Charles (Charlie) Stern, age 95, of Wayne, NJ, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2023. 

Charlie is survived by his loving wife Effie (née Van Leeuwe), two daughters Grace (Andrew) and Karen (Derek), and grandchildren Samantha and Colin.  He is predeceased by siblings Elsie, Anne, William, Lena, Helen, Rose, Joseph, and Audrey.

Charlie was born to Joseph Stern and Lena Meyers on May 19, 1928, in Paterson, NJ, and grew up in Wayne.  Wayne did not have its own high school at the time; he graduated from Pompton Lakes High School in 1946.   

He served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1952, as Private First Class during the Korean War.

Charlie was resourceful and had an inquisitive mind. He loved tinkering and building; an early example of this is illustrated by the story of how he acquired his first car.  As the youngest of nine, his resourcefulness led him to have a conversation with one of his uncles who was using the body of a Model A Ford as a chicken coop (the rest of the parts were stored in a shed).   He asked how much he could buy the “parts” for so he could build a car.   His uncle replied, “if you get it running, it is yours.” He drove that Model A until he parted it out, using some parts for his Roadster, and eventually, some of those parts were used in his race car.

Charlie had a love for racing. During the late 40’s to mid-50’s, he joined a local racing club for the Northeast, and raced his Sprint car at the various dirt oval tracks along the East coast.

In 1953, Charlie had a chance meeting with a young woman (Effie) who was friends with his niece, Connie.   What began as a few people going out for ice cream, progressed into a first date, and then to “going steady.” On March 6, 1955, Charlie and Effie were married.   By 1963, Effie and Charlie moved into the house that Charlie had built for them in Wayne, NJ, where they lived and raised their family.

When Effie and Charlie met, he was working as a machinist for Simonek Racing in an area of Paterson known at the time as “Gasoline Alley.” He then worked as a carpenter building houses.  In the late 60’s, with a growing family to provide for, he took the advice of a friend who recommended a different career path, and applied at the NJ Department of Motor Vehicles.  Over his 25-year career with the DMV, he spent time at several locations throughout northern NJ and retired in 1991 as Supervisor of the Ridgewood Inspection Station.  In retirement, he was not a man to sit idle.  He took a part-time job at the local NAPA delivering auto parts, joined the Handyman’s team at Preakness Reformed Church, played golf, and repaired whatever needed fixing for his family and others (i.e., lawn mowers, bikes, etc.).

Charlie and Effie cruised to Alaska and Hawaii, and traveled with family to France, Arizona, Florida’s Disney, Vermont, Texas, Hilton Head Island and Cape May, among other places. He also enjoyed his title of “Pop-Pop” and attended soccer games, and any other activities in which his grandchildren were involved; he played badminton in the back yard, swam with them in the pool, and taught them to play golf, just to name a few.

Charlie will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather.  He will be sincerely missed by every person whose life he touched.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Preakness Reformed Church Scholarship Memorial Fund (Please make checks payable to the Preakness Reformed Church and put Charles Stern in the memo line)  Mail to: Preakness Reformed Church, 131 Church Lane, Wayne, NJ 07470 or the Wounded Warrior Project would be greatly appreciated. 

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Irma Iris Rosario, age 91 of West Milford, formerly of Rahway and Jersey City, NJ.  Irma Iris Rosario passed away peacefully on Monday, August the 28^th, 2023 while in the care and loving comfort of her family.

Irma Iris was born to Filomina Esquelin and Julio Prieto in Santurce, Puerto Rico. She raised five beautiful daughters: Adelaida Perez, Irma Luz Hornedo, Luz Maria Rosado, Luz Neraida Campos and Clarisa Rodriguez.  Irma left Puerto Rico with her daughters to start a new life in the states with the help of her sister Celina Smith and brother Julio Prieto Jr. who resided in New York City.  Soon after, Irma found employment in Jersey City as a seamstress making luggage bags. Irma was an amazing seamstress and loved making clothes for the family.  She especially enjoyed making Halloween costumes for her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Irma found the love of her life, Israel Rosario who fully embraced Irma and her five daughters. They married and were blessed to love each other for 60 years. Irma enjoyed cooking, sewing, and taking care of her family. Irma dedicated her life to providing and supporting her family.

Irma was a beloved and dedicated wife and mother.  She was grandmother to 12 grandchildren, a great grandmother to 26, and great-great grandmother to 5.  She lived a blessed, fulfilled, and loving life and will forever be missed!!

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital would be greatly appreciated. 

Mary Wolf, age 77 of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 26, 2023.

Mary, the most loving devoted wife, mother and grandmother, is survived by her sister Pat McElroy; sons, Edward and James; daughter, Debbie; grandsons, EJ, Garret, James, and Thomas; granddaughters, Camryn, Vanessa, Krystina, and Lori; son-in-law, Glenn Laborda; and daughters-in-law, Karen and Sonia. She was preceded in death by her husband Edward, her parents, Walter and Mary, and her sister, Deborah.

Mary graduated from Immaculate Conception High School. She worked for over 40 years for Stanley and Andy Rothstein, who she considered family, and felt blessed to have as part of your life. Mary met Edward, the man of her dreams, and the man who would stand by her side through life’s ups and downs.

Mary was a near perfect wife and mother who no matter the situation, always had the well being and success of her family guiding her every decision. She was a woman who went above and beyond to make sure that everyone in her inner circle was provided for, taken care of, and always put ahead of her own self-interest.

As a woman driven by family, Mary would never compromise those values under any circumstance. She never focused on herself, instead, her children were her greatest joy and highest priority, and she always did her best to provide them with the best life possible.

Mary was a truly great woman whose impact will be forever felt by her family and friends who all loved her dearly. She was a selfless woman whose passing leaves a gaping hole in the hearts of all of us. Her ability to sacrifice, provide, support, and love will be forever engrained in all she knew.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Laurena Berthina Charles-Hynes, affectionately known as "Lauren", of Wayne, NJ.

Laurena passed away peacefully on Friday, August 25, 2023 after an unusually short but courageous battle with cancer while receiving the loving care of her family.

Laurena was born and raised in Castries, St Lucia and had nine (9) sisters and one brother.  While growing up in St Lucia, Laurena excelled in academics as well as volleyball.  She attended the Seventh Day Adventist Academy (SDA) in St Lucia graduating with honors, with the class of 1974.  Following her graduation from high school, she attended St Lucia A Level College.  After this, Laurena worked at the St Lucia Cooperative Bank for over five years.  In 1983 she immigrated to the United States to complete her Bachelor of Science degree at Rutgers University, in Newark NJ. She first settled in the Bronx, then later moved to East Orange, NJ while still completing the program. In 1988 she earned her Bachelor of Science Degree.

Laurena found work quickly and accepted a position at UMDNJ as a Medical Laboratory Technician.  Later, Laurena not only worked in the Serology lab, but in other various departments.  During her time working with UMDNJ, Laurena earned her master’s degree in Biomedical Informatics.   Laurena’s career in healthcare spanned over thirty-three years until retiring in 2021.  During that time, she was truly well respected and loved by her colleagues and peers. 

In November of 1999, Laurena met a handsome young man at church by the name of George Hynes.  A few years later, the two started dating.  As fate would have it, they fell in love and on May 1, 2004 they became husband and wife.  The newlyweds settled in George’s hometown of North Arlington where they remained until 2006 when they moved to Wayne.  After moving to Wayne, the couple welcomed the birth of their only child, Charley.  The family has remained in Wayne ever since. 

Laurena truly treasured reading, researching, and learning.  She had a true entrepreneurial spirit and constantly kept herself busy starting her own businesses in marketing and other fields.

Aside from all of Laurena’s hobbies, talents, and interests, her greatest passion was for her family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Laurena than spending time with family and friends and being a mother to her son Charley. He was indeed her precious gem. She cherished her time together with her family vacationing to destinations such as Vermont, Lake George, Wildwood, and Bradley Beach for the annual fireworks displays, and also the Caribbean.  Laurena and George shared nineteen years of loyal marriage together.  Laurena was also devoted to her faith, the Creator, which she often referred to as "The Most High".  She and her family attended a variety of local churches where she was always very active and charitable.

Laurena was a quiet, private, and reserved young lady but was also bubbly, kind and compassionate.  She had a truly wonderful personality and could light up any room she walked into with her sweet, and beautiful smile.  She was often selfless, putting the needs of others before her own. She will be forever remembered as a bright, beautiful and loving person who was a devoted wife, mother, and sister.  Laurena was a truly special person who touched the lives of everyone that knew her.  She will be sincerely missed by her family and friends.

Laurena is survived by her husband George Hynes of Wayne, her son Charley Hynes, of Wayne, her sisters Agatha Chance of Ontario, Canada; Rosemary St. Romain of Castries, St Lucia; Gloria Elizabeth Charles of Castries, St Lucia; Marina Charles-Cann of Bermuda; Leona Charles of Castries, St Lucia; Margaret-Ann Charles of New Jersey; Shirwin Charles of Castries, St. Lucia; Theodora Simon of Castries St Lucia; Valerie Leon of Castries, St Lucia; and Patrick Phillip of Detroit, Michigan.  

Also surviving are her brothers-in-law: James Simon of La Croix Mingot, St. Lucia; William Cann of Bermuda, and Anthony St Romain of Castries St. Lucia also known as “brother Bob.”  She was the beloved aunt of Kheri Bernné Charles, Verity and Osie Solomon, Joy Carey St. Romain, Elvis St. Romain, Kathy St. Romain, Kevin Simon and Jason Simon all of Castries. Also, Gisele Simon, Coleen Chance and Andrea Chance of Canada.  Also left to mourn are the staff members of the University Hospital of New Jersey, Serology laboratory; and many other relatives and friends in St. Lucia, Barbados, Bermuda, Canada, and the USA.  She was predeceased by her parents Gerald Justin Charles and Eugenia Charles.

Ralph Vigorito, age 85, of Totowa, NJ, passed away on Thursday, August 24, 2023, with the comfort of his family by his side. He was affectionately known as “Irv” to many.

Ralph was born to Ben and Jean (née Volpe) Vigorito, in Paterson, NJ, on March 6, 1938. He graduated in 1956 from Central High School, where he quarterbacked the varsity football team and played shortstop for the varsity baseball team. He attended the New York Military Academy and received a scholarship to continue his football career and education at the University of South Carolina before a stint playing football professionally for the New York Titans.

In the early 1960s, Ralph settled in Reno, NV, where he worked as a pit boss at the Cal-Neva Casino. The Lake Tahoe area was among his favorite places in the world. A few years later, he moved back to New Jersey, where he worked for Allentown Caging in Allentown and Scandia Packaging in Clifton. He also enjoyed a part-time gig in the 1970s as bartender and manager of the Towpath Bar in West Paterson. He had a warm, cheerful personality and made friends everywhere he went.

Ralph loved golf and was a regular at the Passaic County Golf Course, among the many courses in the area he frequently played. He achieved his first hole-in-one at the Palm Beach Gardens Golf Club using a six iron at 166 yards on hole 15. He was honored to have an annual family and friends golf outing in his name: the “Irv Golf Tournament,” or “IGT” for short. A golf destination is chosen each year, usually in Florida, and Irv and his family and friends would all hack their way through the course, laughing and making great memories along the way. Irv proudly won the tournament several times (there’s even a small chance he didn’t cheat). He also sincerely enjoyed leisure travel, almost always to a casino destination, visiting Atlantic City, Las Vegas, and many Caribbean islands over the years, often with his cousin Vince and long-time friend Paul and their wives. Roulette was his favorite casino game.

During the 1970s, Ralph became involved in coaching Wayne PAL and DePaul Catholic High School football. He diligently coached his son, Tommy, developing him into an exceptional running back and wide receiver. Ralph was incredibly proud to see Tommy go on from DePaul to play for the University of Virginia for four years before being drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 1981. He was resolute in ensuring his attendance at every game of Tommy’s entire football career.

Ralph’s first marriage was to Dorothy (née Miller), with whom he was blessed with four wonderful children. Ralph would later marry Sandy (née Lowry), enjoying twenty-eight years of marriage before her passing in 2010. A few years after Sandy’s passing, Ralph met Terry DiGregorio of Wayne while waiting to retrieve their respective grandchildren from James Fallon Elementary School. They eventually were encouraged to go on a date, and an endearing relationship followed. They were together for eleven years; Terry will miss him dearly.

Ralph is survived by his four children: Ralph and his wife Debbie Vigorito of Lincoln Park, NJ; Tommy and his wife Natalie Vigorito of Wayne, NJ; Darcy Nash of Pembroke Pines, FL; and Patricia and her husband Matthew Babich of Wayne, NJ. He’s also survived by nine beloved grandchildren: Justin and his wife Becka Vigorito, Michael Vigorito, Brandon Vigorito and his fiancé Molly Tague, Ryan Nash, Kelly Nash, Matthew Babich, Shawn Babich, Brianna Vigorito, and Rachel Babich; and one beloved great-grandson, Dominick Vigorito. Ralph was a devoted and loving grandfather and great-grandfather to each, never missing a dance recital or sporting event. Ralph was predeceased by his daughter-in-law Dianne Vigorito in 2015.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to The Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis at www.themiamiproject.org (http://www.themiamiproject.org/) or 1095 NW 14th Terrace, Lois Pope LIFE Center, Miami FL, 33136.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gertrude Siewert (nee Schlobohm), age 91, of Wayne, NJ.

Gertrude passed away on Thursday, August 24, 2023 peacefully while receiving the loving care of her family.  She was born and raised in Brooklyn and was the only child to Walter and Margaret Schlobohm.  Many who knew Gertrude affectionately referred to her as “Trudy”, but to her family she will always be Gerty.

While growing up in Brooklyn, Gerty attended high school in the Flatbush neighborhood of Brooklyn and graduated with the class of 1949.  After graduating high school, she found employment quickly as a secretary/typist in Manhattan and taught Sunday School at her local church.  Gerty worked as a secretary for a few years, during which time she enjoyed attending German-American dances in New York City.  One night while out dancing she met a young handsome US Army serviceman by the name of Siegfried  "Fred” Siewert.  If there was ever a case of “Love at First Sight”, this was it.  As fate would have it, they fell in love, and not long after they began dating, the two became husband and wife at a Lutheran church in Brooklyn and would remain happily married for the next 60 years.

The newlyweds honeymooned in Germany for six months, staying with Fred's family and traveling in Europe.  Gerty and Fred came back to the United States and settled in Long Island, NY.  While residing in Long Island, the couple welcomed the births of both their daughters, Linda and Nancy.  In 1968 the family moved to Germany, and spent the next two years there.  When Gerty and her family returned to the United States in 1970, they settled in Passaic Park, NJ.

Once back in the United States, Gerty decided to get back into the workforce and worked as a secretary at Oneida Paper Company and customer service representative for Galvanic Printing until her retirement in 1992.  She and Fred retired at basically the same time and then moved to Englewood, FL.  The couple lived in Florida for the next eighteen years truly treasuring their retirement.  Gerty then moved back to New Jersey to live with her daughter Linda after her husband Fred’s passing in June of 2013. 

While living in NJ, Gerty and Fred were members of their local German-American Club where they met many wonderful people that would become lifelong friends. In Florida they also belonged to a German-American Club and were members of the Elks Lodge.   

In their spare time, they enjoyed  attending dances and other club activities, traveling and gardening.   One of Gerty's favorite places to be was at the beach.  She and her family traveled to a variety of destinations throughout the years including Bermuda, Bahamas, Italy, Hawaii, and St Maarteen.  She also treasured her family time spent at the Jersey Shore in Lavallette.  Gerty lived a good long life and was fortunate enough to know and love all eight great granddaughters.  

Gerty is survived by her two daughters: Linda Moakley and her husband William of Wayne, and Nancy Gannon of Clifton, four grandchildren, Nicki Stier and her husband Ken of Clifton, Tara Hecht and her husband William of Wayne, Dana Masino and her husband Matthew of Wayne, and William Moakley and his wife Alexis of Wayne, and eight great grandchildren: Jordyn, Hailey, Harper, Samantha, Callie, Hayden, Ava, and Aria.  She was predeceased by her husband Siegfried Siewert in 2013.  Gerty was very much loved and will be missed by many.

Michael J. Tarantino left this life on August 24, 2023.

He was born in Paterson NJ on July 21,1961 and grew up in Totowa. Then, he moved to Wayne in June 1990.

He was employed by the Township of Wayne until his retirement in 2019.

Michael is survived by his parents John and Alice Tarantino, his wife Cyndi and children Tamara (Bob Ventimiglia) and Michael (Samantha Fleming). He is also survived by his sister Joanne Keeler (Keith), his in-laws, and a number of nieces and nephews.  Michael was predeceased by his grandparents, his sister in law, and his dog Hercules, whom he missed every day.

Michael was a lifelong, die-hard Giants fan, and a huge Queen fan. He loved to cook and shared his passion for cooking with his kids. He was the keeper of all useless information, and also could quote various movies. He could remember small, random facts about a vast number of subjects to his own delight. He also loved his favorite place, Lake Placid, NY and found his safe haven there. 

He will be taken to his favorite place to be scattered in the wind, the way he wanted, at a later date.

May Michael finally find the peace in Heaven that he couldn’t find on earth.  Sleep well with Jesus and the angels, Michael.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Wayne Memorial First Aid Squad would be greatly appreciated.  

Jane Brozowski, age 92, of Wayne passed Tuesday, August 22, 2023.

She was born and raised in Paterson having graduated from Central High School with the Class of 1949.  After high school she found work as a secretary in the Engineering Department of P. Ballantine & Sons Brewery in Newark for many years. Following her marriage in 1957 Jane settled in Wayne NJ to start her family.  Several years later she decided to put her career on hold and prioritize raising her family. Her commitment and love for her children were unparalleled, and she devoted herself entirely to their upbringing. In the late 1970’s she found herself as a single mother and faced many challenges all of which she overcame. After her sons entered school full-time, she seized the opportunity to reenter the workforce first by joining New Jersey Bank which transitioned into Midlantic Bank which again transitioned into PNC Bank all located in West Paterson. With her return to the professional world, she continued to excel, proving that her dedication and determination were not diminished by her time away. She officially retired in 1998.

Jane was an extraordinary lady who possessed a unique blend of reservedness and love that captivated those around her.  While she may have appeared quiet and introspective, those who knew her well understood the depths of her affection and compassion.  Though she may not have then the loudest voice in the room, her words carried weight and her actions spoke volumes.  Many would consider her to have a strong personality, as she possessed an unwavering determination.  In her quiet strength, she faced challenges head-on and fearlessly pursued her goals.  Her presence was a testament to the power of inner strength and the impact one can have without raising their voice. For many years she was an active member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Wayne Elks Lodge 2181. 

Jane was dedicated to her Catholic faith and played a pivotal role as a founding member of Our Lady of the Valley Church in Wayne.  Her dedication, unwavering faith, and tireless efforts have left an indelible mark on our community. As one of the pioneers who helped shape the foundation of the church, she has been instrumental in fostering a sense of belonging and spiritual growth for all who enter its doors.

She was the beloved mother of John Brozowski and his wife Darlene of Warwick, NY and Gary Brozowski and his wife Lisa of Wayne; she was the cherished grandmother of Julia and Hannah Brozowski, Casey and Kelly Brozowski, Dylan and Emma Diplas.  Jane was predeceased by her three brothers Steven, Walter and George Podgorski.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Our Lady of the Valley Church, 630 Valley Road, Wayne, NJ 07470 would be greatly appreciated. 

James E. Herman, age 88, of Wayne, passed into eternal life on Monday, August 21, 2023.

James was the older of George and Alice (Lynch) Herman’s two children. He was born in Wayne in his Aunt Helen and Uncle Leonard’s house that was purchased in 1932 from the Sears Roebuck catalog. Jim grew up on Thomas Terrace in Wayne. He attended Passaic County Vocational High School when it was still in Paterson and he graduated with the class of 1952.

Jim met Virginia “Jinny” Clark on a blind date that was set up by his mother and Jinny’s sister who worked together at a dry cleaner. When Jim got home from that first date, he announced to his mom that he knew he was going to marry Jinny. Well, it turned out to be a true statement. They did indeed exchange their wedding promises before God, family and friends on Saturday, August 20, 1955 at the Mountain View Gospel Church (presently called Crossroads Church) on Parish Drive in Wayne. A reception took place at the Wayne Fire Department House #1. It was an extremely hot and humid day and there was also a flood. Jim and Jinny honeymooned in Niagara Falls and in unique fashion, Jinny’s brother and his wife went with them. Upon their return home, they started married life in a cabin on Packanack Lake.  From there they moved into an apartment that overlooked Roue 23 before ultimately putting down roots in their house at 3 Giannone Road in Wayne.  

Career wise, Jim started out as a machine shop manager for Jual Gear Company in Hawthorne. In 1968, with three new mouths to feed, Jim started his own floor sales, supply and installation company which he called New Life Floor Covering. At first he worked out of a truck, visiting customers in their homes where he would show his samples and close the orders, then install. On weekends he did his best to drum up business by selling flooring at a flea market in Elmwood Park. Eventually, he got his first store-front location in the old American Way Outlet Mall in Fairfield.  It was a family business with his wife and children. Jim later moved the business to a storefront on Route 23 in Butler and, in 1996, he opened a second store in the Berdan Shopping Center on Hamburg Turnpike in Wayne.   His son Ron ran the Butler store while Jim ran the Wayne store.

As a young man, Jimmy was a pretty good tap dancer and he also liked to play drums. His early interest in carpentry inspired him to build cabinets before he even had his driver’s license. He built beautiful cabinets but his father had to help him deliver them. In later years, he and Jinny enjoyed some wonderful travel adventures. As a floorman, Jimmy would sometimes win trips from flooring manufacturers for highest sales of their product. That earned them a couple of cruises. His wife Jinny worked for a Swedish company where she was secretary to the president. This earned them a trip to Sweden where they got to have dinner with the king and the queen of Sweden because of the company’s important standing in Sweden. Other trips, like the one they took to Finland were made possible by Jinny’s talent for being a great bargain hunter. Sadly, Jinny passed away in 2000 when she was only 66 years old. Jim always expressed how grateful he was that they didn’t wait to travel till they were older.

Eventually, Jim moved to Cedar Crest Village with his mother Alice and twenty years ago, he moved in with his daughter Susan where he remained to the present.

Jim was a true child of God. Consequently, it was always on his heart to be a good witness for the Lord and to be involved in ministry for his Father in heaven. Originally a member of Mountain View Gospel Church (now Crossroads Church) on Parish Drive, he did chalk ministry as a young man, and he and his wife Jinny worked with the church’s youth group even taking regular trips with them to New York State. He served in his church as deacon and elder and after retiring from his floor business, he got ordained as a minister through Crossroads Church so that he could be even more effective for the Lord. Jim served as an interim pastor at several churches, most recently at Bible Christian Fellowship in Pompton Plains. He loved preaching there along with Pastor Paul and he continued to serve there until three or four years ago when his health prevented him from continuing.    

To those that knew Jim, he was a good friend. He was a hard worker. For example, in his flooring business he worked seven days a week including the flea markets on the weekends. In the Holy Bible in Colossians 3: 23-24, the bible says “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”  That’s what Jim did. That’s why he was always honest in his business dealings and always wanted the job, no matter what it was, to be done right and to the highest standards. Jim truly cared about those who God put in his path. He cared about people and always wanted to help them. As a result, he was loved by many.  

Jim was the beloved husband of Virginia “Jinny” Herman (nee Clark) blessed in marriage for 45 years until her passing in 2000. He was the loving father of: Susan Rivenes and husband Robert, Jr. of Wayne, James “Ron” Herman and wife Sally of Pompton Plains, and the late Diane Tomaiko and her husband Gerry; cherished grandfather of: James “Jimmy” Rivenes, Amanda Herman, Ashley and husband John De Ritter, Steven Herman, Billy Herman, Joshua Herman, and the late Matthew Herman who passed away just this past July, 2023; adored great-grandfather of Madeline and Brooke; dearest brother of the late Ronald Herman and his wife Eileen of Toms River; and dear uncle of: Tom, Ron, David, and Wendy.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John Cooper, Jr, age 91 of Pompton Plains, NJ.

John passed away peacefully on Monday, August 21, 2023 while receiving the loving care of his family.  John was born in his family home in Wyckoff, NJ and was one of four children to John and Hilda Cooper.  While growing up in Wyckoff, John excelled in the sport of baseball.  Since the town of Wyckoff did not have its own high school, John attended Ramsey High School.

