Born in Utica, he was the son of Rose and Luciano (Lucky) Guidera, who predeceased him. He was a graduate of T. R. Proctor High School and Hunter College, with a degree in biochemistry. In his early twenties, Joe moved to NYC and never left. He loved living there and thrived on all the culture the city had to offer. He also thrived on the cultural diversity of NYC and enjoyed its variety of cuisines. He attended Broadway plays, rock concerts, as well as symphonies, Shakespeare In the Park performances and operas at the Metropolitan Opera House. Joe had an insatiable thirst for knowledge and read books on a wide range of subjects. He probably visited every museum in the city and could give a running commentary on nearly every exhibit. In his earlier years, he performed in numerous Off-Broadway plays. Though Joe loved living in the Big City, he was drawn to nature and demonstrated a vast knowledge of plants, trees, insects, flowers, animals and the stars, citing the Latin for their common names. However, his greatest passion was music. By vocation, Joe was a songwriter, singer, musician and performer. He always had lyrics and melodies magically swirling in his head. He was always jotting down words and phrases and humming tunes into his phone if he wasn't home. A source of great pride for him was the Grammy nomination he once received for one of his songs. Joe loved performing and could often be seen in various venues across the city. He earned the respect and friendship of many people he worked with in the music world, with one calling him, "One of the good ones!"

Joe leaves behind his most loving companion of the last 15 years, Niurka Sabina. They were inseparable. Niurka shared her family, especially her daughter and son-in-law and their four children, with whom Joe spent many happy times. Joe is also survived by his loving family: his brother, Marty Guidera; and his sister and brother-in-law, Josey and Joe Lopez; his nephews, Matt Lopez and his wife, Kristin, Mike Lopez and his wife, Erica, Justen Lopez and his grand-nieces and nephew, Samantha and Katherine Lopez and Luciana and Michael Lopez. He is also survived by his uncle and aunt, Louis and Frances Bell; his aunt, Marie Bell; his many cousins; and his lifelong friends, Joe Ciaccarelli and Fred Peek.

A service will be held on June 30, 2021, at 11:00, at the Calvary Cemetery, 2407 Oneida St., Utica, lower mausoleum.

Donations may be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, for those who wish to make one.

Online condolences may be made on krtilfuneralhome.com.