Joseph A. Grotto ’56

Joe died April 30, 2024, in Naples, Fla., surrounded by his children Joseph, Suzanne, and John. 

Born in the Bronx to immigrant parents, Joe came to Princeton from Roosevelt High in Yonkers from which he was recruited by football coach Charlie Caldwell 1925 — who became a lifelong hero. He played end on our Ivy championship team, joined Cap and Gown, and majored in economics. After two years in the Army, Joe joined the New York City real-estate firm Brown Harris Stevens, rising to president. 

In 1986, he formed his own company, which grew to include all of his children. He received numerous professional honors, including “Broker of the Year” and “Realty Man of the Year.” Our class named him “Distinguished Classmate” in 1976. He served on several boards, including Princeton Club of New York and Savings Bank of America.

Joe’s passing on LinkedIn produced almost 200 comments of respect for him professionally and affection for him personally — the label “gentleman” appears frequently. He was a person of great humility and loyalty who cherished many friends. As his son John wrote, “Your greatest accomplishment was the love and support you offered everyone who entered your life.”