In 1952, John got the call to serve his country in the Korean War and began his service with the United States Navy.  While serving in the US Navy, John was the Ship’s Chemist with his own laboratory on the USS Rehoboth.  The Rehoboth was commissioned as an oceanographic survey ship.  One of the highlights of John’s time aboard the Rehoboth was the rescue of the raft that was part of the Kon-Tiki expedition.  John was awarded the National Defense Medal, as well as the European Occupation Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.   

Subsequent to his honorable discharge from the US Navy in 1956, John set out to become a Police Officer.  He joined the Oakland Police Department  where he earned the rank of Sergeant and eventually retired in 1990.

John was also a freelanced licensed plumber for over sixty years alongside his law enforcement career.  After retiring, he often helped his fellow church members and neighbors with their plumbing work.     

John later met and married Arlene Rogers on August 28, 1983. They adopted their first three children, Matthew, Elizabeth, and Brian.  Later the family moved to Pompton Plains where they adopted two more children, Sean and Abigail.  The family has called Pompton Plains their home ever since.   

He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.  John and Arlene cherished forty years of a loving and loyal marriage together.  In 2010 tragedy struck John’s family when his son Matthew passed away.  John was not only devoted to his family, but also to his Christian Faith. He gave continuous thanks to God for the many years he was blessed with.   He and his family for the past three years regularly attended the Trinity Baptist Church in Montville.

John was an easygoing, unstressed, and calm man.  He had a mellow disposition to him with a great sense of humor.  He had a heart of gold and would stop whatever he was doing to help someone out. 

John will be forever remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, and a man truly dedicated to his family.  He touched the lives of many people and will be sincerely missed by everyone that knew him.

John is survived by his wife Arlene ( Rogers) of Pompton Plains, his daughter Elizabeth Cooper, his son Brian Cooper, his son Sean Cooper, and his daughter Abigail Cooper all of Pompton Plains.  He is also survived by his daughters Sharon and Lisa, four grandchildren, and his brother Ronald Cooper of Wyckoff NJ.  He was predeceased by his son Matthew Cooper (2010), and by his two sisters Radie, and Jess. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Joanne L. Carr (nee Shea) age 85, of Tinton Falls, NJ and formerly of Wayne, NJ, passed away on Saturday, August 19, 2023. 

Joanne was the cherished wife of the late John P. Carr (2008). She was the beloved mother of Timothy (Kristin), Christopher, Brian (Denise); adored grandmother of Megan, Bridget, Joshua, Emma, and Aaron; loving great grandmother of Lily, Molly, and Jake; dearest sister of the late Robert Bootes, the late John Shea, Phyllis Tucciarone, and Patricia Van Decker; and dear aunt of numerous nieces and nephews.

The third of Edmund and Helen (Heath) Shea’s five children, Joanne was born in Glen Ridge and grew up in the family home at 712 Broad Street in Bloomfield. After graduating from Bloomfield High School with the Class of 1956, she worked for Prudential Insurance Company in Newark. Joanne recalled that the highlight of that job came one summer when she had to spend several months down the shore to conduct training for fellow employees.

In 1961, Joanne met John Carr in North Arlington. They fell in love and married shortly thereafter. They moved into the home located at 24 James Street in Wayne where Joanne took on the role of mother and homemaker. She would go on to live in that home for over fifty years. As a young mom, while her three sons attended Ryerson School, Joanne was active in the PTO. Later she worked as a poll worker at the Ryerson School polls.

Joanne eventually returned to work outside of the home. She took a job at the Children’s Place, a retail children’s clothing chain. She started out part time in the distribution center and, over the course of twenty-plus years before retiring in the early 1990’s, she moved into the company’s human resource and payroll departments. She loved that job and her grandchildren were the happy recipients of lots of great children’s clothing. 

When Joanne’s kids were growing up, the family would frequently go camping. It was affordable and, while it really wasn’t her cup of tea, it’s what three growing boys loved to do. Favorite camping spots included Cape May, Wildwood Crest, and Fort Wilderness near Disney World. One summer the whole family even camped their way up the east coast from Cape May to Nova Scotia! Joanne and John got to go to Ireland with their son Chris and to Mexico with their son Tim and his family. She and John loved to go to Atlantic City to try their luck at the casinos and they always took advantage of the free buffets. They also enjoyed several cruises and trips together to Hawaii, New Orleans and lots of national parks.

When Joanne was a young lady working for Prudential, she started bowling. It would become an activity that she participated in for many years. With a 156 average, she enjoyed bowling with friends in various leagues at Leisure Lanes in Fairfield and T-Bowl in Wayne. Joanne also loved going to Broadway shows, working in the yard, tending to her beautiful flowers and doing her crossword puzzles.

Above all else, Joanne’s greatest passion was for her family. She and husband John were such a blessing to their sons. For many years they took care of their grandchildren a couple of times a week. Joanne was never known to be shy and taking care of her grandchildren allowed her to be well-known at their nursery school and Ryerson School. She adored her grandchildren and never missed any of their shows, competitions, birthdays, graduations, or any milestone events in their lives. She loved dancing the jitter bug with them and swimming with them in their pool or in the ocean. 

Joanne was truly a caring and compassionate person. When her own mother was suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, it was Joanne who took care of her every need. In June, 2018, Joanne left her home in Wayne to go live at Cedar Crest Village in Pequannock. While living there, she was a regular volunteer in Cedar Crest’s memory care unit. Extremely kind hearted, she simply had a natural attraction to the down-trodden and when she saw a need, she rolled up her sleeves and helped. Sadly, Joanne herself would ultimately succumb to Alzheimer’s. With much of her family ending up living in South Jersey, she eventually moved down there to be closer to them. For the past year-and-a-half, she was a resident at Seabrook Village in Tinton Falls. 

When asked what her family would miss most about Joanne, they said they would miss her great sense of humor, her warm friendship, and just her mere presence. She always got so excited to be together for Christmas and other holidays and events. She lived for her family and not having her present going forward will be hard.  

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In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Joanne’s name are asked to consider:

Alzheimer’s NJ

Attention Develpment Department

425 Eagle Rock Ave. Suite 203

Roseland, NJ 07068

Please make your check payable to Alzheimer’s New Jersey.

Liam Sebastian Marquez, of Haskell,  just 3 years young, joined the angels in heaven on Thursday, August 17, 2023. His dearly loved Mommy, Daddy, Nanny, and Auntie were right by his side as he went into eternal glory.

Liam was born into this world in April, 2020, during some of the most difficult days of the Covid pandemic. In the context of those dark days, his arrival was a beautiful, glorious ray of sunshine, full of hope and happiness to his excited parents, Sebastian and Kimberly Marquez. Sadly, their immense happiness turned to great concern when, at just 8 weeks old, Liam was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, a very rare and aggressive form of cancer. For the rest of his short earthly life, Liam endured surgeries, countless chemotherapy and radiation treatments, and numerous visits to doctors and hospitals. Through it all, and right until he passed, God kept him going, kept him learning, and kept him doing all the things little boys love to do. 

Liam loved going to the park. It was one of his favorites things to do, as long as Liam was running and laughing. He would get so excited and with an exuberant voice he’d say “Mommy, let’s go to a new park! He also loved an indoor play place called Catch Air that had everything a little kid could want to do. Every day Liam wanted to go and bring his buddies. Also, his love for animals was amazing. He was incredibly smart and could spout off all kinds of information about all kinds of animals. He knew their habitats and what they liked to eat. Liam especially loved dinosaurs and even though he was only three, you could show him a picture of one and he could tell you exactly what dinosaur it was – Triceratops, Tyrannosaurus, Stegosaurus, Brontosaurus – you name it! He pretty much knew them all and, if you had a question he couldn’t answer, Liam would always say “Look it up” or “Google it”. 

Liam had so much love for his Auntie and Unka or as Liam would say, my bestie Auntie who he spent so much time with. Through Liam’s Auntie, Jessica and Unka Corey who live in Little Falls, he became beloved by so many from Little Falls and their Police Department and Fire department. Liam would always say, “When I grow up, I want to be Police Officer to arrest the bad guys.” The Little Falls Police made an official proclamation and made him an official police officer complete with the bestowment of his own genuine police badge. Likewise, Totowa and Woodland Park Fire Departments made Liam an honorary fire chief. What kid wouldn’t be excited? 

A recent great highlight for Liam (and his parents) was going to Yankee Stadium where he got to play on the field and meet the players. Yankees first baseman Anthony Rizzo had cancer as a very young man himself. He survived and so he started the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation to raise money and awareness for cancer research and to support families who are battling cancer. Liam actually met Anthony Rizzo and also Aaron Judge and Kyle Higashioka to name a few.

Liam was the kind of kid that you couldn’t help but be drawn to. He was the big brother of his eight-month-old sister Isabella Leigh or “Bella” as he loved to call her. He was also like a little brother to his older cousins Madison and Dante. They shared an amazing bond. Liam loved giving them wake up calls by storming into their bedrooms at 8:30 in the morning to beat them up. His love for them and his Nanny was like no other.  

Liam always wanted to run, always! As recently as three days before he passed, he was running in the house with his Mommy and Nanny. As he ran he yelled, “Run faster Mommy! You’re not doing it right! Go faster! Turn on the jets!“ Three days later, he’s flying with jets even Liam could never have dreamed about. Oh Liam, you will truly be missed! Thank you for such great memories. See you again our sweet angel!

Matthew 19:14

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”   

Liam was the precious son of Sebastian and Kimberly (Myers) Marquez. He was the greatest big brother of Isabella “Bella” Marquez; adored grandson of maternal grandmother Irene Myers of Lady Lake, FL, maternal grandfather Weldon Myers of Wildwood, FL, paternal grandmother Blanca Marquez of Puerto Rico and paternal grandfather Eduardo Marquez who predeceased him ; cherished cousin of Madison Myers, Dante Ferreira, Camila and Nick Lucarelli, Eva, Mariella, and Gigi Marquez; dearest nephew of his Auntie Jessica Myers and Unka Corey Eopechino, Tia Edith Marquez and Uncle Martin Lucarelli, Tio Eduardo Marquez, Jr. and Aunt Nicole Marquez, Uncle Steve Marquez, and Uncle Simon Marquez.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Liam’s name are asked to consider a donation to: Liam’s Warriors Foundation. A non-profit foundation to help raise money and awareness for cancer research and to support families who are battling cancer.

Send to: 

Liam’s Warriors

PO Box 227

Totowa, NJ 07511

Geraldine Delli Santi, age 93, of Paramus and formerly of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 17, 2023.

Geraldine, or “Geri” as she was commonly known, was born and raised in the Iron-Bound section of Newark, NJ. She was the daughter of her late parents, Joseph and Mary (Vitilo) Nobile. 

After attending Eastside High School in Newark, Geri worked at an umbrella factory where she met the love of her life John Delli Santi. Geri and John made their wedding promises before God, family and friends on Saturday, April 8, 1950 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Church in her hometown of Newark. After the wedding, the newlyweds honeymooned in thee most popular destination of the day – Niagara Falls. Upon returning home, they started their lives as husband and wife in a home located at 296 Walnut Street in Newark. The ensuing years of marriage included the blessed arrival of three children, Louis, Joseph and Laura, and several moves to new homes including, 181 Lincoln Ave, Newark, and 368 North 11th Street, in Newark. During the child-rearing years, Geri lovingly embraced her role as mother and homemaker. Then, when the kids reached that age of relative independence, she began to work outside the home as a sales associate for McCrory’s Department Store in Newark, and later at Mandee Clothing Stored in Newark and Bloomfield. Those were bygone days when you could actually go into a clothing store and be personally waited on. Geri was one of those kind persons that waited on you with a cheerful smile and a service-minded spirit. 

Sadly, in December of 1992, Geri’s beloved John passed away. Soon after she moved out of Newark for the first time in her life into her new home located at 29 Maple Street in Bloomfield. She later downsized to an apartment at Siena Village in Wayne and had most recently been living at the Veterans Home in Paramus.

Geri enjoyed various leisure time activities. She loved to read, especially Danielle Steel romance novels. She also enjoyed coloring, going to see shows in Atlantic City with her daughter Laura, playing bingo, and singing with the bands at the Veterans Home. Geri especially loved being with her children, granddaughter and brother and sisters. She was so proud of her granddaughter Julianne and never missed any of her birthdays, dance recitals, or graduations. Geri was also a great cook and an even better baker. Everyone loved it when she baked German nut loaf, Italian Struffoli (Italian honey balls), and her all time specialty – Italian Knots. 

Along with her love for her family and friends, Geri had a sincere love of God. She was a faithful catholic who always felt a blessing from going to mass. During her days living in Newark, she was a parishioner of Our Lady of Good Council Church and St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church. For the past ten years, she was a parishioner of St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church in Pompton Lakes. 

Among her many virtues, Geri was known for her charitable acts of kindness to those in need which was surely informed by her faith and the church’s teachings on caring for the poor, sick,  and elderly amongst us. 

Gerri was the beloved wife of John Delli Santi, blessed in a loving marriage for 42 years until John’s passing in 1992. She was the loving mother of Louis Delli Santi and wife Jo-Ann of Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania, Joseph Delli Santi and wife Elaine of Wayne, and Laura Delli Santi of Cedar Grove; and cherished grandmother of Julainne McCarthy and husband Scott. She was predeceased by her three sisters and one brother: Lucy Alicia, Jack Nobile, Theresa Sorrentino, and Anna Nobile.  

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St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Memorial Processing

501 St. Jude Place

Memphis, TN 38105-9959

Angelina "Aunt Jean" J. Del Forno, age 89, of Wayne.  passed Tuesday. August 15, 2023.

Jean was born in Jersey City and raised in Union City where she attended Emerson High School. She lived in Ridgefield at 554 Oak Street and in 1986 moved to Wayne.   For many years she snow-birded in Delray Beach, FL.

Just out of high school Jean worked at the DuroTest Light Bulb Company on Kennedy Boulevard in Union City and for several years worked as a Nursery School Teacher at Saint James Church in Ridgefield. She always looked back fondly of her years working with the children at the nursery school.

Jean will be remembered for being generous to a fault, an avid shopper (her absolute favorite thing to do) and was simply a kind, loving soul.  She loved to cook and even taught a class on Italian Cooking called Pasta Pasta & More" in Palisades Park.  She was lovingly known as “Aunt Jean" to many as she just had a loving, kind and caring way about her. She loved to travel with her three cousins: Millie, Ada and Vicky and nicknamed themselves... “The Golden Girls."

Jean met her future husband Joe as he worked across the street from her parents Deli/Luncheonette in Union City. He would often get his lunch there and they fell in love.  Jean and Joe married on June 13, 1953, at St Anthony's of Padua Church in Union City and honeymooned in Miami. Florida.  Jean and Joe had a loving and devoted marriage that was blessed with four children:  Joseph, Ella, Louis, and Michael.  They experienced a tragedy when their son Joseph was killed in a traffic accident in 1975. Jean and Joe were married for thirty-one years and considered their relationship a partnership with Joe making Jean feel loved and important all the time before his passing in 1984.

Jean was the loving wife of the late Joseph A. Del Forno (d.1984); loving mother of Ella Del Forno of Chester,  Louis Del Forno and his wife Gina of Wayne,  and Michael Del Forno and his wife Hijong of Charlestown, RI, and the late Joseph V.  Del Forno (d.1975); she was the loved sister of Raymond Reo and his wife Rosalie of North Bergen and Gloria Pino and her husband of Lake Worth,  FL. and the late Arlene Fasani and her late husband Leon; she was the cherished grandmother of six grandchildren: Valentina, Joseph, Ava, Louis, Enzo, and Gianni.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital would be greatly appreciated. 

Mona Lisa Adamo

Mona Lisa Adamo, age 62, a life-long resident of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 15, 2023, after a long and hard-fought battle with cancer, surrounded by the comfort and care of her mom and close friends.

A loving daughter, caring friend and accomplished nurse, Mona Lisa Adamo was born and raised in Wayne, NJ. She is survived by her mom, Michele Charlard Adamo and her brother, Shawn Adamo and predeceased by her father Angelo Adamo, and her brother Carl. Mona graduated Wayne Valley High School in 1979 and went onto Fairleigh Dickinson University where she received her Nursing Degree in 1983 and her MPA, master’s in public administration, Nursing in 1992. She also held a Certificate of Non-profit Management from William Paterson University. Mona Lisa was an active member of Our Lady of the Valley (OLV) RC Church, Wayne. She served as an usher for many years, a member of the OLV Parish Festival Committee, a CCD (Confraternity of Christian Doctrine) instructor, and a cherished member of the Cornerstone team.

Mona brought warmth and humor wherever she went. She established her nursing career in the NICU as an RN in St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Paterson in 1983 and went on to become an Administrator of the Early Intervention Program in 1995. A position she held until 2014. She then began her work as a Surgical Coordinator at NJ Orthopaedic Institute (NJOI), and later a Director/Program Supervisor for The Nurse-Family Partnership in Passaic & Bergen until she retired in July 2022. She was the President, Board of Trustees of Healthy Mothers /Health Babies Paterson/Passaic (2007 – 2010), North Jersey (2010 – 2012).

She will be remembered for her dedication to her mom, her love of children and infants, and her exuberant personality. She was the sparkling light in her large circle of friends. Mona was always up for adventure (kayaking, yoga, swimming and traveling), and was the first to initiate a new event. She also had a great love for traveling and shopping with her Mom. Her humor was infectious as was her smile. She will be missed greatly by her mother, brother, nephews, Angelo and Jason, pup, Coco, family in Canada, and her many friends.

For those unable to attend the service in person, you are invited to click on the link below at 10:30 AM to watch the service via livestream.

https://venue.streamspot.com/event/NDA1ODIwOA==

Edwin B. Minchin, Jr., age 74 of Iselin, passed away on Sunday, August 13, 2023 after a brief illness.

The second of Edwin B. Minchin Sr. and Irene (Ashfield) Minchin’s two children, Ed was born in Paterson and raised in the family home at 151 Albion Ave. in Paterson. When he was just fourteen years old, his mother passed away. Needless to say, this had a profound effect upon Ed and the whole family. Ed’s older sister Eileen did her best to fill in and, she and Ed grew very close in their sibling care and lifelong love for one another. When Ed graduated from Don Bosco Tech High School, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he rose to the rank of Sergeant and proudly served his country from 1966 to 1970 including two-and-a-half tours in Vietnam during the war. His last tour was cut short by President Nixon calling the troops home. For his bravery and valor, Ed was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with one Star, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, the Combat Action Ribbon, the Rifle Marksmanship Badge, and two Good Conduct Medals. Throughout the years he remained a member of the American Legion.  

After leaving the military, he went on to meet his first wife with whom he shared three children. He made so many wonderful memories with his children including family vacations to Florida and Hilton Head. They went on many day trips while always blasting his doo-wop cassette tapes the whole car ride. He loved coaching his children's soccer and softball leagues for many years. Enjoyed family game night and trips to Carvel. He was also a loving grandfather to his grandchildren and was proud to have all of their names tattooed on his arm.  He always sang his infamous song ¨Hot dog summer in the city” where the grandkids still sing it to this day. 

Upon return to civilian life, Ed started his own auto body shop on Albion Ave in Paterson. During his working years he also was a fleet manager with Air Brook Limousine, worked for AT&T in Long Island, owned his own construction business – Minchin Construction, where he primarily built homes and additions, was an operations manager for Mobile Storage in South Plainfield, and, before retiring at age 62, served as an operations manager for Partsfleet Inc. – a logistics company headquartered in Orlando, Florida.

In his spare time, Ed was a man of various pastime pursuits. His favorite was undoubtedly working on and showcasing his classic 1937 black Oldsmobile. It was a real looker and Ed loved to take it to car shows and enter it in competitions. He trophied so many times that he honestly lost count. Just this year alone he won three trophies. People loved it when he displayed the automobile as a gangster getaway car complete with life size skeletons dressed as bank robbers with machine guns and flapper girls. Another hobby of Ed’s was working on his house. He spent every winter planning the annual big spring project. As soon as the weather was warm enough, itching to go, Ed got to work. One year he resided the front of the house with stone. The next it was installing a beautiful bay window. Other projects included an addition to his deck, the construction of a tiki bar on that deck, the addition of a windmill, and keeping his grass fed, watered, trimmed and looking pristine. He even did quite a bit of stone scaping in his back yard. His home, both inside and out, was a source of great pride for Ed. Despite some physical challenges, which Ed never let slow him down, he went to the gym every day of the week except Sunday to work out. It was an activity which he enjoyed participating in with his buddies and, while it was primarily about staying in shape, it was also about the camaraderie that they all shared. 

Ed met his second wife Erika while working together at Mobile Storage in South Plainfield. It was she who asked him out. Their first date was on the Saturday after Valentine’s Day in 2006 and they married a little over a year later on May 18, 2007. Ed and Erika really had a marriage made in heaven. They seldom had a disagreement and, in those rare times that they did, they always worked it out before going to sleep. Every night included a mutual kiss and “I love you!” Together they enjoyed a trip, just this past May to Bermuda. They also maintained a longtime tradition of heading down to Atlantic City every other month to stay at the Tropicana Casino. They both played the slots and the day always ended with a delicious dinner at their favorite casino restaurant – Broadway Burger. Sometimes while down the shore, they’d grab a rickshaw and get a ride down the boardwalk. Then they would walk all the way back, shopping as they went. It was great fun and always included a stop in their favorite candy store for fresh fudge. Other highlight trips included Hershey Park and to Fort Lauderdale, FL for nephew Robert’s wedding and Disney World. 

The trips and destinations were lots of fun but Ed was just as happy being home. On Saturday nights, he and Erika could often be found relaxing on the deck, listening to doo-whop and other music from the fifties and sixties, sometimes dancing in the glow of the tiki torches. Ed loved having his kids and grandkids come over for barbeques and holidays – having everyone gathered together and swimming in the pool.

Ed was a happy, easy-going, fun-loving guy who was always friendly and outgoing. He simply loved life. 

Ed is survived by his beloved wife Erika (Matousek);  loving son Edwin Minchin, III and wife Gladys, loving daughters Tina Hadjissa and husband Tambe, and Heather Minchin and companion Rob Torres; his loving stepson Justin Polhamus, loving stepdaughter Rachel, eight cherished grandchildren: Tyler, Ava, Chase, Hailie, Robert, Kaitlynn, Gianna, and Adam; and his dearly loved sister Eileen Fernand and husband Robert.    

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Albert D Schielke, age 79, of Wayne, NJ.

Albert passed away peacefully on Saturday August 12, 2023 while receiving the loving care of his family and after a long courageous battle with lung cancer.  He was born and raised in Paterson, NJ and was one of two sons to Alfred Crew and Florence Schielke.  While growing up in Paterson, Albert attended Central High School where he was member of the Rifle Team.  Because of his academic excellence, Albert was able to skip a full grade of high school and graduate a year early with the class of 1959.  

Following his graduation from Central High School, Albert attended Rutgers University in New Brunswick.  He was only there for a year then transferred to Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, NJ.  Albert graduated earning his bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering.  He accepted a position offered to him at Fairleigh Dickinson as a professor.  While working as a professor at the university, Albert went on to earn his Master’s Degree in Physics and later his PhD in Astronomy.   Albert remained at Fairleigh Dickinson University for more than forty five years.  During his career, he was appointed Assistant Dean of the Junior College at Fairleigh Dickinson and later College Dean of Fairleigh Dickinson University.  He was also Vice President of Academic Affairs and oversaw the International Student Program where he worked closely with Wroxton College in England, as well as the University of Tel Aviv, three other universities in Turkey, and a college in Barcelona, Spain.  Albert retired as College Dean of Fairleigh Dickinson University in 2013.  

Albert always had a love of horses and raised Arabian Horses throughout his life.  In 1968, while at a Dude Ranch in Milford, PA Albert met an attractive young lady by the name of Susan Locker.  Susan was a dancer and a working member of the New York City Rockettes.  Albert and Susan started dating and as fate would have it, they fell in love and on June 28, 1974, they became husband and wife at the Westmount Country Club in West Paterson, NJ.  The newlyweds honeymooned in Hawaii then settled in the town of Wayne where they have been ever since.  During their time residing in Wayne, they welcomed the birth of their “one and only” daughter Lara.  

His wife Susan’s family owned a dance school in the city of Passaic and later in 1987, Susan and Albert built their school in Garfield called Locker School of Dance.  Albert was a carpenter in his spare time and had a complete woodworking shop in his garage.  For many years Albert worked alongside his wife Susan at the dance school as a stage manager/prop designer, music taper and scenery builder. Susan even got him in the show every year dancing along side her and their daughter. 

