Peter P. Cicalese

Peter P. Cicalese, age 89, passed away May 29, 2024. Beloved son of the late Ralph and Rose (Massanova) Cicalese. Peter is survived by his loving wife, Joanne (nee McCartney) Cicalese; Daughters, Lisa McMillen (Keith) and Diane Rovner (David); Grandchildren, Caitlin, Cory (Victor), and Chloe; And great- grandchild Jackson Peter, sister Jeanette Frisone and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his siblings Angie (Carl), Enis (Paul), Jules (Mae), Eda (John), Gilda (Dom), John (Marie), Ralph (Rita), Reynold (Marie), MaryAnn (Eddie).

Peter was born in South Philadelphia, the 9th of 11 children, and graduated from South Philadelphia High School in 1953 where he excelled in business classes. He served in the US Army from 1957-59 as a cook while stationed in Germany. He was always proud of his service. He followed in his family’s footsteps working in the beverage business as a soda distributor for Frank’s Beverages, driving his truck and delivering soda, then later purchasing his own route and running his own business until his retirement.

If there is one word to describe him, it would be loyal. Loyal to family and faith, both of which he valued above all. He met Joanne roller skating at Chez Vous. They married four years later and remained married for 60 years, celebrating their 60th anniversary this past September.

He loved his people fiercely and took the role of protector and patriarch seriously. You were taken care of whether you needed money, support or a good talking to. All were given in the straight forward manner of his convictions whether you agreed or not. These lessons were most often imparted to his daughters and granddaughters but no one was immune. He never wanted to miss anything. He always supported his daughters and granddaughters. If he could attend a school or sporting event, he was there in the stands and he loved his great grandson, his namesake of which he was so proud.

Peter was a man of deep faith built upon a calling received at a young age. He lived his Catholic faith with deep love and conviction. Prayer and charity were quietly offered often without anyone knowing what he had done.

Anyone who knew him, knew his love of a good deal, a military or senior discount and the necessity of a coupon for everything so in lieu of flowers, bring a coupon!

Relatives and friends are invited to Peter’s viewing Monday, June 3 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at The Donohue Funeral Home, 8401 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby, PA. His funeral mass will be held Tuesday, June 4 at 10:30 AM at St. Laurence Church, 8245 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby, PA followed by his interment at SS Peter and Paul Cemetery, 1600 Sproul Road, Springfield, PA.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Peter’s name to Garfield Park Academy, 24 Glenolden Lane, Willingboro, NJ 08046, online at garfieldparkacademy.org or charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated.