Rochester, N.Y. — The Rochester beauty community is grieving the loss of Gene Cardamone, the beloved founder of Shear Ego, whose influence, innovation, and unwavering dedication shaped the region’s beauty industry for more than half a century. Cardamone’s passing marks the end of an era for a local institution built on creativity, compassion, and connection.
For over 50 years, Gene was more than a salon owner — he was a builder of people. He believed deeply in the power of artistry and personal expression, creating spaces where stylists, barbers, and estheticians could not only work, but grow, learn, and find purpose. Under his leadership, Shear Ego expanded from a single salon into a thriving family of businesses, including The Salon, The Spa, The Men’s Club, and the Shear Ego International School.
“There are no words that can express the loss we all feel,” said his daughter, Shayna Cardamone, who serves as Spa Director. “His laughter filled our halls, his vision shaped every corner of this place, and his heart touched every person who worked here or sat in one of our chairs.”
Gene’s legacy extends far beyond appointments and services — it lives in the thousands of careers he helped shape, the friendships formed within his walls, and the sense of belonging he cultivated. The Shear Ego International School stands as one of his greatest achievements, reflecting his belief that success is rooted in lifting others up. Many stylists and beauty professionals across Western New York and beyond began their journeys under his mentorship.
As the Shear Ego family mourns, the business will continue forward guided by those who knew his heart and shared his vision — including his daughter Shayna, Artistic Director William Paparella, and a dedicated management and education team committed to honoring his life’s work.
The Salon, Spa, and Men’s Club will close on November 9th and November 10th at 12 p.m. to allow staff, students, clients, and the wider community to pay their respects.
Memorial Arrangements:
Visitation: November 9th, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Falvo Funeral Home
1295 Fairport Nine Mile Point Rd., Webster, NY
Funeral Service: November 10th, 1 p.m.
St. Louis Church
64 S. Main St., Pittsford, NY
Amid the grief, the Shear Ego family expresses deep gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the Rochester community.
Gene Cardamone leaves behind a legacy of beauty — not just in style, but in spirit.
His work lives on in every life he shaped, every career he nurtured, and every person who walked away from Shear Ego feeling a little more seen, valued, and confident.