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CARL MOTTOLA Obituary
MOTTOLA, CARL A. - December 15, 2011, of Ocean View, formerly of Philadelphia. Loving husband of Joan (nee Landi), devoted father of the late Gina Richard, dear brother of the late Mario Mottola, Edith DiLiberali and Florence Bonaccorsi, dear uncle of Chris Mottola, JoAnne Mottola and Michael DiLiberali, great uncle of Michael Mottola. Premier drummer, teacher and mentor to many musicians for over 50 years. Relatives and friends are invited to his Viewing and Funeral Mass Monday morning 8 to 10:15 A.M. at Vincent Gangemi Funeral Home, Inc. 2232-40 S. Broad St. (at Wolf St.), Philadelphia. Funeral Mass 11:00 A.M. at St Nicholas of Tolentine Church, 9th and Watkins Sts., Philadelphia. Internment Private. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the Abramson Cancer Center, Multiple Myeloma Research Fund, c/o The Pearlman Center for Advanced Medicine, 3400 Civic center Blvd., 2PCAM West, Philadelphia, PA. 19104 in Carl's memory.
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Memories and Condolences
for CARL MOTTOLA
Bob Ferguson
December 13, 2020
Carl teaching Christiano Menegazzo from Rome, Italy who came to study in 2005. He is now principal Tympanist with Antwerp Symphony in Belgium .Carl was a fantastic teacher
Mark Dominic Falcone
December 21, 2018
I got Carl certification to teach in the PA schools. I was a teacher at Combe College of Music where I met him and unknown to me his wife and I attended the same grade school in Philly St. Nick's Parish. He was a really delightful person and he was an excellent drummer.
Mark Alesiani
December 17, 2012
A full year has already past since Carl's passing but I feel he's still here with me in spirit because of his incredible influence on me not only as a drummer but as a person everyday I play the drums only because Carl was very practicle and patient and very giving as a person if it weren't for him drumming would have been something that was beyond my capabilities. I would like to express my Gratitude for a lifelong gift.
Russell Joell
January 1, 2012
Dear Joan,
You might remember that I sent Carl a post card from Austria quite a few years ago thanking him for his great lessons. He was truly an original and will be greatly missed. Stay strong...
Ed Shea ,Don Rickles & Carl AC,NJ 2002
edward shea
December 31, 2011
Don Rickles with Carl ,his favorite drummer inthe country
brian zawid
December 28, 2011
Dear Joan,
I knew Carl from my days working with him at GCCS. He had a great passion for life and was a wonderful teacher/inspiration to the students that he worked with. I remember talking with him about sports, music, and life. His opinions were very respected and I will treasure the time I spent working with him. My deepest thoughts and sympathies are with you and your family at this time.
Ron Olmi
December 27, 2011
Joan,
Carl was a good friend, a great musician and a true professional. He will be sadly
missed but very well remembered always.I
treasure the times we spent together.
joe leonetti
December 25, 2011
Joan,
I learned of Carl's passing on Christmas morning after speaking with an old friend. I can not tell you how much happiness Carl added to my life by teaching me to play drums which I love so passionately. As a result of Carls's great teaching, I was able to play drums professionally for many years while I completed my medical training. My fondest memories as a teenager and young adult included my weekly lessons at your home and countless nights sitting next to Carl at Palumbo's learning to read charts and interact with fellow musicaians. Also, the early years at the AC casinos were awesome times that I shared with Carl and the guys. I will always remember Carl as one of the very few special influencial people in my life. I will keep him in my prayers and wish you peace and happiness.
William Sheehan
December 23, 2011
Dear Mrs. Mottola,
I was a student of Carl's back in the 80s. He really took the time to try and help me along as a drummer and as a young man. I remember he would charge me a reduced rate for lessons since it was just me and my mother. I was hoping to reconnect with him in the New Year and am very saddened by the news of his passing.
Denise Black
December 21, 2011
It is with a deep sense of sadness that I heard Of Carl's Passing. Howie always had a great band and Carl was the key. Our days at Strawbridges and the Douglas Show remind me of Carl,Howie and that wonderful gang- not to mention the Old Sciolla' days with That great band. Howie loved Carl and took credit for naming him "Cochise". I cannot tell you how sad this makes me, Joanie. Love and please know we love you, as we did Carl
Denise Black- BlackMagic SwingBand
David Kovnat
December 20, 2011
Dear Joan,
I mourn Carl's passing deeply. I was one of his very first students; back then I knew his mother and his brother Mario who gave me haircuts. I remember taking three busses from Broomall to Southwest Philly to get to my lessons. I went to see Carl play with Bobby Rydell at the Steel Pier and at Sciola's, the drum duet with Bobby was incredible, both visually and technically. Carl's head bobbing to the time, his infectious smile, and the impeccable way he looked with that tuxedo and self tie bow tie, made me want to emulate him completely. Lessons were supposed to be an hour long, but they always went into overtime. When Carl held the drum chair at Palumbo's, he got me a job playing in the “lull band” where he would let me sit next to his floor tom during the show, that allowed me to see how to play an “act” and even how to catch a comedian's punch line, I'm very grateful for that education. To put it simply, Carl was the best show drummer there has ever been on this planet. I played for Carl's teacher Sam Ulano in N.Y. and his teaching mentor Max Abrahams in England, they both gave Carl accolades for how he had taught me to read and play. Carl is the reason that I have made a living playing drums, he got me every important job I've ever had, including the one I've had with Bobby Rydell for the past 33 years.
