Remembering Joe Ferrante
One of the great gifts of being part of TOH is getting to know everyone involved with our project. Tommy, his sub-contractors, and the rest of the TOH team make up a close-knit family, some of whom have worked together for well over 20 years.
On Friday, November 9th, this family lost a brother in Joe Ferrante, their lead tile contractor. At our home at the end of the day, Joe suffered a heart attack and passed away on his way to the hospital.
I first met Joe on a warm, sunny day, upstairs in our son's front bedroom. I introduced myself and asked a few questions about the work we were going to do in the front bathroom. About an hour later I had learned much about his craft, many interesting experiences, how he got into the business through his father and about working with his brother Mark.
Joe also talked a lot about a recent fishing exploit. In fact, he talked mostly about that! He had a way of captivating you in his experience and leaving you asking for more. Over the months that I got to know him, he was always cheerful, and took time out to say hello and go over what he was doing. And invevitably, tell a story.
But behind the stories was a dedicated, consumate professional, committed to getting things done right. Maddy and our designer, Abbey Koplovitz, spent countless hours going over the details with Joe over the past several months. When the tiles for our three bathrooms and our kitchen finally arrived, there was even more work on the fine points. Joe had a way of listening to our vision and giving us great, practical advice.
Of course, everything changed on that fateful, Friday afternoon. And, since Joe worked with Tommy and others going back as far as 1983, I know his loss runs deep. It was not easy for anyone to come back to work the next week, and in particular to film scenes for the next show. But, in tribute to Joe, they are forging ahead, something that I hope all viewers greatly respect.
That week Joe and I were talking about some of the finer details for the shower in the master bathroom. There were different ways of finishing the tile that we were exploring. "Don't worry," Joe said, "it will be beautiful."
Posted by Paul Friedberg | Categories: Newton 2007 | Permalink



(260) Comments
Very sad. My sympathy to his family & friends.
He was one of the best. We will all miss him greatly. Thank you Joe!
My deepest sympathys go to both his familys, TOH family and his personal family... He was a total professional and an inspiration to all of us "amatuers." I just completed my tile job on my house and said to the wife,"You think Big Joe would have liked my job."
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My sympathies to all.
I guess it's just another sign of how much TOH means to us viewers...I feel a real sadness to hear Joe has died. It must have been a shock to everyone at the house, and I hope there will be lots of great stories told, to help people cope with his loss. I hope his family knows that strangers all over the country will be mourning, too.
I am so sorry to hear of Joe's passing.
Joe Ferrante was a craftsman in the purest sense of the word. His encyclopedic knowlege of tile and his passion for the craft combined with his engaging personality to set a standard of professionalism for all contractors to aspire to.
Thanks Joe, for everything.
I am so sorry to hear about Joe's passing. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and all his friends. Though I did not know him personally I felt I knew him. I feel like I have lost a friend today. He was one of my teacher's on This Old House. I learned a lot from him. Thank you for what you taught me, Joe.
I am truly sorry to learn of Joe's passing. As a regular viewer of TOH & a tradesman myself I know how friendships & bonds develop from working side by side with good people in the business. Viewers of TOH will miss Joe's professionalism & attention to detail he demonstrated on the many project houses in the past.
Please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss.
Such sad news, what a great guy taken too soon, we will miss seeing you on TOH in the UK. You all at TOH all come into our homes each week to help us and are like friends visiting, theres one missing now though. Thanks for all the advice in the past Joe.
I'm so shocked and sad to hear about Joe. I learned a gread deal from him over the years. He will be greatly missed. My sincerest sympathy goes out to his friends, colleagues and family.
I never met Joe but I feel I knew him, he was a master craftsman and will be missed. My sympathy to his family and friends.
I have had the great pleasure of working with the
Ferrante family for over thirty years starting with Joe,Mark, and Chuck's Dad Carmine and then with the sons as they took over the business. Many truly amazing projects were made most beautiful thanks to their great expertise, talent, and knowledge. Their capabilities range far beyond the seeming simplicity of placing tile. Losing Joe is to me devastating as he was so close a friend, and such a valued asset to my projects. Truly a loss.
David O'Shaughnessy
I have had the great pleasure of working with the
Ferrante family for over thirty years starting with Joe,Mark, and Chuck's Dad Carmine and then with the sons as they took over the business. Many truly amazing projects were made most beautiful thanks to their great expertise, talent, and knowledge. Their capabilities range far beyond the seeming simplicity of placing tile. Losing Joe is to me devastating as he was so close a friend, and such a valued asset to my projects. Truly a loss.
David O'Shaughnessy
My deepest sympathys go out to the family and friends of Joe. He will be sorely missed. I have learned much from him over the years, and the knowledge and wisdom he gave me and others is never going to be equaled. God bless you, Joe.
