WATERBURY- It is with heavy hearts that the family of Emilio Cardona, age 61, says farewell for now, to our beloved husband, father, and brother, following his peaceful passing on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Saint Mary’s Hospital. He was the loving husband of Maribel Gonzalez for 41 years.

Emilio was born on September 18, 1965, in Waterbury, CT, to the late Virgilio and Rosa (Velazquez) Cardona. Emilio attended local schools and was the successful owner of both the Hillside Restaurant and Avalanche Pizza. Emilio always maintained a strong work ethic and an unwavering commitment to supporting his family and friends. Emilio loved his dogs Ivory, Bell and “Boss” and the late Pee Wee. Emilio was also well known to attend and support many fundraising functions throughout the city. Emilio had a way to make people laugh and turn a frown upside down. What contributed to his strong work ethic was the saying, “The early bird always gets the worm. In addition to his professional endeavors, Emilio was an avid softball fan and enjoyed listening to music. He cherished traveling, especially to his beloved Puerto Rico and Florida, where he created lasting memories with his family. Above all, Emilio was a devoted family man who placed his loved ones at the center of his life.

He is survived by his wife, Maribel, and his two sons, Emilio A. Cardona and Fabian Cardona. He also leaves his siblings, Virgilio, Daniel (Ella), Peter (Lillian), Edward (Robyn), Luis, Angel, Wilda (Edgar), Matilde, and Maribel (Claude), along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Emilio was predeceased by his sister, Jannette Cardona, and brother, William Cardona.

A Memorial Service for Mr. Cardona will be held on Wednesday, September 23rd, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. at Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main St, Waterbury, CT 06705. Burial will follow in All Saints Cemetery, Waterbury. Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects and visit with the Cardona family on Wednesday morning from 9:30 a.m. until the service at 12:30 p.m. In this time of reflection, the family welcomes all who knew and loved Emilio to share messages of condolence, comfort, and cherished memories. Please visit the funeral home's tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com to connect with the family or honor their loved one’s memory with floral arrangements and other gifts of condolence.