In Memory of

Joseph

C.

Kilgariff

Obituary for Joseph C. Kilgariff

Joseph Charles Kilgariff, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, aged 84 years, was called to heaven at his home in New Jersey, surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, February 8th.

Joseph was born on September 30, 1939, in Philadelphia, PA. He was the son of Helen and John Kilgariff. After attending Olney High School, Joe enlisted into the United States Army and was incredibly proud to serve his country during his 3 years stationed in Germany. Shortly after, Joe went on to work at the Nabisco factory in Philadelphia, where he met his beautiful wife, Marie. Later, Joe continued to serve the city of Philadelphia as a police officer prior to beginning his long career as a carpenter with Philadelphia Carpenters Local 158.

Carpentry became a passion for Joe. He would go on to build numerous decks, amongst other projects, for any family member or friend that needed assistance. In fact, he could often be found in his garage (turned workshop) listening to his favorite songs, probably with a pencil and a roll of mentos for the grandkids stuffed in his shirt pocket. When he wasn’t busy with a project, he’d be exercising in the pool or teaching the grandchildren to swim.

Joe was most proud of his family, a true family man with a big heart and gentle spirit. This spirit attracted every butterfly to the home, and he loved to watch them in nature. He treated animals and family the same, with unconditional love and unending generosity. He would give you the last dollar in his wallet or the shirt off his back. His playful humor will keep those that loved him laughing for years. Whether he was showing off his secret candy stash to the grandkids or singing a silly song, he was a softie at heart, and you could always expect to be laughing or smiling when he was around.

Joseph and his love for Tastykake lemon pies, will be deeply missed by all who loved him. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Marie C. Kilgariff; 5 children, Therese Kunen (Don), Victoria Wilding (David), John Kilgariff, Patricia Dallmer (David), Marie Albert (Rick); 9 grandchildren, David Dallmer (Lauren), Jenn Dallmer (Shawn), Lauren Albert (Daniel), Taylor Dallmer, Rachel Albert, Jacqueline Albert, Jake Wilding, Ricky Albert, and John Wilding; one great granddaughter, Dylan Dallmer; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend visitation on Friday March 1, 2024, from 8:30am-10am at Mount Laurel Home for Funerals, 212 Ark Rd, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054. Mass will follow at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church at 10:30am, 2500 Branch Pike, Cinnaminson, NJ 08077. Interment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Joe’s memory may be made to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.