Joseph Martin Giovacchini

Friday, Feb. 17, 2017

Oct. 21, 1926 – Feb. 4, 2017

Our loving and beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend, Joe, passed away peacefully in his home Feb. 4.

Born in Salt Lake City, he was the only child of Gino and Minnie Giovacchini, who raised him to be the uniquely gifted, kind and genuine man he was.

He married his special angel, Maxine Rino, on April 6, 1951. They spent a blessed life together, raised a strong and close family, provided service to others in their pharmacies, and were active in many organizations in their community. 

Joe excelled academically, athletically and musically, honoring his family’s strong work ethic. He graduated at 15 from West High School, attended George Washington University and graduated in 1947 in pharmacy.

Joe was the ultimate professional pharmacist. He owned three neighborhood pharmacies, where patrons came to know him as personable, knowledgeable and thorough. He provided pharmacy care to St. Joseph Villa residents for many years. Throughout his career, he received numerous professional recognitions from the Utah and American pharmaceutical associations.

He was a longtime member of St. Ambrose Parish; his faith was strong and central to his life. He was involved in the parish council, fundraising, ushering at Sunday Mass, and was the current president of the 49er Club. He was a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus. He loved coaching in the youth sports program, and had a tremendous positive impact on the lives of many. 

His family was his greatest joy. Joe and Maxine loved to dance, bowl and go to Wendover together. He was proud of his children and grandchildren. He travelled the country and world to visit, to celebrate graduations, and to watch them play their chosen sports. Everyone enjoyed trips to the bowling alley and golf course, and many late-night Canasta games. His great-granddaughters giggled when Grampy could always find a quarter behind their ears. While strong-minded and tough, he modeled how true strength emanates from gentle kindness. 

He is survived by his sweetheart, Maxie; sons and daughters-in-law Marty and Robyn, Paul and Tanya, and Joey and Frannie; grandchildren Tony (Kate), David (Coral), Michael, Nick, Dan, Marcus, Lizzie and Derek; great-granddaughters Giuliana and Emilia; sister-in-law Evelyn O’Donnell (Richard - deceased), brother in-law Ed Rino (Linda) and many cherished nieces and nephews.

A memorial Mass was celebrated at St. Ambrose Catholic Church on Feb. 10.

The family suggests donations to Shriners Hospital for Children in Salt Lake City, online at shrinershospitalsforchildren.org, or the St. Ambrose building fund.