In Loving Memory of Joe Mizzi, 1956-2025
We are extremely saddened to share the news of the passing of renowned AQHA and APHA breeder Joe Mizzi of Newport, Michigan. Joe, a native of Dearborn, Michigan, was well known for his breeding program at Painted Plantation, LLC, as well as for roles such as past president of the Michigan Paint Horse Club.
His email address, bigjoe@joemizzi.com, provides a glimpse of the man he was, with a big heart and big ideas for the horse industry. His lifelong horse savvy made news when he purchased frozen semen for the late 1987 chestnut AQHA stallion, Impulsions, by The Invester out of Randados Rosa, and made breeding to the legend available via ICSI.
The Equine Chronicle expresses its deepest condolences to Joe’s wife, Pam, his family, friends, and colleagues, as well as the Gooding family, who were trainers for Joe for over 15 years.
Thank you to Sonnesa Gooding for providing the service information below:
Visitation this Thursday 3-8pm at Howe Peterson Funeral Home in Dearborn:
22546 Michigan Ave
Dearborn, MI 48124
313-561-1500
The funeral is this Friday at 1pm at Church of the Divine Child in Dearborn:
1055 North Silvery Lane, Dearborn, Michigan 48128
Joseph Frank Mizzi
April 18, 1956 – August 30, 2025
Joseph Frank Mizzi, age 69, passed away suddenly on August 30, 2025. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Joe lived a life full of laughter, generosity, and unwavering passion.
Born and raised in Dearborn, Michigan, where he met his wife of 48 years, Pamela (Moore) Mizzi. He is survived by his daughter Carol (Brock) Becker of South Lyon, MI; his son Joseph (Anna) Mizzi of Chicago, IL; and his adored grandchildren Owen, Hannah, and Sophia Becker, and Zelda Mizzi. He also leaves behind his father, Joseph (Serena) Mizzi of Dearborn, his brother Christopher (Carri) Mizzi of Dearborn and his sister Elizabeth Mizzi of Dearborn.
Joe was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Ann Mizzi, and his sister, Cecelia Harvey.
A proud graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Joe remained a loyal fan and supporter of the Fighting Irish throughout his life. He enjoyed a distinguished 42-year career as a Wealth Management Advisor with Merrill Lynch and was looking forward to retiring this year – a milestone that would have marked the beginning of a new chapter in a life already full of achievement and joy.
In his early years, Joe was an avid golfer and a member and past president of Dearborn Country Club, where he forged lifelong friendships and countless memories. Later, his passions turned toward horses, and he established Painted Plantation in Newport, Michigan. His deep involvement in the equestrian community brought him immense joy, and he served as a member and past president of the Michigan Paint Horse Club, building lasting relationships through his shared love of horses.
Joe had a warmth that made people feel instantly at ease. His laughter could fill a room, and his generosity knew no bounds. He was a loving and dedicated husband, a proud and supportive father, a joyful grandfather, a loyal coworker, and a true friend to many. Whether cheering for Notre Dame, spending time with his grandchildren, or tending to his horses, Joe embraced life with enthusiasm and heart.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to:
MSU Veterinary Program in Joe’s honor:
https://cvm.msu.edu/friends-alumni/how-to-give
University of Notre Dame: Please direct your gift to the Notre Dame Fund in memory of Joe.
Gifts may be made at https://giving.nd.edu/
To send a flower arrangement in memory of Joseph Frank Mizzi, please click here to visit our sympathy store.
