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JOSEPH CAVALLARO Obituary

CAVALLARO


JOSEPH A., December 9, 2012, devoted husband of Kathleen (nee Tedesco), beloved father of Dr. Joseph (Lori), Christopher (Sara), Michael (Joan), brother of Alfred (Elaine), Roseann (Joel) Reffner, and Catherine (Bruno) Varallo, loving grandfather of Lauren, Ella, Joseph, Lyla, Caitlin, Matteo and Clara. Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Viewing Friday 9:30 to 11 A.M. at the Epiphany of Our Lord Church, 11th and Jackson Sts. Funeral Mass will begin at 11 A.M. Ent. New St. Mary Cem., Bellmawr, NJ. In lieu of flowers, family requests donations be made in his name to the Hero Scholarship Fund of Phila., 1617 JFK Blvd., Phila., PA 19103.

www.baldifuneralhome.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Philadelphia Inquirer/Philadelphia Daily News on Dec. 12, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for JOSEPH CAVALLARO

Not sure what to say?





Bill Sonsini

December 6, 2019

Chris anD Family
Had God, not needed a few Good Men, I know your dad would still be our #1 Fan.
Miss your talent, your good character and your dad, with his coffee, on the sideline.
Bill Sonsini , and the ASTFL
Praying you and your family are forever well.

August 19, 2013

Uncle Pee, I thought of you today, and think of you often! xoxo

Joni Rochford

January 8, 2013

Dear Mike,
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your father. Although I didn't have the pleasure of meeting him, I know he was a wonderful man, simply by knowing you. May God continue to bless you and you family.

John Stuckert

December 29, 2012

My thoughts and prayers are with the Cavallaro Family. I had the privilege to be in Joe's squad in the 3rd District in 1973. Although I worked with Joe a short time, I came to know him as a strong family man who enjoyed every day and was one of the best policeman and finest person I worked with in the 27 years that I was a policeman. Later when I retired from the force, I stopped in to see him at his barber shop. He was the same person, but only prouder of his family than before.
John Stuckert

Rota Family

December 18, 2012

So sorry to hear about your father... Your family is in our prayers

Joseph Cavallaro III

December 16, 2012

Eulogy Part One- by Joseph Cavallaro III

How can you sum up the life of a man in five minutes? The answer is you can not. I could stand here and tell you a thousand stories about my father but it will not do this hero justice. You all know the stories because you lived through them with him and that is why you are here today. He has touched your lives in some way and for that I am thankful. When you leave here today please think about those stories and smile because I know he is.

You know it is trouble when the Cavallaro boys get up to do a speech since most of you attended our weddings and witnessed our toasts. That being said I am sure my brothers will do a good job recapping some stories you may not know about. Sorry Father Pigeon, my brother Mike said he is a federal agent and this Eulogy will be longer than five minutes……..but not much more.

What are some of the things I learned from my father?

Place your family first above all else.

Brothers always stick together.

Treat people and your patients the right way.

Treat the person not the disease (amazing that is one of the main principals of osteopathic medicine and he never went to medical school)

Do not listen to people who tell you that you can't do something? Prove them wrong and mail them a copy of your medical school diploma when you graduate.

Never quit. Always keep moving forward no matter how difficult the task or the obstacle.

Education…Education…Education.

Mom will always say no (sorry dad I will argue with that one).

Heroes are real. You will find them where you least expect it. Sometimes the bigger hero is the one taking care of the hero.

He always felt ok no matter how sick he was. How his children felt was always more important.

Every medical decision still had to be cleared through me no matter what the specialist said.

His Grandchildren ruled his world.

This is just a small list of life lessons that need to be passed on to the Cavallaro grandchildren.

Cancer is a horrible disease but the human spirit will always rise above.

Dad your life was a success, as evident by your legacy. You didn't waste your talent. I do believe in Miracles. I love you and you truly did LIVESTRONG…….






Eulogy Part Two- by Michael Cavallaro

Good Morning, on behalf of the entire Cavallaro Family, I would like to thank everyone for gathering here today to celebrate the life of a wonderful man, my dad. We are very thankful for everyone's thoughts, prayers, and generosity not only over the last week but also over the last six years that my father has courageously battled cancer.

I stand here before you saddened by the passing of my father, but grateful for the wonderful memories that I was able to have with my dad throughout the course of my life. My brothers and I will attempt to highlight the amazing and courageous life of our hero, our dad.

