Joseph R. Bisesi

Joseph R. Bisesi, 92, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025, surrounded by family.

He was born in Akron, Ohio on February 24, 1933 to the late Joseph P. and Mary R. Bisesi. He graduated from Garfield High School in Akron, Ohio in 1951. He was an avid athlete who went on to attend the University of Akron as the defensive end for the Zips. He then served with honors in the U.S. Army in the Korean War. He married his beloved wife, Reta Chesser, in 1958, and together they raised three children. He worked as a firefighter for the Akron Fire Department for 30 years, retiring as Lieutenant in 1987, but continued to work odd jobs for most of his life. He was a member of St. Paul and St. Matthew Catholic churches. He loved playing and watching sports. He coached his children, grandchildren and even a few great grandchildren, and so many others. He had a heart of gold and always went out of his way to help people, but yet, you knew not to mess with him either! He has touched many lives in the Ellet area and surrounding communities and is loved by so many. He was a devoted family man and deeply loved his entire family, especially his grandchildren, who all loved the adventures and shenanigans with their Papa. One of his favorite things to do was golfing with his buddies and his brothers, eating spaghetti at the Jednota Club and Monday margaritas with the clan.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 57 years, Reta M. Bisesi (Chesser), and his parents, Joseph P. and Mary R. Bisesi.

He is survived by his children; son, Mark Bisesi; daughters, Denise (John) Myers, and Brenda Bisesi; brothers, Jack (Donna) Bisesi, Tony (Patty) Bisesi, and Tom (Lynn) Bisesi. He was blessed with 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, a host of nieces and nephews, and many life-long friends.

Per our father's wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family service will be held.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to all his neighbors and close friend, Dave Chris, as well as the many people who have reached out to us with condolences. To know him was to love him.

The family would also especially like to thank Brad McKitrick, Ward 6 Councilman of the City of Akron, as well as the Akron Fire Department, in coordinating the honoring of our father's 30 years of service and his 90th birthday with, "The Proclamation of Joseph R. Bisesi Day", on February 24, 2023, which was signed by the Mayor of Akron. It meant a lot to us and we will never forget.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his name can be made to Paws & Prayers Pet Rescue in honor of his kind heart and compassion for all living things, and his beloved pet, Pepper.

To share a memory of Joseph or leave a special message for his family, visit the guest book below.