Joseph Contarino passed away peacefully at the Heywood Hospital in Gardner on Saturday, August 23rd, supported by the love of his family. He was 73. Born and raised in Medford, Joe was the son of the late Joseph P. and Mary D. (D'Orsi) Contarino.
After graduating Medford High School and attending Suffolk University, Joe embarked on an entrepreneurial path, which was guided by his impressive work ethic developed from assisting his family at their famed Medford bakery. His hair salon in Medford drew loyal customers across the generations through the 1970’s, 80’s and beyond. Joe also enjoyed success with real estate investments and operated a trusted insurance agency. A good and devoted husband, father and friend, Joe was a great advocate for his kids. A dedicated golfer, he enjoyed the game and could be found at courses up and down the East Coast. Joe and his beloved wife Cindy traveled frequently and enjoyed exploring new places together. He and Cindy settled in Winchendon, where they had a beautiful and welcoming home. In recent years, Joe became a regular at the Clark YMCA, where he built wonderful friendship in the community there.
The beloved husband of Cynthia “Cindy” (Perry) Contarino, Joe was a devoted father to Natalie King Yeh and her husband Peter, Christian Contarino, Dylan Contarino and Luke Contarino. He was a loving grandfather to Vincenzo Contarino, Lavinia Yeh and Roman Yeh. Joe also leaves his extended family and many dear friends.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to visit at the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., Medford on Sunday afternoon, August 31st from 2-4 PM, concluding with a service of remembrance.
In lieu of flowers, please honor Joe’s memory by making a contribution to the Contarino Family Trust, c/o The Athol Savings Bank, 112 Central St., Winchendon, MA 01475 for the care and support of his sons with autism, Luke and Dylan.