Joseph (Joe) Tristani, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, March 11 2026. Born on October 7th, 1941, in Fairmont, West Virginia, Joe was a lifelong resident of the area. Joe attended Miller Grade School, Fairmont Senior High School, and was an exceptional basketball player throughout high school and into college at Fairmont State University. He proudly served his country in the United States Army Reserves and remained deeply proud of his time in the military.

Joe had a passion for learning and was always eager to share his knowledge with others. He was an expert carpenter and handyman by trade and had a particular love for woodworking. Many of his creations made in his home workshop have been staple pieces in family and friends' homes for years throughout the country. Joe’s love for sports, particularly football and basketball, was a constant throughout his life. He had a passion for the University of Notre Dame Football and Fairmont State basketball, where both he and his son Brian played. Joe’s home was always a gathering place for friends and family to come and eat, talk, or watch a sports game. ​​No one ever left his home hungry or empty handed.

Joe is survived by his one son, Brian (Fiancé Jennifer) Tristani; granddaughters, Abigail (Nate) Bodart, Anna Tristani, and Ella (Nick) Klavekoske; great-grandson, Archie Tris Bodart; sister, Gilda Coombs; nephew James Coombs; James's wife, Crystal Coombs, and children, Brennen and Sophia. Joe also leaves behind many cousins and close friends who were always there for him.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Josephine Tristani; daughter-in-law, Gina Tristani; Brian's mother, Sheila Sabo-Claypoole; uncles, Felix “Fitch” Meale, Atelio “Ott” Meale, and Eugene Meale; aunts, Joan Smith, Marian Sapp, Stella Hawkinberry, and Filomena “Minnie” Amodeo.

The family would like to express a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Mon General Hospital and the Domico Funeral Home.

Friends are invited to gather with family at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 687 Maple Ter, Monongah, WV, on Saturday, March 21, from 10-11 a.m.. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. with Fr. Meo presiding. The burial will take place at a later time in Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Joe will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his loved ones.

Instead of sending flowers and gifts, please consider a contribution to The V Foundation. Our family has been directly impacted by cancer, and we have chosen to support The V Foundation for Cancer Research in Joe’s honor. The V Foundation, founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary NC State basketball coach and ESPN commentator, funds cutting‑edge research with the goal of “Victory Over Cancer.” Joe was a huge college basketball fan and had a special admiration for Coach Valvano, so supporting this foundation is a meaningful way to remember him and help others facing cancer. Here's the link to contribute: https://everloved.com/life-of…

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