Joan, I'm so sorry that I was unable to attend Carl's funeral. Sometimes, I miss living in Philly, I'd like to be able to see your wonderful smile once in awhile.
Love,
Dave
Bob Cohen
December 20, 2011
Dear Joan, I was saddened to hear the news today of your loss. Carl was a good friend and musical associate of mine and my former wife and band leader, the late Harriet Fay Cohen. I will never forget his wonderful sense of humor and warmth - and his dazzling talents behind the drum set. My sincere condolences to you and your family.
Fred Poritsky
December 20, 2011
Dear Joan, While I never met you, I knew Carl as a fellow drummer and a wonderful person. I had wanted to take lessons from Carl years ago but we couldn't work out a good schedule since I am in Bucks County. I always admired his style and stage presence. He will be missed. As we say in the Jewish religion; Barukh Dayan Emet; May his Memory be for a Blessing.
Fred Poritsky
December 20, 2011
Joanie,
Tony and I are honored to have you and Carl as our neighbor and friend. It's hard to think of him looking down on us and not across the street. His talent and sense of humor were a gift from God and now he resides with Him. Our love and prayers are always with you and remember when the days seem gray Carl's smile is shining through those gray clouds and Gods cloak of love always surrounds and protects you.
Love,
Tony and Judi
Kathy Thomas
December 20, 2011
My deepest condolances go out to the Mattola family. Carl was a great musician and an even greater friend. I have worked with Carl countless times and was a colleague when he worked with the Philadelphia School District. I will miss him.
Carl & ME 12/15 91 Gallery Philadelphia Pa
December 19, 2011
Joan ,i was hooked on Carl that first time in the basement of the barber shop.Carl dazzled me with his great brushwork and reading down drum books at a speed that i thought was impossible.That was 40 years ago and just two weeks ago he was talking about me and him reading down some duets.Well i went into my studio to prepare for the bloodbath that Carl could unleash with those magical hands.Well I never got the chance to go up against the master.He helped me so much with my playing and because of Carl i feel my snare drum roll is second to no one.I will miss those "Carlisms" such as GUESS WHAT & LET ME REFRESH YOUR MIND!!!!!!! You will be missed on the bandstand and in my heart
Ed Shea Linwood Nj
December 19, 2011
So very sorry sorroy to hear of Carls passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. I was many of the young drum student who had the privelage of studying with Carl back in the 80's. He was a true inspiration and without a doubt the absolute BEST in the biz.My time spent with him is very vivid and he will not be forgotten.Rest in peace Carl.
Dan Sanbrotti
December 19, 2011
Dear Joan,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. I am so glad that you, Carl and I had the chance to spend time together at the Venetian and few years ago. Carl and I were friends for nearly 50 years and I will miss him and never forget him.
Ronnie Burke
December 19, 2011
I remember Carl when I was a teenager and President of the Bobby Rydell Fan Club. Carl was Bobby's drummer at the time and he was always very nice to this young girl. I am very saddened to learn of his passing. RIP Carl.
December 19, 2011
Dear Joan,
My deepest sympathy and prayers go out to you and your family. Carl was a great person and a great drummer as well. I'm so glad that I got a chance to see him and you last month in Somers Point. He seemed happy to have been there. He will be sorely missed. I'm sorry I could not attend the service today but please know that my spirit is with you and Carl. May he rest in glorious peace.
Our Condolences,
Harry and Diane Himles
Mike D'Imperio
December 19, 2011
We've lost a great musician and a true gentleman. He was my mentor and friend. The drumming community will never be the same. He was THE BEST. Rest in peace my buddy. Until we meet again......
Jeff Wasilauski
December 19, 2011
Joan, my deepest sympathies go out to you. Carl was my teacher while at Temple University for all four years. He was a great musician, teacher and most importantly friend. He will be greatly missed.
