Guiseppe “Joe” Montagna

GUISEPPE “JOE” MONTAGNA age 95, beloved husband for 71 years of the late Beate L. (nee Kluber); loving father of Linda DiPietro (Ralph Lederer), Gaetano “Tom” and Mario (Erana); devoted grandfather of Anthony DiPietro III, Michelle Sumpter (Jackson) Michael Montagna, Lana Pastor (Evan) Kim and Mario Jr., and great-grandfather of Alexa and Cayla Sumpter, Bryson and Owen Pastor and Nathan, Landen and Austin; cherished son of the late Gaetano and Rosina (nee Belfiore); dearest brother of the late Biagio (Connie, deceased), Maria Korzan (Denis, deceased) and Anthony Montagna (Donna); dear uncle and great-uncle of many.

On June 20, 2022, Guiseppe “Joe or Papa Joe” Montagna passed away at the age of 95, peacefully at home, surrounded by his family. Joe was an ambitious, dedicated, and hardworking family man. He was born on January 28, 1927 in Marion, Ohio but grew-up in Sant ‘Agata di Militello, Sicily when he moved at the young age of two. It was in Sicily that Joe obtained his educational instruction at the Salesain Mission, which instilled many of Joe’s personal characteristics such as: his passionate beliefs, strong work ethic, sense of duty, and tenacious perseverance. In Sicily, Joe learned all about hard work while working the family olive grove.

Joe lived in Sicily for 18 years before he decided to return to Ohio. It was upon his return that Joe met his wife and partner of 74 years while attending class, English as a second language. Together they built a life and raised their family. It wasn’t uncommon for Joe to hold multiple jobs at one time. Joe eventually secured an apprentice position which led to his bold decision to begin his own sewer construction business. As luck would have it, this was when Joe became acquainted with a piece of property located in Chardon, Ohio. Joe immediately fell in love with the picturesque setting which also included a lake. Together, Joe and his wife, Beate, nurtured and cultivated a notion for creating a trout fishing club. Their vision, sacrifice, and diligence paid off with the establishment of Deep Springs Trout Club; now celebrating its 60th anniversary. Their business has received many compliments and has frequently been referred to as a hidden oasis and paradise. Joe was also proud of the spring water located on this property. Joe knew he had to share this wonderful gem. So, he created a multi faucet system for the public to access delicious, pure, natural water. Joe himself often attributed his health and long life to benefits found in the water.

Joe was a proud member of the Italian American War Veterans Post 34. He was previously a member at Quail Hollow Country Club and the Heisley Racquetball and Fitness Club. He enjoyed travelling to Aruba and Italy, swimming, nature, and gardening. Joe did everything with great passion and gave himself 100% to all his endeavors. He especially loved teaching others. His greatest joy came from those he loved. He especially enjoyed trips and holidays spent with his family.  Joe loved life. He was charismatic and vivacious. Everyone who knew him loved him. He will be dearly missed.

In lieu of flowers, contributions suggested  in memory of Joe to the Italian American Veteran’s Association.

Mass of Christian Burial Tuesday, June 28, 2022 at 10 AM at St. Mary Catholic Church, 401 North Street Chardon. PLEASE MEET AT CHURCH. Burial following at All Souls Cemetery. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Joe at THE DeJOHN FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATIONS CENTER OF CHESTERLAND 12811 CHILLICOTHE ROAD (Rt. 306, just south of Mayfield Rd.) MONDAY 4-8 PM.