Travel was one of the family’s favorite pastimes.  Albert, Susan, and Lara traveled the world together visiting a wide variety of exotic destinations.  After their daughter married, they welcomed their son-in-law with open arms as their own son and vacationed together constantly.  Deep sea fishing and playing Blackjack were another of Albert’s favorite pursuits.  Often times while vacationing or cruising, Albert would book shore excursions to go deep sea fishing and horseback riding. He also treasured his Beefeater Gin Martinis “straight-up with a twist” and “shaken, not stirred.” 

Aside from all of Albert’s hobbies, talents, and interests, his greatest passion was for his family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Albert than providing for, and spending time with his wife Susan, his daughter Lara and her husband Greg, his grandchildren Mackenzie, and Chelsea, and his precious dachshund “Martini.”  

Albert was a soft-spoken man with a wonderfully dry sense of humor.  He was the kind of man who could handle any situation and be able to talk you through it.  Being a well-educated and brilliant man, he had the ability to captivate an audience of any age with a story or lecture.  Albert will be forever remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, and cherished grandfather.  He touched the lives of countless people and will be sincerely missed by everyone that knew him.

Albert is survived by his wife Susan (nee Locker) of Wayne, his daughter Lara Coyle and her husband Greg of Wayne, two granddaughters Mackenzie Coyle and Chelsea Coyle of Wayne, he was predeceased by his brother Alfred Crew Schielke, Jr.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Albert's name may be made to American Lung Association

Patricia A. Scialla (nee DeStefano), age 78 of Wayne, died peacefully on Thursday, August 10, 2023. She has lived in Wayne since 1970.

Pat grew up in Paterson, NJ and was on the Color Guard at Eastside High School before graduating in 1963. She went on to earn her degree from William Paterson College and became a second-grade teacher in the Paterson school system and she also taught briefly at the Mountain View School in Wayne. After taking a few years off to raise her children, she rejoined the workforce as a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative for Mc Neil Pharmaceutical of Fort Washington, PA from 1976-1981 .  From 1981 - 2001 she was employed as a District Sales Manager for Whitehall-Robbins Laboratories in Madison, NJ where after 20 years of service to the company she retired. 

Pat met her husband, Arthur, in the 1990’s on a blind date. Their conversation was easy that night, and minutes turned into hours. Before they knew it, the restaurant was closing, and they agreed to meet again. Pat claimed to have some travel obligations and she was unable to meet Arthur again until the following month. He thought for sure he was getting the ‘brush-off,’ but that wasn’t the case at all. After a few more dates, they fell for each other quickly and true love was revealed. They married on July 15, 2000, at the Paramus Reformed Church and honeymooned at Frontenac, Quebec, Canada. They’ve enjoyed an incredible life together and Arthur’s heart is broken.

Pat is survived by her loving husband, Arthur, of Wayne, their blended family of children; Douglas Bryan and his wife Joan of Avon, Indiana, Thomas Bryan and his wife Linda of Ridgewood, NJ, Arthur Scialla and his wife Julie of Pompton Lakes, Claire Timbas and her husband Greg of Dunbarton, New Hampshire, and Lisa Griggs of Newton, Massachusetts, eleven grandchildren; Jessica, Thomas, William, Grant, Garrett, Dagny, Marshall, Axel, Anthony, William, and Jackson, her brother: Joseph DeStefano and his wife Colleen of Oak Ridge, NJ, and one nephew; John DeStefano. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Patricia's name may be made to St Mary's RC Church

Friends may visit with the family at Calvary Temple, 1111 Preakness Ave., Wayne, on Tuesday, August 15, 2023 from 3-5 PM.  A funeral service will be held at 5 PM, immediately following the visitation.  For those who were unable to attend the service in person, you are invited to click here to watch a recording of the service. A final resting place for Mrs. Pringle, post cremation, will be her birth country in the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis at a date in the future.

Humie Carletto Pringle (nee Sebastian) was born on November 8, 1928 to Clarice Browne and Joseph Matthew Sebastian, in the Federation of St. Christopher and Nevis, aka, St. Kitts and Nevis. where she spent almost half of her life until she retired, then left for the United States in the 1970’s.  Humie had 13 siblings and grew up in the same household with two of them namely her late sister Violet Sebastian and her late brother Stanley Sebastian.  She was the widow of Samuel Leopold Pringle (of St. Kitts) and was blessed with two children, Vincent Lloyd Pringle (deceased) and Carmen Patricia Wharwood (nee Pringle), with one grandchild Tara-Ann Wharwood.  She has two remaining sisters; Bernice Sebastian of Philadelphia who turns 110 next month and who she would sing with on the phone, and Althea Rogers of Titusville, PA who regularly had long, long sisterly conversations on the phone as recent as a week ago.  Humie was blessed to have many, many nieces and nephews and cousins, are all well loved by her, and simply too many to list.  

To friends and family alike, she was their dear, dear sweet Auntie Humie.  Humie was predeceased by eleven of her siblings. Some who passed within the last 5 to 10 years were the late Sir Cuthbert Sebastian retired Governor of St. Kitts and Nevis and whose dear friend Mildred Jacobs mourns her loss, Elise Marthol married to the late Dr. Francois Marthol of Haiti, Dorette McColman married to Roy McColman of Trinidad and Tobago who also mourns her loss and, Eudora Shaw married to the late Vernon Shaw the 5th President of the island of Dominica.  

Humie just loved to sing to everyone around her and even when no one is around, she can be heard singing away in her room, kitchen, watering the plants and everywhere and anywhere.  She enjoyed humming hymns if she didn’t have her hymnal handy or if she didn’t remember all of the words.  She sang or hummed all the time!  She was grateful to Jesus for being brought up in the Christian faith and for the many gifts and blessings of having a large and caring family.  Her loving greeting or goodbye to all with whom she came into contact was always ‘my darling.

Her personal ministry was to share God’s grace with anyone with whom she came into contact, and she was always praying for those listed on her ever-growing prayer list!  She would leave voice messages with individual prayers tailored for the person for whom she prayed and also sang for countless souls including many Pastors every day.  She learned that some of the pastors would use her prayers and singing of hymns as their devotional for the day.  In the early days of her ministry she would sing her favorite hymns while she played the piano.  She was just a warm tender-hearted classy lady.

Her earliest church experiences were at the Zion Moravian Church in her home country in Basseterre St. Kitts in the Caribbean, where she first learned about God’s grace.  Her passion and love for Christ was fueled by her Mother who ran a Sunday school for the Moravian Church. Humie inherited her mother’s sweet soul and who was a devoted Christian, well loved and respected in her little village of Newtown in Basseterre, St. Kitts. This love for Christ and people in general was made manifest in Humie who touched the soul of anyone with whom she came in contact . She continued to be a faithful follower of Jesus Christ at Calvary Temple in Wayne for many, many years, where she considers everyone there to be among her beloved family.  She would sit in the last few pews on Sundays and many we call her fans would head over to hug her and to see which hat she was wearing with a matching outfit, matching accessories shoes and hand bag.  This classy lady will be dearly missed by the many whose lives she touched.

Humie adopted a nocturnal clock upon retiring from being picked up by car for work at 4 AM to be driven to the airport to her work.  Her meals became breakfast at 4 and dinner later in the evening.  Food played a big part of her life and her refrigerator was known as the annex to the local supermarket with its freezer shelves packed with her favorite meats.  One of my cousins cherished being awakened at 1-2 am to the delicious aroma of well seasoned food cooking for her next day’s dinner.  That time of the night often became the story telling time by sweet Auntie Humie to the influx of visiting guests and family in her home.  Many of her nieces and nephew would find their way down to her kitchen to have dinner late at night and listen to their aunt tell life stories and the history of her family.  The nuggets of information were indeed gold and music to the young ears of her nieces and nephews.  Her legacy is rich with information on family history.  She will be missed dearly.   

She has been the widow of; Samuel Leopold Pringle of St. Kitts for many years, and she lost her son, Vincent Lloyd Pringle who passed in his thirties.  Humie is predeceased by eleven of her siblings. Some who passed within the last 5 to 10 years were the late Sir Cuthbert Sebastian retired Governor of St. Kitts and Nevis and whose dear friend Mildred Jacobs mourns her loss, Elise Marthol married to the late Dr. Francois Marthol of Haiti, Dorette McColman married to Roy McColman of Trinidad and Tobago who also mourns her loss and, Eudora Shaw married to the late Vernon Shaw the 5th President of the island of Dominica. 

Humie is survived by her devoted daughter; Pat Wharwood of Pompton Lakes, one granddaughter; Tara-Ann Wharwood of Daytona Beach, FL and Tara’s close friend Chris Storm, two sisters; Bernice Sebastian of Philadelphia who turns 110 next month and who she would sing with on the phone, and Althea Rogers of Titusville, PA who regularly had long, long sisterly conversations on the phone as recent as a week ago.  To her nieces she was their dear, dear sweet Auntie Humie and a balm when they were hurting.  

In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to the Caribbean Medical Services Association (CMS). This is a 501(c)(3) humanitarian organization whose mission is to provide medical equipment, services and supplies to developing countries in the Caribbean, with priorities extended to St. Kitts in Honor of Humie Pringle’s brother, the late Sir Cuthbert M. Sebastian, along with other dignitaries of the island. We thank you for your thoughtfulness and generosity. Donations can be made online by following this link; CMS Donation Link

or via conventionally to:

Caribbean Medical Services Association

75 Adalia Ave, Tampa FL 33606

Tel: 813-251-8500

TD Bank

Routing # 0670-14822

Account # 42793011

Donald (Donnie, Don) Ricca, 88 years old, a longtime resident of Wayne, NJ passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife, daughter and care giver on Monday, August 7, after a long illness. 

Don was born on July 25, 1935 in Paterson, NJ to Gladys and Guido Ricca (immigrants from Italy). Raised in Haledon, he lived in Wayne for over 65 years. He graduated from Central High School in 1953 and was a member of the Rutgers University Class of 1957 and active member of Delta Upsilon Fraternity. 

Don started his long career in Textiles as a lab technician at Jersey State Chemical Company in Haledon. Through the years, the company changed names and was sold, however, the one constant was Don. He grew with the company and went from lab technician to Salesman where he met his passion and niche. He had the rapport with his customers like no other Salesman. He was sincere, honest, meticulous and compassionate about his work which rewarded him for many years being named their top Salesman. Even after he retired (which he actually never did retire), he continued to maintain his customer base, as Don was the only one they trusted with their orders. He was truly one in a million.

In Don’s spare time, he was an avid reader of suspense novels and had a passion for finances. He would spend hours researching “conservative” investments and discussing them with his hand-picked financial advisors. He enjoyed these activities both in NJ and at his family’s get-away in Cape Cod. For many years Don enjoyed the beautiful scenes, smells, food, and fun on the shores of Cape Cod. He so enjoyed spending time there with his family and through the years with countless visitors. It was truly a paradise for him and for those that shared it with him. Wherever Don was (NJ, NY, MA, RI, or anywhere else), he would always find the “best” restaurants. If Don invited you out to eat, you knew it was going to be an awesome time with lots of good food and lots of smiles.   

Don met the love of his life Marie by chance – through a friend. Neither knew at the time that they would become each other’s best friends, confidants, partners in crime, ying/yang – soul mates for life – but they did. They were married on June 8, 1957 and have not left each other’s side ever since. Known by many as “Donnie & Marie”, they were truly a perfect pair, living their dream life together – through thick and thin. 

Don was a devout Catholic. He was one of the founding parishioners at Our Lady of the Valley in Wayne for 63 years. He and his wife spent many hours volunteering and supporting the OLV parish and the OLV grammar school. 

Putting work, books, finances and food aside (well maybe not food), the most important thing to Don was his family, especially his wife, daughters and grandchildren. Everything he did in life was for them. He made it his mission to never miss an event for his children or grandchildren – from school plays or events to sports (swimming, basketball, softball, football, field hockey, soccer) to dance recitals to graduations to family gatherings (which always included food). He was at them all – always with a smile, an appetite and a camera and positive words of encouragement. 

Don was predeceased by his parents, Gladys and Guido Ricca and his aunt and uncle, Elsie and Joe Giannetti. He is survived by his soul mate and best friend, wife of 66 years, Marie, his two daughters, Deb Ricca, Donna Siconolfi and her husband, Philip Siconolfi; his three grandchildren, Dominic Siconolfi, Marissa Siconolfi, Angelo Siconolfi; and his cousin (more like a brother), Joe Giannetti and his wife Carol and their children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his Goddaughters, Christine Wimberly and Darlene Vazquez and their families; and his nieces and nephews and their families, as well as cousins and other family members; and the hospice nurse, Melanie and the many compassionate caregivers: Claresa, Clajia, Adriana and too many more to mention. Don was truly BLESSED! 

In Lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations be made in Don’s name to any of these organizations that Don had a passion for and hopefully provide others with hope and cures. St Jude's Children Research Hospital, The Michael J. Fox Foundation, or Tunnel to Towers Foundation

Catherine Lacatena, age 86, of Wayne for fifty-eight years, passed Thursday, August 3, 2023.

Catherine was born to Walter and Lillian Murphy in Paterson. While growing up, she was a Girl Scout and later graduated from St. John’s Cathedral High School where she was a cheerleader for the basketball team. After high school, she worked as a Bell Telephone operator and for the Kearfott Corporation in Totowa. 

Catherine met her husband Tony when they were teenagers in Paterson.  Tony’s car had broken down, and Catherine was passing by with her best friend Betty.  Catherine recalls delightfully that Tony looked like Marlon Brando, and he was strikingly handsome.  She and her girlfriend circled the block a few times to catch a glimpse of him, and she was successful at getting a date.  They went to the movies and then went out for a hotdog.  Their wedding followed on November 15, 1958, at St. Brendan’s Church in Clifton. They settled in Paterson before moving to Wayne in 1965.  Together, they raised their nine children and have been blessed with fourteen grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.  Catherine and Tony enjoyed a loving and devoted marriage of fifty-eight years before Tony’s passing on October 1, 2015.

Catherine was a dedicated Catholic and a parishioner of Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Wayne for many years. 

Catherine will be lovingly remembered as a delightful soul with a Winnie the Pooh-like simplicity and sweetness that radiated with every step she took.  She was a devout Catholic who was forgiving, happy, and humble.  She loved all the holidays. As a mother of nine, she had a strong love of family, always had a listening ear, and was the caretaker of all around her. She could be strong in her convictions but did not like conflict.  She appreciated the simplest of kind gestures.  All respected her selflessness and easygoing nature. Her compassion was cherished by all who knew her, and she made the arduous task of raising nine children look easy.  One of her favorite sayings, when you asked her how she was doing, would be “Good, Better, Best, Never Let it Rest Until Your Good is Better and Your Better is Best.” 

Catherine was a great cook whose culinary skills were nothing short of extraordinary. She was known for her expertise in Italian cuisine.  Her ability to cook joy into her lasagna, eggplant and turkey stuffing will be dearly missed. Catherine loved trips to Atlantic City to play slot machines. She also enjoyed travel, cruises, and just going out to dinner. In the autumn of her years, she enjoyed watching game shows and football games on television and chatting the day away on the phone with her sisters. Her love for her Irish heritage was endearing.  Many claim there was a leprechaun behind the twinkle in her eye and her adorable smile.  Her cute demeanor and non-confrontational way added an extra layer of charm, and her presence always brought warmth and joy to the table.

Catherine was the loving wife of the late Anthony Lacatena (d. 2015); loving mother of Mary Contini and her husband Joseph, Catherine Faulkner and her husband Richard, Michael Lacatena, Anthony Lacatena, Nancy Sorrentino and her husband Alfred, Christine Massood and her husband Louis, Lori Phelan and her husband Jim, Theresa Lacatena, and Elizabeth Dowd and her husband Brendan. She was the dearly loved grandmother of fourteen grandchildren; Joseph and his wife Beth Contini, Michelle Contini, Ryan  Faulkner, Alfred and Anthony Sorrentino,  Jordyn, George, and Kimberly Massood, Sean, James, Lauren, and Phoebe Phelan, Lilyana and Ashley Dowd, cherished great-grandmother of four great-grandchildren Oliver, Vivian, Samantha Jo and Amelia Contini; she was dearly loved by her sister Patricia Petrone of Clifton, and her siblings who have already passed Mary Schultz and Daniel Murphy. 

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, 45 Urban Club Road, Wayne, NJ 07470 or the Bethlehem Hermitage, 82 Pleasant Hill Road, Chester, NJ 07930. 

Marion Costanzo age 89, of Montville passed away on Thursday, August 3, 2023.

Marion was born to Evelyn and Anthony Heller. She was a teacher’s aide in the Montville School System where she truly loved being in the classroom with the students. Marion was also an active member of the Montville Senior Citizens community and frequently volunteered there in her spare time. When relaxing Marion especially enjoyed the challenge of a good crossword puzzle or word search.

Marion is survived by and will be sincerely missed by her dear son August and his wife Monica, her cherished grandchildren August, Jr., Tiffany, Nicole and Brian, all of Wayne, and her sister Muriel Wiesgarda of Florida. She was predeceased by her other siblings.

Donations in Marion’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, would be appreciated.

Patricia (Pat) Gerne, 90 years old, passed away surrounded by her family on August 2nd.  

Pat was born to William and Mildred Griffin in Queens, NY. After graduating early from High School, she attended St. Vincent's School of Nursing in NYC where she earned her RN and then worked in their Emergency Department. 

Pat met the love of her life, Tim, on a blind date. He knew immediately that SHE was the one. After marrying her beloved husband, she became a full-time super mom having 9 children in 10 years. Pat and Tim celebrated the arrival of number 10 several years later. Her calm demeanor and the skills she learned in the ER came in handy while raising her children. 

After 17 years of being a full-time mom, she went back to work part time as a nurse at Straight & Narrow/Mount Carmel Guild, Paterson NJ. Pat spent her time there helping people with substance abuse disorders.  To better serve her clients, Pat went on to further her education and became a Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (CADC). She had an extensive background in the field of addiction treatment and prevention. Pat continued her work as a counselor at the ARTS and Center for Family Resources working with families in Head Start. 

Pat and Tim were a loving and devoted team for 46 years allowing them to accomplish remarkable things. The two co-authored two books, Substance Abuse Prevention Activities for Elementary Children and Substance Abuse Prevention Activities for Secondary Students Grades 7-12. They presented many in-service workshops on prevention and resilience nationally. They also spearheaded the Peer Leadership camp at William Paterson College.

Pat was an active volunteer.  She worked at the Governor’s Council with Christy Todd Whitman, Year of the Resilient Child and volunteered for organizations including BirthRight, Pre-cana, Fresh Air Fund, and she was a board member for Wayne Counseling and Homecare Options. 

Pat was a curious, intelligent, and very creative person. She was an optimist who loved life and lived a life of gratitude. Pat was a lifelong learner and had a wonderful sense of humor. She was a strong woman who was ahead of her time.  She practiced Transcendental Meditation for 50 years and enrolled her entire family in meditation classes too.  She was a great listener who stopped everything to give her full attention to whoever needed it.  Pat made motherhood look easy.   She was a calming influence and would always give sound advice.  She was the go-to person for guidance in almost any situation. She was a gifted writer and editor. Pat edited more essays and academic papers than most professors.  

Pat was a deeply Spiritual and compassionate woman. Her Spirituality was ever present throughout her home.  There were always quotes of inspiration around the house from Mother Theresa to Erma Bombeck.  She and Tim were members of Our Lady of the Valley and Immaculate Heart of Mary attending daily mass. In addition to daily mass, the two were members of IHM’s “Oatmeal Club”. She most recently attended remote Mass at Our Lady of Consolation. 

Her home was always filled with love, joy, and lots of activity. Gathering around the table was a special time to unwind and discuss the day with family (and friends).  Hospitality was paramount, there was always room for one more, including a stray animal or two. Pat had a nurturing spirit. She loved and was like a surrogate mother to many of her children’s friends. Every holiday and birthday was cause for celebration. Her heart was BIG. She taught her children to love God and each other, to embrace others who are different, to be tolerant, understanding, forgiving and to lean in with love.  

The best gift she gave her children was EACH OTHER and she left an awesome legacy of a successful loving marriage.

She will be missed greatly, but her spirit and ‘pearls of wisdom’ will live on through her children, grandchildren, and those who loved her. 

Predeceased by her beloved husband, Timothy A. Gerne, Pat and Tim were blessed with 10 children Mary (Dennis) Rosati, Tim (Brandy) Gerne, Jean Gerne (Scott Collins), Eileen (Paul) Ciavarella, Kathy (Bruce) Fieggen, Margaret (Tim) Peschel, Donna (Jeff) Huber, Dan (Cheryl) Gerne, Rosemary (Billy) Acampora, and Michael (Lisa) Gerne, 34 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren  and her loving caregiver Anjing Stratton.

For those who like to view the livestream of the memorial mass, please click the link below: 

https://youtube.com/live/5ujMi8BMbLQ?feature=share

Paul N. Rosa, age 76, of Hackettstown, NJ, passed away on July 31, 2023, after a lengthy battle with cancer.

Paul was born on November 13, 1946, to Lawrence and Theresa Rosa in Passaic, NJ. Paul graduated from Passaic High School in 1965, he went on to study at William Penn College where he graduated in 1969 with a BA Degree in Sociology. After graduating college, Paul served in the US Army as a Specialist 5 Sargent from 1970 to 1971 and Honorably Discharged in 1971. After serving his country, Paul received his master’s degree in 1980 from William Paterson College with a degree in Urban Education/Community Affairs.

Paul started his working career in 1972 with the Superior Court Of New Jersey. Paul worked in several divisions in his 30-year career assisting attorneys and judges with pre-trial services. The New Jersey Supreme Court appointed Paul to direct and coordinate pre-trial intervention services for the Supreme Court Criminal Division. He was well respected by attorneys, judges, and his peers. Paul retired in 2002. 

Paul is survived by his wife Gail (Nolan) Rosa. Paul and Gail met in 1983 and married in 1988. Paul and Gail’s marriage was blessed with three children, Christopher Rosa, his wife Paula of Hackettstown, NJ. William Taylor, his wife Kelly of Bradenton, FL. Michael Taylor and his wife Amanda of Wake Forest, NC. Paul was also blessed with nine grandchildren, Grant, and Gavin Rosa. Gracie, Mia, Brayden, and Casey Taylor. Michael, Aiden, and Avery Taylor.

Paul was predeceased by his father, Lawrence Rosa and survived by his mother Theresa (DiDonna) Rosa. 

Paul enjoyed spending time with his family, friends, relatives, and especially his cousins. He also cherished his time with his grandchildren. Paul enjoyed many trips with Gail to the Florida Keys, fishing trips to the Jersey Shore, attending Yankees and Giants games with his sons, old time movies and The Honeymooners. Paul was loyal to his wife, family, and friends. His sense of humor was enjoyed by everyone who met him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made at The American Cancer Society, PO Box 42040 Oklahoma City, OK 73123 www.cancer.org or St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959 www.stjude.org 

Annette Avolio, age 72, of Wayne, passed Monday, July 31, 2023.

She was born to Americo and Filomena Malanga and raised at 174 Pine Street in Montclair. When Annette was in the sixth grade her family moved to 48 Kossuth Place in Wayne. Annette raised her family just around the corner at 7 Falcon Place in Wayne and has lived in Wayne for over sixty years.

She will be lovingly remembered as a selfless person who would do anything for anyone. She just couldn’t bring herself to say “no” and would do her best to accommodate even if it meant being in two places at once. She was the kind of person who would fuss over you but did not want any fussing or attention on her behalf.

Annette was a dedicated and devoted daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She took care of her parents through their autumn years and until both of their passing away in 2019. Her favorite place in the world to be was at home. Whether it was caring for her children, parents, or grandchildren, she was most content to be at home in Wayne.

Annette had a love and passion for teaching. She worked for the Immaculate Heart of Mary School in Wayne as a librarian, a Para-Professional, and then a Language Arts teacher at George Washington Middle School in Wayne, and Anthony Wayne Middle School in Wayne having retried in June of 2022. For years she ran the Student Council at Anthony Wayne Middle School and was often a chaperone when needed. Annette was an old-school teacher who loved the chalkboard and textbooks but struggled with new technology. When it came to computers and cell phones she relied on her grandchildren’s help.

Family was everything to Annette and her grandchildren meant everything to her. She was always available to pick them up, drop them off, attended all their sporting events and any extra-curricular activity they were involved with. She was also dedicated to her brother Richard and in his youth she has drove him and his friends wherever they had to go, and more recently has helped him with his books at Malanga Automotive in Riverdale.

