Coupeville Sports

Joe Tessaro (50) stood tall for one of the best boys’ basketball teams in CHS history. (Photos courtesy Chuck Tessaro)

Joe Tessaro was a big man who left a big impact.

Before graduating with the Coupeville High School Class of 1988, the six-foot-five tower of power competed at the state championships in basketball and track, with the discus record he set standing untouched by any other Wolf for 23 seasons.

Tessaro, who passed away at age 54 in March, brought home a 6th place medal from the state track meet as a senior, with his mark of 143 feet, eight inches in the discus sitting atop the CHS record board from 1988-2011.

He was also a starter on the 1987-88 boys’ hoops squad which went to state, pouring in 260 points during his senior season.

The Coupeville native combined with older sibling Chuck to score 598 points across their prep hoops careers, making for one of the most successful brother combos in program history.

Middle school hoops dreams.

From the family:

Joseph Lucine Tessaro – September 29, 1970 – March 11, 2025

It is with deep sorrow and sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Joseph L. Tessaro on March 11, 2025.

He was 54 years old and will be remembered for his love of life, profound kindness, and generosity.

Joseph was born on September 29, 1970 (a gift to his mother Leah, who shared the same birthday) in Oak Harbor, Washington.

Growing up in Coupeville, on Whidbey Island, Joseph loved and appreciated all that island life offered, including spending time on the beach, fishing in the sound, and hanging out with close friends.

Enjoying time out on the water.

He graduated in 1988 from Coupeville High School, holding the school record in the discus (which stood for 23 years) and was instrumental as a starter on the varsity basketball squad that earned a berth to the state tournament in his senior year, 1988.

After high school, Joseph found his way to Denver, Colorado, where he met the love of his life, Amy, in 1998. They were married on September 2, 2000.

Joseph managed a bicycle shop, worked in the import/export business, and over the past 18 years served as a “Landman” in the oil, gas, and mineral industry – most recently a partner/owner of Pacer Energy in Wyoming.

Joseph also served as President of the Wyoming Association of Professional Landmen from 2017-2018.

Aside from his work, Joseph enjoyed all the mountain region afforded – mountain biking, snowboarding, fishing, and hunting.

Joseph was also an aficionado of classic cars, appreciating their uniqueness and history.

Joseph was larger than life, both in his physical presence at 6 feet, 5 inches, coupled with an infectious smile and uncanny ability to immediately connect with anyone.

With quick wit and humor, Joseph found the best in people, and those around him enjoyed his company immensely.

What Joseph cared most deeply about was his family – wife Amy and daughter Leah, who he dedicated his life and energy to.

Joseph loved spending time with them and supporting Leah’s interests like taekwondo and cheer.

Daughter Leah, makin’ her old man proud.

Joseph was known for his generosity and finding ways to give back to others, whether helping friends and associates in need, or simple and kind acts like buying meals for those that serve our country.

Joseph L. Tessaro is survived by his wife Amy and daughter Leah (Cheyenne, WY), Father Wayne Tessaro (Coupeville, WA), and brother Charles Tessaro (Seattle, WA).

He was preceded in death by his mother, Leah Tessaro (May 1991).