All your kind words about Joe have not gone unnoticed, they have brought a lot of comfort and have helped lift the spirit of his family more than you could ever imagine. I know Thanksgiving day they all sat and read each and every entry on this site and they have been just blown away by the outpouring of love many seem to have had for a guy that was just another worker doing what he had to do to support his beautiful family. Its just amazing .
Thank you so much.
Like all who have posted I was shocked when I heard the news of Joe's passing. It was obvious that Joe was a Pro and a nice guy who loved his work. His family and co-workers have been in our thoughts and prayers since we learned of his passing. I am sure he will be missed by a great many people. Please count us among them.
I have remembered Joe throughout recent TOH episodes. I have to tell you I am not normally a sentimental guy - but the news of Joe's passing has hit us all quite hard. If by chance a member of Joe's family is reading this, please know that he touched more lives than you know and that he will be remembered by all of us as an inspiration.
Thank you Joe.
I feel like I've lost a dear friend. I've never met any of the TOH guys but I feel like I know them all - Joe was one of my favorites and I always enjoyed hearing him talk about tile on the show. You could tell he was passionate about it. He was a true craftsman and he will be missed. My sympathies to his family and to his friends at TOH.
I am very sorry to hear about Joe's passing. He seemed like a nice guy and one that was very proud of both his family and craft. His segments were very informative. Anything I know about tiling came from Joe.
It has been a while since I checked this blog and was very saddened to hear of Joes loss. Our family has been watching This Old House since the show began so we think of Joe as an extension of our family and want to wish his family our deepest sympathy. I know he is with the saints now in heaven. May God Bless him and his family.
It has been a while since I checked this blog and was very saddened to hear of Joes loss. Our family has been watching This Old House since the show began so we think of Joe as an extension of our family and want to wish his family our deepest sympathy. I know he is with the saints now in heaven. May God Bless him and his family.
TOH has a way of finding very personable, professional people to work on their projects, and, to then make them our friends.
I'm very sorry for the loss felt by Joe's family, co-workers and TOH staff.
You've lived a good life if people hurt when you leave. God Bless Joe and all those who will miss him.
I am very sorry to hear of Joe's passing. I am a long-time viewer of "This Old House" and always enjoyed Joe's segments. I have layed tile in my own home due to Joe's instruction, and value what he brought to the series. He was a true master craftsman and will be missed. He was much too young to leave this earth. He will be missed by the viewers of "This Old House" as he will be by the people he worked with. My regards to his family.
I just read of Joe's passing. What a loss. As has been stated by so many, Joe brought a professionalism mixed with a true passion for his work. Our prayers and thoughts go to all of you who worked with Joe. It is amazing what an impact a good man like Joe has on others. Peace and Blessings.
Grace & Jerry Tambeau
I just read about Joe's passing today when I received my TOH magazine. I have seen every episode of TOH since it started and since I am in the "business" I got a kick out of all the personalities that came out of the sub-contractors on the show. Especially the Italian guys like Joe who knew how to work and get the job done. I have met all the main peole at TOH at various conventions and trade shows but never had the pleasure of meeting Joe but in a way I knew him because he was a regular guy doing his job, fishing and going home to his family. Now he is home with God. God bless his wife and family at this trying time. I bet he is laying tile in heaven.
I just read about Joe's passing today when I received my TOH magazine. I have seen every episode of TOH since it started and since I am in the "business" I got a kick out of all the personalities that came out of the sub-contractors on the show. Especially the Italian guys like Joe who knew how to work and get the job done. I have met all the main peole at TOH at various conventions and trade shows but never had the pleasure of meeting Joe but in a way I knew him because he was a regular guy doing his job, fishing and going home to his family. Now he is home with God. God bless his wife and family at this trying time. I bet he is laying tile in heaven.
Joe will be greatly missed.
He was an artist in the truest sense of the word and a great person as well.
My condolences to the Ferrante Family and my hopes that the many great memories that he has created will get them through this sad time.
I just got my Jan/Feb This Old House magazine and read about Joe Ferrante. I was shocked to hear about his passing. Please give my prayers and condolences to his wife and family. He will never be gone as long as you keep him in your heart.
My sincere condolences to both of Joe's families, the TOH family and his wife & kids. Joe's superior knowledge of tiling greatly improved my knowledge of tiling and others I'm sure. God Bless You Joe!
As so many others, my husband and I were also shocked when we read about Joe's death in our TOH magazine. We also feel as though we know all the guys from the show. Our prayers are with his family. He will truly be missed by so many people that never had a chance to meet him personally, but felt that they knew him well.
I want to express my deepest sympathy at the passing of Mr. Ferrante. I am a long time fan of the show and admired his work. He was a true craftsman. Please give my own personnel sense of loss to his family. He will be deeply missed by all the fans of This Old House.
Today December 29th, I was watching an episode of This Old House, and I was taken by a story told by Joe Ferrante. So much during the story I was compelled to write his name down in hopes I would be able to enlist him in several commercial projects I am currently working on .
When I pulled up his name on-line, I read the terrible news. I am so sorry for his loss and sympathies go to his family.
If Joe's warmth and kindness came through to me in one minute I saw him on air, I am sure he would have been wonderful to know personally.
My prayers to Joe's family.
I just read about Joe's passing in my This Old House magazine and I'm shocked and saddened by the tragic news. I want to convey my sincere condolences to Joe's family and to his colleagues. He will be missed by us all.
I almost couldn't believe the news when I wend on the Old House website this morning. I have watched every show from Number 1, when Norn was clean shaving, and always looked forward to the next new project and the tiling portion of that project because I knen Joe would be doing his majic, no matter how difficult the design or location may be. He was always so upbeat and truly looked like he loved the work he was doing. Not many of us can say that about our jobs unfortunately. All my prayers to his family and good friends at TOH.
I can honestly say that tears formed in my eyes as I opened my copy of TOH magazine and to find the notice about Joe's passing. Doing most of my own work in my house it was always interesting to see Joe do his magic with tile. Joe's smile and his "don't worry" attitude will be sadly missed.
We cry for the passing of Joe because we lost him too early in life and at the same time we are happy to have had the chance to meet/know him.
Joe's family and friends will be in my prayers.
I am very sad to learn of the news as well. I have been a long time TOH viewer and adoring fan, he was such a part of the show and the craft. He will be missed and even at this late time our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and the TOH family.
This is the first time I have felt sad for someone on TV who has passed. TOH is awesome and Joe was, too! God bless him and his family.
I'm so sorry to hear of Joe's passing. Truly a master craftsman with loads of personality. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
I was just watching the This Old House episode and learned of Joe"s sudden death. I have a lot in common with him. My brothers and I had the opportunity to grow up in a family greenhouse business . We worked in the with our Dad from the time we were growing up. We have carried on the business that is over 125 years old here in Cincinnati, Like Joe said we knew what my Dad expeceted and we followed his example. We also learned alot from him.
I this TOH is the best shows on PBS. It has provided me with lots of great information.
My condolences to Joe's family and the entire TOH family. I have watched TOH since it's inception and you get to feel like the TOH people are part of your family also, and when we lose a member, it is very sad for us also, I just saw the episode where Joe's passing was announced, and I feel like I lost a family member. Thanks for all the great years of tiling help Joe.
I was just watching the This Old House episode and learned of Joe"s sudden death. I have a lot in common with him. My brothers and I had the opportunity to grow up in a family greenhouse business . We worked in the with our Dad from the time we were growing up. We have carried on the business that is over 125 years old here in Cincinnati, Like Joe said we knew what my Dad expeceted and we followed his example. We also learned alot from him.
I this TOH is the best shows on PBS. It has provided me with lots of great information.
We have been subscribers of the TOH magazine for a number of years and look forward every weekend for the TOH Hour on our local PBS TV station. IF for some reason, we miss the weekend, we know we can catch up on Thursday evenings. We were very saddened when this weeks edition (Jan 3) informed us of the passing of Joe Ferrantte. It is always enjoyable watching a true professional work, but Joe's personality made it even more enjoyable. The TOH family has always consisted of high caliber people and Joe was definitly at the top of the list. Our condolense to his personal family and all his friends in his association with TOH. He will be greatly missed.
Barry and Linda Suydam
Laurinburg, NC
I have been a loyal viewer of TOH for many years and have always enjoyed the segments with the various sub-contractors on the show, but one guy always stood out and that guy was Joe Ferrante. I never met Joe but from what I witnessed on tv, he seemed like the kind of guy that you would love to have as a neighbor or friend. His knowledge and love for his craft was evident and his professional, yet personable manner made him a favorite of mine. He will be missed greatly. My deepest sympathies to his family.
Like most things in life that we care about, we often take them for granted until the day they are gone. You sit down on a saturday afternoon and the TOH crew is there. As a longtime viewer of TOH, I was very sorry to hear of Joe's passing, and surprised how much Joe lose meant to me. Joe was a true craftsman and it was clear he loved what he did and took pride in his work. A rare comodity these days. Sad viewers can take some relief in knowing Joe spent his life doing what he loved and left his mark on many job sites. He will be sorely missed. I think we will all watch one of our favorite shows with a little more attention, and with a renewed appreciation for what Joe and the rest of the crew bring us each week.
I have seen every show since the first one. I REALLY enjoy them. I have worked the trades for more than forty years. Mr. Ferrante was a big reason that I watch. I know he will be missed! Please tell his family that my family will remember them in our prayers. I guess our Lord needed some perfect finish work done. 2 Tim. 1:7
Like many of the others who are faithful viewers of TOH, I was a stunned to hear of Joe's passing. I always enjoyed listening to him tell the story of how he got into the business. It was easy to see that it was more than just a buisness, it was his passion.
