Louie Carnevale
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Louie Carnevale, founder and CEO of Carnevale & Lohr, Inc. on January 16, 2025, at the age of 87. Louie passed away surrounded by loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of craftsmanship, dedication, and profound love for his family and community.
The youngest of five children and born to two Italian immigrants, Louie grew up in South Central and Bell, Southern California working summers in the marble shop where his father worked. “I wanted to do marble since I was seven, I just thought it was fascinating, to create and build something so beautiful and solid.”
This early dream led to a lifelong passion and mastery of the trade. In 1958, within a few years of graduating from Bell High School where he excelled at sports and architectural drafting, Louie and his friend, Edmund Lohr Jr., founded Carnevale & Lohr. Ed and Louie built the firm into a respected and enduring name in the natural stone industry – having worked on such iconic projects as the Getty Museums, the Crystal Cathedral, and the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and unparalleled artistry, Louie took immense pride in creating timeless works that will stand as a testament to his skill and vision. He was honored with the Marble Institute of America 2008 Migliore Award in recognition of his lifetime achievements. His contributions to the craft were matched only by his generosity and humility.
Beyond his work, Louie was a devoted family man. He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years and high school sweetheart, Jacqueline, his children, David and Michael; his grandchildren, Nico and Luca; his nephew, Steve; his grand-niece and -nephew, Taylor and Roman; and a host of extended family members, friends, and colleagues who will miss him dearly. Louie’s warmth, humor, and unwavering kindness touched the lives of all who knew him.
In his spare time, Louie found joy in remodeling and improving homes — a reflection of his passion for craftsmanship and creating beauty — and cherished creating lasting memories during holidays and special moments with family and friends. Whether gathering for celebrations, sharing meals, or enjoying time together on the beach, he found joy in bringing people together. Louie’s love for making pizza became a centerpiece of these occasions, fostering warmth, laughter, and cherished connections that will be remembered for years to come.
A devout Catholic, Louie was the recipient of the 2010 Los Angeles Cardinal’s Award. He had fond memories of meeting Pope John Paul II and getting to know countless priests, nuns, and fellow laypeople while working on numerous construction and refurbishing projects at parishes, convents, and other religious institutions throughout the state.
A service to celebrate Louie’s life will be held on Friday, January 31, 2025, at 1:30 pm, at the site of one of his most gratifying works, Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, Los Angeles. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to:
Carmelite Sisters of Alhambra – https://www.carmelteresa.org/donation or Catholic Charities of Los Angeles – https://catholiccharitiesla.org/donate/ in honor of Louie’s memory.
Louie Carnevale’s spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him and in the enduring beauty of the work he leaves behind. He will be profoundly missed and fondly remembered.