Michael Cardamone

Michael was the youngest child of Aurelia and Michael Cardamone. Although his only sister (Teresa Cardamone) died when she was only 2 years old, Michael was blessed with three older brothers (Joseph, Anthony, and Frank) and a large extended family who loved him dearly.

When he was only 19, Michael was drafted to serve in the army in Vietnam. After realizing his unique abilities and intelligence, he was one of a very few soldiers selected as a forward observer. This was a critical and dangerous function since he was sent way ahead of the rest of the troops to identify targets for artillery fire. Being alone and so close to the enemy, his resourcefulness and ability to think calmly under pressure were key to keeping our troops safe and achieving military goals. Given his high risk position, it was a blessing that Michael was granted a request to return home from the war to be with his dying father. Part of the evacuation to get him home was harrowing since his helicopter took on enemy fire.

After his return to the states, Michael began working in the garment district in New York City. He quickly rose up the ranks and partnered with a friend to launch a successful fashion designer company. Michael's success did not change him. He was still the same "down to earth" guy. He was so generous to everyone who had the pleasure to know him. He treated his many employees and buyers very well and cared about them personally. He also made sure the women in our family had beautiful designer dresses. His generosity extended further as he routinely gifted dinners, shows, trips, and vehicles.

Michael married Cynthia and they were blessed with two beautiful children (Michael David & Francesca) who are the love of their lives. While they all formed individual and unique bonds with each other as a family, Michael also shares a "special bond” with his daughter Francesca as she generously gave him one of her kidneys when he needed a transplant. This precious gift allowed Michael to live a more comfortable life for many years.

Upon moving to Florida, Michael used his entrepreneurial skills once again — this time launching a ride-hailing and vehicle repositioning company. His strong work ethic was obvious throughout this entire life and even up to his last days, as he wanted to make sure that all of his customers and friends were fully serviced.

Michael loved Florida and regularly encouraged his family to move there. He loved to cook and had the gift of hospitality. It is obvious that he developed a second family in Florida with so many close friends and extended family too.

Before he died, Michael was blessed to be able to come home from the hospital to spend the last two weeks of his life surrounded by his loving family. His two children (Michael David and Francesca) and niece (Aurelia Cardamone) remained by his side during this time. He was also blessed to have his brother Tony, sister-in-law Toni, and their two sons Benny and Michael in the area to support him in many ways.

We will all miss Michael, but feel confident that he will be received into the arms of our Lord and Savior. He looked forward to seeing his eldest brother Joe again and his sister Teresa whom had never had a chance to meet. He will be greeted by family and friends who have gone before him in an amazing reunion. We will always remember him, he will remain forever in our hearts, and we look forward to the day when we meet again!