Blessings and Peace to his family.
I am deeply sorry for the loss of Joe, I have been watching this old house for at least fifteen years.
We will all miss him.
Sincerely;
Julian Sansom Jr.
I was also shocked when I watched TOH this evening as usual and learned of Joe Ferrante's passing. It was so unexpected! He seemed a true gentleman. It was obvious he loved his work and also working with his family. My condolences go out to them.
I'm very saddened by the news of Joe's passing. I found this on line in Joe's obituary. I hope all loyal TOH viewers will send a donation in Joe's memory: .....In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mr. Ferrante’s memory to the Joseph Ferrante Memorial Fund, c/o Winter Hill Federal Savings Bank, 265 Main St, North Reading, MA 01864.
First, my sympathy goes out to the Ferrante family. Joe was a first-class craftsman and I always appreciate craftsmanship - regardless of where applied. T.O.H. is the original "reality" TV show. Although I'm not in the construction trade, T.O.H. has taught me virtually everything I know about my house. I'm sure it's been a sad time trying to finish up this project - but - tough people last, and tough times are just temporary. Again, my condolences go out to the Ferrante family.
It was such a shock to hear of Joe Ferrante's passing. My heart goes out to his family and his extended family, the "This Old House" crew.
He will be missed. He seemed like such a wonderful individual. I wish he could have done the tile work on my house!!!
I've grown up on This Old House, and now that I've been married for almost 4 years, it's become a weekly tradition for my wife and I. It may sound dumb, but I feel like I know the guys.
To hear of Joe's passing tonight was like a kick in the gut. He passed away on the same day that a close friend of ours was in an accident that ultimately took her life. Having gone through such a great and sudden loss recently, I really feel for his family and our TOH guys. Such a craftsman, such a gentleman.
God bless you Joe.
I was watching TOH Thursday night and was
taken back by the news of Joe. I really enjoyed
watching him explain his work. He obviously
loved his work and life. God bless Joe and his
family.
I just saw the most recent episode of TOH and heard the news of Joe's passing. I was stunned to hear this news. Even though I bring the TOH family into my home only through the television each week, I feel that there is a certain "friendship" that has developed. Today brought news that I had just lost a friend.
Joe seemed to be a guy that really loved what he did and it showed in his work. My thoughts and prayers are with his family as well as the TOH family during this tough time. He will be missed.
Good Bye my FRIEND, I will miss you. My condolenses to Joe's families and friends
he has made the world a better place, thank you Joe
Until tonight I didn't realize how attached I was to the craftsmen who turn those old houses into wonderful homes. As Kevin struggled to tell me about Joe's passing I was struck with a sadness that normally would be reserved for a personal loss. I truly feel I've lost a friend. Thank you, This Old House, for introducing me to him.
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Joe Ferrante. The craftsmen on This Old House are a real inspiration- at times I think they're the only ones that still believe in doing their craft right instead of faster or cheaper like so many others. Many times I've just shook my head and said "wow" after watching him on the show- in total awe of how he is able to so effortlessly complete a job that I couldn't even begin to start. Everything he did was just perfect, and I really believe that how he practiced his craft was an echo of the type of person he was. What a loss all of us have suffered in his passing, but what a legacy he has left: both in the physical jobs he has done, and in what he has taught us!
I, too, am very saddened to learn of the death of Joe Ferrante. My condolences to the crew of This Old House and his family, as well as the other viewers of this great show. We were lucky to be able to see the work that he did, the utmost professional who truly took pride in his work. His smile and workmanship will be missed.
I was saddened to learn of Joe Ferrante's passing. His segments have always been my favorite on 'This Old House'. It is always such a pleasure to watch him, a true old-world craftsman, at work; an increasing rarity in this fast-paced world of today. I would like to offer my sympathy and sincere condolences to the Ferrante family, his friends, colleagues, and everyone at TOH. He will be sorely missed by so many, including people he never even met, due to this show. Perhaps it may be of some small help to know how many will be holding the Ferrante and TOH families in heart and mind during this profoundly difficult time. My prayers go with you.
My mom and I were watching from seperate homes. I reached for the phone immediately but it was already ringing. Neither of us could believe this. He was always a joy to watch and was a true lover of his craft. I'm happy to know his family will continue to be involved with the show, I just wish he could still be a part of it.
I was just watching This Old House on PBS about four minutes ago, and learned of Joe's sudden passing. My heart goes out to his family, the TOH family, as well as to his no doubt many friends. Joe was one of the best, and amazing at his work. I never got to know him personally, of course, but I couldn't help but feel the pain of his loss, even as a casual viewer of TOH. We're sad to see you go, Joe.
