Joseph A Cardinale was born in Syracuse, NY in 1925, to immigrant parents from Rome and Salerno. Joe grew up in Rochester’s Dutchtown and attended Madison High School. Joe’s beloved aunt had gifted him with saxophone and clarinet lessons at the age of 6. At 14 he was actively playing in bands around town at night. In high school he played in the band and was chosen to play in the Inter High Band and remembered with pride playing in the 1940 New York World’s Fair. Upon high school graduation, he became a member of the 228th Army Groundforce Band during WWII. After the war, he went on the road with a dance band. He played Las Vegas, San Diego, Houston, all over the Midwest and here in Rochester. At one point Joe realized he needed to do more and decided to have a Plan B and get a day job. He became a residential Real Estate broker, had his own agency for a while and was very successful. He eventually joined Century 21, but never stopped his music. He continued playing in several bands all over the country on nights and weekends up until about the age of 73. He never lacked for work. He was from the big band era and played for several famous singers such as Vic De Mone, Shirley Basse, Frankie Lane, Steve Lawrence, Billy Echstein, Mel Torme, Andy Williams, Tony Bennett, Connie Haines, Helen Forest, and Peggy Lee.

Joe was predeceased by his wife, Edye. He leaves behind his cherished daughter, Frances "Fran" Cardinale, his niece, Annie (Frank) Basamania, 2 great nieces, Amanda and Liea Basamania; a great nephew, Enoch Basamania and 9 great great nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, 1:00 p.m., All Season's Chapel, White Haven Memorial Park, 210 Marsh Road, Pittsford, NY 14534.