Domenico Campanaro

Born on May 25, 1935 in a beautiful mountain town Castelluccio, Foggia Italy. Domenico came to the United States through Ellis Island with his brother Rocco to start a new life. It was a challenge they took on together. After settling in Washington DC, he would marry his beloved wife, Rocchina Checchia in 1958, also from the same town.

A proud Italian – American in every sense of the word. He kept all the traditions of his culture, his values of faith, and his fierce love of family. He embraced this country with the same pride he had for his homeland. He learned English, worked hard and was determined to succeed. A natural and strong businessman after his career as a barber /owner in Chevy Chase, Maryland he went into the construction business opening multiple carryout/restaurants becoming a commercial Land owner. Domenico was often an investor in other businesses acting as a trusted mentor to many.

He will be remembered by many as a warm, generous and kind man. He loved to celebrate anything and everything. His home in Olney MD became a hub for family and friends to gather enjoying wine and lots of conversation. He enjoyed gardening, sharing his figs with everyone and mostly being with his family. He was the heart of our family.

He was a man of deep faith and he loved the Lord.

He loved to attend mass at Saint Patrick’s. It was the cornerstone of his week. He believed God loved us all. He was a blessing to us all and will live on in our hearts.

In addition to his wife, Domenico is survived by children, Maria Kennedy (Kevin), Melissa Schultz (Larry), Attilio Campanaro (Lisa, Marcella Williams, eight grandchildren Cameron and Connor Kennedy(Sophia), Rachael and Lauren Schultz, Nick, Vinny and Michael Campanaro and Domenic Williams, and one great grandchild Scotland Kennedy. He is also survived by his brother Alberico Campanaro (Grace) and many nieces and nephews. Domenico was predeceased in death by his parents and his two brothers (Giovanni Campanaro and Rocco Campanaro).