Joseph R. Schipani, age 97 of Cascade, MI passed away Tuesday, March 17, 2026, and was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Miranda Schipani; his daughter, Sabrina Salisbury; and his grandson, Anthony Schipani, Jr. Though his absence leaves an immeasurable void, his family finds comfort in knowing he is now reunited in Christ and joyfully embraced by those who went before him.
Joe is survived by his children, Anthony Schipani and Miria (Johnny) Rabideau; his daughter‑in‑law, Heather Schipani; and his son‑in‑law, Wesley Salisbury. He leaves behind fifteen grandchildren—Michael (Jennifer), Joseph, Nicholas, and Dominic Schipani; James, Sarina, Marc, Mia, and Samuel Rabideau; Isabella (Daniel) Vincent; Korinne (Joey) Mullins; and Dante Salisbury—and three great‑grandchildren, Alayna, Avery, and Adalai Schipani, each of whom brought him immense pride and joy. They were proud to call him Papa Joe and Papaw. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and friends who loved him dearly.
Born on December 6, 1928, in Robey, West Virginia, a small coal-mining town, Joe was the son of Italian immigrants, Antonio and Assunta Schipani. At just 17, he left home for Detroit, Michigan, in pursuit of a better life. A few years later, he was drafted into the United States Army, where he served honorably during the Korean War from 1951 to 1953. Upon returning home, Joe began his accounting career at Ford Motor Company, where he devoted 35 and a half years of loyal, hardworking service.
Joe lived a life grounded in faith, humility, and unwavering devotion to family. He had a gift for making people feel welcome—whether through his stories, his collection of lighthearted t‑shirts, or the easy laughter that followed him everywhere he went. He found joy in life’s simplest blessings: tending his garden, playing euchre, and gathering with loved ones to watch old home movies with country music humming in the background. To know Joe was to know warmth, steadiness, and a quiet kind of heroism. He will be remembered as a legend, a protector, and a truly “good ole soul”.
Visitation will be held from Noon to 5:00 PM on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at O’Brien‑Eggebeen‑Gerst Funeral Home, 3980 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:30 AM on Monday, March 23, 2026, at St. Robert of Newminster Catholic Church, 6477 Ada Dr. SE, Ada, MI 49301 with a visitation beginning at 10:00 AM. Entombment Resurrection Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Robert of Newminster Catholic Church, “Children’s Memorial Garden (Joe Schipani)” in the Memo field.
Joe lived a long, meaningful, and beautifully intentional life. He was among the last of the Silent Generation, defined by discipline, resilience, loyalty, a strong work ethic, and an unshakable devotion to family. His legacy lives on in each of us, in the countless lives he touched, and in the love he leaves behind.
3 Responses
Joe was always a joy to be around. He had a strong foundation of faith and family. It was an honor to have had the opportunity to spend time with him and get to know him. He was a charismatic, thoughtful, and kind person with a great sense of humor.
My condolences to the Rabideau family, Anthony, and all the grandkids. I love you guys, and my prayers are with you all.
It was a great joy to see him and listen to stories when he came to the Lumberport High School reunion. I remember his laugh the way he enjoyed the grands who came to visit with him as well. Sam remembers the times he would come to visit WV and how he always brought a toy. We will miss you Joe. Love to all the family. Rest easy our friend.
What fond memories we have of Uncle Joe while enjoying numerous family gathering when growing up in the Michigan/Ohio area. Truly a family oriented guy! Love from the cousins on the West Coast.