Michael Giacchino of Edgewater Park passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on June 2, 2026, just shy of his 92nd birthday. Michael was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator, parishioner, and friend.

Born in Philadelphia to the late John and Stella (Aiello) Giacchino, Michael spent his childhood in South Philly before moving with his family to Riverside, New Jersey, in 1945. He attended Riverside High School, West Chester State College, where he majored in Education, and Trenton State College for a Masters in Special Education. He began his career as a teacher in Pennsauken before being drafted into the US Army from 1957 to 1959.

Stationed in Baumholder, Germany, he took full advantage of every chance to explore, making his way through London, joining a bus tour that wound through Italy from Milan down to Pompeii and the Isle of Capri. He climbed the Leaning Tower of Pisa and stood in St. Peter's Square on Christmas morning to see the Pope. He even attended the 1958 World's Fair in Brussels.

In 1960, Michael married the love of his life, Josephine (Fortunato), beginning a partnership that would span 65 years. Their paths first crossed at a late night diner in December of 1955, where Josephine wasted no time teasing Michael about his small New Jersey hometown. Letters carried their connection forward through his years in the Army, and their first real date was the Ice Capades in Philadelphia, and from that night forward there was no looking back.

Shortly after their marriage, both began their careers in the Willingboro school system, where Michael would spend nearly four decades serving students. After transitioning into special education, he became the head of one of New Jersey's earliest child study teams, helping evaluate and support children with diverse educational needs. He remained a dedicated advocate for students until his retirement in 1998.

Michael loved music deeply, and he enjoyed sharing stories of his teenage years working in Wildwood, where he had seen nearly every major act that came through during the 1950s. He loved Philadelphia sports, cooking, travel, and time spent with family. He and Josephine welcomed generations of relatives, friends, and neighbors into their Edgewater Park home, creating a gathering place filled with warmth, laughter, and hospitality.

In retirement, Michael and Josephine traveled extensively, visiting family across the country and exploring destinations around the world. Michael's greatest commitment in later years was to Sacred Heart Church in Camden, where he was an active and faithful parishioner. Together with Josephine, he devoted countless hours to parish life and church liturgy.

Michael is survived by his loving wife, Josephine (Fortunato) Giacchino; his children, Maria (Thomas Pescherine) Giacchino, John (Cori) Giacchino, Michael (Andrea Datzman) Giacchino Jr., and Anthony (Pelin Levend) Giacchino; and his grandchildren, Max Pescherine, Sam Pescherine, Brenna Giacchino, Amy Giacchino, Mick Giacchino, Gracie Giacchino, Griffy Giacchino, Stella Giacchino, and Berke Giacchino. He was predeceased by his sisters, Betty Giacchino, Lucy Czarzasty, and Joanne Ianieri.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church, 1739 Ferry Avenue, Camden, New Jersey. Visitation begins at 9:30 am. Entombment will follow at Lakeview Memorial Park in Cinnaminson.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Michael's name may be made to Michael Doyle House at: www.michaeldoylehouse.org .

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.weberfuneralhomeinc.com