Joseph James Prizio

It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Joseph James Prizio, age 66, on Saturday, March 6th 2021. He passed away peacefully at the West Haven VA hospital surrounded by his wife Karin, son Ryan, and daughter Ashley.

Joe always said he won the lottery on life with his cherished family, friends and viewed each day as a gift. He met his beloved wife at a high school graduation party and their incredible life journey together began full throttle. His career as an auto mechanic led to amazing family VW camping trips, with multiple engine rebuilds along the way. He went into the Air Force and then attended college where he studied to become a Biomedical Engineer working at VA hospitals. When driving became a challenge due to Multiple Sclerosis, he became a math professor at Western CT State University where his goal was to help students succeed in his classroom so they could move on to their life professions. Along the way, he tutored numerous family and friends and loved the success stories they shared.

 In 2001, he was honored by the Multiple Sclerosis Society as “National Father of the Year” due to his perseverance in living life with Multiple Sclerosis to the fullest and volunteering his time to others. He was “Mr. Doubtfire” to his treasured children Paul, Ryan, and Ashley. He loved making fun memories camping out in a fort made under the dining room table or dancing while partying to music. He was a constant fixture at each of his children’s games and school events. At lacrosse, ice hockey, soccer, field hockey, or wrestling, he was known for encouraging good sportsmanship on and off the field. His constant life motto with his wife and family was “If you’re happy, I’m happy” and “Live Life.”

A Memorial service will take place at 8:45 am on Saturday, March 13th at Middletown State Veterans Cemetery, 317 Bow lane, Middletown, CT 06457. Family and friends may stop by 12:00 – 3:00 pm to honor Joe’s life outside at our home, 39 Greenknoll Drive, Brookfield, CT 06804. Masks and social distancing will be in effect. Please carpool if possible.

In lieu of flowers, Joseph wanted you to consider donating to the Multiple Sclerosis Society or the West Haven VA Hospital where he received outstanding care from the doctors, nurses and staff. The family will also be setting up a fund in Joseph Prizio's honor to give back to help others with MS. You may light a candle in honor of Joseph and we encourage you to share a story by clicking on the link “Share a memory”. 

Joseph had MS, but it never had him.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph James Prizio, please visit our floral store.