Joseph Cosimo Zagarese

Joseph Cosimo Zagarese, 85, passed away on Friday, December 8, 2023. He is the son of the late Cosimo Zagarese and Josephine (Muccini) Zagarese.

Joseph was a beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, uncle, great-uncle, and friend to all. He grew up in the Bronx, with his parents, brothers, and sisters. Growing up, Joseph was an avid track runner and his team members voted him as Captain. Joseph was a hard working and devoted member of the DC 9 Painters and Allied Trades International Union in which he proudly served as President. Later on in life, he met and married Maryann, moved to Rockland County where they raised their two daughters.You could find Joseph with a paintbrush in his hand, dancing, listening to music on his record player, watching movies, and solving puzzles as he enjoyed the finer things in life, from art to music to film. His love of the holiday season shined as bright as the most beautifully lit Christmas trees he decorated so meticulously. You may have seen his work at the MoMA and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Additionally, he worked at Carnegie Hall and Sterns. On weekends, he accompanied his daughter Angela to the flea markets, where he admired the antiques. He was a sports fanatic when it came to baseball, football, and wrestling. His true passion was bowling in which he achieved many accolades and rings for two 300s, two 299s, one 298, and an 800 series. 

Joseph is survived by his loving daughters, Angela Zagarese and Annmarie Musachio, and his adored grandchildren, Matthew, Christopher, Zachary, Victoria, Marissa, and Isabella. He is survived by his sisters, Anna Visintin (husband Eddie) and Grace DiPaola (husband Pat) as well as his best friend Maryann and his Godsend John Cich. Last but not least we can’t forget his puppy son Atlas aka Atly. His presence will be forever missed by his family and friends but his memory will be a source of comfort and live on forever in our hearts. May he rest in eternal peace. Relatives and friends are asked to attend his viewing on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at the Ralph Giordano Funeral Home from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Mr. Zagarese at St. Theresa of the Infant Jesus Roman Catholic Church on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. Interment to follow on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at St. Raymond’s Cemetery(Old).

Please Note: Please arrive at the funeral home by 9:30 a.m. on Thursday.

Arrangements entrusted to the Ralph Giordano Funeral Home, Inc.

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