Joseph Dastoli

Joseph “Babe” Dastoli, 89, a lifelong Stamford resident, passed away peacefully on February 25th, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Babe was born in Stamford on September 22nd, 1935 to the late Joseph and Nancy Pacciarelli Dastoli.
Babe grew up in the Cove and was known as one of the “Cove Boys”. In 1954, Babe attended Stamford High School, where he found his two loves, football and Jean. Football was his passion during his time at Stamford High. After graduation, Babe, his brothers, and their father founded Dasco Rod Company. There he was known tor the diamond wrap and his custom tuna rods. From there, Babe and his brother opened Shippan Sports, which became a longtime Stamford staple. There they provided the community with sporting goods for many years. Babe then opened his own fishing rod store, “Babe’s Sport and Tackle”. Babe also continued with his woodworking, where he created beautiful custom pieces such as cabinets, Adirondack chairs, and much more. He and Jean then retired to their home away from home, Lake Placid, New York. There they created many memories with family, whether it was on their boat, snowmobiling and quadding, or feeding his local animals. Babe was truly a kid at heart.
Babe is survived by his loving wife, Genevive “Jean” Pawlowski Dastoli, his sons, Joseph and wife Bethanny, and Gary and partner Cheryl. He is also survived by his four grandchildren, Toni, Taylor, Anna, and Jake. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at The Church of the Holy Spirit, 403 Scofieldtown Road, in Stamford, on Friday, February 28, 2025, at 10:30am. The interment will follow Mass at Queen of Peace Cemetery in Stamford. There will be no calling hours.
Memorial contributions may be made in Babe’s memory to a charity of one’s choice.
To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.cognetta com .