Forever In the Hearts They Leave Behind

Joseph “Joe” Raco

August 7, 1938 – January 19, 2026


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Joseph Raco of Mesa, Arizona passed away on January 19th 2026 and is now reunited with the light of his life, wife of 38 years, Elizabeth Raco (predeceased).  He was a beloved father, grandfather, brother and uncle, and a cherished friend to a wide assortment of colorful characters. Joe was known for his unique sense of humor, unparalleled story-telling, and distinct personal style.  Joe made an indelible impression on those who had the good fortune to know and love him.  His was a life well lived. Flowers gratefully declined. We ask that you share fond memories and expressions of sympathy.

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  1. Vinny aschieri says:

    I miss you joe are talks and time together was always the best of times and in the tuff times are love and advice always got us threw it godbless my pal joey

  2. Denise Marchese says:

    One of my Fathers favorite friends!! I considered him my Uncle!!! Joe, I love you with all my heart. I am at peace knowing you are with Liz, Dino & Lill 🩷
    You are already greatly MISSED!!
    🩷 Denise & Sonny

  3. Nellie Meyers says:

    Joe Raco was my brother in law and was always a person who stood by you and befriended you. He would continue his friendship and concern well after my divorce through his phone calls. What he wanted most was to be with the love of his life Liz. Finally reunited with her. RIP Joe🥰🙏

  4. Amanda K…. Buffalo Love ❤️🤍💙 says:

    Sorry to see you go Joe, thanks for the talks and the memories. You can now be with the love of your life again. May you rest in peace together

  5. Oliver Frazzini says:

    So grateful to have had a friend like you Joe. I’m going to miss all the talks and laughs we had throughout the years.R.I.P. God welcome my friend home!!!

  6. Carlo “ Chuck” Lorretto-Watson says:

    Joe was the first person I met last year when I moved into Sage. My fob stopped working and he opened the door so I could come in. I’m a “ snowbird” from Chicago and we hit it off right away. Joe was the life of the party at Sage. When he wasn’t around the place simply went dead. I will surely miss him. He was so full of life. Condolences to his daughters and extended family. May he rest

  7. Mardy says:

    Joe was a great and friendly neighbor. Enjoyed visiting with him and mondo, another close friend and neighbor. Joe and his grandson came to see me, loved my dog. Joe was a good friend. Thankful I got know him.

  8. Kathy Zurek says:

    To Joe’s family we just wanted to say what a great guy. My Mom Patricia Wolfe moved to Sage and he made her feel so welcomed. Enjoyed the Happy Hours with him. He also welcomed us with open arms Pat’s daughters Jamie, Debbie and Kathy. He will be truly missed.

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Joseph “Joe” Raco

August 7, 1938 – January 19, 2026


Share Obituary:

Send Flowers Print Obituary

Joseph Raco of Mesa, Arizona passed away on January 19th 2026 and is now reunited with the light of his life, wife of 38 years, Elizabeth Raco (predeceased).  He was a beloved father, grandfather, brother and uncle, and a cherished friend to a wide assortment of colorful characters. Joe was known for his unique sense of humor, unparalleled story-telling, and distinct personal style.  Joe made an indelible impression on those who had the good fortune to know and love him.  His was a life well lived. Flowers gratefully declined. We ask that you share fond memories and expressions of sympathy.

Share Obituary:

Send Flowers Print Obituary
  1. Vinny aschieri says:

    I miss you joe are talks and time together was always the best of times and in the tuff times are love and advice always got us threw it godbless my pal joey

  2. Denise Marchese says:

    One of my Fathers favorite friends!! I considered him my Uncle!!! Joe, I love you with all my heart. I am at peace knowing you are with Liz, Dino & Lill 🩷
    You are already greatly MISSED!!
    🩷 Denise & Sonny

  3. Nellie Meyers says:

    Joe Raco was my brother in law and was always a person who stood by you and befriended you. He would continue his friendship and concern well after my divorce through his phone calls. What he wanted most was to be with the love of his life Liz. Finally reunited with her. RIP Joe🥰🙏

  4. Amanda K…. Buffalo Love ❤️🤍💙 says:

    Sorry to see you go Joe, thanks for the talks and the memories. You can now be with the love of your life again. May you rest in peace together

  5. Oliver Frazzini says:

    So grateful to have had a friend like you Joe. I’m going to miss all the talks and laughs we had throughout the years.R.I.P. God welcome my friend home!!!

  6. Carlo “ Chuck” Lorretto-Watson says:

    Joe was the first person I met last year when I moved into Sage. My fob stopped working and he opened the door so I could come in. I’m a “ snowbird” from Chicago and we hit it off right away. Joe was the life of the party at Sage. When he wasn’t around the place simply went dead. I will surely miss him. He was so full of life. Condolences to his daughters and extended family. May he rest

  7. Mardy says:

    Joe was a great and friendly neighbor. Enjoyed visiting with him and mondo, another close friend and neighbor. Joe and his grandson came to see me, loved my dog. Joe was a good friend. Thankful I got know him.

  8. Kathy Zurek says:

    To Joe’s family we just wanted to say what a great guy. My Mom Patricia Wolfe moved to Sage and he made her feel so welcomed. Enjoyed the Happy Hours with him. He also welcomed us with open arms Pat’s daughters Jamie, Debbie and Kathy. He will be truly missed.

Best of 2024 East Valley Tribune
Best of 2025 East Valley Tribune