Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Add a Memory
Make a Donation
FUNERAL HOME
Joseph Oriolo Obituary
JOSEPH A. ORIOLO "Tony"
On Friday, July 27, 2007, beloved son of Sara Oriolo; father of Robert (Lori), Richard (Jennice), Sarah, Laura and Nicholas Oriolo; fiance of Kathleen Verdelli; brother of Steven (Darlene) Oriolo; grandfather of Alec, Dylan, Morgan, Shane and Logan. Relatives and friends may call at BORGWARDT FUNERAL HOME, 4400 Powder Mill Rd., Beltsville, MD Thursday, 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mark's Catholic Church, 7501 Adelphi Rd., Hyattsville, MD on Friday, August 3 at 10 a.m. Interment George Washington Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Oriolo
Sponsored by Kathy Verdelli Oriolo.
50 Entries
Nicholas Oriolo
May 25, 2019
It's been 11 years since you've passed and to me it still feels like day one, I really needed you over the years, but just know the man I am today would make you the happiest father in the world, every decision I make in life now, I do to make you proud. I love you dad. Just want you to know you aren't forgotten.
Robert Oriolo
February 7, 2008
It's been 6 months now and I finally feel I am able to express myself about the loss of my father. I would like to thank each and every one of you for your kind words and for sharing your memories of dad, he truly was larger than life. I wish I was able to put into words what he meant to me but there just isn't enough adjective's to describe him. I am just grateful to know that my father has touched each of your lives in so many different ways and am proud to have shared him with you. We all have angels looking over us but I am sure Dad is organizing them all to his military specifications.
I love you Dad and not a day goes by that I don't think about you...
your loving son.....
Rob
Beth Gionis
December 3, 2007
I worked with Tony only a short time while helping him find a house in Charlotte. I will never forget him - his sense of humor, life stories and love of life. He has made an impression on me I will never forget and I felt his loss deeply. Kathy, he was so in love with you! He lives in all of us! Best Wishes, Beth
Joseph Jenkins
August 18, 2007
TO THE FAMILIES of JOSEPH "TONY" ORIOLO and KATHY VERDELLI,
We extend our deepest sympathy to you in this time of your loss. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. Tony was a dear friend of ours and we are saddened by his abrupt departure. The times we shared together with him and Kathy will always be remembered, especially the cookouts.(the steaks he grilled, the dirty rice, sweet tea, and crab soup he prepared) We are thankful for those times. Tony will truly be missed!!!
May God Continually Bless and Strengthen You.
Love,
Joe and Sylvia Jenkins
Liz Anderson
August 17, 2007
To The Oriolo Family and Kathy Verdelli:
I have known Tony for over 9 years and worked with him closely at the "T". He sometimes called me "Doll" and sometimes called me "Lizzy". We shared many stories together about ourselves as well as our families.
I can't FATHOM the loss of my "boss" and friend. When I found out about Tony, I truly broke down!!
Life is soo....short. I say that to many relatives and friends all the time. Enjoy every minute you have with each other, because tomorrow is not promised!
Tony really cared about people in his own way, even though he often called the guys "deadbeats" in the office, if they were in trouble or "breezy" if he wanted you to do something for him.
I surely miss him everyday. I sit right outside his old office. The noise is gone!!!
You all will get stronger! It will take some time.
God be with all of you.
Christine Bond
August 17, 2007
Dear Oriolo Family,
I worked with Tony at the MBTA and my first impression of him is the one that lasted over our years of working together. Tony was a true gift from God. He was spontaneous, funny, talented, outrageous, loving and kind. I cherish the thoughts of the last conversation we had together as we celebrated the next phase of his life. Your/our loss is Heaven's gain - imagine Tony as an Angel! Whew! I loved Tony's energy and spirit. He is sorely missed. Although there are no words to bring you comfort, please know that you are in my prayers. God bless each of you! I wish you the gift of memories. . .
