faces and hugged. I remember all our late nite dinners at patsy's. Lunches in my penthouse suite eating whitehouse subs. One day at lunch the sun was glaring off our glass top table. We sat in silence watching the sun and ocean. That was the last time I seen you. I'm positive that was our goodbye. Amazingly we never talked about gambling when we were alone. We spoke about our families. You always made fun of my choice of cocktails. A stiff 7&7. You said it was an old timers drink. Well my dear friend I will always think of you when I have a 7&7. When my weekend ended you put me in my limo and said "I love you buddy". Joe in closing I want to say to you-" I love you buddy"
September 26, 2011
The day AC died, it will never be the same for Linda and myself. It is hard going to AC knowing you are not physically their, but we know you are walking the halls watching our backs. You left a mark in our hearts, I still hear you calling me JOEYYYYYY & Linda hey Ma. We still have your last text to us that we will NEVER erase. You will always live on to the people who new you. Love You always Joe & Linda Hill
August 14, 2011
Joe,
My Dad passed away Friday, you were always so good to him. I know you will
greet him in Heaven.
Diana Leotta
Kathleen Mauser
July 31, 2011
Joe,I cry everytime I think of you being gone. You always had a smile and always treated people with respect. You were taken from us too soon. You will be eternally in my mind and my heart.
Marianne Glynn-Gould
July 30, 2011
I just read RowanToday and was saddened to see that Joe passed away. Sarno was a gentleman in Glassboro and after reading his guest book he not only continued to be a gentleman, he became so unforgettable to so many people. I am sorry for your loss of such a wonderful man.
March 8, 2011
i have gone from ac in many a year but joe was a class act. i will remeber him in our prayers. neil pasquale movie director beverly hills ca.
G.yvonne perelman
March 8, 2011
Joe you were the best; always with a smile and compliment. I considered you a very special friend the day we met. You will never be forgotten; rest in peace my good friend.
Michael & Harriet Seidman
March 7, 2011
My wife and I just recently found out about Joe's passing. He was kind and gentle and always treated us with warmth and respect. He will be sorely missed. May he rest peacefully!
Laura Cagnetta
February 15, 2011
You will always be in my heart. I will never forget you. Laura
Harry Mancuso
February 6, 2011
Joe I have been to your place of rest a few times as you know. Your son and your team did well just like we talked about.It nice they all look up at night to see that shineing star the light you send from heavens family and friends it still not the same hearing you on the phone or see you around but I know your there.P.S.I think your a grand pop buy now I wish your family the best my prays go out to them All.
lenny destefano
February 4, 2011
i was shocked and saddened to hear of joe's passing. i knew joe for 20 years and i will miss him dearly. my thoughts and prayers are with his family
Jason Kirchner
February 4, 2011
I am so sorry to hear of Joe's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. A truly sincere and genuine man who will be greatly missed. God Bless Joe. Rest In Peace.
Charlie Cicalo
January 13, 2011
I am saddened to hear of his passing. As nice a man as there was . My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. May he rest in peace.
Kathleen Mauser
January 10, 2011
I am in shock. I only just found out about Joe's Passing. He was the most wonderful and nicest person I ever knew. He always had nice things to say, and made you laugh when you were down. God Bless, Rest In Peace Joe, you will be missed.
December 18, 2010
We are so saddened to hear of this great loss. Joe was a wonderful man and great family friend. He will be so missed. Love, Stephanie and Freddie McFadden (Ron & Diane Nahass's daugher and son-in-law).
justin marciano
December 15, 2010
joe--it was great to know you
Vinny Barbati
December 14, 2010
To the Sarnese family my sincerist condolances.I know Joe since we were kids.His mother Jean took us to the house of industry after school.He lived down the street from me.I could not believe it when I heard about his sudden passing.
We went our seperate ways and did not see each other for over 25 years.
We ran into each other two years ago in Ventnor and it was like we never skip up beat.We caught up and started talking about all the softball,football,basketball,halfball any knid of ball games in the old 7UP lot.hide the belt,deadbox,buck buck,jail brake.
We sure had a lot of fun with no money.
You were a great guy and a inspiration to anyone who started out in south philly amd shot right to the top.
