Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

August 25, 2024

CHARLOTTE – Joseph Peter Cavallo, 78, of Charlotte, NC, passed away on August 25, 2024. Born on June 20, 1946, Joe led a life marked by family devotion, and his love for God and country.

Joe was born and raised in New York City.  He graduated from Cardinal Hayes High School going on to earn a Bachelor's degree from Bernard M. Baruch College.  Embarking on a career as an accountant Joe was admired for his meticulous nature and integrity.  After relocating to San Diego CA, Joe served as Vice President of Finance for an international corporation.  He also established a successful tax practice, Cavallo Associates.  Joe was honored with a scholarship to Pace University Law School and although illness prevented him from completion, he left in good standing never stifling his perseverance to strive, learn and grow. 

Joe's faith was the cornerstone of his life.  His strength and perseverance were drawn from his never-ending trust in God, helping him to overcome battles of illness time and time again.  His family always believed this is what made him the "Miracle Man!"

For a man that spent many years of his life in hospitals, he would still give his time by volunteering and mentoring young medical students at the University of California San Diego to learn about his unique conditions, coining himself a "live cadaver."  Contributions like these as well as counseling and guiding other transplant patients over the years is what led to Joe receiving the "Victory of Spirit Award” from Sharp Memorial Hospital.  Over 600 attendees of physicians, hospital staff, family and friends honored 4 recipients in 2016, all having lifetime achievements.  Anyone who knew Joe believed him to be a true role model and inspiration.  In later years Joe helped spearhead the Patient Scholarship Program for the Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehabilitation aptly naming this, "We get by with a little help from our friends!" 

His sense of humor was legendary, often lightening the mood with his jokes which his sister dubbed as "Joey-isms."  An avid craftsman, Joe enjoyed carpentry and woodworking.  He loved camping in Yosemite, where he spent quality time practicing his Boy Scout skills and was a true patriot at heart.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Debbi; daughter, Keri; son, Keith and daughter-in-law, Erin. He was idolized as "Peppe" to his cherished grandchildren, Trevor, Audrey and Dylan.  Joe will be forever missed by his brothers and sisters-in-law; Paul and Joanne, Peter and Gina, Janet and Bill, Gerri and Mike, Karen and mother-in-law, Clara, along with loving nieces, nephews, cousins and beloved friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Josephine Cavallo. 

A funeral service will be held at St. Matthew Catholic Church in Charlotte, NC.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Sharp Memorial Cardio-Pulmonary Rehabilitation charity that was initiated by Joe himself, "Get by With a Little Help From Our Friends". Joe's legacy of love, his contagious laughter, and perseverance will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.