I just learned that I have lost a good friend, one whom I truly admired, even though I never met him in person. And I am stunned. His passion in his work was so evident, as was his strength of character. I can only imagine the shock and grief his two families have endured - his own as well as his TOH colleagues. He will be very deeply missed by all of us even while he remains forever a part of us who have watched his seemingly effortless mastery of his craft. God bless you and be with you at this sad time. As one person commented, God must need an extra special job done and can think of no-one more able to handle it with such dedication and ability.
I along with all viewers were shocked at the ending of last evenings viewing of TOH to find out about the sudden passing of Joe Ferrante. I've watched TOH since the 80's and have taped most of the shows in order to play back the many pointers you've all shared. Just recently I did some tiling and have learned from Joe; I will miss his detailed explanations. My deepest sympathys to all of you and his family.
I, much like most of the others who have commented thus far, was taken aback when I learned of Joe's passing....and I must say my initial reaction was one of shock. Joe seemed so vibrant, so in love with his craft, and so energetic about the entire process that he was simply the type of person that we as viewers could so easily respond to. Add in his obvious skill and effortless ability to make any tiling project look like it was simply meant to be and you have an equation that results in the viewers not only respecting Joe, but admiring and cherishing his onscreen time as well. I always enjoyed the profile segments that air between the episodes of TOH and Ask TOH where we could learn a little more about the individuals on the show and I must admit I have watched Joe's segment every time it was played even though I could practically recite it word for word from numerous viewings in the past. He just had a certain chemistry that made you want to keep watching him and it was clear he was the quintessential tile man with a sincere love for what he did….we should all be so lucky.
You will be missed Joe.
I just finished watching the "In Loving Memory of Joe Ferrante" episode. Although late, my condolences go out to the Ferrante & THO family. I have been a long time TOH viewer and a faithful fan. I loved seeing his craftsmanship highlighted on the program. He will truly be missed.
Springfield, MO
I was deeply saddened to hear of Joe Ferrante's passing. I admired his craftsmanship and good humor whenever I saw him on TOH. Tears came to my eyes as I watched and listened to Kevin tell of Joe's passing. My prayers are for his family and his TOH family as well. Doug
I cried when Kevin told us of Joe's passing on TOH last night, and I'm crying now as I read all the beautiful tributes to Joe. My family have grown very attached to all the TOH guys over the years, and Joe was a big favorite. He had so much charisma that he made you feel good just watching and listening to him. There is no question that he was gifted and dedicated to his craft. What a gift he must have been to those who knew him personally. I feel that I've lost a friend, and I can't even imagine the pain his family, friends, and co-workers must feel.
So,so sorry,
Condolences to the Ferrante family & TOH family. Was an inspiration to all who watch the show every week, and who inspire us do it yourselfer`s to tackle our projects.He will be sorely missed. God Bless
Wow, what a sad way to end a wonderful life. I always enjoyed watching the show when Joe was on. He didn't just talk about the tile, he added a sense of commitment and purpose to his work, and always included his family roots. Everyone can learn from his fine example. He will be missed...
My wife and I wept as we watched Kevin struggle through his emotions to inform the television viewers of Joe's passing. Although we never knew Joe except through episodes of TOH, we were always appreciative of his expertise and passion for his craft. We were so looking forward to hearing Joe show off the finishing touches on the Newton project master bath. Perhaps now we will see his brother do it in his place. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with Joe's family and the crew at TOH.
I am very sad to hear about Joe. I was shocked when I saw Kevin telling us what happened on the show. I enjoyed watching Joe over the years. He will be missed.
My family would like to offer our deepest condolances to Joe's family and to all the family of workers at TOH, we loved his attitude and love for his work, after watching TOH since its beginning we feel a loss, to all be well and god bless
My family and I would like to pass on our condolences to Mr Ferrante's family and co workers on TOH. An exuberant soul has passed. Those who knew and him and those who vicariously watched Mr. Ferrante have all suffered a loss. He was a pleasure to learn from both personally and professionally. He had wonderful style and integrity to craft. Sincerely Rich Brideau Norfolk, Ma
Hearing about the passing of Joe Ferrante on the last show just imparted such a sense of loss. I always plan my Thursday evenings around watching This Old House, and the entire crew is just great. I will miss seeing Joe with his smile and wit. I always learned something new from watching him ply his trade.
As a long-time viewer of the TOH series and since the inception of Ask TOH, I have not missed an episode of each. The magazine is also read cover to cover. Unfortunately I don't visit the TOH web site as often as I would like, and my most recent magazine has sat unopened. I was watching the most recent TOH Hour, I was deeply saddened when Kevin gave the touching tribute to Joe. I was shocked at his words but like other fans and followers of the shows, I have followed the shows and projects with great enthusiasm.