Vinny Barbati 8 & montrose
Runnemede,NJ
Harry Mancuso
December 4, 2010
to the Sarnese family, I share this picture with you because Joe did not get to see it. My grandmother had just turned 90 years old and he treated her with much respect. i hope this bring s some light and happiness to all of you during the holidays. There is a star up there and it shines brighter than most, for I believe.
one more star in Heaven
Harry Mancuso
December 4, 2010
Jim Nerney
November 24, 2010
Jan and family, Please accept my sincerest condolences for your loss! I just heard the news and I am so sorry I could not have paid my respects! Sarno has left a wonderful legacy! A wonderful family, a zillion friends,colleagues and casino guest who all adored him! His significance is obvious! To know Joe is to love him because with his personality and wonderful smile it was coming right back at you! There was never a doubt where Joe's heart was! It was always in the right place! I went to college with Joe at the "boro" and I think Joe would want somebody to at least mention the TRIAD! We shared many good times together! He will be sorely missed, but never forgotten because everybody has a Sarno memory that makes you smile. Jackie just know that you have many friends who will do anything for you at any time because I guarantee you there a lot of people who Joe helped out a long the way! I know it is an overused statement, but Joe was the king of "Do the right thing.' We will all miss you cuz! Jim & Peggy Nerney
Robin Cassidy
November 23, 2010
Our deepest sympathies are with the Sarnese family. Joe's smile lives on in our memories -Robin Cassidy and Kim Boettcher
November 22, 2010
Joe-was a good guy-treated my wife and me like loyalty-will never forget his thoughtfulness -Mike Benedetti
Ina & Tony Molinari
November 21, 2010
Our deepest sympathies go out to The Sarnese, Carberry and Phillips
Families. Losing someone special is heartbreaking and difficult.
Nicole and Frank, your baby girl will feel a cool warm breeze and know it's Grampa blowing a kiss to say Welcome.
With All our Love and Prayers,
Ina and Tony Molinari
Joey Marini
November 18, 2010
Words will never equal the loss of our friend. God bless the Sarnese family...
Joan Cooper
November 17, 2010
My deepest heartfelt condolences to the Sarnese family. JOE will be sorely missed; never forgotten.
Will Forest
November 16, 2010
I've got a Sarno story that hasn't been told...I was living at the Underwood Hotel (under the boardwalk)ripe as all get go when I hear a voice from above yo saying do you need anything? I said how about a bottle of MD 20 20...Sarno says how about a shower and shave...why not I thought...he gave me a room at Bally's Grand for a night I cleaned myself up and now I'm happy to report that I'm a productive member of society. So the sadness that I feel at your passing...is only temporary because good men live forever and you were among the best...my first son Joseph was named in your honor. If there is a heaven I hope to see you again...May all those who reconsile your passing take note that passing is a fact of life and you passed admirably.
Kitty Leidy
November 15, 2010
Joe you will be missed !!! My deepest heartfelt sympathy to Jan and the children.God Bless You Always, your in my thought's & prayer's
Anthony & Patty Simon Berenato
November 15, 2010
Joe was a great person and always put himself before others. A few years ago, we ran into Joe at an all-star game that his son and our youngest played, on opposing teams. We wound up not even watching the game because we were reminiscing about our "Boro" days, trips to South Philly, and the early years of the casino industry, when we would all hang out in A.C. We are glad our families met after the game. He touched so many lives and will be sadly missed. May all our fond memories keep him in our hearts. Our sympathies to his family-
linda hill
November 15, 2010
just thinking about you
Roseann Lynn
November 15, 2010
Dear Sarnese Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Joe was a very special person who helped everyone out to his fullest. He treated all his guest at the Hilton with the greatest respect and we repected the person he is. JOE IS A WONDERFUL MAN AND ALWAYS WILL BE IN OUR HEARTS. We will miss him Dearly. Joe will never be forgotten and will always be truly missed by our family.
Joe and Lori McAuley
November 14, 2010
From our days at Glassboro State, Tau Kappa Epsilon, as Best Man in our wedding, and all of the years since then, Joe brought such laughter and joy.. Our prayers go out to Jan, Nicole, Jaclyn and Joey.
November 14, 2010
Were soo sorry to hear about Joe.
I knew Joe from high school and he was a very good friend and a wonderful person.My prayers are with you
The Romano Family
MICHAEL FIORINI
November 14, 2010
To the Sarnese family. I am very sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.Joe was a very special person, he would do anything for you.He will be missed by many.I knew most of my life from SO. PHILLYand he was in my wedding.My condolences
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