Joseph Anthony Ferrari, Sr., 73, of Battle Creek, passed away Monday, May 22, 2017 at his home. He was born February 10, 1944 in Battle Creek, the son of Paul and Etheline (Davidson) Ferrari. As a teenager, Joe was a Michigan speed skating champion and won his fair share of eating contests throughout his life. Joe married Marilyn Dailey on February 1, 1969 in Battle Creek. He started his working career at Ferrari's Sewing Center, his dad's store. There he learned customer service and sales skills that served him throughout his life, as he and the love of his life, Marilyn, flea marketed around the area for many years. Joe held several other jobs around Battle Creek and Kalamazoo, making friends and memories along the way. When Joe wasn't selling something, he was fishing, bringing home a mess of blue gills for Marilyn to cook, like no one else can. He loved good music, loved to dance and was always the life of the party. Many will remember Joe’s house on Cohasset, decorated for Christmas with he and Marilyn as Mr. and Mrs. Clause, handing out candy canes. He won the Enquirer's prize for best decorated. Joe amazed everyone, doctors, nurses, friends and family with the tenacity with which he battled his cancer and held on to life and his loved ones.
He is survived by his wife, Marilyn; children, Paul Johnson, Deborah (Lance) Riska, and Joseph Ferrari, Jr.; grandson, Bryce; and a step-sister, Judy Burrill.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
At Joe's request, there will be no formal services. A memorial celebration will be announced by the family at a later date.