Joseph was born September 7, 1933 in Flushing, NY. to Joseph and Eleanor (Burke) Frisco. He married Carol James on November 15, 1958 in Moline, IL. She preceded him in death on February 14, 2014 in Peoria. His parents also preceded him in death.
Surviving are his two daughters, Debra (Gary) Lusk of Peoria, Vickie (Michael) Craig of Metamora; three sons, Joseph Jr. (Virginia) of Davenport, FL, Timothy (Patricia) of Hugo, OK, Terry of Apollo Beach, FL, and daughter-in-law, Linda Frisco of Wimauma, FL; 14 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Eleanor Thompson and Deborah Timko both of NY., a special friend MaryLou Hurst of Peoria; and Andrew, LeAnn and Tommy who he mentored.
Joe was a past Director of Glen Oak Zoo before leaving to start his own Zoo with his wife, The Wonderful World of Animals and The Frisco Brothers. He was a member of Showman’s Club in Sarasota, FL., JayCee's in Baton Rouge, LA., and enjoyed animal training. Joe will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather and brother who enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
A funeral service will be at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, July 20, 2022 at Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Parkview cemetery in Peoria.
Memorials may be made to Romeo's Place Sanctuary, 13829-CR-672, Wimauma, FL. 33598. Words of comfort can be shared with the family at www.davison-fulton.com.