I have learned many things he demonstrated over the years and would like his family to know how he has not only taught us in his brief appearances on the shows on how to lay a tile, but to appreciate his craft and have pride in your work as he displayed. He not only saw a piece of porcelain tile, but a profession he learned from his father. I remember watching him talk about going to his first job-site with his dad at age 7, wearing cowboy boots, with his dad.
I’m looking forward to that same enthusiasm, as his brother becomes a visible member of the TOH family. What better tribute for Joe than to continue to highlight the love of craft in the Ferrante style.
Please offer my condolences to the Ferrante family, and the TOH family he was blessed to be a part of.
My condolences and sympathy go out to the Ferrante family and the TOH family. People who love their work......what a concept. What an inspiration. What a class act.
My Dad and I looked forward to our Saturday morning fix with This Old House. I love the segments where the guys get their spot to tell us about their world.
We've been fans of TOH for decades, basically the first show to teach us that we can do home improvement projects. We feel we know everyone on the show and thoroughly enjoyed each episode...learning more and applying the lessons learned.
This morning as my Dad and I sipped our coffees and watching TOH, Kevin walked on screen visibly shaken and choking back the anguish. We were both devastated to learn that Joe suddenly passed away, you could have knocked us over with a feather. No way, no way...Joe's young and strong and has so much life left to live in him. I am still struggling to find a way to make sense of it all. Losing Joe is like losing a friend...I suppose God saw some tile work that needed work and called upon good old Joe. Joe seemed like the real deal and so we take what we've seen on TV at face value. You can just tell Joe was a great man.
Our family extends our deepest sympathies to Joe's family, relatives, co-workers and friends. Joe was loved by millions all over this planet. He will be missed terribly by all.
I was just watching an episode of TOH, and learned of the recent passing of Joe Ferrante. I haved learned a lot from watching Joe Ferrante on TOH over the years, and I recently retiled an entire bathroom in my house using some of the knowledge gained from Mr. Ferrante. I will miss Joe Ferrante.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Ferrante family and to the TOH family.
I have been a fan of TOH for many years and Joe was simply "THE BEST". He was a MASTER OF THE TILE and his work reflected that.
I will miss seeing Joe on the show.
Please pass on condolences to the Ferrante family and entire TOH family. As everyone has posted, viewing TOH has been a long standing tradition in our household... and when Kevin painfully informed us of your loss... we felt it... May God bless you all and give you strength...
I was stunned to learn of Joe's sudden death. He was a key member of the TOH team. I loved his focus segment were he discussed learning the trade and working with his family. He had a true passion for his work and his skill and craftsmanship will live on. My prayers go out to his family.
I am an avid viewer of TOH. Those of us who watch every week feel like we know the men on this show. Joe was one of my favorites. I loved his smile. When Kevin made the announcement about Joe's passing on the show today, it took my breath away. I truly feel like we've all lost a friend. My heart and prayers go out to all of Joe's family and friends. I'm sure that those of you who lived and worked with him miss him greatly if those of us who only got to visit with him on a Saturday morning once in awhile feel this loss.
As I watched TOH this morning and heard Kevin's sad telling of Joe's death my reaction was just as if I had lost a close friend or a family member. My wife and I were always impressed with his passion for his craft. We will miss seeing him on TOH and his interaction with the rest of the crew. Our prayers go out to his family and friends.
My conndolences to the Ferrante family.It was great to see such a professional craftsman and nice man so full of character and wisdom.Our Country is great because of people like Joe.
I found out about Joe's death when I went to the local PBS stations' website. This Old House episode was substituted with a show about dogs and I wanted to know why. Then I read about Joe Ferrante's death. I couldn't believe my eyes. Joe?? Joe Ferrante? This can't be right. I read about his heart attack. Words can't even begin to describe how I feel. My heart too, aches for his family, for Roger, Tom, Kevin, Richard as well as This Old House Staff and all the tradespeople who work with Joe on a weekly and daily basis. Joe's death is a deep, powerful loss. However, all the viewers, all of Joe's family, Joe's customer's can take proud satisfaction that Joe has taught tens of thousands of people how to tile, and how to tile correctly. I wish nothing but respect, peace of mind, and gratitude for Joe Ferrante's family. Joe has made such an impression on all of us.
i just watched show and saw joe passed away,i am so sorry for his loss, iwatched reciently his story between shows about tile ,and could tell very easily what a nice guy he was, and how much he loved what he did. he will be missed!!
I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of one of the crew.I have been watching TOH since I was a liitle kid,probably since I was about 7 yrs old, while my friends watched cartoons,I was watching TOH to learn about anything to do with house repair and maintenace from big jobs(re-doing my roof,) to little repair of a hole in a plaster wall.I learned it all from this guys. I am now 25yrs old, and knowing how to do all these things have saved me a tremendous amount of money by doing it myself, and I have all the guys to thank for being my teachers.Its a big loss and I am deeply saddend.
