Joseph J. Crosetti

1942 - 2015

Joseph J. Crosetti
Feb. 3, 1942~Jan. 15, 2015
Resident of Watsonville
Joseph J. Crosetti Jr. died January 15, 2015, at his home in Watsonville, surrounded by his daughters. A Watsonville native, he was born February 3, 1942, to Joe and Theresa (Muzzio) Crosetti. He graduated from Watsonville High School in 1959, and then attended the University of San Francisco. J. (J.J. or Joe as he was also known) was a member of the National Guard for 6 years. During that time their unit was sent to assist in the Watts riots in Los Angeles.
Following his schooling, he returned to Watsonville to work in the family farming business. They branched out into the frozen food processing business and established Crosetti Frozen Foods which later merged and became NorCal/Crosetti. He was named Farmer of the Year in 1979.
As sons of the founders of the Spring Lamb Barbeque, J. and Bill Moncovich continued to put on the event yearly at the Crosetti Ranch with a core crew who volunteered year after year, raising over a $1,000,000 for the benefit of the American Cancer Society in its 55 year history. In later years Jacob's Heart also benefited from this event. The Spring Lamb Barbeque is the longest running event for the benefit of the American Cancer Society in the nation.
J., along with Dan Rowan and Fred Martinez coached the Colt League Pirates and Pony League Mets (fondly dubbed "The Running Dummies") for 20 years. They won 9 championships and 7 first place finishes with the all-star teams. He was instrumental in starting a 13-year old all star team within Pony League system that is now played throughout the United States.
Having three daughters, it was a natural progression to coaching girls softball, which he did for eight years with Gilbert Valenzuela, Jill Rivera, and Joanne Lynch. The Pajaro Valley Tremblers traveling team, which included his youngest, Josie, played in tournaments all over California and also traveled to Colorado, Wyoming, Nevada, and Hawaii. They did well wherever they went and won the tournaments in Hawaii and Colorado.
In 1973 J. started The Tavern Tournament, which was a 3 day golf tournament with Watsonville, Santa Cruz, and Monterey taverns that benefited the American Cancer Society. This event continued for 17 years.
Following his retirement, he moved to Bermuda Dunes returning to his Watsonville Ranch frequently to visit family and friends. He belonged to the Bermuda Dunes Country Club, where he played golf and made many new and lasting friends.
He leaves his three daughters, Gina (Matt) Chekouras of Watsonville, Lea (Max) Andes of Santa Cruz, and Josie (Mat) Warren of Aptos; three grandchildren, Ava and Kate Chekouras and Cash Warren; sister, Jeanette Crosetti of Watsonville; nieces and nephews, including Rob Johnston, who worked in the family farming business; numerous cousins and many, many friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, and his sister, JoAnn Gerber.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Dr. Amy McMullen and her wonderful staff; Dr. Richard Byrd; friend and nurse, Suzan Rowan; caregiver Jill Ucci; the wonderful Hospice team; and the Florence Kuo Homecare staff, Rosie, Nubia, Estella, and Lita. Donations are preferred to Hospice of Santa Cruz County, American Cancer Society, or the charity of your choice.
Visitation will be Friday, January 23, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Mehl's Colonial Chapel. A Rosary and Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, January 24 at 12:30 p.m. at Valley Catholic Church.