Joseph B. Desto, 78, of Worcester, a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 18, 2021.

Joseph was born on June 2, 1942 in Worcester, Massachusetts and was preceded in death by his father, Joseph B. Desto, Sr., and his mother, Louise T. (Bisceglia) Desto. He was a graduate of Commerce High School. He then enlisted in the United States Army, where he honorably served his country.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Patricia A. (Howard) Desto; his son, Gregg J. Desto and his wife Jennifer of Charlton; two daughters, Deborah J. Desto-Kozlowski of Worcester, and Deanna M. Hajos and her husband Gabor of Holden; a brother, Robert A. Desto and his wife Jean of Boylston, a sister, Theresa Manna of Shrewsbury; seven grandchildren, Matthew, Patrick, Alyssa, Gabrielle, Dominic, Alex, and AJ; three great grandchildren, Anthony, Christian and Ollie, and many nieces and nephews.

Joe was also a dog lover, and he leaves his many beloved four-legged friends. He had a very special connection with his rescue dog, Lizzie.

Joe worked as a sales rep for Nestle USA for over 30 years and served as a past president of GMS of Worcester County. He enjoyed many hobbies including golf, reading about military history, watching sports and tending to his rose gardens.

He was an excellent youth sports coach who had just the right mix of competitiveness and compassion. He coached his kids’ teams to numerous championships over the years. He also loved to cook and was an outstanding, self-taught cook. He was especially skillful on the grill and would gladly let you know that his creations were the best you would ever taste.

Joe’s faith was very important part of his life. He was a devoted Catholic who, no matter where he was, never missed a week of church. And he humbly lived his faith. He was an incredibly devoted family man who put others first, especially family, every single day of his life.

Family and friends are invited to MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 22, 2021. Joe’s funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. in St. Stephens Church, 357 Grafton Street, Worcester. Burial will follow to Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton.