Rufino "Joe" Cachola, Jr., age 77, of Millsboro, DE, formerly of Sewell, NJ and Philadelphia, PA, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Sunday, December 28, 2025, in the comfort of his own home.

Joe was born in Brooklyn, NY, on September 18, 1948, the son of the late Rufino Cachola and Palmira (Rodriguez) Cachola. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy as a gunner's mate aboard destroyers during the Vietnam War.

Following his honorable discharge from the military, Joe began a distinguished career with the United States Postal Service. He served as a clerk, carrier, and supervisor before retiring as a postmaster. He was immensely proud of his 38 years of federal service and of being the first Hispanic postmaster for the City of Philadelphia.

Joe enjoyed his retirement years in Delaware, where he loved spending time on the water—boating and crabbing brought him great joy. He was a member of American Legion Post #28 in Millsboro, DE, and cherished traveling with his family. Joe will be fondly remembered for his great sense of humor and for being an all-around great guy.

In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his son, Rufino Cachola, III; his brother, David Cachola; and his sister, Irma Cachola.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Alice (Santiago) Cachola; his daughter, Yvette Sharp, and her husband, James "Butch" Sharp; six grandchildren Angelica, Isabela, Brianna, Taijel, Devon and Shane; and one great-grandson Tristan.

A service will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 26669 Patriots Way, Millsboro, DE 19966.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Joe's name to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation by visiting www.t2t.org.