Joseph T. Farnese, M.D., 66, of North Caldwell, New Jersey, passed away on July 2, 2023.
Joe is survived by his loving wife, Robin Farnese, and cherished daughters, Nicole Farnese, Jacki Farnese and Alexa Farnese. Joe was a beloved brother to Dr. Jeffrey Farnese and his wife, Marlene, caring brother-in-law to Randy Mitchell and her husband, John, and Renee Ilaria and her fiancé, Frank. Joe is also survived by his adoring mother-in-law, Dolores Ilaria, and dear nieces and nephews, James, Danielle, Jeffrey, Gabriella, Daniella and Alex. Joe is predeceased by his parents, Mary and Joseph Farnese, Jr., brothers, John "Jackie" Farnese and James "Jimmy" Farnese, and father-in-law, Robert Ilaria. Joe graduated from Rutgers University with a bachelor's degree in biology in 1979 and went on to graduate from St. George's University School of Medicine in Grenada in 1984. Joe completed his Residency at St. Joseph's Hospital in Paterson and continued to practice family medicine in his private office in Little Falls, New Jersey for over 35 years. Joe took the true meaning of family practice seriously. His patients were his family. The number of lives Joe touched is immeasurable. He helped everyone he met and worked tirelessly doing so. He had the biggest heart, especially when it came to his family. He was a role model for his daughters, teaching them lessons and giving advice they will carry throughout their lifetime. Outside of medicine, Joe was a pilot, a fisherman, a modern-day Renaissance Man. Joe was a FAA Physician, he loved flying and seeing the world. From Wildwood Crest to Myrtle Beach to countries outside of the United States, Joe found beauty wherever he flew. Joe could fix anything. He built homes, was a great contractor as well. It seemed there was nothing Joe could not fix. In his free time, he would spend weekends putting up walls, fixing water pipes, rewiring electrical devices, sanding sheetrock, fishing at Lake Hopatcong with friends and debating New England Journal articles with his brother Jeff. Most importantly, Joe was a friend to all. A friend that would help anyone and everyone. Family and friends are welcome to gather on Sunday, July 9, 2023 from 1 pm to 5:30 pm at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls. Please keep a continuous flow during visitation to ensure everyone has an opportunity to pay their respects. In lieu of flowers, donations in Joe's memory may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, P.O. Box 97075, Washington, DC 20090-7075 or online at www.mda.org or to Alzheimer's New Jersey, 425 East Rock Avenue, Suite 203, Roseland, NJ 07068 or online at www.alznj.org Envelopes will also be provided by the funeral home during visiting hours for your convenience.
46 Comments
Maceda Kehoe (Missy)
7/6/2023 04:18:52 pm
Dr. Joe was my doctor for many years and was the best. He was very caring and would go the extra mile anything that was required . So sorry for the loss of such a great doctor and person! My condolences from Florida.
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Robert Bianco, M.D.
7/6/2023 05:25:28 pm
It is with a saddened heart of hearing of Joes passing. To all who loved and knew Joe, my deepest sympathies. Many fond memories as doctors in training, sharing time with our families and first born. Hope to meet again on the other side. Robert Bianco, MD and Pam. Palm Coast, Fl
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John and Nancie Fairclough
7/6/2023 05:25:48 pm
We are very sad to hear about Joe. While he took care of John in Jeffs absence I never had an opportunity to meet him. Sending our deepest sympathy to his family
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Michael & Lucille Ciccarelli & Family
7/6/2023 07:08:12 pm
Our family has been so sad since we heard of this horrible news of Dr Joe’s passing. Although we are regular patients of Dr Jeff’s, we have all been seen by Dr Joe at least on one visit to the office. He was a caring and compassionate doctor. The office will never be the same without him. Our deepest condolences and prayers are with his family during this most difficult time and especially to his brother, Dr Jeff. Rest in paradise Dr Joe 🙏🏻
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Abbey Phillips
7/6/2023 07:31:36 pm
Dr. Farnese was a client of mine. He was always kind and gracious to me no matter what news I was delivering to him. I will always remember that and him.
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Dora, Ron, and a Ashley Finamore
7/6/2023 07:57:39 pm
We are deeply saddened and crushed by the news of Dr. Joe‘s death. Our deepest condolences to his family, whom he adored from the many stories he shared. I saw him about six weeks ago and I’m so thankful we are all in shock. May he rest in peace. I cannot imagine the office without him. Deepest condolences to all the staff, and of course his beloved brother Jeffrey and family.
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Shari Maher Pippa
7/6/2023 08:25:04 pm
Robin, Nicole, Jacki & Alexa,
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Sharon Katz
7/6/2023 08:38:57 pm
Joe was an amazing Dr. and friend to my family. We will miss him terribly and our hearts are broken. Thank you Joe for everything you’ve done for us, you will never be forgotten.
