Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | St. Lawrence County, NY
MASSENA - With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Joseph P. Catanzarite, affectionately known as “Joe Cat,” who passed away peacefully on April 3, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Joe was born on January 21, 1942, in Massena, NY to the late Joseph R. And Phoebe (Trimboli) Catanzarite. Joe was a proud graduate of Massena Central High School and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from St. Bonaventure University in 1963. His studies also took him abroad to the University of Madrid, Spain, where he deepened his love for language and culture. Joe dedicated his life to education, teaching Spanish at Holy Family, Massena Central, and Salmon River before spending 25 meaningful years as an ESL teacher at the Ogdensburg Correctional Facility.
Beyond the classroom, Joe was a beloved figure in the Massena community. He owned and operated, The 284 Club, a cherished local restaurant and bar that became a gathering place for friends, family, and countless fond memories.
Above all else, Joe was a devoted husband and proud father. In March of 1985, he married the love of his life, Joni (Ashley) Catanzarite, at St. Mary’s Church, with the ceremony officiated by the late Msgr. Pendergast. Over their 40 years of marriage, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Together, they raised two daughters, Marlayna and Andrea, who were the light of his life and the center of his world.
In addition to the time he devoted to his family, Joe found joy in life’s simple pleasures—whether he was tending to his vegetable plants or planting colorful flowers, he loved soaking up the sunshine and caring for each plant with patience and pride. A devout Catholic, Joe never missed Sunday Mass, grounding his life in faith and tradition. He also cherished Thursday nights at the Italian American Club and never missed a Sunday dinner at his sister’s—traditions that brought him happiness and kept him close to the people he loved most.
Joe is survived by his devoted wife, Joni, and their two daughters, Marlayna and her husband Chris Salz of Cicero, NY, and Andrea Catanzarite of Syracuse, NY—both of whom brought him endless pride and joy. He is also lovingly remembered by his nephews Paul Bombard and Duane Bombard and his wife Linda, and his niece Michele Bombard, all of Massena, NY. In addition, Joe leaves behind a large extended family of cherished cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends, all of whom held a special place in his heart.
Joe was predeceased by his parents, as well as his beloved sisters, Anna May Bombard and Josie Catanzarite.
Calling hours will be held Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at Phillips Memorial Home, Massena, from 2:00–4:00 PM and 6:00–8:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Sacred Heart Church, officiated by Reverend Mark Riley. Burial will take place at a later date in Calavry Cemetery, Massena.
Joe will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of love, kindness, sense of humor, and dedication to family will live on in the hearts of all who loved him. May he rest in peace.
Family and friends are encouraged to share memories, photos, memorial tress and condolences online, by visiting www.PhillipsMemorial.com.
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