Where to begin? A good start would be the fifth grade classroom of Mrs. Paul at Francis Scott Key Elementary School in 1958. My mom first noticed my dad in this class because he and his friends would sit in the back of the class and cause trouble, making her laugh. Unfortunately, for my dad, by sixth grade, mom a newly appointed safety officer was on to my dad's antics. She routinely ran into my dad and his friends causing a raucous in the hallway and would report them. This resulted in my dad getting numerous detentions. One would think there was no chance for a budding relationship after this.

By 9th grade it appeared that my dad had put all that behind him. Dad finally asked mom out on a date, they went to the movies to see the “The Young Philadelphian”. Mom and Dad have been together ever since that first date on May 18, 1962. They were married in this very church on October 3, 1970.

Mom and dad faced adversity throughout their marriage but always managed to lean on each other and get through some really difficult times. Early in their marriage, my father, a Philadelphia Police Officer, was shot and seriously wounded in the line of duty. There were many who thought that he would not survive his wounds. Those who thought that did not know how strong my dad was, and how remarkable was his desire to live. Of course our superman survived.

Dad loved being a police officer. In just 3 short years on the police force, Dad received 11 letters of Merit and 9 Letters of Commendation. In 1974, on the day my brother Joe was born, my father received the prestigious Policeman of the Year award. Dad retired from the Philadelphia Police Department in 1977 but the job never left his mind or heart. To me, my dad will always be the best cop.

Dad held several jobs and opened businesses to help make ends meet for his family. However, he knew that his most important job was being a father. Over the course of our lives Dad was a constant presence at all of our important events. Whether it was a baseball, football, or hockey game each of us knew that if we looked up into the stands Dad would be there, smiling proudly. Our father dedicated his entire life to making sure that his children had a wonderful life. Dad stressed the importance of an education to each of us. Our parents sacrificed so much to make sure that my brothers and I received the best education possible and we can never thank them enough.

When dad was diagnosed with cancer, I was terrified. I sat down with him and said, “if there is anyone in this world that can beat this … it is you.” The diagnosis was very grave but he fought courageously against all odds for over six years, and never once complained. He continued to have that remarkable desire to live. I struggled thinking that my dad would never make it to my wedding day and my children would never get to meet their Pop. I am proud to say that Dad made it to my wedding and my daughters, Caitlin and Clara, spent many Sunday afternoons sitting with Pop, singing “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.” (or Star Light, Star Bright as he often referred to it.)

I take solace knowing that dad is no longer suffering and he is in heaven with his mom and dad. I know that no matter where I go, or whatever I do, he will be with me. I love you dad, you will always be my hero.



Eulogy Part Three- by Christopher Cavallaro

If you asked my father how he was doing right now he would without a doubt say “I feel fine” and I would respond "Good, keep it that way". Throughout his all out battle with cancer, he never once showed his fear or outwardly gave into the pain of the disease that took over his body. He was fearless and fought with superhero qualities against the odds of 3.5% chance of survival over 5 years. We stand here in front of you today 6 years and 1 month after his original diagnosis. So as many would say that he has lost his battle with cancer, I would challenge and say he won his battle with cancer. Victories can not solely be achieved by one man alone. It takes a team…Our mother, the love of his life, his Lois Lane, provided the emotional and physical support to get him through the past 6 plus years, ensuring that he took his meds on time and arrived at appointments on the correct date. Her devotion, strength and compassion are remarkable. To our family and friends, who have been so supportive, we can't thank you enough. I would like to mention the extraordinary efforts of the medical staff at Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals providing the medical support over the past 6 years, especially Dr. Axelrod. Although I have not personally met her, I thank her for being there for him and giving him a glimmer of hope. I know that my father trusted his life with her. Her knowledge and expertise provided him the opportunity to experience the joys of being “Pop” to 7 beautiful grandchildren. Traditional medicine using Lab reports and images can not measure the fight in patient and I think she had that special instrument to measure this. She treated the man not the disease.

Although these days have been difficult, we now know you are in peace watching over us just like you did at all of our sporting events drinking a cup of dunkin donuts coffee. As proud as you were to call us sons, we were equally as proud to call you Dad. You earned that title. You gave us your love and devotion and raised us into Men. Men who will pass on all of the life skills that you gave us to our children. I will never forget that each pitch is separate, forget about the last pitch whether good or bad. It's a simple lesson but I use this everyday in life. You always put our needs ahead of yours, even up to the last days of your life. I was alone with him for a moment and he used all of his remaining strength to ask me if I was ok as he saw the fear in my eyes. I could not believe a man in so much pain asked me if I was ok. But this is who my dad was.

