Obituary of Joseph Caldera

Joseph Caldera, 87, Beloved Husband, Father, and Grandfather

Joseph Caldera, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and esteemed civil engineer, passed away peacefully at the age of 87. Born on February 5, 1938, in Brooklyn, NY, to Anthony and Michelina (Margaret) Caldera, Joe remained a proud Brooklynite his entire life.

A graduate of Brooklyn Technical High School, Joe went on to earn both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Civil Engineering from The City College of New York. His passion for engineering led to a nearly 40-year career with the New York State Department of Transportation, followed by more than a decade with consulting engineering firms. Highly respected in the civil engineering community, Joe’s brilliance and dedication made a lasting impact on his colleagues and the projects he touched. Even after officially retiring, he continued working until the age of 80, simply because he loved what he did.

Joe was a man of quiet strength, kindness, and patience—qualities that made him an exceptional father and friend. He was a dedicated little league coach, a mentor to many, and a pillar of his block, where he was affectionately known as “Joe Fix-it,” applying his engineering brilliance to household problems. Whether lending a helping hand to neighbors or earning the admiration of neighboring kids as “Uncle Joe,” his generosity and warm spirit left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Joe had a passion for both bowling and golf, spending decades in bowling leagues and forever reminiscing about the one pin that eluded him in his near-perfect 299 game. He picked up golf later in life, enjoying time on the green in his semi-retirement. He and his beloved wife, Carol, shared 57 wonderful years of marriage, filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories, including their many cruises and trips to Atlantic City with family and friends.

Joe is survived by his loving wife, Carol; his son, Robert Caldera, and daughter-in-law, Florence; his adored grandchildren, Amanda and Christopher; and his brother, Anthony Caldera (Eileen), along with his loving nephews and their children. His unwavering love, kindness, wisdom, integrity, and gentle presence will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who were fortunate to know him.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at Marine Park Funeral Home, 3024 Quentin Road, Brooklyn, NY 11234, on Sunday, March 23, 2025, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM and 7:00 to 9:00 PM. A funeral mass will be held on Monday, March 24, 2025, at 10:15 AM at St. Edmund’s Roman Catholic Church, 1902 Ave. T, Brooklyn, NY 11229. Burial to immediately follow at Immaculate Conception Cemetery, 712 Grove St., Montclair, NJ 07043.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund at https://curealz.org/ or by mail at Cure Alzheimer's Fund, 34 Washington Street, Suite 230, Wellesley Hills, MA 02481 (click here for donation form).