Joseph Daniel Marco, who wanted to be remembered as "Giuseppe Donato Marcogiuseppe," passed away on May 17, 2026 peacefully in Westlake, Ohio at the age of 93. Joe lived life to the fullest and was loved by all and he took great interest in everyone he met.

He was born into a large and loving Italian family in Cleveland, Ohio in 1932 to Daniel and Christine (LaRocco) Marco. Joe was preceded in his death by his parents, brother Dan "Buzz" Marco and his sister Louise Shields. His sister, Louise was his best friend.

Joe is survived by his wife, Linda Setser Marco; his former wife, Marilyn Taylor, the mother of his children; and his daughters, Cristine (Ben) Hoffmann and Judi (Curt) Snyder. He is also survived by several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Joe loved driving all kinds of vehicles. After enlisting in the U.S. Army, he served as a tank driver at Camp Elliott in San Diego during the Korean War. He received the National Defense Service Medal and later spent six years in the Army Reserves.

Joe continued to drive and built a successful career as a salesman for Ohio Envelope Manufacturing, traveling throughout the state and becoming known for leaving branded emery boards and letter openers with receptionists. In the days before the internet, when envelopes were essential for billing, bank statements, tickets, greeting cards, and more, he called on businesses of every size. His clients included the Cleveland Browns, Cleveland Indians, American Greetings, banks and manufacturing companies across Ohio. He retired at the age of 86 after a remarkable 60 plus year career.

Joe was a lifelong car enthusiast, and over the years many could recognize his approach by the distinctive sound of the side pipes on his GTO, Chevelle Super Sport, and Corvettes. He also enjoyed participating in car shows throughout Northeast Ohio.

In addition to his love of sports cars, Joe was an avid power boater and a member of the Cleveland Yachting Club. He could often be found carefully polishing his 1959 mahogany Chris-Craft.

Drawn by his love of speed, Joe became an active participant in Great Lakes Offshore powerboat racing, competing in GLOPRA (Great Lakes Offshore Powerboat Racing Association), Ohio, and APBA (American Power Boat Association) events. A highly regarded competitor on the Great Lakes Offshore circuit, he brought skill and experience to the challenging waters of the region. In addition to racing, he served as a trustee, race chairman, public relations officer, club historian, awards banquet organizer, and throttleman. He was also honored with the prestigious powerboating "Man of the Year" award from the international publication Vapor Trails Boating News, receiving the distinction ahead of notable figures including racer-actor Don Johnson and owner-driver Al Copeland.

Alongside his partner, Jack Fehl, he pushed these vessels through the rough, choppy waters of the Great Lakes. He was known as a notable classic Offshore racer who competed with a 28-foot Excalibur and his iconic single Cigarette race boat named "Black Magic." His legacy continues to be remembered by vintage racing enthusiasts who share stories and photographs honoring Joe and his fellow competitors.

Joe's love of sports began at Rocky River High School, where he played football, basketball, and baseball. In his early adult years, he enjoyed tennis, racquetball and softball and played as an outfielder in the Bay Men's League. In later years, he continued playing softball and managing teams in the Huffer n Puffer league until the age of 92. Joe also had a passion for music. He was a boogie-woogie piano player and drummer. The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Village of the Falls Nursing Home, Reserve Care-Ames West Care, the Huff-N-Puffers ballplayers, and the many friends and relatives whose kindness, care, and support brought comfort to Joe during his final months. Joe was diagnosed with cancer in 2019 and faced his illness with strength and determination until the end. In lieu of flowers.

A committal service with military honors was held on May 28 at Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman, Ohio.

The family requests that donations be made to the hospice facility, now known as Reserve Care-Ames West Care Center at 30080 Hospice Way, Westlake, Ohio. 44145.