Master Stone Craftsman Louie Carnevale leaves Lasting Legacy
Louie Carnevale, a devout Catholic and renowned stonemason, passed away on January 16th, 2023, at the age of 87. Known for his exceptional craftsmanship and unwavering generosity, he transformed the Los Angeles landscape with his artistry while also leaving an indelible mark on the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.
Carnevale’s life was a testament to dedication and artistry. at just 21 years old, he co-founded Carnevale & Lohr Stone with his best friend Ed Lohr, a company that woudl become synonymous with quality stonework across Southern California. His journey began in his teens, working alongside his father in a marble shop, igniting a lifelong passion for the beauty and permanence of stone.
Building More Than Just Stone
“I wanted to do marble sence I was 7,” he recalled. “I just thought it was engaging to create and build something so lovely and solid.”
Carnevale’s skill and talent quickly flourished. His company took on iconic projects like the Getty Museum and the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. However, his commitment extended beyond grand projects. He deeply valued his Catholic faith and believed in giving back to his community. He freely offered significant discounts to struggling churches throughout the archdiocese, helping them restore their sacred spaces.
A Collaboration of Faith and Art
“You cannot walk into this cathedral without touching the soul of this wonderful artist, Louie Carnevale,” Cardinal Roger Mahony said at Carnevale’s funeral Mass. ”His deep faith and commitment to the Church and our archdiocese was singular.”
Cardinal Mahony, who served as Archbishop from 1985 to 2011, entrusted Carnevale with designing and building the main altar at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, a masterpiece crafted from a six-ton slab of Turkish Rosso Laguna marble. The immense altar, measuring 8 feet wide, 10 feet across, and 10 inches thick, required the use of two cranes to carefully lower it into the cathedral before the roof was even installed.
A Legacy Beyond Stone
Carnevale leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond the stone he meticulously shaped. He was a man of deep faith, unwavering integrity, and boundless generosity. His sons, David and Michael, now lead Carnevale & Lohr Stone, carrying on their father’s legacy of excellence. his story serves as an inspiration, reminding us that true success lies not only in achieving greatness but also in using our talents to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship: Remembering Louie Carnevale
Louie Carnevale, a renowned figure in the construction industry, passed away recently. His name is synonymous with meticulous attention to detail and unparalleled artistry in construction, leaving behind a lasting legacy of excellence.
Carnevale & Lohr, the partnership he formed, quickly established itself as a leader in the field. Their approach was one built on a foundation of integrity and a deep commitment to exceeding client expectations. “Pretend it’s your own building — think how you would want it done as it’s yours and do it that way,” Carnevale believed, reflecting his philosophy of putting himself in the client’s shoes and delivering a level of quality that surpassed the ordinary.
Beyond his professional success, Carnevale was known for his unwavering dedication to family and faith. His son, David, described his father’s deep religious convictions as the bedrock of his success, stating, “I attribute this to his deep religious convictions and belief in the principle that success in life begins with honesty, trust, and respect.”
David emphasized the central role family played in his father’s life.”But for him,” David said, “even greater than [his accomplishments] was his belief in family — family was everything to him.He never spoke of his accomplishments… but those of his family. He never bragged about his stature or wealth or possessions but instead he did brag about being a husband,a father,an uncle,a cousin,a grandfather.”
David also recalled how his father frequently enough acknowledged the importance of Jackie, his wife, in their shared success. “He told me his success could not have been achieved without Jackie.”
carnevale’s legacy extends beyond the buildings he constructed. It is a testament to the power of integrity, dedication, and the enduring value of family and faith. His story serves as an inspiration to those who strive for excellence in their own endeavors, reminding us that true success is measured not only by achievements but also by the impact we have on those around us.
A Legacy in Stone: Remembering Louie Carnevale
Louie carnevale, a man who touched countless lives through his artistry and generosity, passed away recently. His legacy extends far beyond the stunning marble and stonework he crafted for religious institutions across California. Carnevale’s life was a testament to the power of dedication, compassion, and a deep connection to faith.
Born in 1926, Carnevale’s journey began in the bustling city of Los Angeles, where he learned the intricacies of his craft. His work, however, transcended mere aesthetics. For Carnevale, each stone was imbued with meaning, a vessel for spiritual importance.
Bishop Spyridon of Amastris, pastor emeritus of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Northridge, shared a poignant anecdote about Carnevale’s character. “After negotiating and handshaking, Louie lingered,” the bishop recalled. “A friendship was formed, and it was founded on a tremendous amount of love. It came from the heart.”
This warmth extended to everyone Carnevale encountered. Cardinal Mahony, reflecting on Carnevale’s dedication to his craft, said, “It wasn’t just rock to Louie.” This sentiment was exemplified when Carnevale, in turkey to oversee the preparation of a marble slab destined to become the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels’ altar, felt sadness for the non-Christian workers who had no knowledge of its future purpose.
The marble’s journey to its final resting place was marked by rituals of blessing and consecration. Upon seeing the transformed slab, Carnevale smiled with palpable joy. “It gladdens my heart to see the block of rock groomed to be an altar, and here it stands today for all time,” he told Cardinal Mahony.
Beyond his artistry, Carnevale was known for his unwavering generosity. Cardinal Mahony recounted a conversation where Carnevale grappled with the financial struggles of a poor parish. “Let me take a look,” Carnevale said. “They don’t have much money,” cardinal Mahony observed. “They’ll get a bill they’ll be happy with,” replied Carnevale, explaining his ingenious solution: wealthy churches would contribute a little extra to help support smaller, underfunded ones. “Brilliant,” Cardinal Mahony exclaimed.“God will love you for that.”
This philanthropic spirit earned him numerous honors throughout his life. In 2008,the Marble Institute of America recognized his exceptional contributions with the Migliore Award,and in 2010,the archdiocese of Los Angeles bestowed upon him the Cardinal’s Award. These accolades stand as a testament to the lasting impact he had on both the art world and the wider community.
Carnevale’s legacy is multifaceted. He was a master craftsman who elevated marble and stone to works of art, a compassionate soul who understood the needs of others, and a man deeply rooted in faith. His philosophy, as shared by his son David, captures the essence of his character: “I have always believed you are who you are associated with.” By surrounding himself with love, generosity, and a commitment to serving higher purposes, Carnevale left an indelible mark on the world.
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