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Dora, Ron, and Ashley Finamore
7/7/2023 02:58:39 am
Our deepest condolences to the family of Dr. Joseph Farnese. Our hearts go out to everyone who knew and loved him. We had the pleasure of knowing him as our doctor. He was a special human being, who always had a smile on his face and a warm greeting for everyone, our hearts are broken for Dr. Jeff and his family and all the staff in the office. I cannot imagine going into the office and seeing that smiling face …rest in peace Dr. Joe. 💔
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Joseph Calafiore
7/7/2023 03:43:28 am
To a great doctor, friend and family. My prayers are with your family. His kindness and professionalism was impeccable. He treated everyone with respect and was one the only doctors to still make house calls. It was an honor to have been a part of the Farnese family. You will be missed by all.
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Bob Buonopane
7/7/2023 04:15:36 am
Dr. Joe was my friend and my physician. He was kind and caring to me and my family for 35 years. I will never forget his beautiful demeanor. My deepest sympathy to his beautiful family. The world has truly lost a soldier of God. Rest in peace my friend. You have forever touched my life.
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Roger Ricciardelli
7/7/2023 04:34:48 am
Joe was like family to me. He took care of our whole family. He was always available to help with anything at any time. He will be missed by all. Deepest condolences to the family 🙏🙏. Joe was a good friend of mine. RIP
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Linda Cousins
7/7/2023 05:51:13 am
I never had the pleasure of meeting Dr Joe. He was my husband Dane's dr. He only spoke highly of him and is extremely saddened that he has lost a good friend. Our condolences go out to the entire family.
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Linda S Saundry
7/7/2023 06:17:32 am
The world has lost a kind caring loving sole. The best doctor and a fantastic person.. I will miss you. Thank you for all you did for everyone on Earth. You will be missed but never forgotten. Love . ya!!!!
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Rose Pharmacy Team
7/7/2023 06:31:37 am
Dear Dr. Farnese,
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7/7/2023 06:32:37 am
Dr. Joe was my cousin's son. He was a great person and will be missed. God Bless and hold you Dr.Joe.
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anita valvano
7/7/2023 07:29:21 am
I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOST FOR THE FAMILY AND STAFF. DR. JOE WAS MY DR FOR 30 YEARS. HE WAS A WONDERFUL DR AND PERSON. I WILL MISS HIM SO MUCH. RIP JOE
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Ed Bohmer
7/7/2023 07:58:34 am
My family and I are in such disbelief!! Dr. Joe was a very caring doctor, the office will not be the same without him. Thank you for all you did…RIP Dr. Joe.
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Bernadette McManus
7/7/2023 09:49:49 am
My deepest sympathy to Robin and the children and to Jeff.and Marlene on so great a loss. You are all in my prayers.
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Brian Facciollio
7/7/2023 10:08:13 am
Thank you Dr.Joe for everything you have done for me and my family.You will be missed.
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Stephanie Ewald
7/7/2023 11:15:05 am
To the Farnese family,
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Donald Whitney
7/7/2023 11:44:42 am
Dr. Joseph Farnese has been my physician and friend for the last 33 years. I’m completely devastated with the news of his passing. Joe helped so many people including my parents, my wife, and myself. He is irreplaceable as both a physician and as the finest example of a human being I had the good fortune of knowing. I will miss him. Love you, Joe. Godspeed, my friend. Sincere condolences to his family and friends
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7/7/2023 03:13:53 pm
My deepest condolences go out to Dr. Farnese's famiy and to the greving families of his passengers. Dr. Joe was not my personal paysician, but he has been my FAA Pilot medical examiner for 10 years. He was a wonderful and caring man as well as an excellant doctor. He always took time during his examination to talk airplanes with me and share flying stories. I would always joke with him that his office was the happiest place I have ever experienced, a testament to his warm and giving demeanor. He will be greatly missed, by all. May God Bless him and watch over his family. RIP my friend Rest in Peace...
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Marianne Lennon
7/7/2023 03:24:04 pm
Dr. Farnese I remember the days when you were a resident and even then your patients were your primary focus. You were always listening to them and the nurses when sharing their concerns. There aren’t many MD today like you. Rest in peace good and faithful servant.
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Pam Bianco (Race)
7/8/2023 08:43:54 am
I was a critical care nurse when I first met Joe as a resident at St. Joe’s, he had exceptional compassion for his patients and his respect for the nurses was second to none…his love for his wife Robin and his 3 beautiful daughters was also second to none….Robin and girls…may the sorrow in your hearts be lightened by the love surrounding you. Rest in peace dear Joe, you will never be forgotten
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7/7/2023 03:29:26 pm
For all the things, big and small, that he has done for all of us, let us all pause for a moment in tearful tribute to Doctor Joe. He is forever in our thoughts, our prayers and our hearts.
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Gary Campagna
7/7/2023 05:08:12 pm
Going to Dr. Joe's office was like visiting family. He and Dr. jeff and the entire staff were always friendly and helpful. Dr. Joe would listen to any medical concerns and after they were addressed would spend a few minutes and just talk about how things were going with me with a genuine interest. He was very knowledgeable, and more like a friend than a doctor. My neighbor was stricken with polio when he was young, and Dr. Joe made regular house calls to check up on him until my neighbor passed away. Thats the kind of person he was. My condolences to his family. Rest in peace Doc.
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Paul Cooke
7/7/2023 06:34:39 pm
We have suffered a tragic loss. Dr. Joe was a brilliant physician and a caring and compassionate caregiver. If you were his patient, you were his friend.
