Joseph C. Canizaro (1937 – June 20, 2025) was an American commercial real estate developer and philanthropist. Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, Canizaro developed several buildings that make up the New Orleans skyline. In 2005, Canizaro was described as the "single most influential business executive from New Orleans".[5] 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.
Early years
Joseph Canizaro was the son of Dr. Vito Canizaro, a Biloxi surgeon (died 1954), and Gilda Melone Canizaro (died 1990).[4][6] He was the oldest of eight siblings and grew up in Biloxi.[4][5]