Kenyatta Norris
December 18, 2011
Mr. Mottola was a great man! This definitely tugs on the hearts of many CAPA Instrumental Alum! RIP Mr. Mottola. My prayers are with the Mottola family!... Kenyatta Norris Class of 02 CAPA Instrumental
Vincnet Avallone
December 18, 2011
Dear Joan,
What can I say, but I am so very sad. My prayers are with you. I have known Carl and you for many years all the way back to the barber shop basement,then So. Philly where he taught many of us how to play the drums like real musicians. His patience and influence on me will never go away. I will never forget how he insisted that I learn to read correctly, read and play he use to say to me. Then he would throw his arms up in the air and say for a little guy you beat the crap out of the bass drum and move the pads, Muone.
I am proud to have known him and my family offers its most deepest sympathies to you and your family.
He has touched so many and will always be remember as a Great Man!
Vinny Avallone
Loretta (Souders) Kormann
December 18, 2011
Joan, you don't know me but I lived 2 houses away from Carl on 62nd st. in southwest Phila. I knew his whole family and they were the nicest people ever. I don't think I have seen Carl in 40 years, but growing up he was always, always on those drums. Such a nice person. My sympathy goes out to you and your family. May he rest in peace and play those drums from above.
Steven Pearse
December 18, 2011
I am proud to say I had established a friendship with such a wonderful man. Introduced to me by two of Carl's students and biggest fans. My children Lauren and Alex. They said " Dad your gonna like Mr.Mottola he"s really great". Carl and I became friends and I'm sure this was a viral reaction he had with people in general. Ruth my heart goes out to all who will miss him. For now just close your eyes and see his smile it really doesn't go away. God Bless
Jack Hegyi
December 18, 2011
Dear Joan, my heart is heavy as you now face the loss of your beloved husband and friend, Carl. He was a giant to so many of us who had the honor to share a stage with him during his life long professional music career. From my early days knowing Carl at Palumbos to our days in AC, Carl was always on my side, giving me encouragement and support as one of the many bassist who had the joy of playing with Carl. I regret that I was unable to see him as of his latest battle that finally overcame his powerful will to live. We were all blessed to have him as long as we did but it was not long enough. Please know I am with you in your mourning. I deeply refer I will not be physically able to attend his services as I have to attend the funeral of Lenny Vinci, also a very close friend to so many of Carl's friends. I am so sorry to miss his services, please forgive me.
God be with you as you learn to live again without the love of your life, but never lose faith that Carl is at peace, in the loving arms of our Lord Jesus!
Your friend,
Jack Hegyi, for my wife Laura as well.
Colleen McCarry, Kate and Donna Painter
December 18, 2011
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Carl. As I look at his picture I can still imagine his voice and think of so many happy memories. He was a wonderful and sincere person.He is much too young to be gone. All my love and love from my children.
Benjamin Marsella
December 18, 2011
Dear Joan,
Carl was my friend,my inspiration,and my teacher.He was one of the greatest human beings you will ever know. God was searching for the best drummer in the world and he picked the best.To Joan my deepest condolences to you and your family. I love you and God bless you! May Carl rest in peace.
Jennifer Hammock
December 18, 2011
Dear Joan,
Your Husband was an amazing musician, a wonderful teacher and a warm hearted person with an extremely caring soul. He has touched the lives of so many; I know that he touched everyone's heart in some way or another while teaching at Galloway Community Charter School. I am glad to have met him; he is someone you will never forget.
-My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family in this time of need; God bless.
Bob Ferguson
December 18, 2011
Dear Joan, we will all miss Carl's wonderful swinging style and his marvelous brush work and technique. As a teacher he was diligent, caring and supportive. Rita and I send all our blessings to you and your family. Carl's spirit lives on in music !
Michael Piper
December 18, 2011
Carl was in inspiration to me when, at 30, I truly needed some inspiration. A teacher, mentor, and fantastic drummer, he will be missed.
Jean McAlister
December 18, 2011
Dear Joan,
Mr. Mottola changed the lives of many children at the Galloway Community Charter School in Galloway, NJ including our two sons Matt and Brian. He came to our school's rescue when we needed a music teacher. He provided kids with an instrumental program that they normally would not have had. Matt's desire to play drums was only because of the wonderful influence Mr. Mottola had on him. He inspired many kids in many ways. What a wonderful person!!
Our entire family is grateful to have known Mr. Mottola and we send you our deepest sympathies to you and your family.
We will miss him.
The McAlister Family
Tom Giacabetti
December 18, 2011
Joan, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Carl was truly one of the greats.
A world class drummer and a great friend.
Carl inspired me in so many ways, and I am a better person because of him.
I'll will miss him.
Georgia Barnelli
December 18, 2011
Joanie...Carl and you have been some of our favorite people. I'm so glad Lisa and I got to see him a few weeks ago. A Righteous Bros' song comes to mind... "If you believe in forever..then life is just a one night stand.....". Carl will be up there playing with the rest of the best. We're here for you.
Love you,
Georgia, Tom and Lisa
December 18, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
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