Joseph Sacco

Albion: It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph Sacco, Sr. He passed away unexpectedly on November 4, 2025. He was born August 21, 1936 in Albion to the late Rose and Peter Sacco.

Joe was a very devoted husband, father, and grandfather “Popi”, and his family was his world. He was a 1955 graduate of Albion High School and furthered his education at Ithaca College and Eastman School of Music. Joe met the love of his life, Sandra Robertson on a bus ride to work in Rochester. They went out to lunch, and the rest was history. They married on May 17, 1958, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Holley and would go on to have four children, Jody Lynn, Theresa, Joe and John. Throughout his life he had many careers, working for Brinks, the Albion Police Department where he retired with the rank of Sargeant, Transportation Director at the Albion Central School District and finally retired as Transportation Director for the Genesee County Arc, after many years.

Joe also served his community as trustee and mayor. Serving as a trustee beginning in April of 1985 and mayor from 1986 until his retirement in 1991. During his time as mayor, Joe saw many new developments and projects, such as Crimson Heights, Oak Orchard Community Health Center and the Genesee Community College satellite campus in Albion. He was devoted to his community, advocating for upgraded local infrastructure and beautification projects.

Having raised Jody Lynn, their daughter with Down Syndrome, she inspired Joe and Sandra to co-found Camp Rainbow, a camp devoted to celebrating and supporting children with special needs.

Joe was also an accomplished musician, starting The Joe Sacco Band then The Blue Notes. He played the clarinet, saxophone and piano. With his hands, he played at many local venues including the Apple Grove, and the Village Inn. He also enjoyed playing at weddings, singing at funerals, and the church on Christmas morning. Joe was also a very enthusiastic sports fan including the Buffalo Bills, New York Yankees and the New York Knicks.

Joe was predeceased by his parents, his brother Pat, and daughter Jody Lynn.

By far Joe’s greatest accomplishment was being a Popi! Watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow brought him so much joy!

Left to survive his legacy is his beloved wife of 67 years Sandra, his children Theresa (Tom) O’Hearn, Joe (Chantelle) Sacco, John Sacco, grandchildren, Heather (Jared) Hapeman, Patrick (Kristy) O’Hearn, Briana (Matt) Hurtgam, Gino (Mackenzie Cowan) Sacco, Nicholas (Kenzie Muck) Sacco, Christopher (Aly Snow) Sacco, his precious great-grandchildren Coraline. Cameron, Graham, Charlotte, Evelyn, and Matthew as well as his sister Gina (Walter) Boothby.

Joe’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Sunday, November 9th from 1:00-4:00pm. His Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Family Parish-St. Joseph’s Church W. Park St. Albion, NY 14411 on Monday at 11:00am. Interment will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Arc GLOW or the Sacco Family Music Scholarship fund C/O Albion High School Alumni Foundation, Inc. PO Box 345 Albion, NY 14411in memory of Joe.

To share a special memory of Joe, visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.