Charles "Cataldo" Balducci (Charlie) lived a full and beautiful life, completely devoted to his work and family. His story began September 29th, 1934 in Brooklyn New York. He was born to Frank and Rosa Balducci and had 3 older sisters, Grace, Mary and Anna. Charlie attended Brooklyn Technical School where he met his lifelong best friend, Richard Bradli. He graduated from Hofstra University, with a degree in Business. All the while, he worked at his parents produce store in Glen Oaks, where he met his wife of 62 years, Dianne.

Charlie spent a lifetime in the produce business and became a legend at the Hunt's Point Market. He owned several stores in Queens, where he worked with his wife, Dianne. It was there that they created a very successful fruit basket business.

He later went to work with his cousins at Balducci's of Greenwich Village. And eventually went on to work with relatives at their wholesale produce business, Baldor. Charlie loved working, was a very proud produce purchaser and worked up to the age of 83. He adored his coworkers, who were family to him. And passed down his knowledge to all who were eager to learn.

Charlie had no greater love than his wife Dianne. Charlie and Dianne have 4 daughters, Terri, Debbie, Laura and Rose, and 11 grandchildren, who were the light of Charlie's life. Terri and her husband Frank have 3 sons, Charlie, Anthony and Frank. Laura and her husband Dale have 2 children, Cody and Becky. Rose and her husband Tom have 6 children, Felicia, Daisy, Tommy, Lily, Jackson and Roman. Charlie also had many nieces and nephews.

Charlie was a man who lived life on his terms and never said a harsh word about anyone. He was funny, smart, kind and outspoken. He was affectionately known to all as "Uncle Charlie", and was the person everyone knew they could count on in their time of need. The world is a better place because he was in it and is a dimmer now with his passing. Charlie left the physical world on December 29th, 2018 and he is missed by many. But as he would say, "it is what it is".

We can all learn to be better people by the example Charlie left behind. Be kind to each other. Love and care for your family and friends. Work hard and take pride in your work. Have fun and enjoy life. Give of yourself. Don't take yourself too seriously. Be active in your community. And remember to vote!!!

Visiting -Wednesday, January 2nd from 2-4 PM and 7-9 PM

Cremation- Private