SYRACUS — On Friday, January 13, 2023, in Erin’s loving arms, Joe (Mars) Marinelli, age 78, peacefully passed. His worn-out, much-used heart simply couldn’t keep up with him any longer despite his strong desire to go one more furlong. Joe wasn’t ready to leave us, and we are not ready to say goodbye. There is comfort in knowing that Joe never wanted to be an old man. He wasn’t meant for it, and he won’t be remembered that way. He left this life a handsome, smart, and vibrant man and without a doubt looking over his shoulder thinking “Erin, you know what we should have done” one last time.
His loved ones are left simply stunned that an infection in the hospital was what took him. We thought for sure it would be the point spread in a damn Patriots game that would do him in.
Born in Syracuse, he was the son of the late Anthony and Carmella Marinelli. He was known for his big, beautiful smile, his quick wit, sharp tongue, impeccable style and kind, generous heart. A stand-up man without doubt, Joe truly believed that if you are not living on the edge, you’re just taking up too much space. He was loved by many but more importantly admired by all.
What a life he fully lived. From Syracuse to New York to Florida to California to Boston and finally in Saratoga Springs (with a hundred more stops along the way), all the while collecting hundreds of dear friends. A true lover of life, music, and people, Joe was never one to suffer fools or anything that might get in the way of a good time. If asked what he did for work he’d let you know that he did “whatever needed to be done” and that a job is a way to pay for living, and that’s it. It does not define the person and certainly not happiness if you are living the right way surrounded by the right people. Joe once said, “I’d rather live one day as a lion than a thousand days as a sheep,” and he did. When you were with Joe you were in for a good time and if you were lucky, he’d cook for you. This was one of the many ways he showed his love. Now if you weren’t so lucky you were in the passenger seat of his car - for those of you that experienced this just think; he took enough years off our lives with sheer terror that we’ll be with him that much sooner.
All that loved Joe will be left with an immense void. He will especially be deeply missed by his love, Erin Ennis. Her three children, Colin Dreyer (Nichole Mangona), Grace Ennis, and Liam Dreyer. And of course, his precious newborn grandson Colt. All whom he loved beyond measure and generously imparted his wisdom and affection upon every day of their lives. Remember, he’d say “Nothing good comes easy, just put your head down and keep grinding.”
He leaves a brother and sister-in-law, Anthony and Lynn Marinelli; Erin’s sisters and their families, and her parents, whom will all greatly miss Joe’s deep love for hosting family gatherings which resulted in deeper bonds and precious memories. His many nieces, nephews, and more dear friends than we can count, that were his family in his heart.
At one time I simply asked who in the world still talks to basically everyone they went to elementary school with and had met moving forward for their entire life? Incredulously, he answered: “Italians. We change our clothes, not our friends.” And everyone was a fast friend. He is predeceased by a brother, Michael Marinelli, a sister-in-law Patricia, and niece Mary.
At Joe’s request, there will be no calling hours or services. A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on Saturday, January 28, 2023 at 6 p.m. at the Principessa Elena Society at 13 Oak St. in Saratoga Springs. Joe loved the Principessa and the friendships he made there. Nothing made him happier than bringing people together with a good meal and a strong cocktail. And again, on Monday, February 6, 2023 at 3 p.m. at Vito’s Ristorante, 320 E. First St., E. Syracuse, NY. Friends and family are welcome to attend.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Joseph “Mars” Marinelli please visit tjpfuneralhome.com.
