Mr. Joseph E. "Joe" Albanese, Jr.

CLINTON/UTICA – Mr. Joseph E. “Joe” Albanese, Jr., age 88, was surrounded by his family as he went home to be with the Lord on Friday, August 29, 2025. Born in Peekskill, NY, on July 19, 1937, Joseph was the son of the late Joseph E. Sr. and Grace M. (Pronesti) Albanese. The family later settled in Canastota prior to relocating to Utica. He was a graduate of New Hartford High School/Class of 1955 and began his collegiate studies at Utica College of Syracuse University. Subsequently, he served in the U.S. Army National Guard during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Joe married the former Susan Biederman on April 29, 1960. They met as students at Utica College, where Susan was charmed by Joe’s talents as a pianist. Together, they built a family and instilled in them strong values. Their home on Sunset Avenue became a beloved gathering place for family, friends, and neighbors—everyone was welcome. Joe and Susan loved to entertain and were known for being fun-filled hosts. The culmination of all these factors made for a great marriage and an even better family life. Joe was widely respected for his service as a Patrolman with the Utica Police Department. He could often be found walking the beat on South Street, where he was well-known and appreciated as a calm and skilled conflict negotiator within the neighborhoods. Following his time with the department, Joe served as Chief Investigator for the Public Defender's Office, where he earned a reputation for being fair, unbiased, and deeply trustworthy. His gift for communication and his steady demeanor made him a natural liaison for the Oneida Indian Nation, whom he faithfully served as a probation officer for over 25 years. His dedication to justice and community left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of working with him. The common denominator throughout Joe’s career was his unwavering oath to protect and defend people. Joe was also a talented and passionate musician. He accompanied the singing group, the “Daytones,” on the piano and he was proud of having made a musical recording. After his time with the Daytones, Joe formed the band, “Everyday People,” entertaining crowds at weddings, parties, and community events throughout Central New York for over 20 years. Joe was frequently sought after by those who had seen him play, and he brought joy to many through his music. Some of his favorite venues to perform at included Massoud’s Oud Lounge, The Captain's Table, and The Leather Bottle. As a keyboardist and synthesizer player, Joe was a memorable entertainer whose music left a lasting impression on many. Joe was known for his generous heart, quick wit, and talent for storytelling. He had a wonderful sense of humor and was a true straight shooter—honest, direct, and always sincere. His jokes and comments were never mean-spirited; they came from a place of kindness in his heart. In his leisure time, Joe enjoyed golfing in local leagues on the fairways at Stonebridge and Valley View golf courses, where he was known for his powerful drives—often hitting over 300 yards. He was also an avid bowler and even worked as a pin setter in his younger years at the Aurora Bowling Alley. A passionate fisherman, Joe especially loved spending time casting his line into the Salmon River. He also enjoyed playing cards with friends, cherishing the camaraderie that came with it. He and Sue also enjoyed spending time at the casino! A die-hard Yankee fan, Joe collected all of his greatest memorabilia and could often be found following their games and critiquing every call and play! Joe had a remarkable ability to connect with people—he had friends for every season of life. He was also incredibly handy, with a natural talent for building and fixing just about anything. Following the heartbreaking loss of his son, Paul, Joe became a passionate advocate for improving emergency medical services in the region. Determined to make a difference, he fought tirelessly to bring Air Medical Evacuation Services to Central New York. In Paul’s memory, he established the Paul Gregory Albanese Med-Evac Fund, Inc., with the goal of helping local hospitals provide critical care more quickly and effectively. Joe’s dedication to this cause stands as a lasting testament to both his love for his son and his commitment to the well-being of others. Joe had a personal relationship with the Lord in which he trusted and relied on Him. He was a member of Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, Lourdes Campus. You could often hear Joe saying, “If you don't have your reputation, then you don't have anything.” Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Suzy; children and their spouses, Joseph E. III and Mary Albanese, Jennifer and Michael French, Natalie Albanese, and Stephanie and Daniel Pope. He treasured in his heart the memory of his son, Paul Gregory Albanese, who preceded him on December 29, 1984. He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren, Louisa and Shannon Bertelsen, Joseph P. Albanese, Victoria Albanese and her fiancé Garrett Boone; Lauren and Alexis Lyndaker, Carly French and Michael Abreu; Griffin Wendt; Ashley Pope, and Ethan Pope; great-granddaughter, Miss Lyla Rae Lyndaker; brother Gerald A. “Jerry” Albanese, Sr. (the late Maureen (Cain) Albanese); many nieces and nephews, including Pamela and Scott “Yabo” Ellis, Michele Albanese, Gerald “Jerry” Albanese, Jr., and Jeffrey S., Esq. and Christyn Albanese; many cousins; and in-laws. The family extends special thanks to dear family friend Linda Hughes, who served as Joe’s primary caretaker and cherished friend. Joe felt secure in her presence, and the bond they shared brought him comfort and peace. Her kindness, patience, and care meant the world to both Joe and his family, and her support will always be remembered with deep gratitude. Visitation will be held on Sunday, September 7, 2025, from 3:00-5:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. In lieu of floral offerings, memorial contributions in Joe’s honor may be made to the Paul Gregory Albanese Medical Scholarship at Utica University; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Joseph’s Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Life which will commence on Monday, September 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish, Lourdes Campus, 2222 Genesee St. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

Mr. Joseph E. "Joe" Albanese, Jr.

July 19, 1937 - August 29, 2025