Joseph Palanzo

Joseph “Joe” Palanzo August 30, 1944 – January 5, 2026 

Joseph “Joe” Palanzo passed away peacefully on January 5, 2026, at the age of 81, surrounded by family and friends.

Joe was born on August 30, 1944, in Danbury, Connecticut, to Joseph and Novina Palanzo. He spent his formative years in Annville, Pennsylvania, where he developed a deep passion for music and later graduated from the Peabody Conservatory of Music, pursuing his lifelong interest in the trumpet. Joe proudly served in the United States Army, 1st Air Cavalry Division, during the Vietnam War, where he was awarded the Bronze Star for his service. His military experience reflected a profound sense of duty, discipline, and commitment that remained central to his character throughout his life.

Following his military service, Joe devoted his life to the martial arts. In Baltimore, Maryland, he established a martial arts school that grew into a respected worldwide organization. He was widely regarded as a forward-thinking and progressive leader in martial arts instruction, continually evolving his teaching methods while honoring tradition. As an instructor, mentor, and innovator, he influenced countless students across the globe. Teaching was the foundation of his life’s work, and through decades of instruction he emphasized discipline, character, and personal development. His dedication to preserving and advancing the martial arts he loved remains a lasting legacy.

Joe was a devoted husband to his wife, Suzanne Palanzo, with whom he shared 60 years of love, partnership, and mutual devotion. He was a loving father to Russell Palanzo and Sarah Palanzo, a loving father-in-law to Allison Palanzo and Tom Hale, and a proud grandfather to Logan Hale, Hayden Hale, Brenden Hale, Eva Palanzo, and Joey Palanzo. He is survived by his brothers, Philip Palanzo and his wife, Maryanne; David Palanzo and his wife, Jill; and Dean Palanzo and his wife, Ann Marie, as well as his beloved nieces and nephews. Joe will be remembered for his integrity, leadership, devotion to family, and lifelong commitment to teaching and service. His influence endures through his family, his students, and the many lives he touched around the world.

Joe was also an avid dog lover who deeply cared for animals. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to K-9 Lifesavers: K-9 LIFESAVERS

A memorial service will be held in the coming months, when family and friends can gather to remember and honor Joe’s life.

Details will be shared at a later date.