Thomas "Buddy" J. Cavanaugh

Thomas Joseph Cavanaugh, 90, passed away on Sunday January 19, 2025, in Littleton, NH. He was born on July 24, 1934, in Princeton, NJ, the son of Cornelius and Emma (Pullen) Cavanaugh. He was the husband of Hildegard Schmidtke; they were married on July 10, 1954, in Princeton, NJ and shared 70 loving years of marriage.

“Buddy” as he was known, was of Irish descent, and one of 5 siblings. As a young boy he attended St. Paul’s Catholic School and became an Altar boy. He attended Princeton High School and joined the NJ National Guard at 17 ½ years old. He married his high school sweetheart, Hildegard. He would have 3 children.

He worked full time for the Department of Defense (Army). He also worked as tank commander and specialty as Supply Technician. Sworn into active duty 3 times, he would retire with honors after 42 years of service as Chief Warrant Officer 4.

Buddy was very proud to be a soldier with the US Army. During his years in the service, he was an educator in training procedures and a “Master Specialist” with the NJ Rifle and Pistol teams, winning top awards for his marksmanship. He was selected to be a member of the NJ Colonial National Guard.

On his days off, Buddy loved to tinker, was a Champion Bowler, a fisherman, a golfer, Cub Master for Troop 46 and a member of the Fraternal Order of Elks.

Every day and any day of his life Buddy was a man of character, modeling patience, acceptance, hard work, honesty, and faith. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, family man, friend, and neighbor. He respected everyone and was respected by all. 

Buddy was predeceased by his two sons, Mark Thomas and James Michael and his brothers, Joe (Junie), William (Billy), and Jack.

He is survived by his wife, Hildegard, daughter, Charlotte Malpeso of NJ, daughter-in-law, Elizabeth of NH, sisters, Mary of VA, and Patricia of NJ, and his 6 grandchildren: Michael, Stefanie and Katherine of NH, Pasquale of NJ, Emma of Bellingham, WA, and Emilia of CT. He is also survived by 6 great grandchildren: Brian, Hayley, Megan, Olive, Emmett, and Estelle.

The family extends their thanks to the Morrison Nursing Home and the Littleton Hospital for the kindness and care they provided to Buddy in his last days. 

There will be no formal services held at this time. A graveside service and burial will be held by the family at the Blawenburg Cemetery in Skillman, NJ. The date and time will be announced at a later date.

Those who wish to make a memorial contribution in Buddy’s memory may do so to the Morrison Nursing Home in Whitefield, NH or to any Alzheimer's organization of your choosing.