The distinguished accomplishments of Joseph Michael Colucci earned him many titles of respect during his long career. A 1958 mechanical engineering graduate at MSU, he died Feb. 15, 2026, at his home in Oberlin, Ohio. He was 88.
Colucci was a member of the National Academy of Engineering and known as the “father of clean gasoline” by the Society of Automotive Engineers, now SAE International. Referred to as “the Fuel Czar” by Newsweek Magazine, he was also interviewed by Dan Rather on CBS “60 Minutes” in 1976 as GM explored the use of methanol in gasoline as a cost-effective blending agent to enhance performance and reduce emissions.
While serving as department head for fuels and lubricants at General Motors, he focused on improving commercial fuel and lubricant quality for better performance and reduced emissions. He then served as executive director, materials research at GM RandD, and most recently, as president of Automotive Fuels Consulting, Inc.
At Michigan State University, his volunteer impact looms large. He dedicated time to both the College of Engineering and the college’s Department of Mechanical Engineering. His formal service on alumni and advisory boards spanned from the early 2000s to 2022.
In 2003, Colucci received the college’s highest honor -- the Claud R. Erickson Distinguished Alumni Award.
In 2006, he recommended the creation of a teaching award to honor K-12 teachers in Michigan who inspire students to study math, science, and engineering. Since his recommendation, the Green Apple Teaching Award has been presented annually to teachers at the College of Engineering Alumni awards banquet.
Additionally, the creation of the Joseph M. and Suzanne H. Colucci Endowed Graduate Fellowship is a gift to Spartan Engineering students in perpetuity. The fund supports full-time graduate students pursuing an advanced degree in mechanical engineering with an emphasis on energy. In keeping with Colucci’s interests, preference is given to students with a demonstrated interest in new generation fuels or the conversion of energy in automotive systems.
Engineering Interim Dean and MSU Research Foundation Distinguished Professor John Papapolymerou said Colucci exemplified what it means to live the values of Spartans Will.
“Through an extraordinary career and a lifelong commitment to service and philanthropy, Joe helped strengthen this college and expand what is possible for our students. His impact will continue to be felt across our campus for many years to come.”
To read more about the life of Joseph M. Colucci, visit their obituary.
Written by Patricia Mroczek.
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