Annette was an awesome cook whose specialties include: Sunday gravy (not sauce), blueberry ice box cake, cream puffs, knot cookies, spice cookies, chicken cutlets, lasagna, and cheesecake made from her mother’s recipe. For many years the family had a tradition of having Sunday dinners with the entire family.

Another important part of her life was her Catholic faith.  Annette was a regular at 8:00 AM Sunday Mass.  She always sat in the last row closer to the isle so that she could exit the church once communion was served.

Annette was the loving mother of Louis Avolio and his wife Marisa of Wayne and Phylissa Gallotta and her husband Rocco of Wayne; cherished grandmother of Joseph Avolio, Louis Avolio, Michael Avolio, Rocco Gallotta, and Liana Gallotta; loved sister of Richard Malanga of Riverdale; dearly loved aunt of Nicholas Malanga.

Carmen N. Miele, age 78 of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 30, 2023.

Carmen was born and raised in Paterson where he was a graduate of Eastside High School with the Class of 1962. 

From quite a young age, Carmen worked for his father Nicholas’ trucking company Miele’s Express which originated in Paterson. The love of trucks and trucking quickly got into Carmen’s blood and after he finished high school,  he made trucking his life’s ambition working full-time in the family business. When it was time for his father to retire, Carmen took over and throughout the ensuing years, moved the business first to Railroad Ave in Wayne, and later to Little Falls. Miele’s Express was primarily contracted to deliver appliances and their motto, which was painted on all their trucks was “Fast, Dependable Service.” When Carmen turned 65, he retired but soon after took a job hauling asphalt for a local paving company. He always expressed how much he loved the smell of asphalt!

Carmen’s greatest loves included evenings watching The Sopranos, Sundays watching NASCAR and cheering on his two favorite drivers, Dale Earnhardt, Jr. and Martin Truex, Jr., and going with his beloved wife Arleen to Atlantic City to test his luck, mostly on the slot machines, at Trump Casino and Resorts and Showboat Casinos. When the truck show in Englishtown came along every year, Carmen would take one of his own trucks, detail and shine it up, and head to the show where he’d enter his truck into the competitions. He loved that truck show and enjoyed the camaraderie of all his fellow truckers. Full retirement came after COVID. With time to burn, he frequently enjoyed  going with his buddy J.B. to one of the local diners for breakfast. 

Above all else, Carmen’s greatest joy was being with his family. Carmen met his wife Arleen while delivering to an appliance store where Arleen worked in the office. He took a liking to her  and was the first to volunteer to deliver to her store just so he’d have an excuse to see her again. Carmen eventually mustered up the courage and asked Arleen out. Their first date was to a restaurant on a mountain called the Red Apple Rest in Mahwah. That date was followed by numerous others and eventually to marriage on Saturday, November 21, 1964 followed by a honeymoon in Miami Beach, Florida. For many years it was family tradition to get together at Carmen’s parent’s house or Arleen’s parent’s house for Sunday dinner. When his three children were young, the family enjoyed annual trips to Lake George. They also vacationed all over Pennsylvania, in Mystic, Connecticut, in Virginia, and they took several trips to Disney World. He and Arleen one time visited Las Vegas and they also enjoyed a trip together to the Bahamas and, for the last eight years to Orlando or Bradenton, Florida. When blessed with his grandson Nicholas, Carmen and Arleen enjoyed taking him to Turtleback Zoo and to the park. He also enjoyed seeing his “grand-dogs” and one of them in particular – George – would often hang out with him at the warehouse and go on the trucks with him. Carmen also loved to go out for dinner with his family. Favorite foods were lasagna, baked ziti, meatball parmigiana and eggplant parmigiana and favorite restaurants were John’s in Butler, Michelle’s in Garfield, and Libby’s Lunch in Paterson.

Carmen was an easy going, easy-to-like man. He loved talking with people and had no problem making friends wherever he went. For the past few years, health concerns including a battle with cancer made life a challenge but, through it all, Carmen remained optimistic and friendly. Now he is at rest and, while he will surely be missed, his family and friends are grateful that his suffering is over and thankful for the years they were blessed to share many happy memories.   

Carmen was the beloved husband of Arleen (Kanischak), blessed in marriage for 58 years. He was the loving father of: Christina Conklin and her husband Dennis of Butler, Laura Miele and her husband Michael Squeeze of Butler, and the late David Miele who passed away in 2022; cherished grandfather of Nicholas; and dear brother of Marion Skaf and late husband Rich of Bloomingdale.

‍

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Carmen’s name are asked to consider one of the following charitable organizations:

American Cancer Society

To donate by mail, simply click here to complete the form, print it, and mail your completed donor form with your check to this address:

P.O. Box 6704

Hagerstown, MD 21741

Please indicate that your gift is in memory of Carmen Miele

Wayne Animal Shelter

201 Pompton Plains Crossroad

Wayne, NJ 07470

Please indicate that your gift is in memory of Carmen Miele

Nigel Greene, Jr.,  age 33, of Newark, passed Sunday, July 30, 2023.

He was born to Nigel and Norleen Greene in New Amsterdam, Guyana.  

Scott Michael Weiss died suddenly at his home in Wayne, New Jersey on July 29th, 2023.  

Scott was born on October 28th, 1967, in Livingston, New Jersey. He was the beloved son of Ronald and Deborah Weiss, devoted husband to Sharon Noll and loving father to Justin and Kristen Weiss, cherished brother of Mark Weiss, and adored uncle of Danielle and Michael Drago and Rachel and Jared Weiss.

Scott's untimely passing will leave a huge void for all those who knew and loved him.  An accomplished technical engineer, Scott was most recently working at Calix as a Senior Sales Engineer. He graduated from Widener University in 1990 with a degree in Computer Science where he met his partner in life, his wife Sharon. In addition to his primary job, Scott also loved being a small business owner and was happiest when he was interacting with his customers.

Scott had a zest for life and loved to laugh. He was a technology buff and could build and fix anything. He was loving and kind; he loved animals, and nothing was more important to him than his family. His smile, laugh and sense of humor will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making memorial contributions in Scott’s name to St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center.

On July 29, 2023 Frank A. Novak, age 77, of Franklin Lakes, passed away peacefully and unexpectedly. 

Frank was born in Jersey City NJ and raised in Allenhurst, NJ. He graduated from Christian Brothers Academy in Lincroft, NJ and Wheeling Jesuit University with a degree in Economics.

A Vietnam Veteran who served in the US Army Military Intelligence branch and received The Army Commendation Medal for Distinguished Service.

Frank was a former senior vice-president with Oppenheimer and Co., NYC as an institutional trader.

He is predeceased by his parents Helen and Nicholas Novak and  sister Mary Ellen. Frank is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Mary (Mimi) Woodruff,  his siblings: Pauline (Noel) Clarke of Boulder, CO, Katherine (Al) Silsby of Charleston, SC, Joanne (Frank, deceased) of Elberon, NJ, and Nick (Susie) of Ocean, NJ, sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Susan and Jerome Barnett of NYC, and many nieces and nephews. 

Frank was an avid reader and frequenter of the Franklin Lakes Library. He was a sports enthusiast always cheering for his NY Giants and Yankees. He had a lifelong passion for golf, fostered by his father at a young age at Deal Country Club, continuing to his Wheeling college years when his WJU golf team captured three consecutive conference championships. He relished his two holes in one! Frank looked forward to the daily challenge of the NY Times crossword puzzle for over 50 years.

Donations in Frank’s memory may be made to: 

Tunnels to Towers 

2361 Hylan Blvd. 

Staten Island, NY 10306

Please indicate that your gift is made in memory of Frank A. Novak.

Mary Ann had a passion for animals.  She had several through the years and they were her family.  She also would take care of any stray animal that would come to her home.  She was the loving caretaker for Emma and Max, her favorite dogs.

Mary Ann was predeceased by her parents, Anna and Emil DelFavaro, and her beloved dog Max.  She is survived by several cousins, friends, and her dog, Emma.  She will be missed by all as she touched everyone she met. 

Hulda Ritz (nee Frank) age 97 of Wyckoff, formerly of Wayne for over 45 years, passed Sunday, July 23, 2023.

She was born in Stetten, Germany to her parents August Rudolf Frank and Emilie Hedwig Steube. Hulda worked as household help in Germany as a young woman, and then as WWII started, she became a wireless operator in Berlin, Germany. After the war, she became secretary to the mayor of Stetten. This is where she met her husband Ernst Ritz. 

Hulda and Ernst married in 1950 and at the urging of an aunt and uncle, boarded the ship MS Italia and immigrated to the USA in November of 1956. Despite speaking no English, Hulda began working at Morningside Greenhouse in Haledon, NJ. At the same time, she maintained the bookkeeping for her husband and brother’s new home improvement company. 

Hulda began working at Bosland’s Florist in Wayne, NJ in 1967 until her retirement in 2010. She enjoyed being an instructor and Table leader for NJ School of Floral Design for many years. Hulda was also a member of St. Timothy Lutheran Church in Wayne for many years. 

Hulda was predeceased by her husband Ernst in August of 1970. She was also predeceased by her parents August and Emilie Frank, and her two brothers Franz Frank and Willy Frank. She is survived by her nephew Thomas Frank and his wife Louise, ang her great-nephew Paul Frank.

Miles Roger Feinstein, 82, of Wayne, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2023. 

He was born on June 25, 1941, in Camden, NJ, to Louis and Sylvia Feinstein. At a young age, Miles bravely survived polio, displaying remarkable strength and determination in overcoming the challenges it presented. This early experience shaped his character and instilled in him a deep appreciation for life and its opportunities. He would later go on to chair the March of Dimes in Passaic County. 

Miles was a beloved husband for 24 years to Peggy (nee Bott) and a devoted father to Bari Feinstein, Matthew Feinstein and his wife, Sara, and Elizabeth Feinstein and her husband, Roger. He was an adoring grandfather to Ryan, Jack, Annie, Charlie, and Goldie. Miles cherished his friendship with his mother-in-law, Margaret Bott and his sister-in-law Patricia Dandola as well as his loving caretaker, Desenia Ramos, and his adoring dog, Bailey. 

Miles's academic accomplishments were remarkable. He graduated Phi-Beta Kappa and was awarded the prestigious Henry Rutgers scholar from Rutgers University. He went on to earn his law degree from Duke University School of Law. After a clerkship with NJ Supreme Court Justice Morris Pashman, Miles pursued his lifelong passion for criminal law. Throughout his career, Miles gained legendary status for winning an unprecedented number of high-profile, highly publicized criminal cases. Notably, he played a pivotal role in the longest federal trial in United States history. The case inspired the book "The Boys from New Jersey" and the movie "Find Me Guilty," where the movie's Judge was ironically named "Judge Finestein." Miles also made significant contributions to the case of Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, representing a key recanting witness that led to the reversal of a murder conviction. Miles was not only a renowned legal expert, often quoted in various publications and a frequent lecturer in continuing education courses for attorneys, but also served as the President of the Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. His commitment to justice and constitutional rights earned him recognition as one of the Best Lawyers in America, and he was listed in the National Directory of Criminal Lawyers and New Jersey Super Lawyers every year since its inception. Additionally, he received the Honorable Lawrence A. Whipple Award and was honored as one of the Top Attorneys of North America. Miles was a recipient of multiple humanitarian awards and was recognized as Man of the Year by six organizations. 

Beyond his professional achievements, Miles was known for his kindness, thoughtfulness, and genuine curiosity towards everyone he met. His playful nature, characterized by jokes and laughter, brought joy to those around him. He had a deep appreciation for the arts and cherished moments spent with his loved ones in the serene Berkshire Mountains. To know Miles was to adore him. The family extends special gratitude to Dr. Mark Dickson, Rosemary Giuliano, and the entire MSK team for their care and support. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the March of Dimes www.marchofdimes.org or the Sarcoma Foundation of America www.curesarcoma.org would be greatly appreciated.

A livestream of the memorial can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2r6MRIad5Hs

Dorothy C Vander Pyl, Age 76 of Wayne passed peacefully and painlessly on July 22 at Overlook Hospital in Summit, NJ.

Dorothy was born to Orie & Dorothy Van Der Vliet of Wayne and Graduated from Wayne Valley High School in Wayne class of 1965. She studied at Capri Cosmetology Learning Center in Clifton and received her beautician license. Her first job was with James & John Hair Dresser Salon in Clifton where she met Paulette Donkersloot a future lifetime friend. After 25 years as a beautician, she got a job with Plainview Growers in Pompton Plans as a Horticulturist. There, she was in charge of 15 women planting nursery flowers and bringing the company into the 21st century with computer-aided planting. At that time she met Joan Harriot another lifetime friend.

Dottie met Ken at Stewart’s car shop in Paramus in the summer of 1966. We began dating, got engaged during the Christmas of 66, and married on October 7, 1967. We have spent almost 56 years together with many wonderful memories. We have been on 15 tours together across the United States, Alaska, Hawaii, South America, and Canada. 

Dottie was a very talented person she was a dressmaker making all of our daughter's clothes and Halloween costumes as she grew up. She also made all the curtains and drapes for the house saving me thousands of dollars. She loved flowers, especially from her garden. She would make beautiful flower arrangements for the house and her friends.

The windows of our house would be decorated for every season and holiday with different scenes, especially on Halloween with every window showing skeletons, bats, and haunted house scenes all handmade. At Christmas, she would make beautiful grave covers for her parents & mine. 
Dottie was loving, caring, and devoted to her daughter Debra and especially her grandsons TJ and David.
I’ve been an avid fly fisherman for over 70 years, since we were married Dottie would come with me and read a book. I decided to teach her how to fly fish and after 20 years she became an excellent caster. We have fished all the trout streams in New Jersey as well as many streams in the Cats-kills, Adirondacks, Poconos, Connecticut, and Vermont. 
Dottie is survived by her sister Joan Woolley of Sandy, Utah, and her brother Larry Van Der Vliet of Londonderry, Vermont.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to St Judes Children’s Research Hospital would be greatly appreciated.

Susan A. Hudes, age 71, passed away unexpectedly after a sudden illness, peacefully with her sons by her side, on Friday, July 21, 2023. Sue was born August 31, 1951, in Bronx, NY, the daughter of the late David and Margaret.

Sue attended Herbert H. Lehman College in the Bronx and graduated with a B.A. in Psychology. Sue married Stephen N. Hudes in 1973 and lived in Wayne since 1979. Together, they were the owners of Sam's Bagel & Deli, a popular eatery in town for 25+ years, as well as the original owners of a West Caldwell location. Upon Stephen’s passing in 2011 and after 38 years of marriage, Sue seamlessly immersed herself in the business and had the privilege of meeting neighbors and enjoyed getting to know so many regular faces.

Sue is survived by her loving sons Ryan and Keith. She was most proud of her sons and found joy and satisfaction in their personal and professional accomplishments. Ryan earned a Ph.D. from Seton Hall University, where he now serves as a Sr. Associate Dean. Likewise, Keith earned a Master’s in Public Administration and serves as the Director of Community Initiatives for Family Services NY.

Sue will be forever remembered as a devoted matriarch of her family, strong mother, and cherished friend. Her personality and wit made her an excellent source of comfort and advice among her family and close-knit group of friends. She will be tremendously missed.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Susan A. Hudes’ name may be made to the Monmouth County SPCA, online by visiting https://monmouthcountyspca.org/support/donate/, by phone at (732) 542-0040, ext. 7, or by mail 260 Wall Street in Eatontown, NJ 07724.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Michelle Scrimo, age 54 of Wayne, NJ.

Michelle passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Thursday, July 20, 2023.  Michelle was born in Belleville and was one of three children to Carol and Michael Scrimo.  Those who came to know Michelle best affectionately referred to her as “Missy.”  As a young lady, she attended Belleville High School and graduated with the class of 1987.  Following her graduation from high school, Missy worked as a dental assistant and later became a certified beautician and worked professionally for The Villagers beauty shop in Verona for a number of years. 

It was very clear to everyone that knew Michelle that her greatest passion in life was for her family and friends.  Nothing in the world meant more to Michelle than spending time with friends and family.  She had a warm and caring personality and could light up any room she walked in to with her wonderful smile.  

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Michelle was not only devoted to her family but also to her Catholic Faith.  One of her favorite Bible Scriptures was John 14:1-4 “Let not your hearts be troubled.  Believe in God; believe also in me.  In my Father’s house there are many rooms.  If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.  And you know the way to where I am going.

Michelle was a very special lady who touched the lives of everyone around her and was taken from her family much too soon.  She will be forever remembered as a devoted daughter, a loving sister, and cherished aunt and great-aunt.  She will be sincerely missed by her family and friends alike.

Michelle is survived by her mother Carol Scrimo, her sister Geraldine Haenchen and husband Peter Haenchen Sr. her brother Dominick Scrimo and his wife Michele. Nephew Peter Haenchen Jr. and his wife Stephanie. Niece Desiree Andres and husband Sean Andres Sr. Nephew Michael Scrimo, niece Kristyn Scrimo, Caitlyn Scrimo. Great nephews and nieces Sean Andres Jr, Sophia Haenchen, Jaxson Andres, Kayla Haenchen.

Paula V. Pedersen, age 81, of Wayne, passed away peacefully, with her loving family by her side, on Thursday, July 20, 2023.

Paula was born and raised in Paterson. The youngest of Angelo and Lucia (Romei) Turrise’s three daughters, she graduated from Central High School as the valedictorian with the Class of 1959. From high school, Paula enrolled in the Paterson General Hospital Nursing School where she became a registered nurse. She later furthered her education earning her BSN from William Paterson College and, being the renaissance woman that she was, her master’s degree from NYU. While attending NYU, she was pregnant with her youngest daughter Megan. One night , right in the middle of class, she went into labor. Her good friend Toni was with her and, while helping her get home, she kept exclaiming to Paula the whole way, “I’m doing the best I can! Remember, I’m a cardiac nurse, not a labor and delivery nurse.”

The bulk of Paula’s career was working in the service of others in home health care and visiting nurses as the Director of Home Care for Pascack Valley Hospital in Westwood. She loved her work and was extremely accomplished in her role. She felt a calling to helping patients and, even when she retired in 2005, Paula just couldn’t really stop working, so she took a position with CAHC as an auditor of home healthcare organizations that were seeking accreditation. Paula remained in the service of CAHC as recently as just one year ago, retiring fully in 2022. 

If you asked Paula what energized her the most, she would admit that it was work. A close second would have been her service to the Lord. She was a devout Catholic who walked very close with God. For many years, Paula was a parishioner of Our Lady of the Valley Church in Wayne where she volunteered as a eucharistic minister serving communion to the homebound. She also headed up the church’s bereavement ministry where she ran many workshops.

In those somewhat rare moments when she wasn’t working, Paula enjoyed spending time at her beach house down the Jersey shore in LBI. It was a wonderful getaway and she loved it when her children and grandchildren came to visit. Paula was also a pretty darn-good cook and for more years than she could count, her family enjoyed the time-tested tradition of gathering at her house on Sundays for dinner. Paula did all the cooking and all of her children and grandchildren rarely missed the opportunity to enjoy her home cooked meals. A true family favorite was her Italian sauce with meatballs. That’s a memory that her family will always cherish in their hearts. 

Paula was a dear soul. She would do anything for anybody. She had a generous heart – just ask her family. At Christmas time, the pile of gifts she gave everyone would have been enough to make Santa blush, and at Easter time, all of her grandchildren received the best Easter baskets they could dream of. While she will be truly missed, her family and friends are grateful for her life and for the privilege of having been part of it.  

Paula was the loving mother of: Lori Paylo of Lincoln Park, Dennis Paylo and wife Tracey of Wayne, Valerie Pedersen of Wilmington, NC, and Megan Van Peenen and husband Jeff of Lincoln Park; dear grandmother of: Amanda, John, Emily, Victoria, Grace, Tyler, Addisyn, Michael, and Savanna; and dear sister of Chickie Giustino of Toms River. She was predeceased by her sister Gloria Reinhardt, her son-in-law Dave Gandomski, and her two brothers-in-law: Frank Reinhardt and Gene Giustino. 

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Paula’s name are asked to consider:

Valley Hospital Foundation

Please designate that your gift is for Hospice Care in memory of Paula Pedersen.

If you care to send a check, please send to:

The Valley Hospital Foundation

223 North Van Dien Avenue

Ridgewood, NJ 07450

Please designate that your gift is for Hospice Care in memory of Paula Pedersen.

Ernest Bancale, aged 86 of Wayne passed away Thursday July 20, 2023. He was born in Union City, NJ on July 6, 1935, to Ernest Bancale and Josephine Spirig and was the third of their four children, Eugene, Marie and Philip. After living briefly in Union City, the family moved to Carlstadt when he was a teenager. It was from his immigrant parents that he learned the value of hard work, a lesson he would value his entire life and would pass on to his family. 

He was lucky enough to meet the love of his life early on and to be able to spend 65+ wonderful years with her after meeting her after a school function she had attended. On October 2, 1955 he married Johanna Bancale (nee Baradi) of Lyndhurst,NJ. For their entire marriage they could be found enjoying life together and creating memories with their family. 

After their marriage they started their family and welcomed two children, Brian and Robyn. In 1959 they decided to move to Wayne and purchased a house to turn into their forever home. Together they worked rebuilding and remodeling their new home, something both of their children would do when it came time to buy their own homes. Now their grandchildren are carrying on the tradition, the value of hardwork living on in them, passed down from their grandparents.

Outside of the home Ernie, as he was known to all, was a dedicated and hard worker. He worked for ITT and Smith Industries as a Metrology Engineer. At home he enjoyed spending time with his wife and children and later on his grandchildren and more recently his great-grandchildren. During summer vacations Ernie and Johanna would spend weekends at their camper watching their grandsons enjoy the great outdoors, taking them on trips to Maine and passing on the Italian traditions that they held so dear to their hearts. 

Ernie and Johanna also traveled the world with family. They took several family cruises, traveled to Italy, and loved trips down to Atlantic City. Their favorite thing to do though was to spend time with family. From catching crabs down the Jersey shore or making pizza fritta with the great-grandchildren they enjoyed making memories together. 

Ernest is survived by his daughter Robyn Sikder and her husband Chitta of Wayne and his son Brian and his wife Annamarie of Sussex, his three grandchildren; Mark and his wife Marissa, Cory and his wife Jessica, and Ryan; and his great-grandchildren Logan, Luke and Nina. 

Vivian Raspantini, age 75, of Pompton Lakes and formerly of Totowa, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, July 19, 2023 while in the caring and loving comfort of her family. 

Vivian was born in Paterson and raised there in the family home located at 20 Murray Ave. She was the first-born of Alexander and Erma (Marranzini) Romei’s two children. 

Vivian was a graduate of Central High School’s Class of 1964. It was at school that she met the love of her life, Frank Raspantini. Viv’s girlfriend Jeannie wanted so much for Vivian to meet Frank. One day at school, as soon as the bell rang, Vivian and Jeannie raced through the hall to the classroom they knew Frank would be exiting. As they stood in the hall, Frank came out and they made some small talk. In time, Jeannie’s plan worked and Vivian and Frank went on their first date. They saw a movie at the drive-in theater on Union Boulevard in Totowa. It was a double date and Frank and Vivian were in the back seat of the car. When asked what movie they saw, Frank could not recall. It must have been a great date! 

When Frank got drafted into the U.S. Army, he served in the ceremonial unit in Washington, D.C. One year, for the Christmas holidays, Frank came home on leave. During a snowy night on Christmas Eve, while at Viv’s house, Frank asked her to marry him. Of course, she said “Yes!” Four months later, on Sunday, April 23, 1967, Vivian and Frank exchanged their wedding vows before God, family and friends at Our Lady of Pompei R.C. Church in Paterson. The wedding ceremony was followed by a joyous reception at Nesters in Little Falls and a honeymoon in Miami Beach, Florida. After the wedding Frank had to finish his Army service so he and Vivian, began their life as husband and wife living in an apartment off of the Army base in Arlington, Virginia. Six months later Vivian and Frank returned home to NJ and moved into the downstairs apartment in that same house on Murray Ave where Vivian had spent her childhood. One night, Vivian convinced her mother to play along with a gag she dreamed up in her mischievous mind. You see, Frank had a habit of going to bed a little later than everyone else so, while he was watching television, Vivian and her mother switched beds. With the late night shows over, Frank turned off the TV and headed for his room. He crawled into his bed and leaned over to give Vivian a kiss goodnight only to realize that he was kissing his mother-in-law.

