Joseph James Saratore

Joseph J. "Joe" Saratore, 86, of Buchanan, MI, passed away on September 5, 2024, at Memorial Hospital in South Bend, IN.

Joe was born on February 19, 1938, in Niles, MI, to Dominick & Virginia (Decker) Saratore. He graduated from Niles High School in 1956 and continued his education by attending Idaho State University where he was a member of the football and track team while earning a bachelor's degree in education. While attending a college dance with friends, Joe met Judy Ricks. The two would later marry on December 5, 1958, in Pocatello, Idaho. Joe had visions of being an entrepreneur, so in 1966, Joe founded C & S Machine Products, Inc. With natural mechanical talent combined with a tremendous work ethic, he (and later with son Dominick) built C&S Machine into becoming a world class contract manufacturer of ultra-precision parts serving the aerospace industry. Joe retired from C&S Machine at the age of 82. In his spare time, he enjoyed his family, his faithful dogs and many close friendships. His other passions included Notre Dame football, playing golf, travels to Palm Springs, nice cars and John Deere tractors! Joe is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Judy; children, Carrie (Adam) Slivka of Pittsburgh, PA, Sherrie (David) Iverson Saratore of Oakbrook, IL, Dominick (Rachel) Saratore of Buchanan, and Nicole Saratore of St. Joseph; grandchildren, Daniel (Brittany) Slivka, Alexandra (Brian) Austin, and Isabella, Joseph, Luca, & Dominick Saratore; Great-grandchildren, Hudson & Wyatt Austin, and one great-granddaughter (Emilia Slivka) on the way,; and sisters, Shirley Dreher, Sharon Crane, and Pam Lignell. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Dominick & Virginia. Friends are invited to join the family for a visitation from 4:30 PM until 8 PM, on Friday, September 13, 2024 at Swem Chapel, 301 W. Front Street, Buchanan. (there will be a recitation of prayers beginning at 7:30 PM) Mass for a Catholic burial will be held on Saturday, September 14, at 11 am at St. Anthony's Parrish, 509 W. 4th Street, Buchanan, MI. Father Emmanuel Mbah officiating. A burial will follow, at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Humane Society of Southwestern Michigan, Berrien County Cancer Services, and St. Anthony's Catholic Church. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.swemchapel.com.