As much as the use of the past tense pains me when referencing my dad, I know that he is in a better place. The good memories of him will live on through all of us.

December 16, 2012

Thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Love from The New York Bakery staff

Steve Casale

December 16, 2012

We pray the love of God comforts you during helps you heal with the passage of time.
~ Steve & Christine Casale
Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord
and let perpetual light shine upon him
May he rest in peace.
May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed,
through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Amen.

Kathleen DePiano

December 14, 2012

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

The Kahana Family

December 14, 2012

To The Cavallaro Family,

We are deeply sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during your time of sorrow.

Anthony % Rosemarie Bronico

December 14, 2012

Kathy and family,

We are so sorry to hear of Joe's passing. Our deepest sympathies and prayers go out to you all. He was a great and friendly person from the first day we met him. I am sure he will be greatly missed.

Joseph Cavallaro

December 14, 2012

Joseph Cavallaro

December 14, 2012

Joseph Cavallaro

December 14, 2012

Judy & Gary Dysart

December 13, 2012

Peace be with you.

December 13, 2012

I'am so sorry for the loss of your father
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers
Jerry and Eileen Savino

Marge & Vince (Wise-Choice Medical) Caramanna

December 13, 2012

To the Cavallaro,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this diffcult time.

Marge & Vince (Wise-Choice Medical) Caramanna

December 13, 2012

To the Cavallaro family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this diffcult time. We are so sorry for your loss.

Linda Mancini-Hull

December 13, 2012

Dr Cavallaro and ,My family is truly sorry for the loss of your dad. You were so good to my family and my dad during his illness and I will never forget you were one of the first people at his viewing. My deepest heart felt sympathy. May he rest in peace.

Michele Giannone

December 13, 2012

Dr. Cavallaro,

I am so sorry to here of the loss of your father. You and your family are in my thoughts and in my prayers. My God keep you all in his heavenly embrace.

Festoff Family

December 13, 2012

Dr. Cavallaro and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss, just know he is at peace. You will be in our prayers.

December 13, 2012

may he rest in peace condolences to dr cavallaro's family from raymond family

Chrissy Carrow

December 13, 2012

Dr. Cav. I am so very sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my prayers.
Chrissy

bill sonsini

December 13, 2012

Our #1 Fan....will be missed.
On behalf of ASTFL, condolences to Chris and the family.

Dana Marra

December 13, 2012

Dear Doctor Cavallaro and Family,
I am very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Wishing you Comfort, Love, and Peace.

Paul & Maria Damico

December 13, 2012

Dr Cavallaro,

We are so sorry for your loss.

Paul & Maria Damico

Krista Stella Lukosius

December 13, 2012

Kathy, Joe, Chris and Mike, Sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Krista, Richie and Cindy Stella

Maria Hendricks

December 13, 2012

Dear Joe, Lori, & Family,
My deepest condolences. My heart and thoughts are with you at this time.
Love,
Maria Hendricks & Family

Rosemarie Heist

December 13, 2012

Dr. Cav, I am so very sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers. Rosemarie

Len Sinko

December 12, 2012

Dear Mike

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Michael and Diane Fuchs

December 12, 2012

Grief can be so hard during the holidays, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one this holiday season.

Louise marchetti

December 12, 2012

Kathy,Chris,Joey & Mike...I am so sorry for your loss. YOur Dad was a great Person... praying for your strength!

December 12, 2012

Dr.Cavallaro & family, we were so sorry to hear about your loss.
Ed & Marian Tuso

Vicki Mullica

December 12, 2012

Pee Wee,I have known you since I was 7 and remember the time I chaced you with the sweeper pipe because you were taking my big sister away from me . I guess I learn to like you and than learned to love you as if you were my own flesh and blood. You where more than a brother in law, you were like my brother.I always knew that the one person I could always count on when I was in trouble was you, and we all know that I was always in trouble. You were always there for me no matter what and never judged or asked why. You always had my back. I condider myself very lucky to have had a brother in law like you.I will always love you and will miss you,you are a hero in so many ways I cann't begin to write them down , there isn't enough paper.I thank you for being there for me and my kids,you were like a father to them and they will miss you .I thank you for giving my sister a beautiful life and for being a great husband,and a great father to my 3 nephews.There is nothing that you would not have done for them.You will be missed by all, but will live on forever in our hearts,I love you buddy.

