Joseph J. Cavanaugh II (aka "Joey" and "Buffalo Joe")

Date of Birth: July 6, 1988 Date of Passing: February 9, 2025

It is with heavy heart that we announce the passing of Joseph Cavanaugh II (Joey), who left us on February 9th, 2025, at the age of 36.  He was a beloved brother, son, grandson, and uncle.  He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Born on July 6th, 1988, at Fort Riley, KS, Joseph J. Cavanaugh II (Joey) grew up in a suburb of Buffalo, Cheektowaga, NY, and attended Cheektowaga Central High School.  He moved to Madison, CT, in 2007 and resided in Clinton, CT, around 8 years ago.  Joey was employed by community staples, The Driveway Doctor and Madison Public Schools.  He also started two businesses, Pavement Protectors and, most recently, Shoreline Pro Landscaping.  Joey was widely known as a hard worker and sometimes worked full-time at one job and simultaneously at his business later in the day.  If you live in Madison, you likely have met Joey.  He was a proud "Doggie Daddy" to Molly, taking her everywhere.  You may have seen them at various stores around town.  They walked all the usual dog-friendly hiking trails in and around Madison, his favorites being Chatfield Hollow and Hammonasset State Park.  Joey was known for his kindness and generosity, often helping people with tasks such as moving furniture, clearing snow from driveways, etc.  In his mind, if he had the equipment and could spare a couple of hours, he would help.  Joey was also an avid Buffalo Bills fan and often loved to talk about their performance, which gave him the nickname "Buffalo Joe."

Joseph J. Cavanaugh II is survived by his parents, Joseph Sr. and Stephanie Cavanaugh (as well as his Birth Mother, Rebecah Reich), siblings Mark Curschmann, Jason Cavanaugh (Audra Malaguti), Valarie Cale (Hunter Cale), Dakota Osborne, Cole Incarnato, and Nephew Malakai Cale as well as many additional relatives including Uncles, Aunts, and Cousins.  His love and acts of kindness will continue to guide and inspire them in the years to come.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 15th, 2025, at 1:00 PM at the First Congregational Church in Madison, CT. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Joey's remarkable life.  If you want to see the service but cannot be there live, you can stream the service live on FCC Madison's Facebook page.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Friends of Hammonasset in Joseph J. Cavanaugh II's honor.