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Gordon Cavalero Obituary
Born Oct. 14, 1946, in Butler, he was the son to Samuel Cavalero Sr. and Mary (Fetterman) Cavalero.
Gordon was a 1964 graduate of Butler High School and proudly served in the United States Navy, where he was a photographer. After his service, he earned his degree from Slippery Rock University. A talented photographer, Gordon was the owner of "The Studio" on Main Street and was well known throughout the Butler community for capturing school portraits, sports events and weddings.
Deeply involved in the local arts and youth programs, Gordon served for many years as director of the Summer Dramatics Program, was active with the Musical Theater Guild and previously directed the Summer Recreation Program.
A true Pittsburgh sports fan, he loved cheering on the Pirates and Steelers. He had a deep appreciation for the performing arts and enjoyed attending musicals and concerts. Among his most cherished traditions was his annual trip to Disney with his daughter, Casey.
He is survived by his children, Casey (John) Foti and Drew (Kendra) Demme; brother, David Cavalero; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Donald "Bones" Cavalero and Sam Cavalero Jr.; and sisters, Patricia Schaffer and Chervyl Leonard.
CAVALERO - A visitation for Gordon P. Cavalero, who died Friday, July 18, 2025, will be held from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July, 23, at THOMPSON-MILLER FUNERAL HOME, 124 E. North St., Butler.
A funeral service will immediately follow at 8 p.m. with celebrant Lois Trimbur.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Summer Dramatics Program, 126 Westwood Manor, Butler, PA 16001.
All who knew Gordon are encouraged to share memories and upload photos to his unique remembrance page at www.thompson-miller.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gordon Cavalero
Andrea DeRose
August 4, 2025
My deepest condolences to Gordon´s family. May he rest peacefully.
Andrea DeRose
Bruce DeWerth
August 4, 2025
I knew Gordon for well over 50 years.
He was a true artist and craftsman. Always learning and always improving. Often, while spending time with him in his dark room I watched in wonder as he turned a piece of plain white photographic paper into something magical. He was always quick to explain the processes and refinements involved in creating a work of Silver art. Once I asked him if he got bored with the school portrait work. He told me that every portrait or photo he took was important to the person or people involved, so even though the work was tedious, he took every photo seriously.
With Cav's departure, Butler is a little bit darker . He was one the few people who was committed to making it a better, brighter, more interesting , and enjoyable place to live. He could have lived and thrived anywhere,
he chose Butler. His persona was unique and he was one of "those people" who could make friends in minutes and was comfortable in any environment.
His dedication to Butler and to the Arts scene, is legendary. He took great pride in his theater work especially with the young people. Working with aspiring talent is hard. Putting together the pieces of theater production is harder. Getting people to support local Arts, is the hardest part. Gordie never shied away from the difficult work and thrived with the challenges.
Going back decades, I remember dozens hilarious times and occasions that bring back belly laugh memories. Cav mixed wit with a great sense of humor and always had funny or sarcastic reply ready. to meet the occasion.
There are very few people who contribute to their communities. There are even fewer who do it consistently year and in year out for decades. The people who do it with joy and real commitment are very rare.
The Cavity was one in a million.
So long, my friend. See you in the next life.
Stephanie Marshall
July 24, 2025
I loved Gordon very much. He was a very special person. Rest In Peace. Love, Stephanie.
Gary Poole
July 24, 2025
I was sorry to hear of the passing of Gordie.I new him in School,and back in the Southside and Island days, Butler lost one of the good guys. My condolences to the families
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Cathy Fazzino
July 23, 2025
Deepest sympathy for Gordon's loved ones. Our friendship goes back 79 years. Our life's journey took us on different paths but it was always nice to see him from time to time and catch up
Diana Bennett Waller
July 23, 2025
Gordon worked for my Grandfather at Russell Bennett Studio. I used to help out at the studio when I was around twelve years old. I looked forward to seeing him when I went to the studio because he was so funny and such a nice guy. And I kinda had a little crush on him. RIP Gordon.
Beverly Smallwood
July 23, 2025
A dear, long known friend
Denny and Lynne Smith
July 22, 2025
Gordon Cavalero was the photographer for my wedding in 1979. He made my wedding memories special by taking beautiful pictures of our wedding day. May you rest in peace.
Valerie and Joe McCarren
July 22, 2025
Dearest Gordon . We will never know how to thank you for all you did for our daughter Shannon McCarren. You jump started her career as Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz in 2009 and encouraged her to get a BA and MA in acting. We will always be eternally grateful to you for your support. You will always be her Beacon of Light
Amy Cannard
July 22, 2025
Some may recall the Butler Music & Arts Festivals held at the Armco Park in Slippery Rock, it was a wonderful summer tradition for my family & our theater friends. Musical Theatre Guild & Butler Little Theatre would each arrange some form of performances over the two days - there was music, dance, scenes played out, clowns, & so much more. When I was 15 (maybe 16?), I was given my very first, onstage solo to sing in the MTG revue - "Someday My Prince Will Come" - and I had to sing it to my "Prince", with a final kiss on the cheek when I was done. I was so shy (...ok, stop laughing) & nervous that I refused to do the scene with anyone but Gordon Cavalero! He held my hand, kept his eyes on mine & never looked away through the whole song - that unwavering, smiling face kept me from freezing up & gave me the confidence to truly play the part... and he made it Fun. A few years later, he asked me to be his assistant for BLT´s children´s workshops - something I would continue to do for nearly 40 years, becoming a lead instructor, as well as taking a turn as the Board coordinator for the program. `Mama´ June may have had to drag him into our theater doors, but he sure as hell found his place there & made it a Home to all those that followed him in! Bravo, my Friend - you will be greatly missed. {p.s. hug Mother for me!}
DianeHutzler Justus Schelb
July 22, 2025
You will be greatly missed. Many parties on Bullcreek rd during our high school years.
Lee Mustello
July 22, 2025
I knew Gordy pretty well for many years he was a good guy, may he rest in peace
Leeisa Keefer
July 21, 2025
Gordon was one of my photographic hero´s. I was into photography at age 8. I loved watching him work the school pics. He was always kind & willing to answer questions. He will be missed!
herb Thompson
July 21, 2025
Gordon was an tremendous help when I was advisor to Magnet, the Butler Senior High School yearbook, providing great photographs of all manner of activities. The yearbook couldn't have been a success without him. I also considered him a great friend.
Alan Offstein
July 21, 2025
Rest in Peace Gordon. You will be missed. A gentleman, a friend and a classmate.
amelia robertson
July 20, 2025
ss gordon rip so manyt memories from school you was always plesant and charming
Rosanne & Armand Natili
July 19, 2025
So many memories of Gordon. He will always be remembered for his kindness and quick wit. You will always hold a special place in so many hearts.
Rosanne & Armand Natili
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