Richard “Dick” J. Cavallero, 85, of Bradford, passed away on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on March 1, 1939, in Bradford, he was the son of the late Dominic Francis and Mary Margaret (Persichini) Cavallero.
On June 20, 1969, in Bradford, he married Ann (Freaney) Cavallero, who survives.
Dick graduated in 1957 from St. Bernard Catholic High School. After high school, he was employed by Felmont Oil before completing the 10-week Basic Field Course for Municipal Policemen. He then began his 38-year career with the City of Bradford Police Department on May 21, 1962, serving as Chief of Police for 10 of those years until his retirement on January 1, 2001
As Chief, Dick implemented several advancements, including the D.A.R.E. program, computerizing the department, and installing video cameras in patrol cars.
A devoted member of St. Francis of Assisi Church, Dick was also active in various organizations. He was a member and past president of the Bradford Exchange Club, which honored him as Policeman of the Year in 1997, and of the William Hanley Lodge 67 of the Fraternal Order of Police. He also belonged to the Northwest Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association, the Pennsylvania Juvenile Officers Association, and the Community Relations Board of the Federal Correctional Institution, McKean County. In 1992, he was named to Who’s Who in American Law Enforcement.
Dick’s civic involvement extended to the Bradford Club, the Italian-American Progressive Club, and the Big 30 Committee. In retirement, he volunteered at the Friendship Table and was cherished for his love of cooking for the 50+ Club, where he served as past president. Dick also served as a constable for the Sixth Ward voting district and assisted with blood runs for Bradford Hospital.
Fondly referred to as a “White Buffalo” by some for his rare and exceptional character, Dick will be remembered for his generosity, warmth, and dedication to his family and community. He loved cooking—especially his famous pasta fagioli for his grandchildren—spending time with loved ones, and his daily “Tig Duty.”
Surviving, in addition to his wife of 55 years, are five children: Robin Ackerman, Dominic Cavallero, Susan (Kevin) Teribery, Nancy (Brent) Jones, and Richard Cavallero II. He is also survived by one brother, Carl Cavallero of Titusville, FL; one brother-in-law, John Freaney of Downingtown; 12 grandchildren: Marybeth Ackerman, David (Adelynn) Ackerman, Matthew & Eva Cavallero, Matthew (Kayla) Teribery, Nicole Teribery, Brandon (Emily) Teribery, Blaine Kehler, Christopher (Natalie) Billman, Nathan (Shelby) Billman, and Adriana & Nunzio Cavallero; six great-grandchildren; three nephews and one niece.
In addition to his parents, Dick was preceded in death by his brother, Douglas E. Warren; his sister, Shirley C. DelMonego; and a grandson, Stephen John Ackerman II.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Bernard Church on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 10:00 AM, with Rev. John Jacquel as celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Bernard Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com.