Joseph Cortino's Obituary
Joseph Cortino, 80, passed away on Thursday, April 16, 2026. He was born on June 3, 1945, in San Francisco, California, to John and Mary Cortino. During World War II, his family lived there while his father worked at the Naval Dock. After the war, the family returned to Chicago before eventually settling in the Rio Grande Valley, where his father fell in love with the area and chose to make it home for the rest of his life.
Joseph attended Edcouch-Elsa High School, graduating in 1965. Shortly thereafter, he proudly served in the United States Army, where he trained in field radio repair. He was stationed in Pirmasens, Germany, and cherished his time there, especially the opportunity to travel throughout Germany and neighboring countries by train.
While Joseph was serving overseas, his parents opened a small Italian restaurant, Cortino’s, next to their home. Upon returning from the Army, Joseph discovered his passion for cooking and took over the restaurant’s operations. Under his care, Cortino’s flourished into a beloved local institution, serving thousands of guests over the years who came to feel more like family.
It was at the restaurant that Joseph met the love of his life, Maria Anna, when she filled in as a waitress for her sister. Together, they built not only a successful business but a life rooted in love, dedication, and family. Cooking was more than a profession for Joseph—it was his passion. He enjoyed watching cooking shows (though he never quite forgave them when they turned to reality TV), and he rarely allowed anyone else, especially Anna, to take over the kitchen. He took great pride in preparing meals that brought his family together around the table.
His children grew up working alongside him in the restaurant, learning the value of hard work and family. Today, his daughter Patricia continues that legacy. In 2026, Cortino’s will celebrate its 60th anniversary—a testament to Joseph’s dedication and perseverance.
Joseph deeply valued his lifelong friendships. Though he was unable to attend his 60th class reunion due to illness, he was overjoyed when several classmates came to visit him at the restaurant, a gesture that meant a great deal to him.
Outside of work, Joseph found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved watching classic World War II films, taking long drives with his family, and embarking on memorable road trips to places like California and Florida, making countless stops along the way. Later in life, he developed a curiosity for learning through YouTube, spending hours watching videos about how things were built and how they worked—always eager to learn something new.
Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mary Cortino; his son, John Joseph Cortino; and his brother, John Cortino Jr.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Maria Anna, with whom he would have celebrated 50 years of marriage this August; his daughter, Patricia Cortino; his son, Michael Cortino (Brianna); his brothers, Charles Cortino, Robert Cortino (Geradine), and Thomas Cortino; and a grandson he eagerly awaited, due to be born this September.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 1-8 pm at McCaleb Funeral Home. Joseph’s life will be celebrated on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 1 pm, at McCaleb Funeral Home, followed by burial at Highland Memorial Park.
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