Obituary of Joseph Mario Zanella

Joe had a million-dollar smile and magnetic personality that welcomed everyone.  He was always happy and singing around the house, even at an early age.  When he was 8, he received his first guitar and was self-taught; playing his guitar in the church youth services was his start of performing live. 

Music was his passion.  He wrote heartfelt lyrics, and learned to do his own recordings.  He made a “studio” in his bedroom closet, working diligently into the night.  His other “calling” was helping others in the music industry and they in turn, loved Joe, aka Jon Calvin.  His favorite times were spent in Los Angeles, CA where he would record and perform songs with his many friends and other artists. 

In between writing songs, Joe also enjoyed playing video games and hanging out with his older brother, John.  They shared many talks about life together and John was his hero.  They were buddies from day one. 

Family vacations were always fun and Joe was on the go.  He was smart, adventurous, humorous, loving, forgiving, generous and a Batman fan forever.  Driving his Lotus was another dream come true. 

When Joe and Michelle first met, it was through mutual friends one summer night in 2019. His energetic spirit and smile captivated her where both remained friends until they reconnected in 2020. 

The love Joe and Michelle had for one another was undeniable, and it didn’t take long for them to decide to get married, which was in the following year of 2021. They both shared many similar values of life and passions, where music was a huge connection. Joe was an extremely talented musician, and Michelle grew up singing in Choir the majority of her life. Traveling with one another was one of their favorite things to do, and especially to Los Angeles, CA. 

They shared a home together in Carmel, NY for two years, along with an addition of a new puppy beginning in 2023. Joe will be missed very much by both of them, but will forever be cherished in their hearts. His light will always be here, and we are all looking forward to reuniting with him again. 

In addition to his parents, Joseph is survived by his wife Michelle Miller; and his brother John Zanella. 

Joe thanked God for everything and came full circle in his relationship with Jesus at his present age of 27. We enjoyed him so much and our hearts are broken, but we will see him again.