Joel Trebisacci Obituary: Westerly Man Dies After Diving Incident in Stonington

Joel Trebisacci Obituary: Westerly Man Dies After Diving Incident in Stonington

STONINGTON, Conn. (August 4, 2025) — With deep sadness, the family and friends of Joel Trebisacci, 47, of Westerly, Rhode Island, announce his tragic passing following a diving incident in Stonington, Connecticut. Joel died on Saturday, August 2, after being found unresponsive near the Stonington Town Fishing Dock, a place he frequented and held close to his heart.

Born and raised in Westerly, Joel was a lifelong resident of the coastal town, where he cultivated deep roots, enduring friendships, and a profound love for the sea. A skilled diver and recreational fisherman, Joel spent much of his free time on or near the water — not just as a hobby, but as a way of life.

According to officials from the Stonington Police Department and emergency personnel who responded to the scene, Joel had been participating in a solo recreational dive near the town dock when something went wrong. He was later found unresponsive by a passerby near the surface, with his gear nearby. First responders attempted life-saving measures, but Joel was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

An autopsy is being conducted by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner to determine the exact cause of death, though initial findings suggest a possible medical emergency during the dive. Authorities have stated that no foul play is suspected.

The sudden and unexpected nature of Joel’s passing has left his family, friends, and the broader Westerly and Stonington communities in shock and mourning.

A Life Lived by the Ocean

Joel’s life was defined by his connection to the natural world, particularly the waters of the Atlantic and the winding rivers and inlets of southern New England. From a young age, he was fascinated by the ocean — a fascination that turned into a lifelong passion for diving, fishing, and marine conservation. Those close to him often joked that Joel was “part fish,” always happiest with a wetsuit on or a rod in hand.

He worked as a marine technician and diver for much of his career, supporting various local marinas and private clients with underwater repairs, salvage work, and inspections. He was widely respected not just for his technical skill but also for his honesty, humility, and strong work ethic.

Joel was also an advocate for ocean preservation. He volunteered regularly for coastal cleanup efforts and was a familiar face at regional marine education events, where he enjoyed mentoring younger divers and sharing his deep knowledge of the underwater world.

Remembered for His Generous Spirit

Beyond his love of the sea, Joel was known for his warm heart, quiet strength, and generous spirit. Whether it was helping a neighbor with repairs, mentoring a young diver, or simply offering a listening ear, Joel gave freely of himself without ever expecting anything in return.

“Joel was the kind of person who would drop everything to help you,” said longtime friend and diving partner, Chris Romano. “He didn’t say much, but when he did, it mattered. He was loyal, kind, and lived a life that inspired others.”

He was also a devoted father to two children, who were the center of his world. Family meant everything to Joel, and he often spoke of his dreams of passing down his diving gear and seafaring stories to the next generation.

Survived By

Joel Trebisacci is survived by:

• His two children, [Names Withheld for Privacy]

• His parents, [Parent Names], of Westerly, RI

• His sisters, [Names], and a wide circle of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews

• Numerous close friends and members of the local fishing and diving communities

Services and Memorial

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 9, at Wilcox Park in Westerly, beginning at 4:00 p.m. Family, friends, and members of the public are invited to attend and share stories, photos, and memories of Joel. Attendees are encouraged to wear blue or nautical-themed clothing in his honor.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Joel’s memory to:

• Save the Bay – Narragansett Bay, or

• Divers Alert Network (DAN), an organization supporting diver safety and research.

A Final Farewell

Joel Trebisacci’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of many — not just because of how he died, but because of how he lived. His legacy will live on in the waves he swam, the people he helped, and the deep, quiet strength he carried through life.

May he rest in peace, surrounded by the waters he loved so dearly.