Joseph Anthony Cannavo

Joseph Anthony Cannavo November 28, 1957 - January 25, 2025 Joseph Anthony † Salvatore Cannavo, a noble man of great faith and profound love, peacefully passed on to what he stoically referred to as "the mondo-beyondo," surrounded by his loving family and friends on Saturday, January 25th, 2025. You may have known him as Joey, Daddio, Joe-dog, Giuseppe, J.C, Bro-ski, Guit, Joe Cannavo Dit-da-dit, Jumpin-Joe, or one of the many adoring nicknames that he was known and loved by. Being an entrepreneur from an early age, Joe was a successful businessman, local property owner, and dedicated community member. He was also a proud member of the Winsted Fire Police for 18 years, a 4th Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus, an award-winning racer with the CT Ski Council, and a tournament-winning member of the Torrington Gun Club. Joe had a special gift for connecting with people, often greeting new friends in their native language. He would humorously say he knew "just enough to get him in trouble," but his thoughtful gestures-saying a simple "hello" or "thank you" in another language-brought comfort and a sense of home to those around him. His ability to make people feel seen and understood, no matter where they were from, was a testament to his warm, inclusive spirit. As a world-traveler and man of many hobbies and talents, Joe was the guy who lived life to the fullest and wrote the manual on leaving behind a legacy. Skiing, fishing, hunting, golfing, sailing, riding his vintage Norton Commando motorcycle and playing his guitars around the world were just a few of the many things that brought Joe that one-of-a-kind smile. Whether it was a room full of strangers or loved-ones, he knew how to capture an audience with animated stories, complete with sound effects and props and the ultimate zinger joke that was sure to leave a lasting impression. A real life MacGyver, he was often referred to as "scrappy" in the best way-as he could fix just about anything with a can of WD-40 and a roll of duct tape. Joe effortlessly brought life to every gathering, uniting everyone with his humorous commentary, guitar, and crowd-pleasing sing-alongs like "Sweet Caroline" and "Country Roads." He was a constant force of strength, optimism and a positive mental attitude, never wanting to transfer his burdens onto others. Even through his health journey fighting Leukemia, his warrior spirit never seemed to waiver. Many mentioned their admiration for his perseverance and determination. He lived by his motto, "Don't count the days, make the days count." Joe was a man of deep love and reverence for his family, especially his four sisters and three daughters. He cherished the bond he shared with them, even if, at times, he felt like he was 'swimming in a sea of estrogen'. As a devoted brother, cousin and loyal friend, he was a constant source of support, protection and love, never leaving anyone, even a stranger, to face challenges alone. His dedication and commitment led him to be the go-to person that would drop everything to show up whenever and wherever he was needed. One of Joe's greatest joys was fatherhood. His pride and love in his daughters, Cecelia, Sophia and Tessa, and his daughter-in-law, Jess, knew no bounds. He dedicated his life to them, ensuring they felt empowered, cared-for, loved, protected and safe. He never missed an opportunity to be enthusiastically present for performances, athletics and every major life event. This love and support often extended to his daughter's friends, whom he fondly referred to as his "adopted daughters." His cup was filled by supporting them and their dreams. Joe is predeceased by his parents, Joseph Anthony Cannavo and Emily Nanni Cannavo. He is survived by his daughters: Cecelia R. Cannavo, Sophia Cannavo-Ostroski and her wife Jessica Ostroski, and Tessa E. Cannavo; his former-wife: Theresa P. Cannavo; his sisters: Joanne Marzullo (Frank), Terrie Walker (Peter), Marie Langill and Lisa Venn, and many cherished and beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, grand-neices and nephews, great-uncle and countless friends. In his final hours, Joe reflected with profound wisdom and reverence, "I was searching for a miracle until I realized - my life has been the miracle." - Joseph Anthony Cannavo. The miracle encompasses all the laughter, the memories, the moments and the joy that Joe shared with each and every one of us. His legacy will live on in our hearts forever. Friends may call on Thursday, January 30, 2025 at Montano-Shea Funeral Home, 922 Main Street, Winsted from 4 – 7 PM. A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Friday, January 31, 2025 at St. Joseph Church, Winsted at 11 AM. Visit an online guestbook at montano-shea.com. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Joseph, please visit our Tree Store.