Blase Angelo Pilla, 73, of Cherry Hill, NJ and formerly of South Philadelphia passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his loved ones on May 26th after a prolonged illness.  Blase graduated from Penn State University in 1970 and later went on to earn his masters degree in Education while pursuing his career as a special education teacher and later a learning disabilities consultant for the Camden City Public Schools, where he taught hundreds of students throughout his 33 year tenure at Woodrow Wilson High School and later Davis Elementary School before retiring from public service.  Of his many accomplishments as a professional, one that stands out was coaching the Woodrow Wilson 1980 girls track team to the state championship.  He was also fond of his many special education students who not only went on to graduate high school, but also attain professional employment in the area, many of whom would come by the house to visit throughout his 17 years of retirement and give him a shout out during his walks at Cooper River Park.  Blase enjoyed being retired as much as he enjoyed his years in the classroom, taking on the role of gentleman gardener with zest, also funding the various undergraduate and graduate degrees of his daughters, as well as purchasing a few pre-war bassoons, and a shore house for his wife in Wildwood by the Sea, where Blase and Mary met and fell in love many years ago.

Blase was a man who appreciated classical music, history, opera, fine art, his Italian heritage and language, and Philadelphia sports.  He passed this appreciation down to his daughters, one of whom is a professional musician and the other a former language professor and polyglot.  Blase was first and foremost a devoted husband, father, grandfather and lifelong Catholic, who knew the Catechism better than most, and prepared both of his granddaughters for their sacraments, even during his illness.  Blase was devoted to his wife, Mary, and stood by her side during their 50+ years of marriage, showing his love and support on a daily basis and serving as the spiritual leader for the family.

Blase is survived by his wife Mary, daughters Dana (Michael Grippi) Natalie (Stefán Hoskuldsson), grandchildren Mia, Gabriela, Alexander, Vera, and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held in St. Peter Roman Catholic Church in Merchantville, NJ on Thursday morning at 10:00 AM. Entombment will follow in Calvary Chapel Mausoleum Cherry Hill, NJ, There will also be a visitation on Wednesday evening from 7:00-9:00 PM in the Alloway Funeral Home 315 E. Maple Avenue Merchantville, NJ. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to St. Peter Church in his name.

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