Relief for the family of Lt. John “JJ” Joseph after his passing
Relief for the family of Lt. John Joseph
A 501(c)(3) Tax-Deductible Campaign
On the evening of July 7, 2026, Lt. John "JJ" Joseph passed away after a private and courageous battle with job-related cancer. Lieutenant Joseph dedicated 18 years of service to the citizens of Rochester with the Rochester Fire Department, spending most of his career proudly serving with the Fighting Fives on Lyell Avenue as a member of Engine 5. He also served as Union Secretary for Local 1071, where he was a trusted source of knowledge and a tireless advocate for the rights, benefits, and well-being of his brothers and sisters, most recently serving as Lieutenant of Engine 5, Group 4. JJ embodied everything a firefighter should be: hardworking, courageous, experienced, dependable, and committed to those around him. Engine 5, the Rochester Fire Department, and countless family members, friends, and colleagues mourn the loss of an extraordinary firefighter, lieutenant, union leader, EMS instructor, teammate, brother, son, and friend whose legacy of service will never be forgotten.
Outside the firehouse, JJ embraced every opportunity to experience life to the fullest during his 37 years. He had a passion for the outdoors and could often be found skydiving, hiking, biking, playing kickball or hockey, or carving down the slopes on his beloved cat and Edmund Fitzgerald-themed skis. His adventures took him around the world, from skydiving in Panama to following the Tour de France from a rented van across Europe, while his deep appreciation for nature inspired him to celebrate Earth Day each year beside the tree he planted in front of his home and to ride his bicycle to work whenever possible, even through Rochester's harsh winters. Above all, JJ cared deeply for others, always putting the needs of his family, friends, coworkers, and community ahead of his own. He faced his illness with the same quiet strength and selflessness that defined his life, leaving behind an example of courage, compassion, and service that will continue to inspire everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Let’s provide the Joseph family the support they deserve so they can remember and honor John, unburdened by current costs.
