Monterey

After 90 years of a blessed and successful life Gasper Vincent Cardinale entered the Gates of Heaven on March 1,2025.

Gasper was born on February 14, 1935 in Palermo, Sicily to Vincenzo and Nellina Cardinale. At the age of 3 Gasper joined his Mother and Grandfather on a voyage across the ocean to Monterey where they were welcomed by his Father and extended family.

After attending local schools and working at several jobs Gasper began his lifelong career in retail sales in Carmel By The Sea. Owning and managing several businesses through out his life.

Gasper married the love of his life Carmela DiMaggio in October of 1957, where they raised 4 children, and had many happy adventures during their 65 years together.

Gasper was very active in his community. He was a Member of the Carmel Business Association holding several elected offices culminating with the office of President, which he held for 12 years. He also was a member of the Carmel By The Sea Kiwanis Club where he held the office of President.

Gasper proudly served on the Monterey County Grand Jury and was active in several charitable organizations.

After retirement Gasper joined the Italian Catholic Federation, followed by the Monterey Elks Lodge. He was also a member of Festa Italia, Friends of Isola and the Italian Heritage Society. In 2020 Gasper was honored by the Italian Heritage Society for his years of community service.

As a lifetime parishioner of San Carlos Church, Gasper performed the duties of an usher ,Eucharistic minister and unofficial greeter.

Gasper is proceeded in death by his wife Carmela and is survived by his brother Joseph and sister in-law Anna.

His loving children, Vincent (Marietta), Nellie (Steve) Evans, Josephine (David) Plinck, and son Rocco ; his cherished grandchildren Ben and Brett Phifer, Trevor, Megan and Charlie Plinck, Emilio and Alessandro Cardinale.

He also leaves many loving nieces, nephews and beloved friends.

Gasper never knew a stranger and brought laughter and levity to everyone he met. He will be greatly missed by his loved ones and by the community he cherished.

The funeral service will be Monday, March 24th, at San Carlos Church. A partial rosary will be recited at 9:30 a.m., with funeral Mass to follow at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation and The American Cancer Society.