Joseph Howard Zavarelli

Missoula - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Joseph Howard Zavarelli (69), affectionately known as Joe, Joey, and Papa Joe. He passed away peacefully at home on January 7, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Joe is survived by his three sons, Pete (Rachel), Mike (Stephanie), and Ryan (Tiffanie); six grandchildren; and his siblings Rick, Kammy, Johnny, Rocky, Alane, Barb, Julie, and Linda. He also leaves behind more friends than we can count. Joe is preceded in death by his loving wife, RaeLynn; his grandson, Dylan; his parents, Ermindo and Selma; stepmother Nell; and siblings Jerry, Robert, and Frank. Even as his time was cut short, Joe filled the world with his true Italian spirit. He loved his family and friends with all his heart and was always ready to spend quality time with them. A jack of all trades, he had a passion for music, model trains, the Raiders, and an impressive movie collection. Some of Joe’s favorite times of year included a special boys-only fishing trip to Georgetown Lake, filled with laughter and countless fish stories, as well as a week-long trip with his family and closest friends to Seeley Lake, where he cherished camping and making unforgettable memories with his boys and grandchildren. Countless memories have been made throughout Joe's life, and many stories will be fondly remembered by his friends and family. A Celebration of Life will take place on January 26th at noon, at the Sunrise Saloon. Please join us for a potluck as we honor and remember him.

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