Joseph F. Amedeo "Sonny", loving husband, beloved teacher and brilliant coach, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2014.

Joe was born July 23, 1936 in Akron to the late Joseph and Mary Amedeo. He spent most of his life in Firestone Park. He was a 1955 graduate of Garfield High School where he excelled in football and baseball. His degree from The University of Akron enabled him to pursue his passion for teaching and coaching. With his wit and engaging personality Joe was loved and admired by many. He was a man of great character and integrity. In 1987, he married the love of his life, Rita. According to Joe, the next 26 years were the best of his life. Together he and Rita enjoyed family, travel and each other. Joe looked forward to meeting his buddies on Thursday morning for breakfast where his humor took center stage. Reading, time with his grandchildren, along with watching his grandson, Vince, on the St. Vincent-St. Mary gridiron brought him joy.

Joe is loved and will be missed by his wife, Rita; brother, Ron and wife Susan; children, Joseph and wife Tamara, Carrie, Matt and wife Darlene, Shannon (deceased), Maria and husband Mike, and Chuck and wife Tera; 14 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

The family would like to express their heart felt thanks to Dr. James Fang, Dr. Guilherme Oliveira and the staff of University Hospital of Cleveland.

In lieu of flowers, Joe's wish was to give to a charity of your choice.

Calling hours will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Hennessy Funeral Home (corner of York and Main) 552 N. Main St., Akron, with a Memorial Service at 7 p.m. Private burial will be at Holy Cross Cemetery.