Carl "Tobby" Gazzara's Obituary
Carl ‘Tobby’ Gazzara, age 85, passed away peacefully at his residence in Marlton, New Jersey with his family by his side on November 16, 2024. Carl was born in Hammonton, New Jersey on February 18, 1939. He resided in Medford, New Jersey for 42 years where he and his late wife established a wonderful life with their three children.
Carl is predeceased by his wife of 47 years, Margaret ‘Margie’ Gazzara; his parents, Frank and Fannie Gazzara; his siblings Charles ‘Buddy’ Gazzara, Angela Mazzeo and Frank Gazzara; and son-in-law, William D. Growney. Carl is survived by his partner of 16 years, Margaret ‘Marti’ Toudi; his three children Michele Gazzara, Michael Gazzara and Carla Growney; three grandchildren, Austin Gazzara, Ava Gazzara and Michele Growney; and 13 nieces and nephews.
Carl is known for ‘bringing style to Medford’ (People Magazine, 1984), his crazy-fun holiday parties and golfing. He bought his first hair salon, in 1964 – the day Carla was born. She remained his good luck ‘money’ charm, especially on the crap’s table at Caesar’s on Sunday nights. In 1973, Carl opened The Natural Touch, Medford, New Jersey. The salon was not only known for its’ style but for its’ homey feel and friendliness. It was a place where clients felt more like friends and family; stopping in for a quick hello while enjoying a glass of wine or a cup of his infamous Christmas eggnog. Carl was a mentor, friend and father-figure to those that sat in his chair and worked under his wing. Many of lives were shaped by Carl’s words of wisdom, caring nature and generous heart. His shoulder was there for all to lean on and wallet was always open for anyone in need. Carl welcomed the opportunity to teach his employees the trade. Many of Medford’s top stylists and salons were born out of The Natural Touch. The most prominent stylist is his daughter Michele who inherited his talent and excelled in the trade. Carl is an icon in the industry. His talent, skills and legacy will remain a part of Medford’s ‘style’ for generations to come.
Carl was also known for his amateur-pro golfing skills; a talent that he proudly passed on to his son, Michael. We can honestly say that Dad lived to golf. And golf he did – he was on course at least three days a week up until a month ago. Golfing with his 3 buddies, Barry Flennard, Jack Kroneberger and Bob Allen was his favorite thing to do. These guys conquered courses from Pine Valley Golf Club, New Jersey to Pebble Beach, California. His goal was to golf his age, be it 59 or 85, and he did! We can safely assume that he is already swinging a heavenly club on the fabulous fairway in the sky with his wife, brother and brother-in-law. Hit them straight dad!
A gathering of family and friends will be held this Friday, November 22nd from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Givnish of Marlton, 398 East Main Street, Marlton, New Jersey 08053.
A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 23rd at St. Mary of the Lakes Church, 40 Jackson Rd, Medford, New Jersey 08055. The Funeral Mass will be lived stream. To view please use the church’s link: YouTube.com/smlparish
Burial will take place at Oddfellows Cemetery, Coates Street, Medford, New Jersey 08055.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Carl’s name to Samaritan at samaritannj.org or Samaritan Gift Processing Center, PO Box 71425, Philadelphia, PA 19176-1425.
To share your fondest memories of Carl, please visit www.givnish.com
What’s your fondest memory of Carl?
What’s a lesson you learned from Carl?
Share a story where Carl's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Carl you’ll never forget.
How did Carl make you smile?