Joseph A. Taranto, Sr.

Joseph A. “Joe” Taranto, 76, of South New Berlin, died on Sunday, February 09, 2025 at SUNY Upstate Hospital in Syracuse, NY.

Born on April 16, 1948, in Norwich, Joe was a son of the late Angelo and Frances (Scafidi) Taranto. Joe, along with his siblings, worked for his family's restaurant, the Blue Bird, helping in a variety of capacities. He graduated from Norwich High School with the Class of 1966 and graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in 1968. Returning to Norwich, Joe worked first for his Uncle Ernie and later for the Carson family at the Canasawacta Country Club as golf course superintendent for 34 years. Joe also ran the many clam bakes held at the pavilion during the summers. During those years, he was affectionately known as “Chief.” Following his career at the Country Club, Joe worked 18 years in sales for Andre & Son, specialists in turf products, out of Montrose, PA.

Joe was great man; kind, generous, funny and smart. He was a man of many talents and had a strong work ethic. Figuring out how things worked, whether it was the mechanics of golf equipment, or a building project, or new technology, he was naturally adept at it. Joe enjoyed spending time with his family. Many friends and family benefitted from his culinary skills over the years. He also enjoyed gardening, whether it was vegetables or flowers. Joe served as the head trustee for Columbus Community Church, where he and his family have been members for 45 years. Joe will be greatly missed. 

On October 18, 1975, in Sherburne, Joe married Debra “Debby” Morey, who survives. Joe is also survived by his children, Joseph A. (Chantana) Taranto, Jr., of Clay, NY, Marlene (Brian) Williams, of Syracuse, NY, Amy Beth Hayes (Eric Vollick), of Syracuse, NY, and Thomas Taranto, of South New Berlin, NY; grandchildren, Curtis Taranto, Joshua Williams, Emmie Mae Vollick, and Titan; sibling-in-laws, Pat (Bob) Youmans, of Ballston Lake NY, Rick (Barb) Morey, of Utica, NY, Julie Morey, of Amsterdam, NY, and Gary Gibbon, of Norwich, NY; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his siblings, Rosalie Gibbon, Thomas Taranto, and Paul Taranto; and niece, Lee Ann Papelino. 

A funeral service for Joseph will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 14, 2025, at the Columbus Community Church, where Pastor Dick Sliter, will officiate. Friends are invited to call at the Wilson Funeral Home in Norwich, on Thursday, February 13, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Burial will occur in the spring of 2025. 

Contributions in memory of Joe may be made to the Columbus Community Church, 4311 State Route 80, Sherburne, NY 13460.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted with the Wilson Funeral Home.