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January 7, 2026
JOSEPH A. RECCHIO, affectionately known as “Joe”, “Joey”, or “Mr. Joe” by the people who cared about him, passed away peacefully at home after a prolonged hospital stay on December 3, 2025, at the age of 84.
Born on April 3, 1941, in Canton, Ohio, Joe's life journey took him all over the country. He started out in Ohio and moved on to Arizona, Georgia, Nevada, then back to Arizona — most likely chasing beautiful weather for a good golf game!
Dedicated to family, work, and the passions that brought him joy, Joe was, first and foremost, a devoted husband to Nancy his beloved wife of 43 years. Together, they created a home filled with love and warmth.
Joe was also a proud “girl dad” to three daughters from his first marriage — Shelly Recchio (partner James Bigler), Angela Carswell (husband Dennis and grandkids Chris, Kim, and Jeremy), and Jennifer Walsten (husband Mike and grandkids Allie, Brad, and Cassie). Each brought immense joy (and some well-intentioned nagging) to his life.
Possessing a strong work ethic — with a deep commitment to his employees and the companies he worked for — Joe was a respected leader. His operations excellence had him in high-demand and he reached VP level with stints at Anixter, Stanley Tools, Ingersoll Rand, Revlon, Ekco, and Timken (where he started his career following in the footsteps of his father). He happily retired in 2008.
Joe’s hobbies reflected both his competitive spirit and love for leisure; he had an unmatched passion and talent for golf (which included a hole-in-one!), enjoyed playing tennis, and in his early years was a gifted bowler. He was a die-hard fan of Ohio State football, cheering for his team while watching from the comfort of his home. He also traveled extensively throughout the U.S. — visiting nearly all 50 states — and to Europe.
In addition to his accomplishments, Joe had a soft spot for animals. During his children’s younger years, their “family” dog Ginger became his constant companion. And after years of insisting he did not like cats, he ended up the ultimate “girl cat dad” to the many rescue kitties he and Nancy brought home.
Joe is preceded in death by parents he adored, Santy and Mary, and his “larger than life” older brothers, James and Donald Recchio.
As we honor Joe's life, let us remember the laughter, love, and commitment he brought to those fortunate enough to know him. He will be lovingly remembered for his quiet nature, quick wit, and kind heart. His spirit and dedication to family will endure.
A private service at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church will be held for immediate family on January 17, 2026, with interment following at Holy Hope Cemetery. A celebration of life will take place at Tohono Chul botanical gardens on January 19, 2026.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Humane Society of Southern Arizona or the American Diabetes Association.