Gordon Bachinsky
August 16, 2007
To Tony's family & friends,
I was very fortunate to have met “Tony O” in Boston in early 2002 when he contacted our company to look at some of his track on the "T". As soon as I met him, I knew that he was a "go-getter" type of person, full of energy and passion for his work, and very determined to solve some very significant challenges he had at the time. Something else that was unique about him was his desire to create a team effort in solving problems at the T, and I think he was a key player in achieving this goal. He helped bring together people and departments who either didn't like each other, or didn't even know each other for many, many years, even decades. And what a difference he made in bringing these people together! I know he would want these relationships to continue and grow.
I have been in the transit and railway business for almost 35 years now, and I have only come across maybe five people like Tony who have been willing to take good, calculated risks to make progress or solve problems, instead of just biding their time waiting for retirement. Tony was willing to take risks, and I know he had lots of scary moments, but he was willing to experience this “fear” to get the job done. He was a true leader of the people who worked for him, like a captain of a ship, and it is now very obvious that it will be a big challenge to fill his shoes.
I will never be able to give enough thanks to Tony for the opportunity he gave our small company, and for the great times we had working together trying to think “out of the box.” It’s so sad to lose Tony at such a young age. He had so much more that he wanted to do in life. He will be someone I remember in many ways for the rest of my life, and I know he will have a lasting, positive influence on many of the people who knew him.
My thoughts and prayers go out to all of Tony’s family. He was a wonderful man that will be greatly missed.
Mickey Rooney
August 15, 2007
To the family,
I am truly sorry for the loss of Tony. He was, and is, an inspiration to me. I considered him a mentor in many ways and will greatly miss his advice and humor. When my wife and I had a loss of our own, Tony said, "God must have needed another Angel". This truly touched us and for unknown reasons, God needed Tony.
Thank you Tony
Arthur Worth
August 14, 2007
In tribute to Tony Oriolo, a truly unique individual, intelligent, perceptive, alert, hard-working, affable, unassuming, well-liked and with a great sense of humour. A tower of strength to those who knew him. He is truly missed.
Savid Murphy
August 14, 2007
David Murphy
Bobby Doyle
August 14, 2007
To all of those who loved Tony,
It's no surprise reading all these kind words written by Tony's friends and family. Often we loose one of the classics and Tony was a unique individual that embodied humor, kindness, intelligence, thoughtfulness and a love for family and friends. You knew you were Tony's friend when he nicknamed you. The nickname wasn't always flattering and it often changed depending upon his mood. I'm grateful I got to know him and I can only imagine how deeply his presence will be missed by those he loved.
Priscilla Jackson
August 14, 2007
Dear Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Tony had a tremendously warm and inviting spirit that will live on in our hearts and minds always. God's peace to you all today and always .
Priscilla Jackson
Maryellen Howe
August 13, 2007
Dear Kathy,
Our hearts are aching for you and for Tony's family. Please know that there are many, many of us thinking about you daily and sending you our strength and love.
Howard Smith
August 13, 2007
To the Oriolo family, Tony was a unique individual. When I met Tony it was during a Black History Celebration at the MBTA. While telling me about the "Story of Jocko", he asked me "you're wondering why I talk like this? I'm from Argentina and grew up workin' with the Brothas on the railroad in DC growing up".I will always remember Tony and continue to tell his handed-down "Story of Jock", just like to told it to me.
Tony's not far, just resting in the arms of Jesus.
Deacon Howard B. Smith Auburndale, MA
Roy E. Smith
August 13, 2007
So very sorry and shocked to hear of Tony's untimely death. I considered him a great friend as well as a business acquaintance.
Rana Rabie
August 6, 2007
Our deepest sympathy to you and the family on the untimely death of Tony Oriolo. May his soul rest in peace. The family of Rana Rabie.
Allison Casey
August 6, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Camira Morning
August 6, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Shirley Rhodes-Robinson
August 6, 2007
Dear Family,
My sincere sympathy to your family. There will always be a place in my heart for Tony. He was a character and a great co-worker. The world has lost a wonderful human being. May God continue to strengthen you during this time.
Eileen Velez
August 4, 2007
Dear Kathy and Tony's family, We are so deeply sorry for your loss. I regret that Luis and I did not have the chance to meet your beloved Tony. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this terrible sad time. May you have the peace of Happy Memories. Love, Eileen and Luis Velez-Cortes
Eric Klein
August 4, 2007
In the time I worked with Tony, he became a great colleague and a great friend. We are all richer for knowing him. He will be missed.
