Joseph Mastroianni

Joseph A. Mastroianni of Middlebury, Connecticut, passed away unexpectedly on March 12, 2026, one day before his 83rd birthday, surrounded by his loving family. For 61 years he was the devoted husband of Nancy (Greene) Mastroianni. Born on March 13, 1943, in Waterbury, he was the son of the late Anthony and Christine (Riccio) Mastroianni. A graduate of W.F. Kaynor High School Class of 1961, he later earned an associate’s degree from Mattatuck Community College.

Joe was a proud longtime resident of Middlebury and a communicant of St. John of the Cross Church. He gave countless hours to Middlebury Parks and Recreation, coaching Little League, basketball, and soccer, where he became known simply as “Coach.” He loved treating the children to ice cream after games and was a loyal fan of the New York Yankees and UConn Huskies, often seen wearing their caps. Kind and generous, Joe was always ready to help anyone in need. To family, friends, and even strangers he was affectionately known as Grandpa Joe or Uncle Joe, and he was invariably the last to leave any family gathering. His greatest joy came from his grandchildren, whose every milestone and sporting event he proudly attended.

He worked for 40 years as a tool maker at Mattatuck Manufacturing Company, which later became Teleflex of Waterbury. After the company closed, he continued working in maintenance at the Middlebury Convalescent Home, where his wife was a nurse, until the final day of his life. His strong work ethic and dedication were admired by all who knew him.

Joe is survived by his wife Nancy, his sons Michael A. Mastroianni and his wife Lisa of Southbury and Robert J. Mastroianni of Middlebury, his five cherished grandchildren Sarah Mastroianni (Sean Sharp), Adam, Brianna, Joseph, and Maya Mastroianni, and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his siblings Anthony, Carmen, and Ralph Mastroianni, Phyllis Vendetti, Katherine DiPietro, and Mary Colella.