C. Joseph Naso

Joseph Naso passed away on Sunday, February 27th at the age of 86. Joe was a proud marine, distinguished architect, loving husband, and devoted father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He loved people, cooking, travel, and music. He fought a brave battle with cancer until his peaceful passing at home surrounded by his loving family.

Joe was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on December 1, 1935 to Antonina and Jack Naso. The family moved to Brooklyn, NY where he was joined by younger sister Cathy Naso Glasson. Joe attended James Madison High School in Brooklyn, NY. At age 17, he joined the Marine Corps served honorably, and promoted to Sergeant before returning to civilian life in 1958. Sergeant Naso earned the National Defense Service Medal while working in radar and flight operations. Joe carried his love of the Corps and aviation throughout the rest of his life. For his 79th birthday, his family honored him with a Corsair flight through Northwestern Montana.

On March 8, 1953, Joe helped a young woman carry her groceries across the street in Brooklyn. They enjoyed their first date the following day and Mary Ann immediately became the love of his life. In 1958, their mid-summer marriage began a wonderful journey of more than six decades as they raised a family, pursued their academic and occupational goals, danced the Lindy, and travelled the world.

Their love and partnership are inspirational to all -- especially their children, Lori, Stephen, Janet, Scott, and Todd and their spouses Robert, Carolyn, Rose, and Leanne. He loved engaging in his children’s careers. He especially enjoyed tours of the White House, ride alongs with the FDNY, LAX construction job walks, helipad and security tours in LA, and other special events.

Of all his accomplishments, Joe took the most pleasure in his family including his 16 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. His home is filled with fond memories of old movies, board games, political debates, and stick ball games in the cul-de-sac where he pitched his last game in 2021. He is also survived by his cousins, the Balistreri and Spero families, and many lifelong friends and relatives.

Joe’s life was well lived and well loved. All of those who were fortunate enough to know Joe will carry him in our hearts and our lives.

A Memorial Mass will be held in remembrance of Joe on Thursday, March 10th at 10:00 a.m. at Risen Christ Church located at 3060 S. Monaco Parkway in Denver, Colorado. He will be laid to rest in a private burial service at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver.

Memorial donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.