Democratic state Rep. Joe Casello passed away on Friday at the age of 73 after suffering a massive heart attack. His death has resulted in an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from colleagues and community members alike. The House Democratic Caucus has announced that a private ceremony will be held in Massachusetts, where he was born, with a public memorial service scheduled to follow in the coming weeks.
Casello had a distinguished career in public service, initially serving as a City Commissioner for Boynton Beach from 2013 to 2018 and then being elected to the Florida House of Representatives. He was known for his background as a firefighter, having served 33 years with the Worcester Fire Department, and he was also a proud veteran of the United States Air Force.
Throughout his career, Casello was dedicated to advocating for first responders and military veterans. He sponsored pivotal legislation that strengthened medical benefits for firefighters diagnosed with cancer due to their service and worked to ensure that surviving spouses of veterans were able to retain critical tax credits.
Colleagues described him as a “gentle giant,” with House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell noting that he spoke rarely, but when he did, everyone listened. His ability to remain positive and kind, even in difficult times, was highlighted by many who knew him.
Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried praised Casello as a public servant that communities aspire to have, emphasizing his courage both as a firefighter and in government roles. His legacy of humility and compassion is set to leave a lasting impact on those he served.
State Rep. Daryl Campbell remarked that Casello was not only a dedicated representative but also a cherished friend, emphasizing his genuine warmth and commitment to his constituents.
Casello’s commitment to public service and the deep respect he garnered from his peers reflect how cherished he was within his community. His life and legacy will not only be remembered through his legislative achievements but also through the personal connections he forged with those around him.
This story serves as a reminder of the profound impact that dedicated public servants can have on their communities, particularly those who approach their work with humility and genuine compassion.