Joseph D. Tropasso Jr.

With heavy hearts, the Tropasso family announces the passing of Joseph D. Tropasso Jr., who passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loved ones, on September 6, 2024. Joe was born on September 4, 1936, to Joseph and Theresa Tropasso and was a lifelong resident of Waterbury, CT. A proud graduate of Crosby High School in 1954, he excelled both in the classroom and on the field, playing varsity basketball and serving as captain of the varsity football team. He later attended the University of Connecticut, where he joined Sigma Chi Alpha fraternity and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business in 1958. Following graduation, Joe enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving as a medic both on active duty and in the reserves, eventually achieving the rank of Specialist.

In 1960, Joe began his career at Household Finance as a loan officer, the first step in what would become a distinguished career in banking. He went on to hold leadership roles at Waterbury National Bank, CityTrust Bank, and Chase Bank, where he served as a Regional Vice President. Even after his retirement, Joe remained active as a consultant and found joy in his part-time role as a starter at East Mountain Golf Course, a position he held until 2017. Deeply committed to his community, Joe served as treasurer of the regional March of Dimes, was an active member of the Waterbury Chamber of Commerce, and played a key role in revitalizing downtown Waterbury, including the restoration of the Palace Theatre and the expansion of the University of Connecticut campus.

Joe met the love of his life, Joanne, at Household Finance in 1960, and they were married on May 9, 1964. Over the course of their 60-year marriage, they built a beautiful life together, raising a loving family and cherishing their four grandchildren. Joe and Joanne shared a passion for travel, with fond memories of trips to Martha’s Vineyard and Aruba. Closer to home, they could often be found splitting a sandwich at a local restaurant, attending their grandchildren’s games, cheering on the UConn Huskies, or preparing Sunday dinners, always side by side. Joe often said that his greatest achievements were the close bonds he shared with his family and friends. As a father and “Poppy,” he was a steadfast supporter, mentor, and source of wisdom, offering guidance on everything from saving money to shooting a basketball to tackling home improvement projects. To those who knew him, Joe was always quick to share a story, a laugh, or a word of encouragement. His happiest moments were spent at the head of the dining room table, across from Joanne, surrounded by the laughter and love of family and friends. There was always room for one more chair at Joe’s table, and those gatherings were frequent, lively, and filled with joy.

Joe is survived by his devoted wife, Joanne, his two daughters, Traci Griffin and her husband Brendan, and Lori Clure and her husband Andrew. He also leaves behind four beloved grandchildren: Justin Griffin (and his wife Molly), Tess Griffin, Tyler Clure, and Jillian Clure, as well as several nieces and nephews.  Joe is predeceased his sister Rose Guerrera.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 12, 2024 from 5pm to 7 pm at Prospect Memorial/ The Palmerie Family Funeral Home 122 Waterbury  Rd., Prospect.  Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 13, 2024 at 11 am at St. Anthony’s Church, 4 Union City Rd. Prospect.  All are invited to gather at the funeral home from 9:45 am until procession to the church at 10:40am.  Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.  Prospect Memorial/ The Palmerie Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements and to assist the Tropasso family throughout their grief journey. Please visit www.prospectmemorial.com to share your online condolences.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the St Jude’s Children’s Hospital are greatly appreciated.

Joe’s life was a testament to love, family, and community, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. 

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