Jose Echaniz, Jr. (1933 – 2026)

Beloved patriarch, Jose Echaniz, Jr., departed this earthly life on January 28th, 2026. Born January 20, 1933, in Decatur, IL, Jose spent most of his life in Rochester, NY. He was a member of the first graduating class of St. John Fisher College in 1955. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1956 to 1957.

Jose Echaniz, Jr.

A devoted newspaperman, he spent 60 years working for Gannett Rochester Newspapers in nearly every aspect of the business, from copy boy to wire editor. He was the eldest child of the concert pianist and Eastman School of Music professor, Jose Echaniz, and his wife Dulce.

He passed away in Chesapeake, VA, having moved from Rochester with his wife in 2016, to be closer to his son Matthew, his daughter-in-law Maria, and their family. He was devoted to his faith, his family, and his work.

Jose is survived by Judith, his wife of over 63 years; their six children (Jose, Catherine, Margaret, John, Mary, and Matthew); his brother, Carlos; 21 grandchildren; and 6 great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his sister Maria, and two grandchildren, Michael and Anna.

The funeral service will be held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Front Royal, VA, on Wednesday, February 11^th.  Public visitation and viewing at 9:30 a.m., eulogy and Mass to follow at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Michael Echaniz Debt Relief Scholarship for New Teachers via Christendom College.
(www.christendom.edu/gift/in-memory-michael-echaniz)