Joseph Campagna
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Joseph's obituary
February 19, 1955 - March 31, 2023
Joseph Campagna Jr., beloved Father and lifelong resident of Hackensack, New Jersey, left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His passions, talents, and unwavering love for music defined his extraordinary life. Joseph left this world for his next journey on March 31, 2023, after a 7-month-long battle with brain cancer. Joseph was the son of the late Ida Gilio Campagna and Joseph Campagna Sr. of Hackensack.
Musical Journey:
Possessing inherent musical talent and creativity, Joseph attended the prestigious Mannes School of Music in New York. There, he honed his skills as a jazz musician, mastering every instrument he touched. His favorites included the upright bass, saxophone, French horn, and clarinet. His passion for Jazz was known to all, and he was an avid listener of WBGO Jazz Radio. The haunting notes and lyrics of "Waltz for Debbie" always reminded him of his cherished daughter and best friend forever, Danielle.
Creative Ventures:
Joseph's creativity knew no bounds. He established "The Bass Mint," a unique bassist museum, and opened a music shop alongside Earthentics, his Native American jewelry store. Located at 33 Essex Street, these spaces reflected his passion for both music and craftsmanship. Joseph's Native-inspired jewelry adorned many, and he mentored his daughter Danielle in the art of jewelry making through the early to late 2000s.
Author and Poet:
Writing under the pen name Dorian Shofar, Joseph self-published his 135-page poetry book, "Visions of a Meadow", in 1981. His words resonated with other fellow eccentric readers, capturing the essence of life's beauty and pain, emotional struggles, and of feeling misunderstood/not being meant for this world.
Harmonious Connections:
Joseph found joy in making music with friends, sharing melodies with his daughter, and collaborating with renowned talents like Eddie Van Halen and Jon Entwistle of The Who. His bass lines and soulful saxophone pieces echo through time, connecting hearts and souls. Joseph was a lifelong fan and admirer of Jack Bruce the bassist of Eric Clapton 's band Cream - Joseph's favorite band of all time.
Spiritual Journey:
In the 1990s, Joseph embraced Native American Lakota Sioux spiritual beliefs, leaving behind his Roman Catholic upbringing. He ventured out to New Mexico, immersed himself in tribal traditions with the Zephier family, earning the rare honor of being accepted as a brother by the tribe. The receipt of his ceremonial Eagle feathers symbolized his deep connection to their ancient wisdom.
Advocate for Justice:
Joseph was not only a musician but also a passionate peace activist. His commitment extended to various causes, including Native American rights, Civil Rights, and the Free Nelson Mandela movement. His voice echoed for justice, equality, and compassion.
Survived By:
Joseph is survived by his two loving daughters, Danielle and Tracy, who he loved more than anyone on this earth and who carry forward his legacy. His three grandchildren— Taylor, Lauren, and Joshua. Robert Bosshard , a dear friend who was like a brother to him. Joseph's spirit brother, Siouxboy Zephier, and the Zephier family of the Lakota Sioux tribe mourn his passing.
His daughters Danielle and Tracy hold the hope of fulfilling his wish and personal request for a proper Native memorial ceremony and for his ashes to fly freely in Arizona and New Mexico —a final tribute to a remarkable man who touched lives with his harmonies and intellect. Please keep his children in your thoughts and prayers that this will be a reality soon.
May Joseph's spirit continue to resonate through the notes of eternity.
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