Ed Pilosi & Maria Lott

December 12, 2012

Doctor Cavallaro & Family
Sorry to hear about the passing of your dad, please know are prayers and thoughts
are with you.

Jane Longo

December 12, 2012

Kathy, Pee Wee was such a great guy and a hero in many people's eyes. He was always with a smile and grateful for his many blessings especially his boys. We will all miss him and pray for his soul in heaven. Love Jayne Longo & Gus

Peggy Cyzewski

December 12, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.We are so sorry for your loss. God Bless. Marge Mooney & Peggy Cyzewski

Stephen Campolongo

December 12, 2012

Joe, Chris and Mike-
My deepest sympathy to you and your family at this difficult time. Your Dad was a great guy, a gentleman. I'll always remember him in his chair down the third base line rooting us on for all those years on the ball field. Mr. Cav will be missed..

Amy Mirarchi

December 12, 2012

Dear Kathy, Joe, Chris and Mike, I am truly sorry for your loss. To say "Uncle Pee" was a great man is an understatement. He was the best. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Melanie

December 12, 2012

Uncle Pee,
You were more than just an Uncle to me. Thank you for always being there for me and my sister. I will forever admire the wonderful job you and Aunt Kath did raising your beautiful boys. I will treasure the guidance that you have given me in bringing up my own. I will miss your big smile, all of the jokes, and your laughter. You always found a reason to laugh! So many memomories I hold in my heart, no one will ever take your place.

Love,
Melanie

Mike Chiliberti

December 12, 2012

Mrs. Cavallero, Joe, Chris and Mike, I'm so sorry for your loss. Mr. Cavallero was a wonderful father, a true family man. I'll never forget how dedicated he was to his sons and how he never missed an athletic event (no matter how bad the team was). You all are in my thoughts and prayers.

Carole Mason

December 12, 2012

Dear Kathi and Family,
My heart goes out to you and your family at this difficult time. I have known Pee Wee since I was about thirteen. I think Harry and I have gone on more double dates rather than single dates in our lives and I would not have changed anything. He is finally at rest after six long years (and never complained). I know that he and Harry are together in Heaven and have named a corner 9th & Wolf. (Beep- Beep).
Love your friend forever,
Carole

Patricia Tartack

December 12, 2012

Al and Elaine and Family,
Please accept our condolences on the loss of your brother. The Tartacks

Kelly Armando

December 12, 2012

Uncle Pee you were a father figure to me and always made me laugh. One could only wish for a Dad like you. Thank you for being there for me when I needed you. My strong, handsome Uncle rest in peace. You will be sadly missed. I Love You.

December 12, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers are with you
Sandy & Dan Salvano

December 12, 2012

Once his feet walked on the earth,
Now they dance among the stars
And though it seems he is gone from us
He's still right where we are.

Hear in the wind his laughter
In the raindrops feel his tears
In the quiet of the snowfall
Hear his whispers through the years

Feel his presence when you gather
In friendships old or new
And when you feel the warming sun
He is hugging you!

For though we say goodbye to him
His spirit carries on
His love lives in our memories
And in our heart he's home

Dear Kathi & Family,

Our deepest sympathy to you. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Kathleen, Gus, Adam, Matt, Laura & Ashley Bonanni

Marc Armando

December 12, 2012

A great man who will live on forever in the hearts and memories of his loved ones. The strong bond amongst his wife and children is a testament to what a great husband and father he was. An inspiration to everyone who knew him. My deepest sympathy.

Michael Bahr

December 12, 2012

My heart goes out to all of you. I hope all your great memories will get you all through this difficult
time.

Bill & Michelle Fleisher

December 12, 2012

Kathy and Family. We offer our condolences on the loss of Joe. WE wish you comfort and peace during this sad time.

Deborah Kennedy

December 12, 2012

Cavallary family, our sympathy and prayers are with you at this time.

Frank Kerrigan

December 12, 2012

Mrs. Cavallaro and family,
I'm sorry for your loss. I remember Joe from the 3rd District. He was one of the best cops that I ever knew.

John & Barbara Ciampaglia

December 12, 2012

Our love and prayers are with you.

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