I've watched every episode of TOH since day one at least twice and, often times, more. I remember when Joe first appeared on the show and, although he seemed a little camera shy to me, I was impressed with his manner and professionalism. Over the years as he relaxed on camera it was obvious he was a man of integrity and dedication to his craft which I have no doubt extended into his personal life. I'm envious of you who knew him personally. When Kevin ended today's edition of TOH with the news of Joe's passing I had to pick my jaw off the floor. What a loss to everyone he came into contact with, even to those of us who only knew him on the show. My deepest condolences to Joe's family and all who knew him. I have no doubt you will carry happy memories of him for as long as you live.
Tell me it ain't so---not Joe! How can it be? So many tile jobs to be done and sponges to be rung. Helped us all, but sadly we couldn't help he. The Lord above must have agreed, his work was heavenly.
I can only repeat the sentiments of all the previous postings. Having lost our son-in-law (Joe) last year at the age of 33 I understand the untimely loss of a loved one. To all the TOH family and the Ferrante family, may peace be with you.
My condolences to Joe's family and co-workers. He was one of my favorites on the show. My reaction to the news was like most, shocked and heartbroken. I think anybody that works with family everyday needs to be shown the 'in between' segment of Joe where he's talking about working with his dad and brother. They did it the right way, as with everything else he did. We're going to miss you, Joe
Thank you to Joe's family, Kevin, and the team for having the courage to publicly share this sad news about Joe with viewers of This Old House. Joe shared himself with all of us and left great work and memories behind for us to enjoy. They are lasting gifts.
We did not know Joe personally, but when my husband and I saw the close of today's TOH program, we were shocked and saddened at the loss of this talented man. Our hearts go out to his friends and family.
GOD BLESS YOU, Joe!!!
What beautiful work you have done over the years!!
Your legacy lives on!!
Though I never knew you, you inspired millions!!!
Deepest sympathy to his loved ones!!
To both of Joe's families at both TOH and his personal family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Joe was a real craftsman and an a real source of ideas to folks like me.
God bless you all.
Like so many others - I am truly shocked by the news about Joe. My family and I have followed the show closely and I have watched since I was 5 years old. Our deepest sympathies go out to the Ferrante and TOH family. Joe's quality craftsmanship and character will always be remembered.
Our prayers are with the Ferrante and TOH families. Joe's love for his friends and family - especially his dad - touched our hearts. His craftsmanship typified the best of America's work ethic. We'll remember you Joe.
I just found out about Joe tonight while watching the latest episode. Watching Kevin O'Connor choking up really broke me down. I am deeply saddened by the loss of such a talented man. Joe, you put your heart into everything you did. For this, you have always been a craftsman I admire and respect. I wish everyone cared about their work the way you always did. May you forever rest in peace. My most sincere condolences to all of his colleagues and friends on TOH and to all of his family. Bless you and may time heal your sorrow.
It has always been my dream for over 20 years to have a home that would be a great TOH project. I know that most out of town projects usually only involve Kevin and Norm but I would have loved to have 2 others along for the job. Tom Silva and Joe Ferrante, both are true pros and would have liked to get to know them personally. I will miss Joe's contributions to the show and hope his memory will bring smiles to those that remember what a fine craftsman he was. I wish his family the best and will keep him in my prayers for the future.
Please accept condolences from our family to the Ferrantes and TOH. Having watched every episode at least once, we are quite familiar with many of the craftsmen who appear on TOH. Mr. Ferrante was one of the very best and warmest of the pros. We will miss him tremendously.
The Nugents
I just wanted to send my deepest sympahthies to Joe's family and the TOH crew. I watch every Saturday the TOH episodes and I have grown to feel like i know all the guys and was incredibly shocked when I heard the news. Everyone will remember Joe always.
I appreciate Kevin taking a few moments to mention of Joe's passing, in person, before the camera. Being an avid viewer of the show for decades, I can pick up on little quirks of the main crew in front of the camera. Maybe I don't know Joe as well as I think, but I was thinking to myself that Joe's voice sounded different during the closing of the show preceeding Kevin's comments; like he had a cold. I could tell through the setting, Kevin's face and voice even before he spoke the closing comments of the episode that he had something out of the ordinary to tell the viewers. It was fitting to learn of Joe's loss through a camera---that's the way I know the crew and perhaps the main way I'd ever figure out the loss.
I want to thank the crew, family, and everyone associated with Joe for bringing him to myself as a viewer; and thanks Kevin for letting me know of his passing. Only knowing of Joe through a camera and a microphone, the loss of Joe affected me no less than the loss of my own Grandfather about two months earlier. The comments of Joe, the way he used his hands, the way he felt his work through his hands (even while talking) were taken to heart by myself.
