Joseph R Insel

Joseph R. Insel, a beloved Catholic man, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on April 3rd, 2023, in St. Johns, FL. He was known to be a respected member of the Syracuse, NY community, where he was born to parents Frances and Joseph Insel. Joseph's life was marked by a commitment to serving his country and community. After graduating from Syracuse University, he joined the Navy and served as a Viet Nam veteran aboard the USS Enterprise. He then pursued a Doctorate degree, which led him to successful careers at the college and university levels, where he was highly regarded as an administrator and professor by both students and colleagues.

Joseph was a man of many talents and interests. As a youth, he played baseball and enjoyed taking train trips to New York City. He was a skilled referee for lacrosse and started the Nation's best junior college lacrosse team at Onondaga Community College. He was also an accomplished skier, patrolling at Song Mountain and downhill skiing until his late 70s. At the age of 72, he became the oldest man in NY to receive his double black belt in Karate. He worked in broadcasting with Time Warner, CBS, and ESPN, and loved spending time on the St. Lawrence River, watching ships and cruising in his Antique Wooden Chris Craft.

Joseph was a family man, and his legacy will live on through his surviving loved ones. He is survived by his sister June and brother-in-law Don Kinsella, daughter Valerie, her children Mckayla and Noah Brefka, son Mark, his wife Angela, and boys Connor and Grady Insel, and sons Michael and Alex Insel. He also leaves behind numerous other family members. Joseph was predeceased by his daughter-in-law Laurie Insel. Joseph R. Insel was a remarkable man who touched the lives of many. He will be remembered for his dedication to his country, community, family, and countless other things. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. There will be celebrations of life planned in the future in St Johns Florida, and in Syracuse New York, details would be conveyed. Keep Joe in your hearts forever!