Eventually Vivian and Frank purchased their own home in Totowa at 58 Washington Place. There, they were blessed with two beautiful daughters, Christina and Lisa. Vivian lovingly cared for her girls and gave them and Frank a warm and loving home. When Christina and Lisa reached the age of relative independence, Vivian took a job as a teacher’s aide at School 14 in Paterson. She assisted in the kindergarten classroom and she loved being in that environment, helping and encouraging those little children. She worked for Paterson Schools for 20 years, starting in 2000 until retiring in 2020. In 2018, after 41 years in their house in Totowa, she and Frank moved to Pompton Lakes.  

Viv’s favorite time of year was summer when she and Frank could always be found down the Jersey shore at their summer condo on the beach in Brigantine. Vivian was a true fan of all that life down the shore had to offer – warm sun, sandy beaches, and the ocean waves. Along with her love of the shore, Viv’s greatest pastimes included cooking and baking and spending time with her family, including her three grandchildren who she simply adored. Thursday nights the family always got together for dinner at Vivian and Frank’s house. Vivian had fun surprising  them with new recipes and, if you asked her family, Vivian’s cooking could have won awards. Frank and her daughter Lisa raved about her lasagna while her daughter Christina gave a double thumbs up to her eggplant. Being a really great baker too, Vivian loved her sweets and her home always smelled delicious, just like the local bakery. 

Vivian simply adored her family. A huge highlight was having them all together for a trip to Italy to celebrate her and Frank’s 50th wedding anniversary. She cherished her grandchildren, Zach, Madison, and Aiden. They called her “Mom-Mom” and she was their biggest cheerleader at every one of their sporting events and she loved it when they came to visit her. They were always welcome and she spoiled them like they were kings and queens. 

Vivian was the true matriarch of the family. She knew what she wanted and she did things her way. Her son-in-law Patrick called her “The General” but, behind that strong nature was a caring, selfless woman who loved people and who would do anything for her family, friends, or really anyone if she could help. She loved her children and grandchildren so much and she’d often worry about them. Vivian had a warm heart and the friendliest of personalities. In fact, it was perfectly natural for her to strike up a conversation with a total stranger that she’d meet in a store or on the beach. Her energetic loving spirit will be surely missed but her family gives thanks for the true gift that she was to them and will always fondly cherish the memories and feel blessed for the privilege of having had her in their lives.    

Vivian was the beloved wife of Frank, blessed in marriage for 56 years; loving mother of Christina Ciancitto and husband Patrick of Pompton Lakes, and Lisa Vaughan and husband Thomas of Nutley; and adoring grandmother of Zachary Vaughan and Madison and Aiden Ciancitto. She was predeceased by her parents Alexander and Erma Romei, and her brother John Romei.  

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Vivian’s name are asked to consider St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959, or online at stjude.org 

Maria Concetta Ferrigno, “Connie” age 63, of Pompton Lakes, and formerly of Wayne, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, July 19, 2023.

Connie was born and raised in Gela, Sicily. She was the dear daughter and second-born child of the late Francesco (2010) and the late Santa (Carnevale) Trama’s (2020) four children. 

At the age of fourteen, Connie alongside her family relocated to America in pursuit of a better life. They started by living in Paterson and eventually moved to Wayne where Connie graduated from Wayne Valley High School with the Class of 1978.

After high school, Connie worked in various positions as an accounting clerk, most notably with ATI Chemspray in Totowa. She eventually met Michael Ferrigno and they married in 1982. Connie and Michael started married life in Rutherford then moved to Rockaway and eventually Wayne where they lived for 22 years. After divorce, Connie moved to Pompton Lakes where she remained for the past seven years.

Blessed with the birth of their daughter Danielle in 1992, Connie whole-heartedly cared for Danielle during her childhood and formative years. Connie was also a gifted artist who practiced her craft through various mediums. For starters, she designed and created custom made jewelry. She also did sketch art with expression and fine details that were so exquisite. Besides drawing whatever might be inspiring her at the time, she also created portrait sketches of all the babies that were new to her immediate and extended family. Connie also loved to garden and found it to be another perfect creative outlet. Her yard was always adorned with the most beautiful flower gardens and she designed her gardens in such a way as to ensure that throughout the growing season, there would always be something that would be blooming in various beautiful pots. Her yard was an oasis—her safe, happy place.

Connie enjoyed her morning coffee at Starbucks, long walks around Packanack Lake, and spending time with her grandchildren as much as she could. She was a sweet, kind-hearted woman who will be missed by all who knew and loved her. 

Connie was a very generous, empathetic soul whose heart went out to those in need. Consequently, for many years, she gladly volunteered her spare time to help out at the food pantry in Wayne. She frequently donated her lightly used clothing – something she had ample supply of being that she loved to find the perfect outfit to go with the jewelry she created. Connie was also a regular volunteer at the Laurelwood Arboretum – a wonderful respite in Wayne where residents could take nature walks on trails while enjoying the sounds of birds singing and the burst of colors of all the annual and perennial flowers and trees that adorned those trails. 

Connie was the cherished mother of Danielle Kornitzer and husband David of Wayne; adoring grandmother of: Ella and Lucas Kornitzer; dearest sister of: Giuseppe “Joe” Trama and wife Daniela of League City, TX, Vera DeFrances of Bayonne and late husband Stephen (2014), and the late Emanuele Minardi (2009); and loved companion of David Stumpf. She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. 

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Connie’s name are asked to consider donating to The Big Silence.

Please designate your gift in loving memory of Connie Ferrigno. Thanks.

The Big Silence Foundation cultivates conversations and offers resources and programs to destigmatize and change the culture around mental health. They raise awareness, promote understanding, and aim to bring together people and organizations who want to improve public attitudes towards mental health and normalize conversations surrounding mental health topics and experiences. Suffering in silence only reinforces the stigma surrounding mental health issues and creates barriers that prevent healing. Join them to break the silence and make the world a more joyful and loving place.

Harry Cagnina, age 84, of Orlando Florida and former long-term Wayne resident, passed away Wednesday, July 19, 2023, with the comfort of family by his side.

Harry was born to Peter Cagnina and Yolanda Renna in 1939 and graduated from Central High School in Newark in 1957.

 He served as a police officer for the Wanaque Police Department and later in life as a welder for Vibra Screw Incorporated for 40 years. He took great pride in the work he did and even participated in manufacturing the parts for the upkeep of the Barnegat Lighthouse. Once he retired, Harry moved to Orlando, where he could enjoy the warm weather and sunshine.

Harry proudly served in the United States Marine Corps in 1958 during the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star, and Purple Heart and was honorably discharged in 1961, having attained the rank of Sergeant.

He was a huge baseball fan and enjoyed watching Yankee games with his three sons. He loved to support his sons and attended as many baseball and football games as he could. He quickly became known as “Big Harry” to anyone who knew him in the neighborhood. You could always find him outside watching the birds, feeding off the bird feeder in the backyard. His love for birds continued as he collected as many bald eagle figures as possible. He loved his unofficial pet “Harry the Herring” and would feed him fish every day, when he came to visit his home in Florida. Harry had a big, sweet tooth and always enjoyed a Klondike Bar or a big piece of chocolate cake after dinner. Whenever he missed New Jersey, he was sure to watch the live camera feed from the Seaside Heights Boardwalk and always asked his friends and family to give him a wave.

Harry is survived by his children Darlene of Mount Jackson, Virgina, Harry, Keith and his wife Melanie, Kyle and his wife Maria, all of Wayne, New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Harry’s name are asked to consider P.O.L Fire Company 2 of Wayne. http://waynefireco2.com/donate.html

To family and friends far and near;

It is with the saddest of hearts that we must announce the passing of our dear little Karen. Karen was a gentle innocent soul who saw the world through the eyes of a child.

Despite her many challenges, her frail body belied an inner strength, courage and resilience. With the heroic efforts of our parents, especially our mother who cared for all her needs every day of her life, she was able to defy the odds and live a long and meaningful life, becoming  the longest surviving dialysis patient at St Joseph’s Hospital. She had a very vivid and active imagination, which allowed her to live a life of excitement and adventure that was otherwise denied to her.

She liked watching TV and using her iPad. We made the mistake of showing her how to use  Amazon, and Thomas the Tank toys and Paul McCartney memorabilia started showing up at the door! Karen was very sweet, loving and caring, occasionally surprising us with thoughts of family and friends she hadn’t seen in a long time.

She loved all the cats we had over the years, especially Eliza, who she picked out herself at the animal shelter a few years ago. She recently asked what would happen to the cat after she and our mother died. She could also be very feisty and assertive. Many times she put my brothers and me in our places when she felt we needed it.  In the last two weeks, it became increasingly clear that her body was failing fast, and Tuesday afternoon she passed away surrounded by her mother and her brothers.

Her long struggle is over. She will be dearly missed and never forgotten. Rest in Eternal Peace Karen. We love you.

Jacoba (Jackie) Mol, age 73, of Clifton, passed away Wednesday, July 19, 2023 after a long battle with cancer.  She was a member of the Ebenezer Netherlands Reformed Church in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey.

Jackie was born to Elias and Wilma DeBel on September 30, 1949, in the Netherlands.  Her family immigrated to New Jersey when Jackie was two years old.  Her childhood years were spent in Wayne, riding bareback down rural Valley Road.  She graduated from Wayne Valley High School in 1967 and worked as a service representative at New Jersey Bell Telephone Company after her schooling. She met her husband, Bill, in 1967, and they were married in 1970 upon his return from Vietnam.  Jackie and Bill loved receiving each other’s love letters from overseas, looking forward to the time they could be together again.

Jackie always had a good attention for detail and always put everyone’s happiness and needs first.  Jackie was a loving and devoted mother to her three children; they will miss her very much.  The daily phone calls and time spent with her children were often filled with comfort and advice.  Her personality resulted in many lifelong friends, leaving many fond memories.

Jackie is survived by Bill, her husband and loving caretaker during her twenty year battle with cancer.  They were blessed with fifty-three years of marriage and three children:  Troy (Aileen) Mol of Newfoundland, NJ; Susan (Robert) Okken of Oak Ridge, NJ; and Timothy (Lisa) Mol of Oak Ridge, NJ.  In addition, they were blessed with fourteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Jackie is survived by five siblings:  Abe & Lois Debel of Florida, and Martina Newton, John & Carol DeBel, Jake & Nancy DeBel, and Rick & Ellen DeBel, all of New Jersey.  Jackie was pre-deceased by her parents, Elias and Wilma DeBel.

In lieu of flowers, donations would be greatly appreciated to the Netherlands Reformed Christian School, 164 Jacksonville Road, Pompton Plains, N.J. 07444.

Carl A Perini, age 73, of Wayne NJ passed away peacefully at his home on July 17, 2023 with the love and comfort of his wife and children by his side.

He was born to Vivian and Charles Perini and graduated from Mater Christi High School in Astoria, NY in 1967.  He was a member of the camera club and the dance band.  Carl graduated Queens College with a degree in chemistry and Adelphi University in Garden City, NY with a Master’s in organic chemistry magna cum laude.

Carl’s first job was at Alexanders Department Store in Rego Park Queens.  He worked as a stock boy and in the bedding and linen department.  Upon graduation from college Carl worked at Bulova Watch Company.  He worked in their chemical metallurgical laboratory department.  While working at Bulova, Carl was pursuing his master’s in organic chemistry.  He obtained his master’s and worked for several different companies during his lifetime.  He worked as a chemical salesperson and then a material and process engineer.  As the years went on, he focused on quality engineering and became a lead auditor.  One of the most exiting moments at work was when he got to meet with Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon.  Among the companies Carl worked for were AIL in Deer Park Long Island, ITT in Clifton, NJ, ISP in Wayne, NJ and Fisher Scientific in Fair Lawn, NJ.  His last job was at Getinge in Wayne, NJ.  He was very proud to work at Getinge as he felt they provided top-notch equipment for healthcare.  He had not yet retired, he was on medical leave when he passed away.  Carl truly loved his profession and work.  He always wanted to keep his mind active.
Carl had many hobbies and talents.  He was an accomplished guitar player.  He loved playing in a band for many years when he was younger.  He always kept in touch with his bandmates, and they would play virtually together as they all lived in different parts of the country.  He shared his love of guitar with family and friends.  Music was always present in the Perini household.  Carl had a superior ability to remember long jokes and never messed up the punchline!  He loved to cook and was very creative at it.  He would take a look at the leftovers in the refrigerator, then put them together in such a way that a delicious meal was served.  One sport he loved playing was golf.  He played in many work leagues.  His son took up golf which thrilled Carl and he was always giving him pointers on improving his game.  In addition, Carl was an avid reader for pleasure and to obtain knowledge.
Carl met the love of his life, Eve, at the Stratton in Forest Hills Queens.  He was apprehensive to approach her as he said she did not look that friendly.  But…he took his chances and they ended up getting married two and a half years later.  Carl and Eve were married for forty-five years and were blessed with two children, Sara and Glen.  Carl is survived by his wife Eve, his two children Sara and Glen, his son-in-law Tim, and grandson Remy.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Carl’s name to New Jersey Death with Dignity, www.njdeathwithdignity.org or P.A.T.C.H., 26 Lakeside Ave, Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442 would be greatly appreciated.

Michael Peter Cauda, age 76, of Wanaque, formerly of Wyckoff, passed away on July 12, 2023, surrounded by his loving wife and family.

He was born on October 8, 1946, in Paterson, and was raised in Haledon where he attended and played football and baseball at Manchester High School, graduating in 1964. He earned a Bachelor of Arts, in 1968, in Industrial Arts and a Master of Arts, in 1974, in Industrial Education at Montclair State College.

During his 42-year teaching career at Ramapo High School, from 1968 to 2010, Mike taught Industrial Arts and Industrial Education & Technology.  He was head teacher of the Industrial Arts and Home Economics Departments for the school district, coached a total of 22 years in football, baseball, and softball, and even held the unofficial title of assistant gymnastics coach to assist his wife, Chris, during her coaching tenure.  Mike was inducted in the Ramapo High School Athletic Hall of Fame in March 2010.

As part of his service to our country, Mike was a Sergeant in the Army Reserve, and part of the National Guard.  Over his lifetime of service to others, he served as past president and treasurer of UNICO – the North Haledon Chapter of the Italian Heritage Commission. He served on the North Haledon Board of Recreation, the Board of Health, and the Board of Education.  Mike was the negotiation chairperson for the Ramapo and Indian Hills Education Association for 20 years, a member of the NJEA State Health Benefits Committee, and a state and local delegate to the NEA for 15 years.  He was a member of the Bergen County Education and Coaches Associations. Mike also served on the Board of Governors at North Jersey Country Club in Wayne and was on the Board of Trustees at Grace United Methodist Church in Wyckoff.

A caring husband, father, and the best Pop-Pop there ever was, always a gift of love to his seven grandchildren. What became an endearing exchange, whenever they asked for something, he would say, “it will cost you $5” and there were giggles all around. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for his family.  He was full of life and always made us laugh. He did not know a stranger. He was selfless, gentle, and kind, a man of integrity, and always there for anyone who needed a hand.  

His special love was his Golden Retriever, Murphy. He would take Murphy for rides in his car almost every day. He even designed a plaque for his dog that said “Murphy’s Walk” which he placed on the back road of Fieldstone Terrace, the family residence for 20 years before moving to Wanaque Reserve.

An avid golfer, he was a member of North Jersey Country Club for 42 years where he grew his love of the game, forged forever friendships on the golf course and was a master of Gin in the cardroom.

Mike was a diehard NY Giants and Yankees fan. He loved to cook, and his specialty was Linguini and Clam Sauce. We would compare his dish to every place that we went, and his by far was the best.

He was a dedicated member of Psi Chi Fraternity at Montclair State, where he forged lifelong friendships and enjoyed his annual treks to the Jersey shore for reunions.

In his last two years, he enjoyed playing cards with some buddies he met at the Reserve, always willing to teach and help any of the guys how to play cards because he was very good at it.

His youngest daughter, Dana, defined him as optimistic, patient, nostalgic, proud, steadfast, and loyal, to family and friends.

His oldest daughter, Alicia, describes her dad: “My dad was my hero, and I am proud to be his daughter. He led by example, teaching me how to be generous, to give and help and be present for those who need it, and family is the most important thing. Great dads own a significant piece of our hearts, and he was such a great dad.” 

From his son, Michael: “He was generous, supportive and always there for us.  Family was paramount.  He taught me everything…most importantly, how to be a great parent and role model.  Every man has a father…I had a dad.  He was my best friend.”

Mike is survived by his wife, Christine Fornarotto Cauda of 53 years.  Mike and Chris were blessed with three children – Michael J. Cauda of Warwick, NY, Alicia Hodnett and her husband Chris of McCordsville, IN, and Dana Bergin and her husband Bryan of Massapequa, NY, and seven grandchildren – Mackenzie, Emily and Ava Cauda, Ella and Michael Hodnett, and Aubrey and Ascher Bergin.  As well as his sister-in-law, Doris Cauda of Toms River, NJ, and his cousin, Rosalie Collinge Failla of Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Mike was pre-deceased by his parents, Peter and Myrtle Cauda (nee Collinge), and his brother, Robert Cauda. 

As our family closes this chapter of our life with Mike, we know you will hold him close to your heart, remembering all the memories, love and life shared together over these past 76 years.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to the North Jersey Country Club Caddie Scholarship Fund.  

Donation checks can be made out to North Jersey Country Club.  In the memo section, please indicate the Caddie Fund.

Mail to: North Jersey Country Club, 594 Hamburg Turnpike, Wayne, NJ 07470, Attention of General Manager, Chelsea Creo

Robert Lee Ricciardi, 73, of Wayne, NJ passed away on July 11, 2023 surrounded by his loving family. Born in Jersey City, raised in New Milford, Robert attended and graduated from Don Bosco Prep in 1968 where he was a three sport Ironman (football, basketball, and track) captain of the football team and senior class president. Upon graduation, Bob enrolled at St. Peter’s College where he majored in business and played four more years of football, ultimately graduating in 1972. However, the most important event of his four years was in 1969 when he met a cheerleader named Debbie. The two were married on July 14, 1973 while receiving the Papal Blessing at St. Augustine’s in Union City and shortly thereafter they started and raised all four of their children in Wayne, NJ. 

Immediately following graduation, Bob began working for Mahieu Construction in North Haledon where he would meet his future business partner, Ben Della Cerra. In May of 1976, Bob and Ben started Delric Construction Company also located in North Haledon, which grew to be a very successful commercial construction business. Starting as residential, the company moved to commercial in the 1980. Delric’s  first commercial  job was building the Pompton Plains Post Office.  In 2007 the company transitioned into doing public work in the 5 boroughs of NY. Their  first job was the construction of a superior courthouse for the state of NY in Staten Island with the DASNY organization and then multiple schools projects for the NYCSC and housing authority projects with NYCHA.

Aside from his business acumen, Bob was a loving, caring and devoted son, brother, husband, father, uncle  and grandfather. When his four children were younger, you’d find him on the sidelines coaching his son Paul’s Wayne PAL football and baseball teams, marshaling Gina’s swim meets, Lisa’s basketball team or his youngest daughter Tara’s soccer team. A true leader with a passion for teaching the youth skills and techniques, Bob formed with longtime friend Scott Seldeen, the Believers Soccer Team in order for young athletes to hone their skills. 

As Bob’s children grew into adulthood, he gave up the sideline as a coach and enjoyed it as a spectator for any one of his nine grandchildren. Bob would travel to venues near and far in order to support their personal endeavors whether it was a baseball or soccer game, a band concert or a dance recital. Bob loved showing pictures of his grandchildren to anyone he met whether they were interested or not. He truly cherished watching all of nine of his grandchildren, ranging from 20 years old to 9 months,  flourish and succeed. 

As time went on Bob enjoyed spending time at his beach house in Lavalette, NJ whether that was watching his grandchildren play on the beach or enjoying a Bacardi and Diet while the Yankees were on. There, Bob and Debbie celebrated and hosted many occasions ranging from anniversaries to birthdays and graduations. Also, Bob loved taking his family on vacations to Disney, Bermuda, Hollywood Beach along with countless cruises, but the Florida Keys was a special place where he and Debbie would go for their together time. 

When Bob wasn’t traveling, he was at his workbench woodworking projects for his children and grandchildren. For each of his children he made separate pieces of furniture ranging from shelves, bird houses, gates, custom closets, fireplace mantels, desks, credenzas and the list goes on. A trained and true master craftsman, his work is something to be admired and the pieces he built will be kept in the family for generations. Bob was the definition of a true patriarch who cared, supported and loved his wife, children and grandchildren with all of his heart. 

Robert was predeceased by his parents Angelo and Florence Ricciardi. He is survived by all three of his younger siblings: Richard Ricciardi, Raymond Ricciardi and Judith O’Connor (nee Ricciardi). His beloved wife Debbie Ricciardi (nee Waldy), his son Paul Ricciardi and his wife Lori, Lumberton, NJ, and his daughters Gina Aiello and her husband Stephen, Oak Ridge, NJ, Lisa Priestner and her husband Matthew, Wayne, NJ, Tara Agelis and her husband Nicholas, Wayne, NJ and his adoring grandchildren: Luke and Jake Ricciardi; Nicholas and Alyssa Aiello; Brianna and Emma Priestner; and Dorothy, Kimberly and Angela Agelis.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and John Theurer Cancer Center - Multiple Myeloma Division

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Sheila Ellen Zieger (nee Connor) of Highlands Ranch, CO, formerly of Rockaway and Clifton, NJ.

Sheila passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 while receiving the loving care of her family.  She was born in Hackensack NJ, raised in Lyndhurst, NJ and was one of three children to Eugene and Evelyn Connor.   As a young woman, Sheila left school early and accepted a position as assistant manager at a clothing store in Rutherford, NJ where her mother was store manager.  Sheila worked alongside her mom for about two or three years. One night while Sheila was at a German Dance Hall in Lyndhurst, she met a handsome young man by the name of Herbert Zieger.  Herbert and Sheila started dating and as fate would have it, they fell in love and became husband and wife.  The newlyweds honeymooned in Niagara Falls then settled Clifton, NJ. 

While residing in Clifton, the couple welcomed the births of their four children, Paula, Bruce, Herbert, and Eric.  Shortly after the birth of her first child.  Sheila decided that she would become a full-time homemaker, dedicating her life to raising and caring for her family.  For many years she worked alongside her husband Herbert at his Plumbing business, Zieger Plumbing and Heating in Clifton, as a secretary and bookkeeper. 

Helping her husband with the family business and raising four children did not leave much spare time for Sheila to pursue any hobbies.  This was not a concern for Sheila because her true passion in life was for her family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Sheila than spending time with her children and grandchildren.  Sheila and Herbert cherished a loving and loyal marriage for more than sixty-five years until Herbert’s passing in July of 2021.  Sheila was not only dedicated to her family but also to her Christian Faith.  While living in Clifton, Sheila and her family were very active members of Calvary Baptist Church.  For many years after, Sheila and Herbert were members of Preakness Baptist church in Wayne. She was also a member of the Women’s Circle and a prayer group while living at the Fox Hills at Rockaway.

Sheila treasured their family vacations to the Poconos, their trips to Villa Roma Resort in the Catskill Mountains area of upstate New York, as well as camping and boating.  Sheila was a quiet and private lady who loved her family deeply and was able to make friends wherever she went.  She will be forever remembered as a devoted wife, a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.  She touched the lives of everyone around her and will be sincerely missed by everyone that knew her.

Sheila is survived by her four children; Paula L. Van Gurp and her husband Karl of Ohio, her son Bruce Zieger and his wife Allison of Highlands Ranch, CO, her son Herbert Zieger, Jr. and his wife Laura of Lincoln Park, NJ, and Eric Zieger and his wife Barbara of Clifton, NJ, six grandchildren; Michelle Van Gurp, Nicole Kilfoile and her husband Pat, Herbert Zieger III, Vincent Zieger, Meghan Zieger, and Eric Zieger, and two great grandchildren; Mason and Thomas.  She was predeceased by her brother Steve Connor and her sister Jean Koppel. 

Bella Op’t Hof ( née Mac Donald )

Bella was born November 27, 1924 in Hampton Roads, Virginia, and died on July 11, 2023 at age 98. She was the second daughter of Frank McDonald and Carrie Baake. Her sister Virginia was born before her on January 14, 1921

It was  the beginning of the Great depression, but Bella still became the epitome of a princess into her teen years and beyond. She and her sister Virginia double dated in high school. Bella had natural grace, dancing on roller-skates and singing in the choir.

Bella married her high school sweetheart Jerry Op’t Hof. The two lead a high life in their adorable log cabin at Packanack Lake. They could see the beautiful lake from the picture window in their living room with its built-in bar and baby grand piano where musical friends gathered many times to play the piano and sing.

