Joseph C. Canizaro obit

New Orleans Mourns the Loss of Visionary Developer Joseph C. Canizaro at 88

 

He was not on the list.

Joseph C. Canizaro, a prominent real estate developer credited with reshaping the skyline of downtown New Orleans, died on Friday night at his Metairie home. He was 88. His death, following a series of strokes, was confirmed by close friend Boysie Bollinger. Canizaro's influence on the city's architecture and philanthropy was widely recognized, marking him as a transformative figure in New Orleans' development, as reported by WWLTV.

Statements of condolence have quickly begun to surface from state and local leaders. Among them, Governor Jeff Landry expressed his sentiments via social media, as cited by WDSU, "Joe Canizaro was a legendary builder, developer, and philanthropist, but an even better person. It seemed everything he touched turned to success! His vision and craft shaped the New Orleans we have all come to love. He will be deeply missed by all who had the absolute pleasure of knowing him." Marc Morial, former Mayor of New Orleans and current president and CEO of the National Urban League, reflected on Canizaro’s legacy, crediting him with beginning the transformation of the city's public housing stock during his tenure on the Board of the Housing Authority of New Orleans.

The span of Canizaro's career coincided with New Orleans' ambition to compete with other growing southern cities. He took part in prominent projects like the International Trade Mart, which he visited in the 1960s while it was under construction. That particular project left a lasting impression on him, as he recounted in a 2014 interview with Biz New Orleans Magazine, describing the view from 26 flights up, where Canal and Poydras streets nearly converge by the Mississippi River.

In addition to his development work, Canizaro was known to have been a supporter of Republican politics, including hosting fundraisers for former President Donald Trump along with businessman Boysie Bollinger. Canizaro's passing is noted by the community as the loss of a significant figure who played a key role in both the urban landscape and civic life of New Orleans. Further details on his passing and funeral arrangements are still to be confirmed, as reported by WDSU.

Canizaro made substantial philanthropic donations to Catholic churches, colleges and universities located in New Orleans and on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. He was the former owner of the New Orleans Breakers football franchise from the USFL.