Bernard J. Capuano

Bernard “Bernie” J. Capuano was born on May 22nd 1938 in Philadelphia to Edmond John Capuano and Lucy (Donio) Capuano.  He passed away peacefully with family gathered at Bryn Mawr Hospital on October 7th, 2021 at the age of 83, following a 6-month battle with cancer.

Bernie lived an active and productive life.  He was a friend to all, well liked, respected and always maintained a positive outlook.  He graduated from South Philadelphia High School, class of 1957.  He frequently retold remembrances of playing varsity football at “Southern”.  After high school he served in the US Army, stationed at Fort Knox Kentucky where he was recognized for excellence in marksmanship.  Following his military service, he worked at the University of Pennsylvania for 40 years in residential maintenance and facilities management.  He began his career as a union electrician and ultimately rose to management, building a network of lifelong contacts and friendships along the way.  After leaving Penn, he applied his expertise at Holy Child Academy (HCA) in Drexel Hill for 21 years maintaining their facilities.  Bernie was proud of his work at HCA and felt blessed to be part of an amazing community of people.

On Harrington Road, Bernie was very fond of his neighbors and enjoyed frequent curb-side conversations.  He would share his knowledge and mechanical expertise, and exchange family stories and opinions on the latest ball game.  He had a reputation as a knowledgeable mechanic who could do almost anything, and he never hesitated to lend a hand or jump into a new project.

He was a dedicated father.  He always made time to participate in his children’s school activities including 12 Lynnewood Mayday celebrations, and attending numerous Haverford High School football, lacrosse and soccer games.  He was president of the Haverford Football Followers (parent association) when his son Mark played football.  As his children entered college, he was essential during every move-in and move-out day, often performing single day dorm room/apartment repairs.  He attended many collegiate lacrosse games at West Chester and Millersville, and (only once) went bar hopping at Penn State.  As new home owners, his children frequently relied on him as a one-man home repair service and consultant.  Above all else, he instilled in his children the value of a good education, personal life lessons about working cooperatively, and the willingness to take the lead when the job needed to get done.

Grandpop Bernie was a loving part of each grandchild’s life.  He enjoyed trips to the Poconos, watching them play sports, playing catch, coloring, and playtime with Polly Pockets, Legos, Hot Wheels, Star Wars toys and tea parties.  The grandchildren always looked forward to being with grandpop.

Through 54 years of marriage, Bernie and Margaret had a true partnership for creating a home, raising a family and making it look easy.

Bernie is survived by his beloved wife, Margaret (Randazzo) Capuano and his sister, Anna (Mario) Nardo, and his three children, Frank (Shahnaz), Mark (Laura), and Lucie (Chris) McDermott, and 6 active grandchildren (Alyssa, Maya, Dean, Bernie, Catherine, Livia).  He is also survived by many valued friends, neighbors and co-workers.  He was predeceased by his brothers Gaetano Edmond, Anthony and Donald Capuano.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his memory to Holy Child Academy in Drexel Hill.  Via Mail:  Holy Child Academy, Development Office, 475 Shadeland Avenue, Drexel Hill, PA 19026.  Online At:  Holy Child Academy (PA): Support  https://www.holychildacademy.com/page.cfm?p=681