Joseph Certo was born on March 24, 1944, to the late Mauro and Angeline Panucci Certo in Pittsburgh, PA and passed peacefully on December 27, 2024. He graduated from Montour High School (1962) and from the University of Miami, Florida (1967) with a B.S. in Biology/Chemistry. He also completed post-graduate work at Duquesne University and Penn State University.
He has been married to Gwen Louise Zeisloft since March 7, 1970. Joe is survived by his three children: Jeanine Louise of Bradenton, FL; Joseph Mauro (Theresa) of North Olmsted, OH; and Laura Michelle of Bradenton, FL, and three grandchildren: Daniel, Brendan, Caitlin, and sister, Armida Conley (Richard) of Madisonville, TN.
Joe was born and raised in Pittsburgh and moved permanently to Bradenton, FL in 2005 after retiring. He spent his entire 31-year career in the pharmaceutical business with Merck & Co. Inc. in a variety of therapeutic areas, retiring as an Executive Health Science Associate, setting up studies in cardiology.
Joe was very passionate about being involved with his church and community. He was active and took a leadership role in several churches: Christ United Methodist Church, Hamilton Presbyterian Church as Deacon and Elder, both in Pittsburgh; Westminster Presbyterian Church as an Elder and Church Treasurer; Harvest United Methodist Church; and currently is a member of Peace Presbyterian Church in Lakewood Ranch, Florida.
He was also active in the community where he resided, serving with the Bethel Park Volunteer Fire Company for over 53 years in various positions. He served as President for 17 years, Deputy Chief for 6 years, and Assistant Chief for 2 years and is a Life Member. He excelled and had the highest respect of the members in each of these roles.
He also served as President of the Water Oak HOA and The Ridge of Crossing Creek HOA in Bradenton. He and Gwen worked together for 11 years as Standardized Patients at the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Lakewood Ranch, FL. Most recently he resided at The Summit of Lakewood Ranch Assisted Living Facility, was on the Safety Committee and served as an Ambassador to new residents there.
Additionally, he and Gwen volunteered at Beth El Farmworker Ministry locally.
His other interests included "O" Gauge model trains, Corvettes, deep sea fishing, deer hunting in Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh sports teams, playing poker, Uno, Rummikub, and corn hole, growing pineapples, and RV traveling across the USA with his family for many years and many miles. He was most proud of his nearly 55 years of marriage to Gwen, and his beloved children and grandchildren, spending time with them locally or via frequent Zoom conversations with them in Ohio. An avid dog lover, he was loved by two German Shepherds and has been Pappy to numerous greyhounds.
A Celebration of Joe's Life will be held on Saturday, February 1 at Peace Presbyterian Church, 12705 State Road 64 East, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34212 at 11 AM. A service of remembrance will be hosted by the Bethel Park Volunteer Fire Company at the Bethel Park Community Center, 5151 Park Avenue, on Sunday, March 23 from 1-4 PM. All are welcome to attend both events.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Peace Presbyterian Church; Bethel Park Volunteer Fire Company 5213 Brightwood Road, Bethel Park, PA 15102; Tidewell Hospice, 3355 26th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34205; or The Summit of Lakewood Ranch, 11705 Evening Walk Drive, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 26th St Chapel, 5624 26th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34207 is in charge of arrangements.
