Mass will be celebrated Thursday for Joseph John Cristanelli, who passed way Feb. 8, 2007, at his home in South Lake Tahoe.

Joe was born April 14, 1940, in Superior, Wyo., and served his country in the U.S. Marines. He spent his early years in San Francisco, where he worked for Sunset Scavengers and was a shareholder in the company. After moving to South Lake Tahoe in 1962, he owned and operated The Tahoe Tropicana Motel and the Greenhouse Restaurant for more than 40 years.

Joe enjoyed outdoor activities such as camping and fishing. He also enjoyed returning to his hometown of Superior, Wyo., on vacation. His other pastimes included cheering for football on TV. His team was the Denver Broncos. He believed in people, family and friends and spent his life helping others.

He is survived by his wife, Wynema Cristanelli of Gardnerville, Nev.; daughter, Brenda Cristanelli of Gardnerville; daughter and son-in-law, Ronda and Scott Sigmon of Antioch, Calif.; brother and sister-in-law, Livio and Marlene Cristanelli of Roseville, Calif.; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vigilio and Josephine Cristanelli; and brother, Rudy Cristanelli.

Rosary will be recited at 10 a.m. and Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, both at St. Theresa Catholic Church, 1041 Lyons Ave. Friends are invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to any cancer center.