My condolences to the Ferrante family and Joes extended family at This Old House.I enjoyed watching him do tile installations on TOH. He was very concencious abot getting the job done properly. He taught Do it yourselfers like me, how the job should be done.
R I P Joe, you will be sorely missed by all who knew you and all whose lives you touched.
My husband and I watched TOH as usual this week, only this week was quite different, in a very sad way. I can not stop crying every time I think about the loss of such a kind man as Joe, and I pray that God comforts everyone who is grieving. Thank you Joe, and thank all of you for enriching our lives beyond measure.
Very sad to hear of Joe's passing. My prayers go out to his family. Being Italian and the same age made the news more shocking. I wish the brothers well as they continue to work in the memory of their brother and father.
My condolences to the Ferrante family & TOH. Our prayers are with you
I heard about Joe's passing on today's show of This Old House. Our Prayers go out to the Farrante family. I just lost my Dad who was in the Construction business all of his life. By watching Joe's segiments on TOH reminds me of what Dad always told me. "If you are going to do a job, Do it right"! Seeing the jobs Joe did on the show, "He Did It Right"!
I don't know what I can say that hasn't already been said by so many others. I am usually disappointed when the end of the show arrives, but when Kevin appeared in the dimly lit master bath today alone, I knew instantly that it was the end of much more than just another episode. Thank you TOH, for realizing that your loyal viewers would share in your pain. I appreciate the candid and honest way that the news was shared with us. To the Ferrante family, my heart breaks for you. I cried as soon as Kevin made the announcement, and again this evening as I read all of the wonderful tributes that people have written for Joe. I hope that your memories of him will get you through this most difficult time. I will be praying for you.
There's a tradition in the south of telling stories on someone after they've been called home, and those warm and often humorous remembrances have a way of keeping a loved one's memory alive for many, many years. I hope, Joe, that your brother Mark and everyone on TOH will tell stories on you from time to time. I know you'll be looking down and smiling when they do - and we'll be smiling, too.
I heard of this while watching the program this afternoon. It was very obvious that Kevin was deeply affected and I am sure this runs through everyone connected to the show. It was hard to believe after watching Joe work on the tile in the bathroom just the other week. From the program he always seemed to have the best of a happy and hard working attitude. My sympathy to everyone who was close to him and especially his family.
My wife and I were shocked to hear Kevin announce Joe's death at the conclusion of this morning's TOH episode. He always added a genuine sense of warmth and friendliness to the program and exhibited a deep sense of pride in his workmanship. His presence will be deeply missed. We extend our prayers to his family and all of the members of his TOH family. May they all experience God's Peace at this time.
Godspeed Joe. My sincerest condolences to the Ferrante family and friends.
I was shocked and saddened to hear of Joe's passing. It was always "right" when he appeared to take care of a tile job on TOH because the job would be done right. Thank you for sharing news of his loss and allowing us to grieve with you.
Just watched the show that told of Mr. Ferrante's passing. To TOH and to his family...you are in my prayers.
God bless,
Robert
Life is a beautiful and fragile thing.The world is a poorer place without our favorite "tile man" in it. To his family, please take comfort and pride in knowing that he touched so many lives in a positive way.
I have watched toh since 1983. I am a contractor myself and can only imagine the sadness of the loss of joe Ferrante, especially while working at the jobsite. Its these times when you realize how precious life is and to take the time to step back from all stress of everyday life and think about whats really important, family,health and happiness. God bless to the Ferrante family and the TOH family during this difficult time.
I was watching toh Saturday, the episode had a piece with Joe Ferrante laying the tile in the bathroom, listening to Joe talking I thought to myself, what a nice guy. Today (sunday) I was watching the next episode when I heard Kevin telling of the sad news. I found myself tearing up and thinking what a terrible loss. God bless the Ferrante family and all of the great folks at toh. Sincerely, David W. Young
I am so very sorry to have heard the news about Joe's passing. His tile lesions over the years have been of great help to myself and many others...thank you Mr. Ferrante!
The segment about working with your father and being expected to understand and apply it was so well said. Thats the same school I come from. It made me feel good and understand that quality people help make TOH my favorite show on tv and made me have so much respect for the Ferrante family.
I wish all of the TOH and Ferrante family all the best, and I am so sorry for your loss.
I was terribly saddened to hear of the loss of Joe when I tuned in to this week's episode of TOH. He was a master at his craft and will be greatly missed by everyone he touched in his personal life and us, the viewers, who had the opportunity to learn from him at home. Best wishes to his family & friends.
Just watched a show today. Just now learning of His passing. My prayers go to His family and This Old House crew.
We were incredibly saddened by the news of Joe's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and everyone at TOH. We always loved seeing Joe's segments...we are sorry for your loss.
Sincerely,
Ryan and Megan Nash
Our thoughts and prayers to Joe's family and to the This Old House crew.