Joseph F Vastano

Joseph "Joe" Francis Vastano, 81, passed away on May 27, 2026, surrounded by the love and support of his family. A devoted father, grandfather, veteran, educator, aviator and friend, Joe lived a life marked by service, compassion, and a deep love for those around him.

Joe is survived by his loving daughter, Dawn Keator, and son-in-law Chris Keator of Forked River, NJ; his son, Bret Vastano, and daughter-in-law Elizabeth Vastano of Wayne, NJ; and his six cherished grandchildren, Ashley (Eddie Leuchs, fiancé), Mikey, Julia, Sarah, Stephen, and Sean. He was also the proud great-grandfather of Mikaela and Lilah treasuring their mother, Kaitlyn De Gaglia.

He is further survived by his sisters-in-law, Marie Houston, and Elizabeth Mazzella; his nephew Andrew Mazzella and family, and niece Melissa Houston. Joe was loved dearly by many extended family members and friends.  He shared a special bond with his beloved bulldog, Pearl, whom he rescued from the Burlington County Animal Shelter.

Joe was predeceased by his beloved wife of 37 years, Josephine Vastano; his parents, Charles and Dora Vastano; his brother, Julius Vastano; and his brother-in-law, Frank Mazzella.

Born in Englewood, NJ in 1944, Joe was raised in Ridgefield, NJ and graduated from Ridgefield High School. He went on to earn a Bachelor's Degree from Oklahoma State University and a Master's Degree in Nutrition from Rutgers University.

Joe proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy, completing two years of active duty during the Vietnam War and continuing his service in the U.S. Naval Reserves for 18 years. He retired after 20 years of dedicated military service.

A lifelong educator, Joe devoted 40 years to Middlesex County College, where he served as a Professor in the Department of Hospitality, Culinary Arts, and Dietetics from 1973 until his retirement in 2014. His impact on students and colleagues alike was lasting and profound.

Joe was also an FAA-certified flight instructor, reflecting his deep passion for aviation. In his personal life, he found great joy in attending his grandchildren's school and sporting events—moments that brought him immense pride as a devoted "Poppy." He enjoyed flying, riding his motorcycle, playing the banjo, and listening to music. He loved cooking and hosting family gatherings, tending to his lawn, and searching for hidden treasures at flea markets and yard sales.  He was a member of the American Legion and generously gave his time volunteering with the Lanoka Harbor EMS.

Joe was also a co-author of two textbooks: The Vastano Educational Guide to Food Production and Service and The Cook's Healthy Handbook, which he wrote alongside his beloved wife, Josephine, and his son, Bret—an accomplishment that reflected both his professional expertise and dedication to his family.

Family and friends are invited to attend visitation on Friday, June 5, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at Layton's Funeral Home in Forked River, NJ. Services and interment will follow at 12:30 PM at the Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Arneytown, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Burlington County Animal Shelter in Westampton Township, NJ, in honor of Joe's love for animals.

Official Website (https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/168/Animal-Shelter).

Direct link to place donations: Animal Shelter Donations - Intellistack (https://burlingtoncountynj.formstack.com/forms/animal_shelter_donations) 

Joe's legacy of love, service, and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

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