Pleasanton, California

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph Salvator Patti and Joan DeNunzio Patti of Pleasanton, California, who tragically lost their lives in a car accident on September 25, 2025. Married for almost 70 years, Joseph and Joan’s lifelong love story began in high school and blossomed into a rich partnership filled with devotion, family, and shared purpose.

Joe was born on February 15, 1934, in Medford, Massachusetts, to Vincent and Rose Patti. Joan was born on May 10, 1933, in Revere, Massachusetts, to Vincent and Louise (Turco) DeNunzio. The two met at Revere High School, where Joe served as senior class president and Joan was head cheerleader.

Joe graduated from the College of the Holy Cross and proudly served in the United States Marine Corps before beginning a distinguished career in public service with the Federal Government, ultimately becoming Western Regional Director of the Office of Personnel Management.

Joan, a graduate of Tufts University, shared her love of literature as a public school English teacher, balancing her professional life with years dedicated to raising their children. A gifted musician, Joan also served as an organist at her church, sharing her faith through music.

Together, Joe and Joan raised five children, who—along with their twelve grandchildren—were the center of their world. Joe’s career brought the family to many parts of the country, including Fairfax, VA; Littleton, CO; Sudbury, MA; and Orinda, CA. They created a home filled with love, music and laughter. In addition to many adventures around the country, they loved returning in summer to their native Boston, where the family continued the beloved childhood tradition of spending long days at the beach.

Proud of their Italian heritage, Joe and Joan made frequent trips to Italy, where they nurtured relationships with extended family and deepened their connection to their roots. At home, they kept Italian culture, food, language, and traditions alive in everyday life, enriching their family’s identity across generations.

Joan was known for her warmth, wit, and charm—a natural conversationalist who could light up any room.

Joe, quieter by nature, was equally beloved for his kindness, humility, and steady presence. Together, they were aperfect complement.

In their later years, they moved to Stoneridge Creek Retirement Community, where they became vibrant and beloved members of the community. Joe managed the bocce team, led the Italian club, and participated in gardening, billiards, bridge, and improv. Joan sang in the choir and took part in bridge, bocce, and other social activities—always fostering connection and joy.

Joe and Joan are survived by four of their five children: Susan Lewis (Mike) of Carbondale, CO; Steven Patti (Katy) of Mill Valley, CA; Jennifer Duffy (Sean) of Carbondale, CO; John Patti of Newton, MA, and daughter-in-law Jocelyn Larkin of Berkeley, CA. They were preceded in death by their beloved son, Christopher Patti.

They are also survived by their cherished grandchildren: Joseph Lewis, John Lewis, Charlie Lewis, Vince Patti, Gabe Patti, Henry Twiss, Annie Twiss, Kate Twiss, Jack Patti, Vivian Patti, Joseph Patti, and Juliet Patti—as well as a wide circle of extended family and dear friends whose lives they deeply touched.

A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Open Heart Kitchen or Bay Area Music Project.