Joseph D. Marco

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.

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