Michael J. Cesario

Our loving, precious, and devoted father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend peacefully passed away, surrounded by his family on March 2, 2019 at The Wayne Center in Wayne, PA. All those who knew Michael would agree he was the sweetest man, who had a great sense of humor.  His eyes were filled with kindness, his heart was always open, he had a gift of hospitality and he loved the Lord.

He enjoyed making stuffed shells and meatballs for family and friends, enjoyed traveling, attended Eagles, Phillies, and Flyers games, loved the theater, attended church regularly, and truly loved his life as a teacher. His contagious smile could be seen across the room, and laughter would often be heard coming from his direction.

His ability to amuse others was always an enjoyable part of a conversation, as he was just so funny! He had such a rich closeness with his friends from high school and throughout his life. Whether you just met him or knew him for years, he would know your loved one’s names, ages, schools and career paths. He was that faithful friend who would call frequently to see how you and your family were doing.
He truly cared for others. He was born in Atlantic City to Elvira ‘Rizzuto’ and Joseph Michael Cesario on October 3, 1936. He attended Holy Spirit High School, where he was an all-state football player. He then attended The University of Tampa, where he also played football and contributed to Tampa’s win in the 1954 Cigar Bowl. He was also a lead actor on the University of Tampa's stage. He honorably served in the U.S. Navy in the 50s, where he was a signalman for the USS Hancock.

He spent a short time in the seminary, receiving a degree in Latin. He earned his master’s degree in English from Saint Joseph's University. For 38 years, he taught English, Latin, and Greek Mythology, at Plymouth Whitemarsh in Colonial School District. He also taught at Montgomery County Community College, Temple University and Bishop Kenrick High School, where he was the assistant football coach.

Most of all, one would know Mike as a “doting father”. He is survived by his four daughters; Kathleen Cesario Murphy (Michael), Charleen Cesario, Mara Hess (Daniel), and Megan Kratz (John), and his grandchildren; Joseph, John, Bryan, Benjamin, Michael, Sara (Robert), Shelagh, Rachelle, Charles, Joseph, John Peter, and Andrew, a great-granddaughter; Lennox, two sisters; Josephine Kingsbauer (Walter), Aquila Formica and many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation with family will be held on Friday, March 15 from 8:45 AM - 10:15 AM, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30. Both will take place at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 332 Manor Avenue in Downingtown, PA. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Michael Cesario's name to Pope John Paul II High School, 181 Rittenhouse Road, Royersford, PA 19468. Donations will be used for a scholarship in Michael's name.
 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael J. Cesario, please visit our floral store.