Paul Joseph Ferraiolo

Paul Joseph Ferraiolo, Sr. passed away peacefully on December 17th, 2023 at his son and daughter’s home in Cape Coral, FL, comforted by his loving wife of 30 years, Kathleen Ferraiolo. He was 80, and was cared for until the end especially by Kathy, Natasha, Joe, Britiny, Stephanie, Leonard and Beth.

Predeceased are his parents Alphonso and Caroline, brother Alphonso, son Paul and grandson Johnpaul. He is survived by his large and loving family which include his wife Kathleen, children Beth, Diane, Christine, Catherine, Constance & Robert Callahan, Brian & Jamie Guevara, Natasha & Joseph Holt, and Leonard & Stephanie Baer. Paul has also been blessed with 16 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. His sisters Mary and Carolyn and brother Joseph reside in NJ.

Paul spent half of his life in Newark, North Arlington and Verona NJ prior to enjoying the latter half in sunny Cape Coral, FL. He began his life battling and surviving Polio Disease, and overcame many obstacles in his successful life. He was a consummate prankster, and loved old school comedians Rodney Dangerfield, character Fr. Guido Sarducci, Dean Martin music, and loved Baseball and Football.

Growing up in Verona, he graduated Verona High School and was an active member of the former Verona Ambulance Unit. He had a home delivery business driving and selling Charles Chips. Paul had many fun and interesting stories from his work as a Limo Driver all over NJ bringing famous people to the 1970’s Playboy Club Hotel. Paul grew up learning the ropes from his father Alphonso, owner of the original Verona Diner, and ultimately set off on a career as a Chef.

Paul’s career as a Chef included diners, government facilities, Hospitality at South Seas in Captiva, the Elk’s and Eagles Lodges, and Cape Coral Hospital, where he met Kathleen. Paul retired from food service, and worked as a Janitor for a school in Cape Coral. When he retired from there, he had the opportunity to work again with Kathleen. He home-delivered prescribed meals for discharged hospital patients to reduce readmissions.

Paul was always putting himself out there for everyone else in need. He lent a hand with his extended family, whenever they were in need of support. With ups and downs, the family stretched and grew into a large network of people who will always remember him and miss him. He had a great deal of impact on so many lives and many are far better off because of his generosity and humor.