Joseph Cancila

1930 - 2024

Joseph Cancila

September 29, 1930 - December 31, 2024

The family of Joseph Cancila, lovingly known as "PopPop" is deeply saddened to announce the passing of the family's foundation on December 31, 2024 at the age of 94, following a period of declining health.

Joe was born on September 29, 1930, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Vincent and Mary Cancila. The youngest of four brothers, Joe grew up in a vibrant household, enriched by his family's Sicilian heritage. His mother immigrated from Sicily with her sisters to join their father, and his father arrived as a teenager, working first as a barber and later at a local naval base.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Lola; his daughter Marie Wimmer and her husband Scott; and his three grandchildren, Joe and wife Virginia of Belmont, NC; Sara of Hickory, NC; and Sam, also of Hickory.

Joe's life was defined by his deep love for his family and his many passions, which included opera, golf, travel, and the study of financial markets. He was known for his punctuality and his dedication to daily routines, which included regular walks, exercise, and meals at precisely the same time every day, a source of many lighthearted family jokes. His neighbors affectionately noted his absence when he was no longer seen walking outdoors, often accompanied by opera music or a political podcast.

A lifelong learner and avid reader, Joe possessed a remarkable memory and an enduring love for history, politics, and sports, particularly baseball.

Joe's academic achievements were impressive. He earned a scholarship to a Catholic high school and later graduated from Villanova University with a degree in chemical engineering. After starting his career as a lab technician with Firestone, he served in the U.S. military during the Korean War, stationed in the Panama Canal Zone in counter-intelligence, where he posed as a civilian government employee. It was during a military social event that he met the love of his life, Lola – a memory he always described as the highlight of his service.

After marrying Lola in 1956, Joe resumed his career at Firestone before joining Cabot Corporation, a global leader in industrial chemical products. His work led the family to live in England, Paris, Andover, MA and eventually Atlanta, GA, where he managed operations for the Northwest Hemisphere. In the mid-1980s he retired in Atlanta, prioritizing his family over further relocations, and later moved to Florida in the 1990s.

Joe's unwavering devotion to his family guided every decision he made. From retiring to spare his family another move to supporting Lola through her battle with dementia, his love and care knew no bounds. It is in his memory that the family kindly requests donations to the National Alzheimer's Association at https://alzfdn.org/donate/.

Joe will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His wisdom, humor, and dedication to those he loved will remain forever in the hearts of his family and friends.

Condolences may be sent to the Cancila family at www.drumfh-hickory.com.

Drum Funeral Home in Hickory is honored to be serving the Cancila family.

Drum Funeral Home

940 29th Ave NE, Hickory, NC 28601