Joseph F. Lombardi

JOSEPH F. LOMBARDI

Joseph F. “Joe” Lombardi, 81, of Norwich, NY passed away in his home, 12 Hickok Avenue, Norwich, NY, on November 14, 2023. Joe had a short but valiant fight with a terminal illness.

Joe was born in Earlville, NY on May 26,1942 to Joseph and Lena (Grizzie) Lombardi. Earlville, NY is where Joe grew up and began his passion for the performing arts. He graduated from Earlville Senior High School and went on to complete two years of college at the Utica School of Commerce. Joe was employed at TACO for a short period of time and transitioned to his long-term career at NBT Bank.

Joe met the love of his life Linda (Cole) Lombardi while employed at NBT Bank. Excited to start their new lives together, the two were married on June 3, 1972 in Norwich, NY alongside their families.

Joe was a loyal and compassionate brother-in-law to Kenneth and Ana Cole. Joe was a staple in the Cole residence and always brought so much joy and love to family events. Kenneth and Ana Cole would like Joe to know that his love and support will always be remembered and they are so grateful for what he provided to their children.

Joe was a proud and exceptional uncle to Salvador Cole and Victoria Sacco (Cole) (Joseph Sacco & Veda Sacco). From day one, Joe never missed a beat whether it be attending morning program at Gibson Elementary School, to being the loudest and funniest fan in the crowds at school sporting events and dance recitals. He never missed a birthday or milestone when it came to his niece and nephew. Joe took his Godfather role to Victoria very seriously and always supported her throughout. Victoria and Salvador are eternally grateful for their uncle and all he has done throughout their childhood and adult years.

Joe was very active in his community during and after retirement. Joe could be found in the early morning enjoying coffee and conversation with his friends at McDonald's. He had a passion and gift for music that he shared with our entire community. Joe was a true entertainer and he made his rounds at local venues playing his guitar and singing. His music brought so much joy and happiness to those around him. He will be remembered for playing gigs at Chenango County Fair, Oxford Farmer's Market, Colorscape, and our local nursing homes. Joe regularly provided entertainment at Roma's in Oxford, NY and had quite the following. On Joe’s behalf, thank you Gabe and Danielle Cruz of Roma's for always welcoming his music and being such great friends.

Joe was an active member of St. Bartholomew's Catholic Church and was devoted to attending Mass weekly.

Joe had a special place in his heart for Guernsey Memorial Library where he spent so much of his time and enjoyed chatting with everyone and saying hello. Joe is survived by his great friend, Bill Doing, who he enjoyed partaking in weekly casino trips with and having great conversation.

Joe is survived by his dear friend, Barbara Kraft. Joe and Barbara enjoyed traveling throughout the years and performing at local music venues. He had a very special bond with his canine friend, Sadie. Sadie and Joe were frequently seen walking around Norwich.

Joe will be deeply missed by his family and friends. The community is saddened by his passing, as he provided so much love and joy to those around him.

Joe and his family would like to extend a thank you to Golden Girl Home Care that provided exceptional care to Joe in his time of need.

Joe was predeceased by his wife, Linda (Cole) Lombardi and sister-in-law, Letha Cole.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Joe will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 2, 2023, at the Church of St. Bartholomew’s, 81 East Main Street, Norwich, where the Rev. Ralph A. Bove, will officiate. Burial will occur in the spring of 2024 in St. Paul’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to St. Bartholomew Catholic Church, 30 Pleasant Street, Norwich, NY 13815.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted with the Wilson Funeral Home.