In those years she enjoyed the glamour of sailing, skiing and ice-skating. She and Jerry owned a Lincoln Continental which was the height of luxury that they sought.

Bella was known as “ the Donut Lady “ because every Halloween she would  open the doors to generations of children who enjoyed cider and donuts on their evening rounds of trick-or-treating.

In the early 1970s, Bella and Jerry purchased 90 acres of land in northern Vermont and Jerry set to imagining and then constructing a Swiss style chalet with a giant natural stone fireplace that rose two floors opposite the grand views of the field and mountains. Bella reveled in the company that gathered there as her friends, the McCormick’s and the Hubble’s, visited often. When Gerard passed away at an early age, Bella was surrounded by her friends from church and the lake. They kept her busy. She loved going to the Papermill playhouse to see shows with her good friend Margie Smith.

When Bella turned 90, her niece and nephew threw her a party in her house in Packanack Lake where Bella directed the catering and list of guests. She had a great time!

Bella was a dedicated employee for many years. She worked in managerial positions at large companies like Cooper Labs. She took her work seriously but enjoyed it as well. In her mid-90s she sold her house at the lake and moved into the Cedar Crest Village community in Pompton Plains New Jersey. She lived independently there for a few years and at her side when she passed was her devoted friend Marge Smith who cared for and looked after Bella until her passing. 

It is with a great deal of sadness that we announce the passing of Robert H. Crane, age 76, of Wayne, NJ.

Robert passed away peacefully on Monday, July 10, 2023 while receiving the loving care of his family. Robert was born in Passaic and raised in Paterson. He was the only child to Harold and Sydney Crane. At the age of twelve, Robert and his family moved to Wayne. Those who were closest to Robert and knew him best affectionally refer to him as “Bob.” 

After moving to Wayne, Bob attended St Mary’s High School in Paterson where he was extremely social and made life-long friends. Friends, who till this day, still get together twice a year. Following his high school graduation with the class of 1964, Bob attended St Francis College in Loretto, PA where he studied Commerce. Bob graduated from St Francis College in 1968 earning his bachelor’s degree. Instead of joining the workforce, Bob instead felt he should serve his country and enlisted in the United States Navy. While in the US Navy, he was stationed on the USS San Diego, which at the time was a brand-new ship making Bob a “Plank Owner.” On the ship’s maiden voyage, it crossed through the Panama Canal, becoming a part of the US Atlantic Fleet. Bob served honorably and proudly in the United States Navy from 1968 until 1972.

Bob found work quickly after being honorably discharged from the Navy. He accepted a position in sales at Garden State Brickface in Roselle, NJ where he was employed for several years. Bob left Garden State Brickface for another position in sales at Kane Screens in Kane, PA. Bob then worked for Atas International where he sold building and construction materials. He worked at Atas International for about eight years until his retirement in 2011. 

In 1968, after graduating from college, Bob was introduced to a young, attractive girl named Suzanne Waters by a friend of his from St Mary's High School. Bob gave Suzanne a call and the couple went out on a date. As fate would have it, they fell in love and were married on July 19, 1969 at St Mary’s Abbey in Morristown, NJ. Being that Bob was still in the Navy at the time, the newlyweds settled in Norfolk, VA near the Naval base. While residing in Norfolk, Bob and Suzanne welcomed the births of their first two children, Sean and Kimberly. The family then moved to Wayne following Bob’s discharge from the Navy where they welcomed their next two children, Kristin and Jonathan. Bob and Suzanne have called Wayne their home ever since. 

Bob was a Scout Master for Boy Scout Troop 127 of Wayne for many years where he trained many Eagle Scouts. He was a member of the Riverview Garden Club, the American Model Association, and Construction Specification Institute (CSI). 

Those who knew Bob best would consider him to be a “serial hobbyist” with a creative spirit. Bob had his hand in many different crafts, activities, and interests. Bob was not the type of person to take any interest lightly. Whatever he did, he worked tenaciously at it. He enjoyed building and flying model airplanes, RC cars, gardening, kite flying, archery, quilling, and photography. He built a model of the famous Jane’s Carousel under the Brooklyn Bridge which was featured in an edition of ScrollSaw Magazine. He also designed, created, and cut his own jigsaw puzzles out of wood. 

Bob’s hobbies were more than a leisurely activity, he was so engrossed in his interests, he wrote and published articles about them in various magazines. He was truly an “influencer” before the days of Instagram and TikTok. With respect to his magazine articles, companies would send him various products for Bob to use, review, and write about. Bob was also quite an accomplished cook and was famous by his family and friends for his Hot Pepper Flakes which he made from scratch.

Aside from all of Bob’s hobbies, interests, and talents, his greatest passion was for his family. Nothing in the world meant more to Bob than providing for, and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He relished in his family vacations, camping trips, or just dancing in the living room. He and his wife Suzanne cherished 53 years of loving and loyal marriage. Bob was also a spiritual man and was a parishioner of Our Lady of the Valley RC Church in Wayne with his family. 

Bob was a charming man, a gentleman, and the kind of person that could talk to anyone about anything. When someone needed help with something, he was glad to lend a hand. It was always certain that the people Bob was helping were going to learn something from him. Bob was blessed with a gift in being able to convey information to people and teach them. He also had the ability to captivate an audience of any age with his stories and explanations. 

Bob will be forever remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was truly a special person who touched the lives of everyone around him and will be missed by his family and friends. 

Robert is survived by his wife Suzanne (nee Waters) of Wayne, his four children; Sean Crane and his wife Janet of Westfield, NJ, Kim Hammermueller and her husband Kurt of Califon, NJ, Kristin Crane and her husband David Hansen of Providence, RI, and Jonathan Crane of Wayne, NJ, three grandchildren; Kayla Hammermueller, Aidan Crane, and Remington Crane. 

In lieu of flowers, donations to Wayne Township Memorial First Aide Squad would be greatly appreciated. www.waynefirstaid.com/donate.php

Caroline Frey (maiden name McAdam) passed away peacefully on July 9, 2023 at the age of 90.

She is survived by her devoted and loving husband of 71 years John I. Frey, her son, John W. Frey, and his partner, Susan Wiederman, of Clifton NJ, her daughter, Carolyn Baum, and her husband, Howard, of Green Pond, NJ and her sister, Theresa Sorrentino of Neshonic Station, NJ. She is also survived by her 4 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren; Glenn Frey, and his wife Torrey, who have children Kennedy and Sawyer residing in Austin, Texas; Brian Frey, and his wife, Lily, who have a son Jacob residing in Henderson, Nevada; Eric Baum, and his wife, Danielle, who have daughters Charlotte and Blake residing in Chicago, IL.; and Evan Baum, who resides in New York City. 

Caroline was born on June 15, 1933, in Brooklyn, New York, the daughter of William and Caroline McAdam, and was one of nine children. She met John when she was 16 and famously (at least in her family’s circle) turned down his date offer twice before finally accepting his third request. John’s perseverance paid off and they married on June 25, 1952. They shortly thereafter moved to Clifton where they built a life together. Caroline worked at the store Popular Merchandise in Passaic for over 20 years where she made some lifelong friends. In 1977, John and Caroline moved from Clifton to Wayne where they have lived together for the past 45+ years.

Faith and family were defining pillars in Caroline’s life. She was a devoted parishioner of Sacred Heart in Clifton and Our Lady of Consolation in Wayne. Caroline loved her grandchildren immensely and was an extremely active participant in their lives, even teaching a couple of them to ride bikes. She was renowned for her baking and cooking skills and her grandchildren could be frequently found huddled around her kitchen table for crepes, pancakes, and bacon for breakfast or family spaghetti Bolognese nights. Her famous tassies were legendary around the holidays! Caroline will be profoundly missed by all who knew her.

Rosemary Halas, age 88, of Wayne, passed away on July 8, 2023. Rosemary is survived by her children: John (Susan) of Danville, CA, Karen (Daniel) Fern of Oakland, NJ, Kathleen (Matthew) Shoztic of Stamford, CT, Maribeth (Barry) Hastings of Greenville, NC and Thomas (Tracey) of North Arlington, NJ, and twelve beloved grandchildren: Paige, Derek, Aiden and Mason Halas, William and Bradley Fern, Zachary and Ryan Shoztic, and Jackson, Emma, Avery and Brady Hastings. She was preceded in death by her parents, Anna and John O’Malley, and husband, George Halas.

Rosemary, a 58-year resident of Wayne, was born and raised in Pennsylvania. Upon graduating from Meecha-Wyoming High School in 1952 and Misericordia University in 1956, Rosemary began her career as a registered dietician. She then went on to pursue a career in education and worked as an elementary school teacher in the City of Paterson and a culinary arts instructor at Passaic County Technical Institute in Wayne.

While she very much enjoyed teaching, her family and faith were always the cornerstones of her life. Rosemary was an amazing daughter, wife, mother and grandmother who lovingly and selflessly cared for her husband, children, grandchildren, parents and mother-in-law over the course of her adult life. She was a very skilled seamstress and a wonderful cook/baker who always made every occasion special. Rosemary was also a loyal fan of the New York Mets and Rutgers University athletics and spent many hours watching and rooting for her favorite teams alongside her husband, George. She enjoyed traveling and was an avid skier and member of the PasClif Ski Club where she met her lifelong love and devoted husband of 59 years.

Rosemary, and her husband, George, were two of the founding members of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Wayne. As an active church member, Rosemary served her parish and the surrounding community for many years as a eucharistic minister and a volunteer for the annual thanksgiving food drive and church picnic, the Annunciation Prime Timers Club, Eva’s Village and the Father English Community Center.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Rosemary’s memory to St. Jude Children's ResearchHospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to Annunciation Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 45 Urban Club Road, Wayne, NJ 07470.

Frank Elefante, age 92, of Lincoln Park, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 6, 2023.

Frank was the sixth born child of Joseph and Victoria (DiGrazia) Elefante’s seven children. Born in New York City, he grew up in a railroad tenement home on 103rd Street in Harlem.

After graduating from high school, Frank worked several jobs, including for a premier clock maker in New York City named Mr. Froh, before finding his calling in the field of horticultural nurseries in 1950. Frank started as a delivery person for “Nielsen’s Flowers” on East 28th Street in the flower district of New York City. Soon after, his career with Nielsen’s ventured into plantscaping and holiday decorating before he moved into sales for the company. As a salesman his first challenge came from none other than a fellow company salesman who wanted all the sales success for himself and would not give Frank the company pricing. Frank met this challenge by employing a strategy of selling everything for pennies. It was a brilliant tactical move as it drove all the business to himself, undercut the other salesman and quickly got Mr. Nielsen’s attention. In the long run, Frank’s keen business acumen resulted in a long-term position for him and the other salesman was shown the door. In 1952, Franks boss purchased a 28-acre farm in Lincoln Park, NJ and started a horticultural nursery. Then, in 1958, he and his now nursery manager, Frank Elefante, were among the first pioneers in the Northeast to begin growing shrubs and trees in cans above the ground – making for greatly increased portability. In 1976, Mr. Nielsen retired and Frank took over and was joined by his eldest son, James --- and so began Nielsen-Elefante Nurseries. The business continues to the present and, while Frank officially retired, he still frequently showed up to work as recently as three weeks before his passing.

One night, Frank’s buddies dragged him out to a dance at a local church. He had to be dragged because he had just learned that his former girlfriend had just got engaged that day and Frank was feeling down. Little did he realize that his life would change forever that night when he had the pleasure of meeting a fine young lady named Vivian Vessichio  At the end of the evening, Frank offered Vivian a ride home and then he asked her for her number. Trying to be politely coy, she said she had nothing to write her number down on. Frank didn’t miss a beat. He pulled a cocktail napkin out of his pocket and suggested that Vivian write down her number with “that beautiful lipstick you’re wearing tonight.” It took three weeks before they went out on a date because, every time she returned his call, Frank’s mother, whose English was not so good, answered the phone and never got the message right that Vivian called. To make a long story just a tiny bit longer, they fell in love and married on January 23rd,  1955 at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in the Bronx, NY and honeymooned in the Poconos. Frank almost didn’t make the wedding because he went with his groomsman to Tavern on the Green the night before and had a little bit too good of a time.

Pardon the pun but, being a man in the nursery business, Frank put down deep roots in Lincoln Park. A resident since 1957, He served the town in various capacities including as the shade tree commissioner and, in  1968, he agreed to volunteer as a special Lincoln Park Police Reserves and Civil Defense Director. The town leaders sold him on the idea by convincing him that it was an easy job because nothing ever really happened. Then came the great floods of 1968 and all Frank had was a town-issued boat that would not float.

Frank volunteered for many years as a member of the Pequannock UNICO. UNICO was founded in 1922 to unite people of Italian heritage in an organization to perform charitable, patriotic and educational deeds. UNICO’s motto is “Service Above Self”. UNICO means “unique” or “only one of its kind” in Italian and additionally, the letters represent: U-Unity, N-Neighborliness, I-Integrity, C-Charity and O-Opportunity. This was an organization that upheld the great ideals that Frank believed in. He served valiantly and in 2021, he was awarded the UNICO Lifetime Achievement Award.

In his spare time, Frank enjoyed playing with his clocks – a lifelong love he derived from his work for Mr. Froh the clock maker as a young man. He liked putzing with his koi pond, trading stocks, and ballroom dancing with his beloved wife Vivian. Frank was an all-around well-loved man who made friends wherever he went. He was well-known for telling jokes and great stories. He also wrote poetry and even wrote his autobiography – a treasure his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and further generations will enjoy forever.

Frank was the beloved husband of Vivian (Vessichio), blessed in a cherished marriage until her passing in 2007. He was the dear father of: James and wife Debbie Elefante of Lincoln Park, Andrew Elefante and wife Donna of Lincoln Park, Joseph Elefante of Pompton Plains, and Gina McKenna and husband John of Lincoln Park; dear brother of: Jim Elefante, Lucy Elefante, Mike Elefante, Anne Damico, and Joe Elefante, all predeceased, and Toni Tantillo and husband Frank of North Hills; adored grandfather of Daniel, Anna, Alexis, and Ryan Elefante and the late Luke Warbeck; and adoring great-grandfather of Charlie and Nora Elefante. He is also survived by numerous, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

‍

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Frank’s name are asked to consider two charitable organizations that were close to Frank’s heart:

UNICO National

271 US-46 F103

Fairfield, NJ 07004

If you donate to UNICO online, please take the time to send an email to UnicoNational@UNICO.org to indicate that you made a donation in Frank Elefante's memory. This will ensure that Unico can let his family know of your generosity. Thanks.

Wounded Warrior Project

P.O. Box 78516

Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516

To print a mailable donation form to include with a check, CLICK HERE

Nancy L. McDonnell (nee Shaw), age 85, passed on Tuesday, July 4, 2023.

Nancy was born in Philadelphia, PA, the only child to the late Nellie and Fred Shaw on April 11, 1938 and was a member of Woodland Baptist Church.

During her childhood, Nancy had a love of tennis and the Girls Scouts. She continued both activities throughout her life. When she was a teenager, she traveled the country for six weeks with her Girl Scout Troop visiting many of the National Parks and Monuments. Her love of all sports developed into a career as a Physical Education Teacher.

Nancy attended Beaver College and eventually earned her Master’s Degree from Montclair State College and became a teacher. One of her first experiences as a teacher was in Wyckoff, NJ.  In New Jersey, she became a member of Preakness Baptist Church in Wayne, as her faith was always the center of her life.

She met and fell in love with fellow Wyckoff  teacher, Gerard McDonnell. They married in 1966. They bought a home in Pequannock to raise their four children.  While Jerry pursued his Doctorate and career advancement, Nancy stayed home with the children. She volunteered for the Pequannock Board of Education, where she ran the physical education programs. She also taught once a week at St. Anthony’s School in Butler. In furthering her own education, she took a class which introduced her to upholstery, which included sewing, one of her favorite hobbies. In her enjoyment of giving an old piece of furniture new life, she started a small business out of her home reupholstering for clients. She combined her love of teaching and this new talent to facilitate expanding upholstery into the adult education program in the local communities. Her clients only came through referrals, as her artistry for the field was remarkable.

She instilled a strong sense of faith and having fun in life by the many family outings including New York Yankees games, holidays with family, visiting the local sights, and the weeks each year in Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina. Later in life she owned property at that beach to continue the tradition of family and fun.

Her hobbies included crafts of all kinds, including making the centerpieces for her daughter's weddings. She also enjoyed cooking, and while looking through recipe books was able to create new dishes that have become family favorites. 

In her later years, she worked at Country Furniture, which became Fireside Furniture. There, she worked part time for the Gift Shop, where she assisted in the staging and decorating of rooms. She worked there for fifteen years, until she turned 80, and enjoyed every moment. 

Through the years while raising their children, Nancy became an important part of Preakness Baptist Church, where she led many Sunday School Classes and began working with the senior congregants. She eventually founded the ‘Young at Heart’ group for the church, in which she ministered to the aging population, ran activities, and even provided in-home services. Another outreach program that she began at Preakness Baptist Church was ‘Soup for the Soul’ that ran each year through the Lenten period to provide spiritual and physical nourishment for the community at large. At that time, she also became a volunteer for the Baptist Home Society in Paterson. It is during these years that her most important friendships were formed. The Baptist Home eventually became The Cliffs at Eagle Rock, where she was a board member for many years.

In 2021, she decided it was her time to make The Cliff’s in West Orange her new home, remaining on the Board of Directors until her passing..

Nancy is survived by her children Margaret (Peggy) Denequolo, Timothy McDonnell, Elizabeth (Betsy) Botbyl, and Amy Meyer, and her sons-in-laws Ronald Denequolo and Ronald Meyer. In addition, she had 6 grandchildren, Douglas Denequolo, Danielle Denequolo, Jerilyn Meyer, Jenifer Meyer, Liam McDonnell and Magdelena McDonnell. She also welcomed a great-grandchild In June 2023, Isabella Denequolo.

Nancy is predeceased by her husband in 1989, Gerard McDonnell, her parents, Nellie and Fred Shaw, and her son-in-law, Todd Botbyl.

Mae Pepe, age 92, of Wayne, passed away on Sunday, July 2, 2023, surrounded by her children and grandchildren.  Mae was born to Thomas and Angelina Grossi on January 7, 1931, in Paterson, NJ.  She graduated from Central High School and soon after, married Florie Pepe, of Wyoming, Pennsylvania.  

Shortly after having their first child, Florie and Mae moved to Wayne, where they raised their three children, Patricia, Gregory, and David, sending each of them to catholic elementary and high schools and then on to colleges of their own choosing.  In addition to raising her own children, Mae cherished spending time with her three brothers and three sisters, Bette, Jimmy, Rosie, Lou, Tommy, and Emmie.  And through her altruistic nature, she treated their spouses and children as if they were her own - Sam (wed to Bette), Patricia (wed to Lou), Ralph (wed to Rosie) and especially much like a fourth sister to her, Alice (wed to Thomas).

Contrary to social norms, in the 1950’s and 1960’s, Mae began working as a bookkeeper at Nu-Dye in Paterson, as she and Florie raised their family.  She attended William Paterson University part time for business, prior to being hired to work in the accounting departments at both GAF and Becton Dickinson.  Mae officially retired from Becton Dickinson at the age of 62.  However, in true Mae fashion, she knew that keeping busy was important to staying healthy.  She began working for Sterns (renamed Macy’s) in the Wayne Preakness Mall, on a part-time basis.  She officially ended her working career at 87 years old, when Macy’s finally shut their doors.

Mae and Florie were blessed with five grandchildren - Michael Pepe (wife Regina), Lori Schmatz (husband Pete) and Kristin Pepe, children of Gregory (wife Judy), Rebecca Cecala (husband Patrick) daughter of Patricia, and Amanda Pepe, daughter of David (wife Doris).  In addition, they were also blessed with nine great-grandchildren.  As family was so very important to her, Mae always made sure to never miss a birthday party, a gathering, or any outing if it was within her ability to do so.  She was always present, always positive, and grateful for her blessings. 

One of Mae’s greatest pleasures was spending time at the Jersey shore, with her family.  You could often find Mae sitting outside of her beach house, breathing in the saltwater air, and listening to the Yankee game on the radio.  And if she wasn’t there, she would have been at the dining room table, playing cards with her great-grandsons or completing puzzles, which she continued to enjoy until the very end.

Very rarely would Mae take the lead in a situation, but she certainly led by example.  It was always important to her that everyone felt loved and welcomed.  And even in times of struggle and adversity, Mae always demonstrated grace, compassion, and forgiveness.  She never gave herself enough credit for her knowledge and wisdom that she inadvertently imparted to others.  She never acknowledged the profound influence that she had on those who were blessed enough to know her, as she always remained humble.  However, her legacy and the impact that she had on her family and friends will continue to live on in our hearts and minds.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the American Heart Association would be greatly appreciated.  www.heart.org

Dana Marie Bateman (nee Many), aged 42, of Oak Ridge died on July 2nd 2023.

She grew up in Dumont and also lived in Wayne, Wanaque and South Hackensack, ultimately moving to Oak Ridge in 2018.

Dana is survived by Mark, her loving husband of 19 years and her children Evan and Sarah ages 18 and 11 respectively. She is also survived by her mother, Frances Many Harris, her sister Brenda Many, and her stepfather Dwight Harris.

Dana met her future husband Mark on the day they both began work at Pompton Honda in 2002. They became fast friends and were soon inseparable. They moved in together and before long were married in 2004 and were happily blessed with the birth of their son, Evan.

In 2011, they moved to South Hackensack, where they welcomed their daughter Sarah. Dana was so very happy when she found out that she would be having a baby girl.

Dana was truly an amazing woman who loved riding horses as a young girl, a love she passed on to her daughter Sarah. She also loved riding four-wheelers (faster than most guys!) and went on to own several street bikes which she loved to ride, a passion which she passed to her son Evan.

She was truly a confident and fearless individual yet also thoughtful, caring and there when needed. We were all lucky to have had the opportunity to know and love her.

In 2018 Dana moved with her family to Oak Ridge New Jersey into her dream house in the country which she worked hard to transform from just a house into a true family home.

She will be greatly missed by her family and friends and probably anyone who ever met her.

To say that she was amazing, unique and beautiful is an understatement. We will miss her so much, and she will always and forever be in our hearts.

Rest in well-deserved peace and serenity.                                       

Good night, Dana

Ann Catherine (Koenig) Biancheri passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family, on July 2, 2023 at the age of 92.

Ann is survived by Eugene, her loving husband of nearly 65 years, her children Elizabeth Smith and her husband Daniel, Eugene, Jr. and his wife Barbara, Paul, Catherine Danial and her husband Alfred, Philip and his wife Portia, and Maria and her husband Steven De Paul, her grandchildren Rachel Alberque and her husband Michael, Rebecca Smith, Gabrielle Smith, Josef Danial, Genevieve Danial, Marco Danial, Phoebe Biancheri, Julian Biancheri, and Greer Biancheri. She is predeceased by her parents Herman and Lillian Koenig and her sister Lucille Spire. She leaves behind her sister Lillian von Brockdorff and her husband Harold, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Born in the Bronx, Ann was known in the family as the “charming child.” She attended Mount St. Ursula Academy, and then the College of New Rochelle where she majored in art. After graduation, she got a job at Reader’s Digest, which she loved. As a young woman, she volunteered at St. Vincent’s Hospital in NYC. Ann met Gene on a blind date and knew he was “the one.”

Ann was a resident of Wayne, New Jersey and a member of the Our Lady of Consolation parish for over 50 years. She started the pre-school program at OLC and taught there for 17 years. Upon retirement, she started a Rainbows program for the parish, a counseling program for children grieving the loss of a parent. Ann had a wonderful singing voice and was in the church choir for over 30 years. In 2016, together with her husband, Ann received the Vivere Christus award from the Diocese of Paterson in recognition of a lifetime of service.

A talented artist, Ann worked in pastel, pencil, stained glass, sculpture, and felt. She enjoyed entertaining for family and friends and she had the loveliest smile and the most infectious laugh. Ann was a wonderful wife and mother, generous, loving, and devoted. She lived a life of faith, family, and service, and she will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Rainbows for All Children are greatly appreciated. 

Rainbows for All Children

614 Dempster Street

Suite C

Evanston, IL 60202

George Joseph Kaplow, age 76, of Bloomingdale, NJ, passed peacefully on July 1,2023 after a long hospitalization, with his family at his side.

George was born to Albert and Mildred Kaplow, (Formerly Mildred Selzer) on Jun 4, 1947. George’s father was a pharmacist who owned his own pharmacy and popular soda shop. His other was a teacher in the local school district on a part time basis.

