Obituary of Joseph Dotro

Joseph Dotro, of Florham Park, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 27, 2025 at home. He was 88.

Joseph is survived by his beloved wife, Rosa Dotro (née Martirano); two sons, Frank Dotro and his wife Beth & Joseph Dotro; two grandchildren, Daniel Dotro and his fiancée Emma & Joseph Dotro; one great-grandson, Patrick Dotro; and one brother, Ralph Doto and his wife Anna.

In addition to his parents, Joseph was predeceased by siblings, Serafino, Giosofatto, Pasquale, Antonio, Catarina & Laura.

Joseph was born in Calabria, Italy on October 19, 1936 to the late Francesco and Maria Rosa Dotro. He married his beloved wife Rosa and 1958 before emigrating to the United States in 1959. The couple first lived in Newark for ten years, prior to settling in Madison in 1969 where they raised their family.

Joseph established the Continental Barbershop in Florham Park with two partners, also named Joe. Joseph was soon referred to as “Joe by the window” due to his barber chair’s proximity to the window. He made many lifelong friendships with his patrons and he enjoyed his work tremendously. Joseph retired in 2009.

Joseph was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. He worked hard to provide a good life for his family. He enjoyed being outside working in his garden, making wine in the fall, and making his own sausage. Joseph especially enjoyed every minute spent with his grandsons. 

Joseph will be deeply missed by his family and friends, but we all take comfort in knowing he is at peace.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend a visitation for Joseph on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Madison Memorial Home, 159 Main Street, Madison.

All may gather at the funeral home starting at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 prior to a funeral service beginning at 10:00 a.m. held at the funeral home.

Entombment will follow at Ocean County Memorial Park, 1722 Silverton Road, Toms River, NJ.