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Thomas M. Meisenbacher
7/7/2023 10:02:08 pm
The Meisenbachers offer our deepest prayers and condolences to the Farnese, family and friends.. Dr. Joe was kind, caring, considerate and a professionally skilled doctor. May God grant him eternal rest.
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Barbara Lewis
7/8/2023 06:17:03 am
When I moved into Little Falls over 30 years ago, Dr. Joe became my physician. From the very beginning he listened to me, heard me, and understood me. His care and compassion were gifts he freely gave to me and all his patients. He was a miracle worker, now remembered with much gratitude and love.
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Kristina Szymanski Sullivan and family
7/8/2023 06:30:18 am
I was lucky enough to be Joe's patient for all his professional life, for 35 years. But as said by so many, Joe was your friend above all. We trusted each other in all my medical decisions as equals. Our kids went to school together. He treated my family along with his brother, Jeff. His passing will be a huge hole in my life and my heart. Joe, we look up at you as you look down on us....
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Rick Ricciardelli
7/8/2023 08:31:52 am
As we honor the life and legacy of our beloved Doctor Joe we mourn the loss of a remarkable physician, celebrate the incredible person he was and remember the profound impact he had on each and every one of us.
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Garry Holmberg
7/8/2023 09:12:01 am
I met Joe in 3rd grade, 1965. From then to 7th or 8th grade we did stuff together most everyday, along with his brother Jimmy. I can remember us sledding up in what we called the cow pastures, building wooden downhill racing carts for Vern Hill, playing touch football on the lawn in front of Holy Angels, and learning to swim in their pool with Mrs. Farnese's guidance. And of course there was Mr. Farnese and his bakery.
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Fran and Bryan Swank
7/8/2023 11:18:15 am
We are deeply sorry for the loss of Joe, he was an AMAZING Dr. our heartfelt condolences to the entire family. May God give all strength to endure this very difficult time.
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Jon C Hengeveld
7/8/2023 12:10:26 pm
Dr Jeff,
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Kim Heilig
7/8/2023 12:57:48 pm
We all are so blessed to have had Dr. Joe in our lives. He was God’s Light and made our universe better by being in it.
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Linda Paparella
7/8/2023 02:45:13 pm
My heart aches for the family. We have known Joe for almost 30 years as a neighbor and friend. We spent many hours taking the kids skiing and to the shore. Even though Joe was an expert skier, he always stayed with the pack and led the way. He adored Robin and the girls. He always spoke about them with pride. I have never once seen him raise his voice or get angry. He was always mild-mannered and calm, and he had a great sense of humor.
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Fabiano L Bezerra
7/8/2023 04:59:51 pm
Sometimes we are lucky to meet angels in this life, I can say that I am one of those people for having had the privilege of knowing Joe, first I met him as one of my customers, when I worked as his electrician and soon after, I became one of your patients. Joe was a special doctor, you could see that he did what he loved, the attention he always had for me every time I needed him was something incomparable. Joe my friend, wherever you are I will never forget you, you are an example of a human being. My prayers and thoughts will be with you and your family. Thanks for everything and may God give all strength to endure this very difficult time.
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Martha LaRocca
7/8/2023 05:23:30 pm
I have known Dr. Farnese good reputation and genuine caring for his patients for years. He was so dedicated to his profession and will be greatly missed. To the Farnese family I pray God gives you strength and comfort in the days ahead.. God has all the answers. You are in my thoughts and prayers. My sincere condolences
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7/9/2023 03:37:02 pm
Dear Dr Joe, you and Geoff made a signal difference in our lives. You will be sorely missed. Thanks for all you have done for us and for all.
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Joseph Tuzzolino
7/10/2023 12:15:24 pm
So sad, such a loss of a fantastic Man & Dr. Will miss him greatly.
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Gary Dee
7/14/2023 04:39:57 am
Joe's was a life well lived.
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Benjamin P Eng
7/14/2023 11:27:54 am
Really shocked to hear of Joe's passing. I've been seeing him since he started his practice there. My condolences to his family and brother, Dr Jeff Farnese
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Tina Lombardo
7/20/2023 06:50:17 am
Even tho Dr joe wasn’t my dr, just his presence in the office was always a warm and welcoming. He was amazing at everything he did and life’s a wonderful life and it’s so upsetting that it was cut short. Rest in peace Dr joe.
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Sandra Bolcar
8/1/2023 10:13:17 am
It is with heavy hearts that Bob and I wish Robin and her girls all of the strength they can muster to understand this terrible tragedy in their lives. Dr. Joe was not only our doctor but a friend. He will be sorely missed as we cherished him as our doctor and appreciated his expertise and availability to us at all times. He was a loved friend and always cheerful and giving. We are still finding it hard to digest the terrible news and can't believe he is gone. RIP Joe. xo
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8/2/2023 07:54:48 am
I'm sorry to hear about Dr. Farnese. I have fond memories of him. He dedicated his life to the care of others. He was a brilliant physician and great pilot. I flew with him many times over the years - he loved aviation. My heartfelt condolences to the Farnese family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
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