He grew up in North Bergen NJ and attended North Bergen High School, where he was a member of a band that performed locally. He later attended New York University where he earned an Associate Degree in Applied Science in Respiratory Therapy.

After graduation he worked for many years at St. Barnabas Hospital in Livingston, NJ, working primarily in the Burn Unit and the NICU.  He later became Assistant Director of Respiratory Therapy at United Hospital in Newark, NJ. After he married, he went to work for Siemens Corporation as a Sales Professional, selling hyperbaric chambers and ventilators; a job he enjoyed very much, despite the large amount of travel involved. He lastly worked for Community Surgical in Tom’s River, NJ until he retired due to the pandemic.

George met and later married the former Anne Dommermuth. They met at St. Barnabas, where Anne was a nurse in the NICU. They later worked together at United Hospital and decided that after 5 years together it was time they got married and start a family. They were married on October 16, 1981, at the home of Anne’s sister and brother-in-law, Doctor Robert and Susan DeBenedetto. The ceremony was performed by the then Mayor of Roseland, NJ. After a 2-day honeymoon, they returned to work as a married couple, to the surprise of their coworkers. They had been married forty-one years at the time of George’s death.

They were blessed with the birth of their daughter, Danielle Elizabeth, on August 27, 1986. George was 39 at the time of her birth and was instantly in love with her. Prior to her birth, he enjoyed racquetball, cooking, music and cars. He adored his daughter and enjoyed taking her to visit family, playing Mario Kart and other similar games (which Danielle usually won), going for ice cream, and in later years they shared many pizzas together while watching game shows on TV. They both loved music and even performed a clarinet duet at the school’s talent show.

George was very supportive of his wife through several chronic illnesses and multiple back surgeries. She will miss his love and support forever.

George was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his wife, Anne; his daughter, Danielle Elizabeth Kaplowe; his brother, Stephen and his wife Susan Kaplowe, and many nieces and nephews on both his and his wife’s sides.

Ralph Cicetti, age 50 of Wayne passed away very unexpectedly on Saturday July 1, 2023

Ralph was born in Belleville at Clara Maas hospital on April 22, 1973 with his fraternal twin brother Donald, Jr. to Donald Sr and Colette Cicetti. He was raised in Stephen Crane Village in Newark and graduated from Essex County Vocational Technical High School in 1993.

Ralph began his career as a mosquito inspector for Essex County Public Works in 1998 thru 2020 and was most recently employed by Mosquito Shield in West Orange.

Ralph was loving, caring, funny and kind-hearted. He loved cooking and baking, especially his Christmas cookies which included his grandmother’s recipe for pignoli cookies. He loved his sports, including Yankees Baseball and Nascar. He was the most avid Minnesota Vikings football fan and a season ticket holder to the New Jersey Devils hockey team. He was truly a “fanatic”. He loved being with his friends at dinners, parties and social gatherings.

Ralph met his wife Cheryl thru going to the New Jersey Devils hockey games, where they both held season tickets separately. Ralph would bring his nephew Gary and Cheryl would bring her nephew Jack. They would occasionally meet for the warm-ups for the team , or see each other at team events,  and pass each other on the concourse, until Ralph finally asked her out for dinner. They were married on August 30, 2015 to a New Jersey Devils themed wedding and reception. They have now been season ticket holders together for 20 years.

Ralph is pre-deceased by his father Donald Cicetti, Sr and his mother-in-law Pat Sisco

Ralph is survived by his loving wife Cheryl (Sisco) of Wayne, his mother Colette Cicetti, brother Donald, Jr. and sister Gina Cicetti (formerly Falzarano) , all of Toms River. His father-in-law Arnold Sisco, sister-in-law Laurie Palatucci and her husband Angelo. Nephews, Gary Falzarano and his wife Marissa, Anthony Palatucci and his wife Lauren, Nick Palatucci and Jack Palatucci. Nieces, Antonia Mages and her husband Alex, Taylor Cicetti and his god-daughter Gia Falzarano. Great nephew Salvatore Falzarano and great niece Anella Mages. His aunts, uncles , and cousins.

To assist Cheryl with these unexpected circumstances, please click HERE to donate to the GoFundMe campaign. Any amount is truly and gratefully appreciated. 

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Patricia A. Longo, age 74, of Wayne NJ.

Patricia passed away peacefully on Friday, June 30, 2023 while receiving the loving care of her family.

Patricia was born in Paterson and raised in Wanaque, NJ.  She was the youngest of three children to Rosario and Della Longo.  Those who came to know Patricia best, affectionately referred to her as “Patty.”  

Patty attended Lakeland Regional High School and graduated with the class of 1966.  Immediately following her graduation from high school, Patty found work quickly as a secretary in accounting at American Cyanamid in Wayne, NJ.  Years later, while Patty was still working with American Cyanamid, a new company was created through them called Cytec.  Patty accepted a position with Cytec in Woodland Park, NJ and remained employed with them until her retirement in 2013.  

Patty at first lived in Haskell, NJ and after her father’s passing she moved to Hawthorne, NJ with her mom.  While living in Hawthorne her mom passed away.  Patty remained in Hawthorne until 2013 when she moved to Wayne following her retirement and has been there ever since.    

Throughout her life, Patty was truly dedicated to her Catholic Faith.  While living in Haskell, she was a parishioner of St Francis Catholic Church.  She was also a parishioner of St Anthony Catholic Church in Hawthorne and most recently a parishioner of Our Lady of Consolation Church after moving to Wayne about ten years ago.  

Patty truly enjoyed cooking and baking.  She was famous through her family and friends for her Christmas cookies.  She also loved to knit and sew.  She knitted blankets, sweaters, and hats for her nieces and nephews and her friends every time there was an announcement of a birth.  She also treasured shopping at various Shopping Outlet locations.  She took great pride in saving money and being extremely thrifty.  

Aside from all of Patty’s hobbies and interests, her greatest passion was for her family and friends.  Nothing in the world meant more to Patty than spending time with those she loved.  Patty was a quiet sweet lady, easy going, and made friends wherever she went. She was always able to see the good in everyone she met and never had a bad word to say about anyone.  Patty will be truly missed by her family and friends.

Patty is survived by her brother George Longo and his wife Elissa of Toms River, NJ, two nieces; her goddaughter Doreen Longo of Toms River, and Lisa Marie Longo Cavico and her husband Stephen of Brick Township, NJ, one grandniece Diana Cavico of Brick Township, NJ  and her dear friend Bruce Vivino of Wayne, NJ.  She was predeceased by her sister Joan D’Alessio.  

In lieu of flowers, donations in Patricia’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959, www.stjude.org 

Edna Antionette Malyack, age 61, of Wayne passed Thursday June 29th, 2023, with the comfort of family by her side.

On June 13, 1962, Edna was born in Msida, Malta to Stella Runza and was adopted by John and Esther Galea in Manhattan, New York. Interestingly, the building they lived in was owned by actor Ben Gazzara’s mother who, along with Ben sometimes, would babysit for her.  The family then bought a house in Astoria, Queens, where Edna ultimately graduated from Mater Christi H.S. in the Class of 1980.  She took on many jobs, including McDonald’s, Citibank, Apple Bank, Swingline, and the Bibb Company ultimately completing her Secretarial Degree from Drake Business School in 1987.

Edna met the love of her life, Christopher, briefly after high school in a bowling alley (she became a very good bowler, incidentally.) . They immediately fell in love and were married on July 28th, 1990 at Saint Francis Roman Catholic Church in Astoria, Queens, New York with a reception at Roslyn Country Club. They honeymooned in the Poconos, Pennsylvania, at Cove Haven where they won a couples billiards competition and spent their time relaxing together at the resort. They enjoyed a loving and devoted marriage of 33 years.

An industrious and relentless worker, she took on second jobs many times throughout her working history.  Edna worked as a waitress at Uno’s, and did home typing for an insurance company while working these other positions.   Upon the birth of her first child, Colette, in 1994 she switched her career trajectory to homemaker with the intention of focusing on raising her children and caring for her mother-in-law. She gave birth to a second child, Joseph, in 1997.  When she did return to working part-time she drew her attention to jobs in the community ranging from bowling alley assistant to school bus driver. Her final position before being placed on disability was at Jordan Transportation.

Edna was loving, caring, and devoted to her family and closest friends. Without hesitation she would provide support to those nearest and dearest to her. She was a great cook, world traveler, and a jack of all trades willing to participate in any hobby or activity presented to her. Without fear Edna would challenge herself and others to grow and take advantage of every opportunity, no matter how frightening. Her personality and presence brought a brightness to every family outing and friendly get together.

As mentioned before, Edna and Chris’ marriage was blessed with two children; Colette and Joseph. Edna was a devoted and compassionate mother. Always wanting the best for her children and unafraid to fight for them no matter the personal cost. She left a mark on the lives of all who met her. Her immeasurable strength in the face of hardships and positive outlook in the worst scenarios is a lasting inspiration to all.

She is survived by her husband, Christopher, her daughter Colette, son-in-law John Paul, son Joseph, future daughter-in-law Abbey, mother-in-law Yvonne, and countless friends and other relatives.

 In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the National Scleroderma Foundation, 300 Rosewood Dr., Suite 105, Danvers, MA 01923, or the Pulmonary Hypertension Association, 8401 Colesville Rd, Suite 200, Silver Spring, MD 20910 would be greatly appreciated.

Sharon Ann Gough, age 64, of Wayne passed Thursday, June 29, 2023, surrounded by her family.

Sharon was born to Albert and Ruth Backus and grew up in Pompton Lakes, NJ. After graduating high school she was employed by the US Postal Service.  Unbeknownst to her, she was working with her future father-in-law who set them up on their first date in 1979. After 3 years she married the love of her life, Kurt Gough. They started building their beautiful life together and welcomed their pride and joy into the world, their son Michael, in 1986. 

Sharon proudly graduated from William Paterson University with her Bachelors of Science in Nursing in 1995. She began her beloved career as a Registered Nurse and was well known for her passionate, caring, and loving nature. She worked in various disciplines until finding her calling in oncology. After 15 years Sharon began working at Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Wayne, where she worked closely with co-worker and friend Dr. Stephan Dorkhom until her passing. Her co-workers and patients were like family.

Sharon joined the Wayne First Aid Squad in 1999 (member number: 391) where she proudly donated her time to serve the community. She was a very active member in this organization and was involved in running many tricky trays and wet downs. This organization became a family affair when her husband and son joined her and they would take many calls together. She was recognized as EMT of the Year in 2007 and honorably received the prestigious Kathleen Bolan Memorial Award in 2008.

Sharon was well known for her love of cooking and baking; she could spend all day in the kitchen. She enjoyed playing bingo and going to the casino to win the big one and enjoyed fishing to catch the big one. Sharon loved her annual trips to Florida, where she was always on the hunt to find a new casino. She enjoyed sewing. She had a love for animals, loved to watch the deer and feed the birds off her deck. She especially loved her poodles (AKA “The Girls”), Katie and Ally.

Sharon is survived by her husband, Kurt; her son Mike and his wife Amanda; her brother-in-law Wayne and his wife Linda of Hackettstown; and her brother Albert and his wife Kimberly of Kinnelon. Sharon also leaves behind a niece, nephews, cousins, and many friends. She was predeceased by her parents, Albert Backus, Sr. and Ruth Backus (Barkenbush). 

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Wayne Township Memorial First Aid Squad would be greatly appreciated. (https://www.waynefirstaid.com/donate.php)

Ruth Lois Carlson, age 89, of Wayne NJ passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. 

Ruth was born to Cornelia (Katie) and Cornelius Grinwis on August 13, 1933, the youngest of five children.  She graduated Clifton High School where she met Lorraine Sager, a lifelong friend and fellow adventurer, and her husband, Allen Carlson.  She continued her education at Passaic General Nursing School. 

Ruth’s professional career spanned many aspects of nursing, from doctor’s offices to Labor & Delivery, to Visiting Nurse to Utilization Review.  She retired from Preakness Hospital in 1999 where she was Infection Control/Quality Assurance Director.  Ruth’s passion for nursing encompassed all areas of her life.  She used her nursing skills on anyone who needed help and shared her medical knowledge freely. 

Ruth loved spending time with family and friends.  Her door was open to all.  Her Christmas Open House parties were legendary, along with her famous sausage peppers and onions.  During the summer months she spent many days by her pool where, again, all were welcome. 

If Ruth wasn’t home at her pool, she was at the beach.  Every summer she would pack up her kids and any willing participant and drive to Gulf Shores, Alabama to her sister Grace’s beach house.  She would visit Freeport, Bahamas with Lorraine every winter.  Later in life she would spend summers with her children and grandchildren at Myrtle Beach and the Jersey Shore.   She travelled extensively in the Caribbean.  Most sunsets she would crack open an ice cold canned beer on the beach and savor the moment. 

Ruth’s passport was filled with stamps from Egypt, Greece, Netherlands, Turkey, Belgium, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and Africa. She white water rafted on the Zambezi River (grade 5) in her 70’s.  She enjoyed travelling to many Western states with her boyfriend Don Fissel, Lorraine, and other friends.  She had no qualms about travelling alone – if there was somewhere she wanted to go, she went.  

Ruth’s hobbies included bridge, tennis, bowling, reading, scrabble, doing crosswords, and ping pong.  She owned multitudes of cats; at one time she had 16, including rescued feral cats.  She was a talented artist and her oil paintings are displayed throughout her home. 

Ruth lived in Packanack Lake for 56 years and loved the community.  She was known as Dr. Ruth for her frank and open conversation.  She had a quick wit and a wry sense of humor.  She made an indelible impression on everyone she encountered. 

Ruth was a loving and supportive mom to Cathy, Tommy and Barbara and an adoring mema to James, Samantha and Katie.  She was an amazing Aunt Ruth to numerous nieces and nephews and a great friend and confidant to many. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Wayne Animal Shelter, 201 Pompton Plains Crossroads, Wayne NJ or the Wayne Memorial First Aid Squad, PO Box 2004, Wayne NJ, would be appreciated. 

Mary L. Carlon, age 92, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 26, 2023.  Born on July 15, 1930, in Orange, NJ.  She was the oldest daughter to the late Charles and Catherine Schauder. 

Mary Lou, as she was affectionately known, grew up in Bloomfield, NJ and attended Immaculate Conception High School in Montclair, where she was active on the Girls Varsity Basketball team.  

After high school, Mary Lou went on to attend Berkeley Secretarial School where she obtained a degree as an Executive Assistant.  Mary Lou worked briefly for Prudential Insurance and then became the secretary and bookkeeper for her husband’s business for over 30 years.   She would use her shorthand skills to keep the children’s Christmas lists a secret.  

As all great New Jersey love stories began, Mary Lou and Jim met one night at a Jersey Shore bar called Campbells Evans in Belmar.  Jim offered to buy Mary Lou a drink and they hit it off, starting a lifetime of memories. 

Mary Lou and Jim married on November 26th, 1955, at St. Thomas Church in Bloomfield, NJ and honeymooned in Florida.  Dinner time was always important to Marylou and Jim, demanding the family eat together.  There was always room at the table for many guests.  Mary Lou and Jim spent 58 years devoted to each other, their family and faith until Jim’s passing in 2013.  

One of Mary Lou’s favorite Christmas traditions, carried on from her mother, was buying a special Christmas ornament for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  Each ornament would be unique to each child and depict a special event that happened in their lives during that year.  Everyone would rush to the Christmas tree to find their name on the special ornament.  Those annual ornaments adorn each one of their own Christmas trees as a tribute to their parent and grandmother.  

Mary Lou was one of the founding members of Our Lady of Consolation Church.  Her Catholic Faith was very important to her.  She volunteered in the cafeteria while her children were attending school and she worked hot dog Day and McDonalds day.   Mary Lou was involved with the Rosary Society, the Prayer Shawl Ministry and Seniors Unlimited.  She also volunteered in the Parish office, answering the phone, doing mailings and preparing the weekly bulletins for mass.  Fr. Wolsin and Fr. Michael knew that Mary Lou and Jim were always willing to help in any aspect that was needed.  

Mary Lou also volunteered at Chilton Hospital for over 25 years, working the front desk and other jobs that volunteers were assigned. 

Mary Lou was a diehard Giants fan, Notre Dame fan, and Mets fan and would spend late nights on the phone talking to her grandchildren and texting them about the game.

Mary Lou is survived by her 8 children: Kathleen Bionde and her husband Jim (Pompton Plains), Ann Feeney and her husband Kevin (Pequannock), Patti Ringen and her husband Jeff (Pompton Plains), Jim Carlon and his wife Dawn (Allentown, PA), Elizabeth Stockinger (Pompton Plains), Michael Carlon and his wife Joanne (Pompton Plains), Mary Thomas and her husband Ben (Pequannock), and John Carlon and his wife Jenene (Pequannock); along with her 26 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren – the first Carlon great grandchild will be coming in September of 2023!  Mary Lou is also survived by her sister-in-law Ruth Ellen Schauder and many nieces and nephews. 

Mary Lou is predeceased by her parents: Catherine and Charles Schauder; her husband James Carlon, her siblings Charles (Bud) Schauder and his wife Eileen, Donald Schauder, Gertrude Brennan and her husband Bill, 6 nieces and nephews and one great grandchild Amelia. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Atlantic Health Visiting Nurse Hospice and Ecuador Quilt are greatly appreciated. 

In Loving Memory of
Sharon Farnon
1946-2023

Sharon Farnon, Age 76, passed away on Sunday June 25th 2023 at Cleveland Tradition Hospital in Stuart Florida with family at her side. Born in Iowa the youngest daughter of Milton-Stevenson, later moving to Wayne New Jersey and marrying her husband Robert J. Farnon, before retiring together to Port St. Lucie Florida in 2002. 

She pursued a career in finance, where she flourished eventually reaching and retiring as the regional manager for PNC Banks in New Jersey. It was through her career connections she also met Robert Farnon, the love of her life. They married in 1988 and shared many happy years together. Sharon was an avid golfer and past member of the Upper Montclair Country Club in Clifton, and PGA Country Club in Port St. Lucie. She enjoyed mahjong, mystery novels, watching British television, and was also a loyal supporter and contributing member of the St. Jude Children’s Foundation. Most of all Sharon loved her family, and cherished the time she spent with them. 

Mrs. Farnon is survived by her three daughters Catherine Mendel, Donna Gedra, and Kristin Farnon-Szieber, her ten grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and her sister Joan Stevenson Rusk. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Robert J. Farnon, and one daughter Suzanne Farnon-Walker. 

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Sharon’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. 

Jarret William Smith, age 44, of Wayne, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Friday, June 23, 2023.

Born to William and Patricia (Stanisci) Smith in Livingston, NJ, Jarret spent his formative years in Bloomfield, where he forged lifelong friendships with whom he cherished as brothers. A graduate of Bloomfield High School, Jarret was an integral part of the school's soccer team. He furthered his education at Seton Hall University, graduating with the Class of 2001 and earning a Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design.

Throughout his entire life, Jarret worked in the automotive industry, fueled by his passion for cars and his genuine desire to help others. His dedication and entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish a successful business within the industry.

Jarret was known for his loving and caring nature, always putting his family and friends first. He dedicated his life to supporting his loved ones and worked tirelessly to build a bright future for them. Whether it was lending a helping hand or offering a listening ear, Jarret was always there, selflessly assisting those in need without expecting anything in return. His remarkable character and unwavering devotion earned him the status of a brother to many. Jarret found immense joy in gathering his loved ones together, creating an atmosphere of happiness, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Thirteen years ago, Jarret met the love of his life, Amy. Their marriage on September 21, 2019, was a testament to their devoted and loving relationship. Jarret eagerly anticipated the arrival of their son, due in September. He also cherished his daily walks with Charlie, their beloved Labrador, and the cozy moments spent snuggling on the couch with both Amy and Charlie.

Jarret is survived by his beloved wife Amy (Stack) and their soon-to-be-born son (due September). Predeceased by his father, William Smith. He is also survived by his mother, Patricia (Stanisci) Smith, father-in law and mother-in-law John and Carol Stack, sister Heather (Betty)  Smith-Bermudez, brother-in-law Michael (Christine) Stack, uncle to Yazmine, Ashley, Trisha, Jack, and Timothy, and great uncle to Luis, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, family, and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial donations to Jarret's Smith's Go Fund Me page, which would be greatly appreciated in this difficult time.

Jarret's sudden departure leaves a void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. May his spirit live on through the cherished memories he leaves behind, and may his soul find eternal peace.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Jarret's Go Fund Me page would be greatly appreciated.

Hortencia Rizzo Andrade, was a dedicated and devoted homemaker and a life-long resident of Guayaquil, Ecuador.  The importance of her family and friends were her main priority in life and she led by example of how to be the matriarch of the family.

Hortencia was born in Salitre, Ecuador on July 25, 1927 to her father Abel Felipe Rizzo, and mother, Carmen Andrade. Hortencia had a smile that would simply light up a room. She had a warmth that would make you feel like you belonged and a love that would always bring comfort. Her house was always open, and she welcomed everyone with open arms as they were family. She had a passion for gardening, singing, gambling, and cooking. Hortencia’s favorite thing to do was to be with her family and friends. There was nothing better than being surrounded by people she loved, creating memories, and having a little bit of Johnnie Walker Blue to celebrate all that life had to offer.

Hortencia leaves behind her three beloved daughters, Marlene Ragusca, Bianca Vanderbeck, Pilar Sanchez and her husband Adan Sanchez, her sister Gladys Rizzo, and five adored grandchildren, Bonnie Watts and her husband Eric Watts, Bianca Erika Bayley husband David Bayley, Adrian Sanchez, Sebastian Sanchez, and Luciano Sanchez.

Lastly, she was able to have many cherished memories with her 4 great grandchildren Gabriella Watts, Brandon Watts, Gavin Bayley, and Preston Bayley.

Our Dad, Joseph J. Sandi age 100 of Wayne, passed away Monday June 19, 2023.

Joseph was the seventh child born to Vincent and Maria in 1923 in NYC, NY. His siblings, who predeceased him were Eleanor, Marie, Angelo, Sisto, Louis and Salvatore.

He attended college and graduated with a B.S. degree in accounting. Joseph was passionate about his work and pursued work as an Accountant with the Union Carbide Corporation where he worked at several of their office locations for 39 years, having finished his career having retired from their Tarrytown, NY offices.

Joseph was in the Army during WWII along with his brothers. Sadly, Sisto and Angelo died in the war. Because WWII was coming to an end, and Joseph’s family had sacrificed two children, the Army Honorably Discharged Joseph in September of 1943, ahead of his service obligation.

After his discharge he went to the hospital for surgery where he met the love of his life, Ruth who he affectionately called his “girlfriend” through the years. Sometime later after they were married (they were married 67 years) they were blessed with two children Cheryl and John.

Joseph was a man who truly enjoyed his retirement.  He spent much of his time working in the yard, taking walks with his wife, and traveling to new and exciting places.  He loved spending time with his family and was always excited to celebrate many events with them. He enjoyed working with numbers, so it wasn’t unusual to hear him help friends with tax questions. He loved to play golf and had a growing collection of coins that he was proud of.  Joseph enjoyed life to the fullest and cherished every moment he had with his loved ones.

Joseph was not only dedicated to his family but also his community. He was a member a Lifetime of the American Legion 50 years, Golden Age Circle of Wayne 39 years and a former member of the Wayne First Aid Squad (exempt member).

Joseph was predeceased by his wife Ruth(d.2015) and his six siblings. He is survived by his daughter Cheryl, son John and daughter-in-law Janet.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Wayne Memorial First Aid Squad, PO Box 2004, Wayne, NJ, 07474 would be greatly appreciated.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Charles R. DeBrock of Pompton Plains, NJ.

Charles passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 18, 2023 while receiving the loving care of his family.  He was born in his family home in Hawthorne, NJ and was the youngest of ten children to Peter and Amelia DeBrock.  Charles’ mother had passed away while he was a young boy.  These circumstances led him to move in with his sister Elenore and other siblings for various periods of time.

He attended Central High School in Paterson and graduated with the class of 1948.  Following his high school graduation, Charles felt it in his heart to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Army.  While serving in the US Army, Charles was stationed at Fort Knox in Kentucky where he was assigned as an LT VEH Driver.  Charles was awarded the Korean Service Medal, three Bonze Service Stars, the United Nations Service Medal, as well as the National Defense Service Medal.  Charles served honorably and proudly in the US Army from 1951 to 1953.  

