Joseph "Jo Jo" Gumpper

It is with profound sadness that the family of Joseph D. Gumpper "Jo Jo" announces his passing on Sunday, May 17, 2026. Joseph was a beloved husband, brother, friend, and colleague whose warmth and presence touched many lives.

He is survived by his husband and life partner of 26 years, Stephan Csiza; his brothers, David Gumpper (Kelly) of Willow Springs, North Carolina, Edward Gumpper (Frances) of Sarasota, Florida, and Andy Gumpper (Amita) of Morristown, New Jersey; his sister, Terri Pfaff Roch (Russell) of Fredericksburg, Virginia. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Kathleen Csiza (Sergio Estela) of Albany, New York; his brother-in-law, Andrew Csiza (Sarah) of Albany, New York; and his mother-in-law, Colette Csiza of Albany, New York and his beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and aunts and uncles.

He was predeceased by his parents, Ronald and Carolyn Gumpper; his brother, Allen; his sister, Linda; and his father-in-law, Charles Csiza.

Joseph was a music and orchestral teacher at the Shenendehowa Central School District, where he dedicated himself to music education, school performances, and, most importantly, to his students who he loved profoundly. He was a graduate of the Crane School of Music at the State University of New York at Potsdam and earned his Master of Science in Education from The College of Saint Rose.

He also served as a string orchestra conductor with the Empire State Youth Orchestra (ESYO), joining the organization in 2008 after beginning his tenure as orchestra director at Shenendehowa High School in 2006. In addition to his work as a conductor, Joe was known for playing fiddle in several bands, including the Red Haired Strangers, Rusticator and Chordial String Quartet, and for his work as a private music instructor. Joe also served as a guest conductor for several all-county and area all-state festivals and conducted workshops for CASDA, a local teacher training organization.

He was a steady and compassionate presence-someone who made students feel heard, seen, valued, and capable of more than they imagined. His impact on this community is remarkable.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026 from 10am-1pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 181 Troy Schenectady Rd., Watervliet, NY 12189.

In lieu of flowers, the family has established  in his memory that contributions can be made to the Joseph Gumpper Memorial Scholarship care of Shenendehowa Central School District, 5 Chelsea Place, Clifton Park, NY 12065

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