Joseph S. Jadach, Jr., age 82, lovingly known as “Big Joe,” of Shelton, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Bridgeport, surrounded by the love of his family and dear friends.
Joe was born on June 8, 1943, at Griffin Hospital in Derby, Connecticut, and was the son of the late Joseph “Lefty” S. Jadach and Natalie “Nellie” (Tretiak) Jadach. He was a lifelong resident of Derby and Shelton, a community he loved deeply and where he built a life centered around family, friendship, hard work, and loyalty.
He was the beloved husband of Donna (Benson) DiRenzo Jadach. Joe was a proud and devoted father to Michael Jadach (Mary Beth) and Michele Jadach (Randa), and a loving stepfather to Jennifer Carfora and Michael DiRenzo. He was an especially proud grandfather to Gabrielle and Isabelle Jadach, Corrbin Jadach and Madison Katschke, Cierra DiRenzo and Jordan Carfora, as well as Michael, Benjamin, Maggie, and Daniel DiRenzo. He is also survived by his beloved sister, Patricia Jadach Marignani, and her children, his nephew Christopher Kane and niece Tricia Palmer.
Joe proudly served his country in the United States Army with the 25th Infantry Division, “Tropical Lightning,” during the Vietnam War. His service was a source of pride, and the strength, toughness, and resourcefulness he carried from those years stayed with him throughout his life.
After returning home, Joe devoted 43 years of hard work to Ansonia Copper & Brass as a steel worker until his retirement. He was a man who believed in showing up, working hard, and taking care of the people he loved.
Bigger than life in so many ways, Joe will be remembered for his strong presence, his love of laughter, and the way he made people feel like family. He had a gift for friendship and lived by the kind of values that leave a lasting mark on everyone around him. Whether he was spending time with lifelong friends, cheering from the sidelines, telling stories, or simply enjoying the people around him, Joe brought heart and energy wherever he went.
He loved life and lived it fully. Joe enjoyed boating and was a tremendous captain of his boats–Bail Out 1 & 2, Valley Boys, and Oldie but Goodie. He loved fishing, golfing, bocce, hunting trips to Maine with his crew, and spending time with friends at Harbor Valley Yacht Club on C Dock, where he was a lifetime member. He also loved to travel, especially on cruises, and was an avid sports fan who faithfully followed the LA Dodgers, UConn Huskies, and the Oakland Raiders. He was also a longtime member of the Catholic War Veterans.
More than anything, Joe will be remembered as a proud family man and loyal friend — someone who always supported the people he loved, stayed true to those closest to him, and left behind a legacy of love, strength, humor, and unforgettable memories.
Friends may greet the family at the Edward F. Adzima Funeral Home, 253 Elizabeth Street, Derby, on Wednesday, April 8, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM. On Thursday, April 9, friends are invited to meet directly at St. Michael’s Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM. Burial with full military honors will follow at St. Michael Cemetery in Derby.
Online condolences may be offered at www.adzimafh.com.