UPDATE: Joseph Angelo Legueri, a cherished educator and community figure, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2025, at the age of 81. His departure marks the end of a vibrant life filled with humor, love, and a commitment to teaching that touched countless students during his career.
Legueri, who began teaching at Duluth Cathedral in 1967 and retired in 2001, was known for his engaging personality and memorable catchphrases, notably, “The heck you say,” which endeared him to many. His legacy as a beloved teacher will resonate with generations of students who were fortunate to learn from him.
Born to Dorothy and Angelo Legueri in Nashwauk, Joe was the only son among five siblings. His family described him as a man of many talents, from building his own home to restoring classic cars, including a prized 1948 Studebaker. Joe’s adventurous spirit was evident in the life he built with his wife, Shirley Legueri, whom he married after charming her on an after-school activity bus in 1962. Together, they shared 58 years of marriage, creating a home in the woods and raising their two children, Tony and Gina Haggard.
Joe’s love extended to his grandchildren, Thomas, Cooper, and Kelsie, whom he taught to embrace silliness and unconditional love. His family remembers him fondly for his ability to bring joy and laughter into every moment, even as he faced the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease.
In a departure from traditional memorial practices, Joe’s family invites friends to celebrate his life in a unique way: no somber ceremonies or formal speeches. Instead, they encourage attendees to share stories—true or not—over a drink, reflecting the spirited and lively way Joe lived his life.
As the community mourns the loss of Joseph Legueri, they are reminded of the impact one individual can have on many lives. His legacy as an educator, husband, father, and friend will endure, inspiring others to find joy in the everyday moments that define a life well-lived.
Those wishing to honor Joe’s memory are encouraged to celebrate with laughter and stories, just as he would have wanted.
