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NAPLES, Fla. -- It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Joseph "Joe" Fitori, a man who touched so many with his love, kindness and humor.
Joe was born on Nov. 8, 1941, in Boardman, Ohio, and transitioned out of this life peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, on Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026, at the age of 84.
Joe was the first of five children born to Reynard and Virginia Fitori, who instilled in him a strong work ethic, love for family and a lifelong love of learning. He grew up in Boardman and graduated from high school there before going on to Youngstown State University. He became the first in the Fitori family to graduate from college -- a proud milestone for him and his parents. It was at Youngstown State that he met the love of his life, Kay Spear, beginning a marriage that would span 64 remarkable years.
Joe spent 10 years in pharmaceutical sales and marketing, a career that took Joe, Kay and their growing family across the Northeast--from Boardman to Pittsburgh and New York City. After leaving pharma, Joe took a job in Chicago that unexpectedly went south, prompting the family's move to Overland Park, Kansas, where he was given the opportunity, through a friend and partner, to join ACE Pallet Service. Over the next 20 years, Joe grew the business, eventually buying the small company outright and expanding its success over another 20 years -- a testament to the work ethic and determination instilled in him from childhood.
Joe and Kay retired to Naples, Florida, where he was a devoted parishioner at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and a longtime member of Pelican Marsh Golf Club. Golf was a lifelong passion -- Joe played competitively on both his high school and college golf teams, and remarkably, he was among the select few to score both a hole-in-one and a double eagle in his lifetime. Ever determined, he began shooting his age annually starting at 69 years old, a feat he continued to celebrate for years to follow.
Outgoing, friendly, and fun-loving, Joe had a gift for making everyone around him feel like family. There was nothing he enjoyed more than spending time with his loved ones outdoors, whether he was out on the golf course or casting a line while fishing.
Joe is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Kay; their three children, Dana, Joe and Dean (Sarah); and his 11 grandchildren, including Ryan, Hannah, and Grant (children of Dana and Bruce Kips), Taylor, Joe, Gabby, and John (children of Joe and Margaret), and Chris, Jack, Michael, and Matthew (children of Dean and Sarah). He is also survived by his two great-grandchildren, Rayn (son of Ryan), and Everett (son of Taylor). He is further survived by his siblings, Renee Bitonte, and Virginia Charlotte.
He was predeceased by his parents, Reynard and Virginia Fitori, and his sister, Christine Mastramico.
In keeping with Joe's wishes, he will be cremated, and a private family service will take place, with burial in Naples Memorial Gardens under the care of Hodges Funeral Home.
Joe's legacy of kindness, humor, determination and generosity will be carried forward by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His remarkable life stands as a testament to the power of an indomitable spirit, fueled by curiosity and resilience. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered.
(special notice)