Mike, Karen,Tyler,Jake and Kristin Bollinger
August 3, 2007
Dear Lisa, Nick and girls,
We were so very shocked when we heard!! Tyler always spoke of him with such pleasure. When you get home and back to whatever normal is, please don't hesitate to call us if Nick needs ANYTHING! We miss having him around here as the boys have grown. We are thinking about all of you .
Howard Haywood
August 3, 2007
To the Oriolo family, my prayers are with you at this very difficult time. Tony was a "good man" who made a lasting impression in a short time on all the people he worked with at the MBTA. He certainly now resides in the kingdom of God.
DJENABA WILLIAMS
August 3, 2007
My deepest condolences to the family of "Tony O".
He was a wonderful man full of life and intellect. He will be missed.
Janette Fiddermon
August 2, 2007
Rest well my friend, your labor here on Earth has ended and your journey it now complete. Your smile, laugher and your silly ways, has left an lasting impression on those who knew you and will be missed. May you rest in peace.
John Thornton
August 2, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with the Oriolo family during this very difficult time. I worked with Tony at the MBTA in Boston as the budget person for a time - and was greeted in the hallway and loading dock where Tony would sneak a smoke with, "Heeyyy....Money Pockets!". Tony was clearly a class guy that was a character as well as possessing a great deal of character. He clearly touched many lives, and I am grateful that mine was one. God bless.
George Applin
August 2, 2007
I met Tony at an earlier point in his life and unfortunately was not a part of his life in later years. My sincerest condolences go out to the Oriolo family and his children, who will miss him so very much.
Walter Reed
August 2, 2007
My deepest sympathy to the Oriolo Family in your time of loss. "Tony-O"...Rest in Peace, my man!
"Breezy"
Chris Lainis
August 2, 2007
To the Oriolo Family, my deepest sympathy and condolences for the loss of Tony. Great man. We will miss him.
Rick, Lisa, Jeremy & Cody Keller
August 2, 2007
To the Oriolo Family,
We have lived next to Tony's Children Sara, Laura, and Nick for 11 years. Nick is an extention to our family and a great friend to my youngest son Cody. Tony always was a regular next door to visit with his children. He would do the long drive from Mass. to come to Hanover to visit with his children. I spoke with Tony many time and he was always full of laughs. He was a very loving father and was a constant present in his childres lives. Our hearts and prayers go out to the Oriolo family.
The Keller Family
Clay Bunting
August 2, 2007
My deep sympathy and condolences to the Oriolo family at this time. Tony was a great friend for over 25 years. I had the privilege of know both Tony and his father “Pop’s” Oriolo. I can just see them two together now with big smiles on their faces. Tony was a one of a kind and he will truly be missed.
Junie Celestin
August 2, 2007
My condolences to the family of Joseph A “Tony” Oriolo. May God be with you during your time of mourning. Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority
Tom O'Brien
August 2, 2007
Although I only had the opportunity to know Tony since 2005, I was immediately impressed by his ability to work with others and more important to see the bigger picture. He was unique man, a visionary with a wonderful sense of humor and marvelous attitude toward life. My condolences go out to his family and his extended family. He will be missed.
Nicholas Oriolo
August 1, 2007
I Will miss you dad. To express how much you will be missed by me in one entry would be impossible. My father was the greatest man I have ever known and I'm Grateful I had the chance to spend the last 3 weeks Of his life with him. My father wrote poems and I would like to share one that he wrote to me.
I found this when i was searching his computer with my brother.
NICHOLAS
Have you ever seen the sea at dusk? The full moon rises from the sea At Earth’s edge, where the sea meets the sky the first embers of light dance upon the waves. It is here that we know wonder. Have you ever seen a star lit sky? In a meadow, where dew forms and the night is full of sound A hundred dots of light fill the moist air as fireflies orchestrate a light filled symphony. It is here that we find our place in life. Have you ever kissed a child’s forehead? A smooth, silky touch like no other Trusting eyes seem to brightly sparkle a broad smile darns his face. It is here that we know love. Experience these fleeting moments, my son for life is short, but oh, how precious Trust in yourself, and reach for the stars for one day, you’ll reach up and realize your dream And in your own son, you find yourself.
