Harold "Mike" Caldarelli's Obituary
Harold “Mike” Caldarelli, 89, of Syracuse passed away peacefully at home on June 17, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Curtisville, PA, son of Julius and Virginia (Tristani) Caldarelli. Harold was a proud US Army veteran. He dedicated 35 years to General Electric as a Radar and Sonar Specialist, a career that reflected his intelligence, skill, and work ethic. But Harold’s greatest achievements were not measured by his job title or years worked – they were his marriage to Sylvia, his beloved wife, and as his role as a father to five children. “Mike” and Sylvia shared a love that was truly timeless. He found great comfort in the thought of being reunited with her, his soulmate, after all these years. Together, they built a family grounded in love, joy, and inclusion.
Harold was a man who taught by example. His kindness was genuine and effortless – a natural part of who he was. His warmth impacted all those around him. Whether through a smile, a helping hand, or simply his presence.
His passions were many – from the melodies of the saxophone he played in high school and in weekend bands, to capturing moments as the unofficial photographer at family and social occasions. Harold loved nature and found joy in the simple pleasures of life.
For 57 years, he made the same house in Syracuse his home, where neighbors became an extended family. He took great care in everything he did – from maintaining his cars (especially his 1953 Buick), to tending his lawn and garden, and even when choosing the perfect birthday card.
Despite the challenges of raising five children on his own, Harold’s boundless love reached far beyond his own children, touching the lives of many who regarded him as a father figure. His greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren, whether playing ball, throwing snowballs, or enjoying family outings filled with laughter and carloads of kids.
Harold’s skills extended beyond kindness – he could fix anything, always ready to lend a hand on a project. His spirit of service defined him as much as his warm smile and infectious laughter.
His spirits were always high and his smile always wide. His seven grandchildren loved him more than anything.
Harold left a legacy no other person will be able to replicate. His mesmerizing life stories left those listening wanting more as he spoke with intelligence and comedic wit.
Today we remember Harold, not only as a devoted family man, but as a symbol of kindness, strength, and love. His wonderful spirit lives in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Sylvia (Callen) Caldarelli in 1976; his brother, Frank (Lillian) Caldarelli; his sister, Dora (John) Pittman; his in-laws, William and Regina Callen, Shirley Anderson, and Paul Adams.
Harold is survived by his three daughters, Denise (Rod) Humphreys, Doreen Caldarelli and Darlene Caldarelli; two sons, David (Jacqueline) Caldarelli and Dean (Mark Baluyot) Caldarelli; seven grandchildren, Christina, Brandon and Gina Carnovale, Deanna Caldarelli, Nicolena, Nino and Leiani Caldarelli; two sisters, Norma Caldarelli and Leah Adams; his in-laws William (Terri) Callen Jr.; and many nieces and nephews.
A funeral Mass in celebration of Harold’s life will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at Assumption Church, 812 N. Salina St., Syracuse, NY. He will be laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery. Family and friends may call from 4:00 – 7:00 pm on Friday, June 20, 2025 at THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) North Syracuse, NY.
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