Joe "JoePa" Vulpio

Joseph Carl Vulpio, Jr.

October 10, 1967 – August 6, 2026

Joseph Carl Vulpio, Jr., 58, of Westerville, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on August 6, 2026.

Born on October 10, 1967, in Parma, Ohio, Joe graduated from Midpark High School in 1986 and later attended The Ohio State University, beginning a lifelong love affair with the Buckeyes that never wavered.

Joe is survived by his loving wife, Marjorie Crosbie; their beloved pets, Oreo, Henry, and Penny; brother, Jeff (June) Vulpio; parents-in-law, Jim Crosbie and Barb Crosbie; brothers-in-law, Steve (Jennifer) Crosbie and Brian Crosbie; niece, Marissa Vulpio; nephews, William Vulpio, Cody Crosbie, Ashton Crosbie, and Xavier Crosbie; former wife, Laura Miller; and a vast community of extended family and friends who will miss his presence dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph C. Vulpio, Sr. and Mary Lou (Sculley) Vulpio, as well as his beloved dogs Chochi, Riley, Brogan, and Carmelo, who undoubtedly greeted him with wagging tails.

To know Joe was to know someone who never met a stranger. He could strike up a conversation anywhere, and before long, he had a new friend. He loved telling stories, debating sports, quoting movies, and giving nicknames to just about everyone he met. If Joe gave you a nickname, you knew you were part of his circle.

A lifelong sports fan, Joe was fiercely loyal to his Ohio State Buckeyes and Cleveland sports teams, standing by them through every triumph and heartbreak.

Football officiating was one of Joe's greatest passions and an important part of his life for 38 years. He proudly officiated high school football throughout Ohio for many years, earning the honor of working four state championship games, and went on to officiate at the collegiate level for five years. While he loved the game itself, it was the camaraderie and lifelong friendships that meant the most to him. Known for his fairness, integrity, and respect for the game, Joe earned the admiration of those who worked alongside him. Whether on a high school field on Friday night or a college field on Saturday, he officiated with dedication, passion, and a deep love of the game.

Joe spent many years as a Recreation Therapist at London Correctional Institution before becoming owner and operator of an EmbroidMe franchise in Dublin, Ohio. Later, he brought his outgoing personality, humor, and gift for connecting with people to Blue Compass RV in Delaware, where he helped customers begin adventures of their own.

Joe loved adventures, both big and small. He enjoyed cruising, camping, bowling, traveling, and discovering new places, but some of his happiest moments were the simple ones: sitting around a fire with family and friends, listening to music, sharing stories, sipping a drink, and enjoying the company of those he loved.

Known affectionately as "Joepa", Joe lived fully, loved fiercely, laughed often, and remained unapologetically himself. He leaves behind countless memories, inside jokes, and friendships that will continue to bring smiles for years to come.

His spirit will live on in the traditions we keep and every conversation that begins with the words, "Remember when Joe..."

Family and friends may gather on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, Northeast Chapel, 3047 E. Dublin-Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio, with a memorial service immediately following from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Following the service, family and friends are invited to continue celebrating Joe's life in the spirit he would have wanted.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. Joe's memory will be carried forward in every fireside gathering, every Buckeyes game day, and every story that starts with a laugh.

To leave a special message or memory for the Vulpio family, please visit the Guestbook.