By, Joseph A. Oriolo
Alvin, Vanessa & Poussainta Brooks
August 1, 2007
We just wanted to take this time to show our love for Tony. He was a wonderful person with a very big heart. We also wanted to THANK him for his friendship, love, and support. He was a great man and will dearly be missed. We would also like to send our condolences to his family. Even though he is no longer walking with us in flesh. He will forever walk with us in spirit.
Alison Paltoo
August 1, 2007
"Daddy O"
As he was known to me will forever be seen as one of the most amazing, generous and unique men i have ever known. He played the role of a father to a girl that didn't have one and i will never forget him for that. My only solace in this time of loss is that at the end of our last conversation i told him i loved him. My deepest sympathies and prayers go out to his family of whom i know the loss is greater than my own. I pray that you find peace in knowing that he is with God.
(With all my love, I will miss you always, My Daddy O) Love Sassy
Christine Holley
August 1, 2007
Cherish the memories for it is in those memories that Tony's light will forever shine. My deepest sympathy in the loss of your loved one.
Rich Evans
August 1, 2007
To The Oriolo Family:
My sincere condolences go out to you in this time of your loss.
I will always remember Tony for a man who would always shed a light moment with his missives, i.e. "don't go down that slippery rope" when things started to go in the wrong direction... as they often did in the MBTA world.
Tony will always be fondly remembered as the type of man who would never miss a chance to bring laughter into the equation...helping everyone to not take things too seriously.
He helped us to understand when referring to his department colleagues as "Signal pukes" that he was not afraid to speak his mind. It was done in a most fun and respectful manner and reminded all to get over themselves, if their hat size swelled too much.
God Bless and Rest in Peace Tony!
We miss you!!!
Stephanie Herrington
August 1, 2007
My Condolences to the family. I had the opportunity to work briefly with Tony and remember him fondly. My prayers are with you.
Roma McKenzie-Campbell
August 1, 2007
Affectionately call "Tony O" by everyone, Tony was a person full of energy and would laugh spontaneously. He loved his family and Kathleen. The void that is left because of this loss will not be filled, however, the the memories will live on forever.
We love you Tony O
Michelle Kendrick
August 1, 2007
Oriolo Family,
My deep sympathy and condolences to the Oriolo family.
Randy Suydam
August 1, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Frederick Minniefield
August 1, 2007
To The Oriolo Family:
May the thoughts and prayers from those who came to know Tony be a beacon of sympathy and condolence to you in this time of sorrow.
Tony O, was a dear friend and mentor to me during the time we worked together at WMATA. Memories of those times will forever be remembered.
Tony's last day at work at the MBTA 6/12/07
August 1, 2007
Caroline Dunne
August 1, 2007
Tony was one of the most vibrant people I ever met and I will always laugh when I think of him doing his "Irish accent" ... and he was about the only person ever who used to call me "lass".
He was larger-than-life and will be SO missed. I am only sorry that I cannot say goodbye in person.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this sad time of such loss.
Tony - "adios mi vida" be at peace my friend.
x
Richard Livingston
August 1, 2007
Oriolo Family,
My deep sympathy and condolences to the Oriolo family at this time of distress. Please, accept this missive with prayers and blessings to Tony's extended family as well from his former Co-worker with the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority.
Darley Scott
August 1, 2007
Tony has been a friend and co-worker for thirty years. We will all miss him and the fond memories will last forever.
Yvonne Irizarry
August 1, 2007
May God bless and keep you in your time of sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Wesley Albright
July 31, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with your loved ones at this time. Tony was a friend for 30 years, May God Bless.
Showing 1 - 50 of 50 results
Make a Donation
in Joseph Oriolo's name
Memorial Events
for Joseph Oriolo
Funeral services provided by:
Donald V. Borgwardt Funeral Home, P.A.4400 Powder Mill Rd., Beltsville, MD 20705
How to support Joseph's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Joseph Oriolo's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more