Coach Joseph Marino Death, Obituary: Beloved Martial Arts Instructor and Gentle Soul Passes Away at 41
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joseph Marino, affectionately known by many as Coach Joe or @kungfujoemarino. Joseph passed away on Thursday, June 19, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, wisdom, strength, and laughter that touched everyone he encountered.
Joe wasn’t just a coach—he was a mentor, a protector, a friend, and a gentle soul whose presence made the world feel a little safer and a lot more joyful. Whether guiding a student through a difficult technique at Pellegrino Mixed Martial Arts & Fitness Academy, offering patient instruction at Shore Shot Pistol Range, or simply sharing a nerdy joke, Joe had a unique way of making people feel seen, supported, and inspired.
A proud alumnus of Christian Brothers Academy and a graduate of NJIT, Joe was the embodiment of balance—smart and silly, fierce and kind, serious when it mattered and full of life in every other moment. His passions were as diverse as they were intense: martial arts, firearms safety, fitness, fantasy lore, anime, and the simple joy of connecting with others. Joe could break down complex moves with the patience of a seasoned teacher and follow it up with an in-depth debate about his favorite comic book or video game character.
To those who trained under him, he was more than an instructor. He was a guide through moments of struggle and growth, someone who believed in your strength even before you saw it yourself. His leadership style was grounded in love and patience, and he had a gift for helping others unlock their own potential—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
To his friends and colleagues, Joe was an endless source of warmth and humor. His nerdiness was legendary, worn proudly like a badge of honor, and his presence was a comforting constant in the lives of so many. Whether it was sharing a heartfelt conversation or cracking a joke at the perfect time, Joe brought light into every room he entered.
There are few words that can fully capture the loss we feel. Joseph Marino was one of a kind. His impact cannot be measured by the number of belts he earned or the titles he held, but by the people he uplifted, the lives he helped transform, and the love he freely gave. His legacy will live on in every student who walks into a gym with newfound confidence, in every act of kindness inspired by his example, and in every life made better simply by knowing him.
We love you, Coach Joe.
Thank you for every lesson, every laugh, and every moment of encouragement. You may have left this world too soon, but your spirit will forever be a part of ours.
A memorial service and celebration of life will be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, friends, students, and loved ones are encouraged to share memories, stories, and photos as a way to honor the life of an extraordinary man.
Rest easy, Coach. Your fight is over—but your legacy will never fade.