Joseph Marletta, 68, of Massapequa, NY, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly while at his second home in Puerto Rico. Joe spent the days leading up to his passing surfing, paddleboarding, and spending time with his beloved wife, Laura, and close friends. He lived life to the fullest, doing what he loved most in his final days.
Joe was born in Copiague, NY, to Joseph and Gwendolyn Marletta. He is preceded in death by both of his parents. He is survived by his loving wife, Laura; children, Nina, Joey, daughter-in-law Alyssa, Lauren, and son-in-law Lyle; and three amazing grandchildren (with one on the way)—Ryleigh (4), Olivia (2), Michael (2), and a baby girl due May 2025. He is also survived by his brother, William; sister-in-law Karen; and their children, Anthony (his wife Sarah, and their daughter Isabella), Dominique (her husband Brandon, and their baby boy due April 2025).
Joe was an alumnus of Cornell University, class of 1978 where he played lacrosse during his college years.
Joe’s passion for surfing was a lifelong commitment. He surfed all over the beaches of Long Island, starting at a young age. Gilgo was always a favorite. Joe was often seen with his best friend Pete, checking out the surf spots in Rincon, Puerto Rico, always searching for the perfect wave. . In his younger years, if there was snow on the beach but great waves, Joe was probably there, donning his wetsuit and paddling out to catch one. Two traditional paddle out ceremonies are being planned for later this year, one one at Gilgo on Long Island and the other in Rincon, Puerto Rico, to spread his ashes.
He also had a love for boating. Whether it was a boat made for speed or relaxation, Joe always loved going for a ride. He was always up for fishing, digging for clams, taking trips to the lighthouse, or anchoring in the cove to walk to one of his surf spots. Many summers were spent bringing his family to Sailors Haven or Watch Hill on Fire Island for long weekends or even week-long trips. More recently, he would take short trips up the long canal with his grandchildren every time they visited, preparing them for the trip across the bay to show them the cove he had grown up going to.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 18th, 2025, at Massapequa Funeral Home, South Chapel, from 5-9pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his name to Surf For All, a not-for-profit foundation based in Long Beach, NY. Their program is designed to provide individuals with disabilities the opportunity to experience the healing power of the ocean. Surfing fosters independence, self-esteem, and a sense of freedom.
Surf For All