Joseph John Yanagisawa passed away at the age of 70 on Friday September 4th from a heart attack. He was surrounded by loved ones in NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and passed away peacefully. He resided in Wayne Township and was a long time member of the Packanack Lake Community.

Joseph was an incredible father and grandfather. He leaves behind 2 daughters, Jamie Yanagisawa and Julie Tyrell, and 7 grandchildren. He loved being a grandfather and his grandchildren loved him whole heartedly. Joe also leaves behind 3 siblings, Patricia Keane, David Yanagisawa, and JoAnne Yanagisawa. He was predeceased by his father, Dr. Kazuo Yanagisawa, his mother, Dr. Eugenia Fujita Yanagisawa, and his sister, Genie Bell. 

Joe was born in New York City. But, he grew up in Bergenfield, NJ and spent summers in Berkeley, CA. After being drafted and serving his country in the Vietnam war in the signal core 2nd division 7th calvary. He graduated from William Patterson University. Joseph was a phenomenal hockey player and played for William Paterson and other leagues. Joseph was a dedicated employee of Goldman Sachs for 47 years as a Vice President and the Head of e-Discovery and Special Investigations. Joe was an avid tennis player. He played at the Packanack Lake Tennis Club and other leagues. He loved going to NY Giants games with friends and family. 

Joseph brought light wherever he went, he was the rock in all situations, dependable, selfless, honest, and would stay calm and collected in the toughest situations.

Per Joe’s wishes, no funeral or service will be held. To celebrate his life, the family asks that contributions be made to Husky House in Joe Yanagisawa’s memory or any other animal shelter. He loved animals. If you would like to share a memory, a story, and/or any pictures, please send it to joe.yanagisawa.memories@gmail.com.