Joe Rosenblatt passed away July 29, 2018 surrounded by the love and respect of his family and friends. Joe was an enthusiastic and energetic lover of and participant in the arts, with a strong affinity and talent for instrumental music. A credentialed music teacher and administrator, Joe served with distinction in the San Francisco Unified School District, serving as Dean and Assistant Principal of A. P. Giannini Middle School and later as Principal of the Ruth Asawa School of the Arts. Joe had an encyclopedic knowledge of classical music, seemingly able to recall major themes from just about any piece in the repertoire. Joe was a grand adventurer who traveled the world entire, visiting sites that others only dream about. In all, Joe visited 192 countries. His love for travel was equaled only by his passion for symphonic music, opera, ballet and the arts. Not a week went by when Joe was not out and about with his dear wife Bonnie, attending all manner of performances and opening nights. He had complete subscriptions to the San Francisco Symphony, Ballet, and Opera. On other nights he went to sporting events, films and theater. He had an incredible thirst for knowledge, reading every non-fiction book he could get his hands on. Most importantly, Joe was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle, a true and loyal friend, and a respected educational leader. He famously knew every single student's name under his care. Hundreds of students have their own "Mr. Rosenblatt stories" of Joe going out of his way to inspire and help them attain their goals. His generosity and kindness were well known and revered. He leaves behind a legacy of humble excellence in all that he did and with all whom he touched.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Ruth Asawa School of the Arts, 555 Portola Drive, San Francisco, 94131. Please note the donation is for the Joe Rosenblatt Scholarship Fund.