Joseph D. Cardillo

Joseph D. Cardillo, 69, of Wakefield, passed away on Tuesday, March 2, 2021. He was the husband of Jacquelyn (Kilduff) Cardillo. Born in Providence, he was the son of Joseph and Frances (Spirito) Cardillo. Joe worked as a mechanic for the Providence Fire Department for many years, and although he could fix almost anything, he truly believed that he could fix everything if he just “hit it with a hammer.” After his retirement from the Providence Fire Department, he shared his love of trucks with many by establishing his own truck business. Never far from the ocean, Joe cherished spending time on boats, swimming and snorkeling in Salt Ponds, digging for clams, riding the ocean waves, fishing for the latest catch and kayaking with his grandchildren. Although Joe owned many boats, his love of all things with motors was even greater. Trucks, motorcycles, tractors, campers, heavy duty equipment, scooters, and electric bikes could all be found in his garage and he loved tinkering with each one. As an avid Patriots and Bruins fan, he was never more excited than when he watched his own son and grandchildren play hockey and soccer. Joe often repeated his favorite motto “you only live once.” His youthful spirit and zest for life, his love of listening to his son play saxophone both near and far, and his enjoyment of playing with his four grandchildren were just some of his favorite past times. Joe battled various health issues for the past two years, always fighting while hearing his favorite Rocky theme song in his head. He died peacefully with his wife and his sister by his side. Joe is survived by his wife of 48 years, Jackie, and their children Emily Bell and her husband Jon of Lake Mary, FL, and Joe Cardillo and his wife Bethany of San Diego, CA; his grandchildren, Jameson Bell, Julianna Bell, Geneva Cardillo and Adelina Cardillo; his sisters, Norma Nelson of Providence, RI, and Anna Martin of North Providence, RI; as well as his nephews, Christopher Nelson and Samuel Martin. Visiting hours will be held on Saturday, March 6, 2021 from 3-5pm at Avery-Storti Funeral home, 88 Columbia Street, Wakefield, RI. Funeral will be private. In lieu flowers donations in his name may be made to https://www.savebay.org/