Joseph J. Radovich
SARATOGA SPRINGS —Joseph J. Radovich peacefully passed away on Friday, September 13, 2024, just one day before his 89th birthday, surrounded by his loving family. Joe was born in 1935 in Vir, Yugoslavia (modern-day Croatia), the son of the late Simica and Josef Radovic.
Upon immigrating to the United States, Joe embarked on a variety of jobs. Though he dreamed of becoming a jockey, his stature led him to a different path in the horse-racing world. He became a horse trainer at the Saratoga Harness Track, where one of his most cherished memories was racing and winning with his favorite horse, Angelina—an unforgettable highlight of his life.
Joe spent 30 years as a machinist at GE in Schenectady. A skilled carpenter, he remodeled many homes, including his own, and enjoyed woodworking in his workshop, where he crafted heirloom pieces for his family. An avid gardener, Joe took great pride in nurturing his plants.
He was a warm, loving man, proud to be a naturalized American citizen. Known for his welcoming smile and infectious laughter, Joe touched the lives of many.
His greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Rachel Parisi Radovich; daughters, Kelly (George) Smith and Kimberly (George) Boege; and his son, Joseph (Karin) Radovich. Joe also leaves behind his granddaughters, Meghan Smith (Jake Vainosky), Elizabeth (Bjorn) Grandall, Richelle Donovan, and Sarah Radovich, as well as his grandsons, Joseph and Gabriel Radovich. Additionally, he is survived by his brother, cousins, and nephews in Croatia.
Joseph was predeceased by his parents, his sister, and his grandson, Justin Smith.
A graveside service will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 20, at Greenridge Cemetery, located at 17 Greenridge Pl., Saratoga Springs.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the nurses on D2 at Saratoga Hospital, as well as the Saratoga Springs Fire and Police Departments.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Joseph’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice, or you may plant a tree in his honor through Compassionate Funeral Care’s website at www.compassionatefuneralcare.com.