Joseph Gaeto

Joseph "Joe" Gaeto, 78, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on October 11, 2025, in Cleveland, Ohio.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marie T. and Joseph R. Gaeto, and his beloved daughter, Constance Gaeto Morrissey.

Born in Philadelphia, Joe was raised in a strong and hardworking Italian Catholic family that instilled in him the values of faith, perseverance, and integrity. Coming from humble beginnings, his childhood was filled with cherished memories in Sea Isle City, New Jersey and the close bonds of many cousins. After countless hours spent working at Newtown Heating, Joe was determined to put himself through college, becoming the first in his family to attend and graduate.

Joe earned a degree in Food Marketing from St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia and completed graduate studies at Temple University. He started out working for a food broker, calling on supermarkets throughout the Philadelphia and New Jersey region. When an opportunity arose in Cleveland at Stouffer Foods, Joe was hesitant to leave his roots, but with the encouragement of his mother, who reminded him, "You can always come home", he took the leap. It turned out to be the best decision of his life.

One evening at a Stouffer's restaurant, Joe met the love of his life, Lauray. After charming her with what became known as his "cheesy pickup line," they fell in love, married, and raised three daughters together. Joe's career flourished as he became known for his creativity, leadership, and work ethic. He proudly led the nationwide launch of Stouffer's French Bread Pizza, earning the affectionate nickname "The Pizza Man."

After a rewarding corporate career, Joe pursued his lifelong dream of entrepreneurship, purchasing and operating Sarah Jane Bread Company, which he led with dedication until his passing. For Joe, work was never just work, it was a calling and a passion.

Despite his professional success, Joe's greatest pride was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who never let long workdays or travel keep him from being present in his daughters' lives. He coached their sports teams, shared his love of gardening and golf, and created countless family adventures, especially summers spent by the Jersey Shore, the heart of his happiest memories.

Joe's five grandchildren-Benjamin, Julie, Connor, Dominic, and Sophia, were the light of his life. He had a playful way with each of them and took immense joy and pride in being their "Pop-Pop."

Joe will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, humor, and especially for his stories, told with laughter, detail, and love. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the love he brought, and the memories he created with all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Survived by his wife, Lauray Gaeto (née Zackowski); daughters Jeannie Gaeto (Brian Foote) and Angela Gaeto; sister Nancy Palmerio; nephews Adam, Raymond, and Paul; and grandchildren Benjamin, Julie, Connor, Dominic, and Sophia.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Feeding America (www.feedingamerica.org) or a local food bank of your choice, honoring Joe's lifelong passion for food, family, and community.

Visitation will take place at Guardian Angels Catholic Church, 1676 S. Cleveland-Massillon Road, Copley, Ohio 44321, on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., followed by an 11:00 a.m. Mass. Joe will be laid to rest at Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery in Broomall, Pennsylvania.