Joseph Izzo, 81
Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, Brother, Uncle, and Friend
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joseph Izzo, who left us peacefully on Saturday, May 17, at the age of eighty-one. Following a courageous battle with cancer, Joe spent his last days as he lived many of his best-sharing laughter and memories, surrounded by those he loved most.
Born on April 9th, 1944, in New Haven, Connecticut, Joe's innate sense of integrity and compassionate nature were guiding forces throughout his life. Whether facing a challenge or offering a helping hand, he met each moment with quiet strength, humility, and pride. As a skilled mechanical design engineer, he was known for his precision, perseverance, and tireless work ethic. Later in life, Joe fulfilled a lifelong dream by earning his captain's license and becoming a licensed commercial lobster fisherman, embracing his enduring love of the sea.
Joe also dedicated himself to helping others achieve the dream of homeownership through his work in real estate, offering guidance and support to individuals and families who might not have otherwise had the chance. His endeavors were always marked by a quiet generosity and a sincere desire to help others succeed.
More than anything else, Joe cherished his family. His 42-year marriage to beloved wife, Kathy, was a partnership grounded in mutual respect, unwavering trust, and continuous support. Together, they built a beautiful life rich in joy, purpose, and lasting love.
He was a devoted father, whose steady presence and unconditional love never faltered. As a grandfather and great-grandfather, Joe took immense pride, treasuring every moment spent with his grandchildren. The lifelong bond shared with his sister, Karen, was also among his greatest blessings.
Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Anna Izzo; his sister, Annette Carbone; and his nephew, Michael Bergeron.
He is survived by his wife, Kathryn Izzo; his daughters, Francine Wheeler and Marcella Tratnyek; his stepson, Dustin (Eve) Gyurina; his sister, Karen (Hank) Bergeron; his mother-in-law, Joan Mongillo; his sisters-in-law, Linda (Russ) Monahan and Christine Mongillo; his brother-in-law, John Mongillo; his grandsons, Daniel (Jessica) Wheeler, David (Mia) Wheeler, Joshua Wheeler, John Tratnyek, Derek Tratnyek, Jake Tratnyek, and Mason Gyurina; his granddaughters, Justice Jackson and Brooke Gyurina; his nephews, Jay (Jalyssa) Mongillo, Rusty Monahan, and Guy (Janine) Cristiano; his great-nephews, Jaxon Mongillo, Jrue Mongillo, and Graham Cristiano; his great-niece, Paloma Cristiano; and his great-granddaughters, Morgan and Camryn Wheeler.
Services will be held on Friday, May 30, at 11:00 a.m., at St. Bernadette Church 385 Townsend Ave. New Haven, CT. West Haven Funeral Home at the Green, 662 Savin Ave, West Haven, CT are assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joe's name to
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, www.stjude.org.
Joe's legacy is one of remarkable strength, immense generosity, and boundless love. Although he is no longer with us, his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him. His absence will be deeply felt, and his impact will resonate for generations to come.
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Published by WFSB on May 21, 2025.