After his honorable discharge from the armed forces, Charles found work quickly with Erie Railroad where he worked for several years.  He took advantage of the GI Bill and went to school at night and earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting.  Subsequent to earning his degree in Accounting, Charles again found employment quickly with Trans Colonial Trucking located in Suffern, NY.  Charles’ career with Trans Colonial spanned more than twenty years.  Following the closing of Trans Colonial, Charles accepted an accounting position with Walter Bauman Jeweler in West Orange, NJ.  He later earned his Real Estate License and was employed with Stoney Brook Realty in Towaco until his retirement in 1995.  Charles continued working part time in Real Estate for many years after his official retirement.

As a young man, Charles met an attractive young lady who worked in the State Employment Office named Carmela Ciarla.  At first Carmela wasn’t interested in Charles and was trying to fix him up with one of her friends, however, they agreed to go out on a date together to see a Rock Hudson movie.  As fate would have it, they fell in love and they became husband and wife in 1955 at St. Anthony’s RC Church.  They settled in Wayne, NJ after getting married and while residing there, they welcomed the births of all five of their children.  After raising their family in Wayne, in 1977 Charles and Carmela moved to Pompton Plains where they remained for the rest of their lives.  

Charles was a truly devoted husband and dedicated himself to caring for his wife Carmela when she fell ill.  Charles and Carmela cherished their fifty-seven years in their loving and loyal marriage together until Carmela’s passing in December of 2012.  

Charles enjoyed the art of woodworking, oil painting and took delight in fresh water fishing.  He was an outstanding cook and loved to bake.  He was famous by family and friends for his Peach Tart and his Chocolate Chocolate cake.  He was also a devoted New York Giants fan.  But aside from all of Charles’ talents, hobbies, and interests, his greatest passion was for his family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Charles than providing for and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.  Charles was not only dedicated to his family but also to his Catholic Faith.  He and his family were parishioners of Our Lady of Good Counsel RC Church in Pompton Plains for many years.  

Charles will forever be remembered as a humble man who was liked by everyone that met him.  He was funny, uplifting to others, and often times selfless.  He always had a positive attitude and was able to see the good in people.  He had an infectious personality that left an impression on all those around him.  Charles will be sincerely missed by his family and friends. Including his girlfriend Diane Kayser of ten years. Diane and Charles met at a grief meeting after they both lost their spouses. They spent the last ten years traveling,  going out to dinner, spending time at the casino, enjoying shows and solving puzzles.

Charles is survived by his five children; his daughter Theresa Rink and her husband Donald of Wanaque, NJ, his son Christopher DeBrock and his wife Laura of Towaco, NJ, his daughter Lisa Kane and her husband David of Kinnelon, NJ, his daughter Eileen Schissler and her husband Mark of Flanders, NJ, and his daughter Paula DeBrock of Pompton Plains, NJ,  twelve grandchildren; Erica Torres, Brandon Rink, Christopher DeBrock, Kelsy DeBrock, Kristen Abou-Ezzeddine, Heather Schissler, Kaitlyn Schissler, Troy Kane, Kyle Kane, Sean Kane, Sierra Messina, and Chas Messina, and two great grandchildren; AJ Torres and Amelia Mae Torres.  He was predeceased by his wife Carmela DeBrock in 2012 and by his siblings, Elenore, Jean, Peter, James, Dorothy, Edna, Ruth, Edith, and Mildred.

Richard A. White, age 85 of Pompton Plains, NJ, and formerly of Wayne and Galloway, died on Sunday, June 18, 2023.

“Dick,”as most knew him, grew up in Warren, Pennsylvania, living and working on the family farm in Starbrick, PA. At an early age, he set out to read every book he could get his hands on. Once he finished all the books in his small school library, he went back and read his favorites over again and again, often the history books. 

After graduating from Warren High School in 1956, Dick wasted no time in joining the U.S. Air Force.  He was stationed all around the United States during his time in the service, including McGuire AFB in New Jersey. He served proudly as a Ground Surveillance Radar Technician with the 332nd Fighter-Interceptor Squadron from 1956 – 1960. 

Upon his honorable discharge from the Air Force in 1961, Dick began working forBunker Ramo Corporation, a leader in computer innovation. He stayed on with them throughout his entire forty-one-year career! He retired in 2000 as a Field Service Engineer. During that time he also served in the National Guard.

Dick met his wife, Lynn, while he was in the Air Force. Stationed at McGuire AirForce Base, he and his fellow Airmen would head ‘down the shore’ to Seaside Heights. On one particular day, they stopped to talk with some girls that caught their eye. Lynn accepted a date with Dick, and a romance ensued. 

When Dick started his new job with Bunker Ramo, it required a move to Salt Lake City, Utah. Not wanting to be separated, Lynn and Dick tied the knot on July 24,1961 and headed west. They lived in Salt Lake City for the first four months of their marriage before coming back to New Jersey. They settled in North Arlington for ten years, then lived in the Lions Head Lake section of Wayne fornearly fifteen years, followed by twenty years in Montville. They retired to Galloway, NJ where they lived for nearly fifteen years before settling at Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains just three years ago. They enjoyed some wonderful travel together over the years, visiting places like Mexico, Bavaria, Russia, Italy, The Netherlands, England, and almost all of the fifty United States. They also treasured several multi-generational family vacations over the years with their children and grandchildren. He and Lynn had over sixty wonderful years together, and she will miss him dearly.

Dick loved wildlife photography and had won awards for his pictures. He also remained an avid reader during his lifetime and was a true history buff. He loved playing chess, cards, and darts. He also loved all things technology. He was a pretty darned good cook, too, in later years. He was a fan of the NY Mets, the NY Jets, and the Penn State Nittany Lions. More recently at Cedar Crest Village, he was a skilled Bocce ball player and co-captain of “The Olympians” Bocce team. He lived well and made good use of the time he enjoyed here.

Dick was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and uncle. Family meant everything to him. He is survived by his dear wife of almost sixty-two years; Lynn of Pompton Plains, their two children; Bill White and his wife Julia of Ardmore, PA, and Dana White Petrie and her husband Bob of Wayne, and six grandchildren; Miranda, Rebecca, and Sarah White, and Siena, Nieve, and Blaise Petrie, as well as several nieces, nephews, and half siblings. He was predeceased by his three siblings; David White, Nancy Griffin, and Linda (Marion) Swanson. He was also predeceased by Carol and Morris Hauser, his mother- and father-in-law, who loved him like a son. 

Don M. Matthews, age 88, of Wanaque, NJ passed away Sunday, June 18, 2023, with family by his side.

Don was born to Don E. and Lorena Matthews in Jacksonville, Texas, just outside of Dallas. He graduated from North Dallas High School playing for the football team and sparking his interest in the field of Chemistry. He frequently told a story that he actually played in the Cotton Bowl. It is true it was just in high school!  Don met the love of his life, Rosemary in Dallas in 1956. Rosemary had finished her degree at the University of Arizona and went to Dallas with her friends that year. They were married in Denton, TX in August of 1957.

Also in 1957, he earned a MS degree in Chemistry from Oklahoma University. Don’s first jobs were in the chemical industry with Humko Sheffield, a Division of Kraft Foods in Tennessee. His job as a chemical salesman, while the beginning of his career, it was also the beginning of several relocations because of the work he was doing. Between 1957 and 1963, he relocated to the following states: Tennessee, Illinois, Texas and then finally to NJ.

During this time, they raised 2 children: Kelly born in 1959 and Scott born in 1963. While Kelly was born in Illinois and Scott in Houston, both children were essentially raised in Morristown, NJ for their childhood and young adult lives. While Don is a true Texan through and through, it would also be true that the Matthews family would call Morristown their hometown. Don and Rosemary enjoyed a loving and devoted marriage for 66 years.

In 1979, he was appointed general manager of the Chemical Specialties Division of PVO International, Inc. located in Boonton, NJ. He was formerly the division general sales manager. He was responsible for the sales and marketing of the line of specialty additives for the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, textile and thermoplastics industries. PVO went through several different ownerships in the next few years. It was acquired by Kay Corporation in 1980.

During this time, Don traveled for work but also for fun. Don and Rosemary would drive across the country to visit various sites, visit friends and relatives and often return to Rosemary’s roots in Tucson Arizona. Don enjoyed showing the Arizona sites to his grandkids, Michael and Max.  They also took trips to Europe. Highlights include Amsterdam and the Netherlands where they would purchase some of their most prized antique furniture to furnish their home. There was another trip to Rome where they rented an apartment right in the middle of the city for an entire month.

Don was an avid gardener. On his 2-acre home in Morristown, NJ he would work tirelessly to grow numerous kinds of fruits and vegetables: okra, zucchini, corn, cucumbers, lettuce, watermelons, strawberries and green beans to name a few. Every summer we would often have entire meals from his garden.

To complement his gardening skills, Don was also a master of the grill. Always using charcoal, but also experimenting with different woods (he had an apple tree in the backyard) for delicious smoked meats. During all seasons he would BBQ whether it was 20 below in the winter or pouring down rain in the spring. A few times, in his later years, the fire department paid him a visit because of the amount of smoke coming from his BBQ . . . the fire department had never seen such thing!

Anyone who has a memory of Don Matthews will remember one of the parties or celebrations. Whether it was in Morristown, Manhattan, Nyack, or Tucson, or even in the end in Wanaque, NJ, Don and Rosemary had the best of friends and had the best of times. He will be greatly missed.

John Vincent Chiaramonte, age 96 of Wayne, formerly of Nutley, NJ, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2023. Born on February 11th, 1927, in Newark, NJ, he was the son of the late Joseph and Dominica Chiaramonte. 

From the time John was a boy he had a strong work ethic that led him to excel in anything he set his mind to. He attended Immaculate Conception High School in Montclair where he played baseball, basketball, and his two most competitive sports football and track which he lettered in. Somehow amidst all his training for sports and his education, he found time to commit himself to working multiple jobs. His incredible work ethic instilled in him from his parents never faded. He worked for years and saved up what he could to eventually put himself through college not once but twice! He would go on to graduate from Seton Hall University first with a degree in business and then again to earn a degree in education as well.

John was incredibly proud of his Seton Hall education. He loved the school and it left such a mark on him that he decided to become a teacher himself. John had a knack for teaching every subject but those who knew him will remember him for his fascination with science and nature – it only follows that he favored teaching those subjects! 

In 1946 John would meet the love of his life. Rosemary was the sibling of one of John’s friend Otto, but the moment he first saw her he knew he was in love. He asked Otto to introduce him and the two never looked back. They attended countless dances and parties together before their eventual marriage in 1951. Rosemary and John enjoyed a loving and devoted marriage to one another. They settled in Nutley, NJ where they spent many wonderful years together raising their three children. John’s charisma and his knack for socializing led him to be a well-known figure in Nutley for many years until the two decided to retire to Tom’s River. His grandchildren will remember many fond memories with John exploring nature, bird watching, and picking fresh blueberries off a secret path John found in the woods.

John will be remembered for his ability to be naturally funny. He could make an entire room belly laugh with nothing but his wits and a simple gesture. His friends will remember his great sense of humor, but also his competitive edge that saw him playing Pinochle every Friday and even bowling well into his 90’s! One of John’s most admirable traits was his strong work ethic. He was unquestionably reliable, always on time, and never missed a day. John is a role model to everyone who knew him, and he will be dearly missed.

John is survived by his three children: Sue and her spouse Andy Kish, Linda and her spouse Randy Diana, and John and his spouse Michael Chiaramonte; six grandchildren: Ryan and his spouse JenniferKish, Thomas and his spouse Kacy Kish, Mathew Diana, Lauren Chiaramonte, Olivia Chiaramonte, and Reese Chiaramonte; his great grandchild Adalyn Kish. John is predeceased by his spouse Rosemary Chiaramonte; parents Joseph Chiaramonte and Dominica Chiaramonte; sister Phyllis Dugan; and his grandchild Nicholas Diana. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in John’s memory to St. Joseph’s Indian School

Mary Abajian (nee Tchalikian), age 91 of Pembroke Pines, Florida, died peacefully on Saturday, June 17, 2023. She had been a seamstress for over seventy years.

Mary was the child of an Armenian Genocide survivor, Artine Tchalikian from Marash, and Wadiha Tohme. Her father had fled the massacres and deportations occurring in Marash and settled to Jerusalem, Palestine.

Mary grew up in Jerusalem, and in 1952 she married Fayez Manuel Abajian. Mary and Fayez moved to Beirut, Lebanon, after they were married. They were blessed with three sons, Tony, Harry, and Berge. In 1976, due to civil war in Lebanon, Fayez and Mary moved their family to New Jersey. Mary was a model wife and a very elegant, classy mother and grandmother.  She was devoted to her family. She had a business mind, working as a seamstress while raising three sons and ensuring they each received the best education and sending them to the best schools in Lebanon. She always enjoyed discussing business with her children and encouraged them to follow their dreams. She also helped raise her grandchildren.

Everyone knew Mary as a very energetic, Optimistic woman who was loved by her family and friends.  Her house was always open to everyone. She loved music and dancing. Even in her last days, she listened to music on YouTube and sang along to the tunes.

She is survived by her three sons; Tony and his wife Sylvie, Harry and his wife Magda, and Berge and his wife Arpi, her grandchildren; Gregory, Sandra, Steven, and Shant, her brother Berge and her sister Alice.  She will be sorely missed by her family and friends. She will always be in their hearts and minds.

In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Leon’s Church would be appreciated. 

Ethel M Ferray, age 96 of Wayne passed away on Friday, June 16, 2023.

She was born on February 21, 1927 to George, Sr. and Margaret (nee Grasso) Fitzgerald and raised in Elmwood Park along with her older brother, George Jr. and younger sister Margaret (Peggy).

She graduated East Side High School in Paterson in 1944 and was the Treasurer of her Junior High School Public School 25 in Paterson.

She married Charles Ferray April 15^th, 1950. They moved to Wayne after building their dream home in 1965 where they raised their only child, Dennis.

Ethel’s first job was waitressing at a restaurant in Paterson, NJ. When her boss opened the Wayne Manor, he asked her to work there where she later became a head waitress and then the bookkeeper. She retired at age 75 after being there for over 40 years.

She loved animals and had dogs, cats and birds for many years. She reveled in her “grand dogs” when she no longer had her own. She also loved to travel with her friends particularly to historic locations where she always brought back historical information for her family on where she’d been.

Her passion was fashion. She loved to shop for clothes, mix and match donning the latest classy fashions complete with matching shoes and purses. Her favorite activity was dining out checking out new restaurants with her big circle of friends.

She leaves behind her only child, Dennis, his wife Leslee and the center of her universe, her granddaughter, Shannon. She was predeceased by her precious brother, George Fitzgerald, Jr and sister Margaret (Peggy) Lozito.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alan Parcell Wayne Animal Shelter, 201 Pompton Plains Crossroad, Wayne, NJ  07470.  www.waynetownship.com/animal-shelter.html

Edward Wolf, age 86, of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 15, 2023.

Ed, the most loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather, is survived by his wife, Mary; sons, Edward and James; daughter, Debbie; grandsons, EJ, Garret, James and Thomas; granddaughters, Camryn, Vanessa, Krystina, and Lori; Son in law, Glenn Laborda; and Daughter in laws. Karen and Sonia.

Ed joined the Army and proudly served his country in the 82nd Airborne in North Carolina. When his military service ended, Ed met Mary, the love of his life, and the woman who would stand by his side through thick and thin. 

Ed had the perfect personality and natural charisma to make friends no matter the situation, and his whit was infectious to everyone around him. He was a man who went above and beyond to make sure everyone had whatever they needed and his goal was always to leave them in a better place.

As a man of true integrity, Ed would never compromise under any circumstances. He was a blue jean and t-shirt kind of a guy Ed who never focused on himself. Instead, his family was his greatest joy and highest priority and he always did his best to provide his wife and children with the best life possible.

Ed was a truly great man whose impact will be forever felt by his family and friends who all loved him dearly. He was a selfless man whose passing leaves an unfillable gap in the hearts of all. His ability to sacrifice, provide, support, forgive, and love will be forever engrained in all he knew.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Ed’s name are asked to consider:

Fischer House

12300 Twinbrook Pkwy, Suite 410

Rockville, MD  20852

Please indicate that your gift is in memory of Edward Wolf

Edward Gambuti, age 82 of N. Haledon, died peacefully on Thursday, June 15, 2023. He was owner of Main Wholesale Florist of Clifton, NJ and Hawthorne, NY.

Ed grew up in the 21^st Ave neighborhood of Paterson and attended East Side High School. At sixteen years old, he began working for his uncle at his wholesale florist supply company, which was located on Main St. in Paterson at the time. He was a dedicated and extremely hard worker, often putting in 6-1/2 days per week, which probably helped to keep him out of trouble. In 1982, Ed bought the company from his uncle and he’s owned Main Wholesale Florist ever since. Along with the help of his three sons, they’ve grown the company to be among the largest wholesale florist suppliers in the area.

Ed was also a dedicated family man, and he utterly adored his wife Janet. They met at a bar in Lodi, NJ, and after a few dances, Eddie asked her out to the movies. Things started off just great, until Janet learned that Eddie had a habit of dumping girlfriends after about two weeks. When she learned that Eddie was planning to breakup with her, she cunningly let him know how heartbroken her mother was going to be if he ever did so. Eddie, always the sweetheart, planned another date with Janet, and the rest is history. They were married on September 22, 1963, at St. Francis of Assisi RC Church in Hackensack, followed by a honeymoon to the Poconos. Throughout their sixty years together, they traveled extensively, mostly to floral trade conventions in places like Costa Rica, Hawaii, and the Cayman Islands. Ed loved the beach, any beach, and enjoyed a home on Long Beach Island for many years, and they wintered in Naples, Florida as well. He was happiest at any place where he could be on the beach and see the water. Janet describes Ed as “passive and non-confrontational.” She also describes their sixty years together as being very peaceful, calm, and filled with a lot of laughter. She will miss him dearly.

Ed’s hobbies included photography and he was an excellent bowler back in the day. He also enjoyed cooking and made some incredible Italian dishes, and there was something very special about his tomato salad that made everyone ask for more. His greatest love was indeed his family. Besides being a great husband, he was an incredible father who led by example each and every day. He adored his ten grandchildren and there was nothing that made him happier than being with them, sharing hugs and snuggles. Perhaps among his greatest compliments was when his granddaughter said; “I want to marry someone just like Poppy.” They too will all miss him dearly.

Ed is survived by his wife of sixty years; Janet (nee Paladino) of N. Haledon, their three sons; Ed Jr. and his wife Darlene of N. Haledon, Greg and his wife Cheryl of Wayne, and Jeff and his wife Stacey of Wyckoff, and ten grandchildren; Eddie, Alexa, Gianna, Megan, Noelle, Hunter, Nicholas, Olivia, Anthony, and Sophia.

Theodore Charles Argeson, 95, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 15, 2023 at St. Luke’s Hospice House in Bethlehem, PA.  Born on June 28, 1927 in Allentown, PA, he was the son of the late Charles and Sylvia (nee Vasil) Argeson. He moved to Paterson, NJ in 1941 where he graduated from Eastside High School in 1945.
Ted was drafted after high school and proudly served in the United States Army from 1945-1947. He was stationed in Germany as part of the Counter Intelligence Corps and was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant.

Ted entered Muhlenberg College in the fall of 1947.  He was Vice President of his class and a member of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity.  He graduated in 1951 but would continue his involvement with Muhlenberg for many years. He served as President of the Alumni Association as well as his Class Fund Chair and Reunion Chair for years.  He received Muhlenberg’s Alumni Achievement Award in 1986.

Ted worked at Blue Cross in Newark, NJ where he met Connie Dibilio, the love of his life. They were married on February 20, 1966 at St. Athanasios Greek Orthodox Church in Paterson, NJ. They were happily married for 50 years until Connie’s passing in 2016.

Ted’s primary career was the restaurant business. Shortly after getting married, Ted and Connie owned and operated The Mark Restaurant in Mahwah, NJ. He later managed several restaurants before becoming the Area Director of Emerson’s Ltd. Restaurants.  He then left the restaurant business and worked on Wall Street until his retirement in 1991.

Ted always enjoyed cooking.  He had quite the cookbook collection but rarely referred to any of them while cooking.  He could whip up a dish in no time, using almost every pot and pan in the kitchen.  He was very well read, having a special interest in military history. He loved going on cruises to Bermuda and the Caribbean and looked forward to his yearly summer vacation to Wildwood Crest, NJ.

Ted spent most of his life in Wayne, NJ, living there for 56 years until 2022, when he relocated to Bethlehem, PA with his son.  He enjoyed many things in his life, but he loved nothing more than spending time with his family.

Ted is survived by his children Chris Argeson of Bethlehem, PA, Dr. Andrea Argeson and her husband Dr. Ralph Hawks of Stroudsburg, PA and Lisa Finnegan and her husband Michael of Millstone Township, NJ; his cherished grandchildren Gillian and Brendan Finnegan and Becca and Andrew Hawks; and many loving nieces and nephews.  In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by his sister Maria Fotinis and his brother Harry Argeson.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Holy Resurrection Orthodox Church, 285 French Hill Road, Wayne, NJ 07470 or St. Luke’s Hospice, 2455 Black River Road, Bethlehem, PA 18015

David Andrew Allen, Jr. passed away on June 14, 2023 from Alzheimer’s disease. 

Raised in Pompton Lakes NJ, David was the son of David Allen, Sr. and Doris Allen. He was one of five children. He married Jill Windwer in 1994, moved to Glen Ridge, NJ and had a son, Davis, in 1996.

David graduated from Trenton State (now the College of New Jersey) and worked as a graphic artist until the birth of his son. He then became a stay-at-home dad, later going back to school for audio engineering and then guitar repair. He started his own guitar repair business which he ran for several years.

David was an avid fisherman. He self-published a book called “Fishing for Beginners” in the early ‘90s. He rarely missed opening day of trout season and in the winter often went ice fishing. He loved the outdoors and music. He played several instruments including keyboard, guitar, mandolin and trumpet.

David is survived by his wife, son and siblings - Kate, Donna, Doug and Carol as well as nieces and nephews - Chris, Al, Laura, Kevin and Nicole.

Donations are welcome to:

Alzheimer's New Jersey

Attn: Development Dept.

425 Eagle Rock Avenue, #203

Roseland, NJ 07068

Please make your check payable to Alzheimer's New Jersey.

In the early morning hours of June 6th, 2023, John A. Vuz, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle passed away at the age of 80 after a long, courageous battle with cancer. He was born on a warm summer day on August 13th, 1943 to his parents, the late Stanley and Mary Vuz and grew up in Wallington, NJ. 

John's career in sales was long and successful, a testament to his unwavering work ethic and his innate ability to connect with others. He held a B.A. in Chemistry and a Master's degree in Marketing from Fairleigh Dickinson University, and his reputation in his field was second to none. 

But it was in his personal life where John truly shone. A dedicated baseball coach, he spent countless hours on the field, instilling a love of the game in his sons and generations of young players. He was also an avid Mets fan and played softball with the Purple Gang in Packanack Lake. In his free time, John enjoyed trout fishing, coin collecting, bird watching, bowling, making his famous white wine mushroom sauce, gardening, and playing Rummy 500 and Poker with his beloved grandchildren. He also loved working with his hands and was always ready with his toolbox at a moment's notice to help with any home improvement project.

John's personality was as bright as the sun, and he possessed a wonderful sense of humor. He had a determination that was unmatched and a spirit that could not be broken. 

John's family was the center of his world, and his devotion to them was unwavering. He leaves behind his grammar school sweetheart and beloved wife of fifty-nine years, Barbara Vuz, and their three sons, John, Scott, and Shawn. He is also survived by his grandchildren, John, Jared, Kelly, William, Victoria, Quinn, and Veronica, as well as his daughters-in-law, Barbara, Kimberly, and Jacqueline. John is also survived by his sister, Arlene Kaiser, brother-in-law, Frank Kaiser, and his nephews, Todd and Erik Kaiser. 

John's passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his memory will live on in the countless lives he touched during his time on this earth. His was a life of purpose, of passion, and of love, and his legacy will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, donations in John's name may be made to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, 383 Main Ave 5th Floor, Norwalk, CT 06851, a cause that was close to his heart. www.themmrf.org 

*Please check back later for a more complete obituary at a later time*

Joseph F. Napoli Jr., age 50, passed away on Monday, June 5th, 2023. 

Marianne Pass nee Caluori died peacefully on May 31^st, 2023 at home in Wayne, NJ

Born December 22^nd 1935 to George and Armande Caluori from Passaic, NJ where she grew up and graduated from St. Mary’s High School in Rutherford, NJ Class of 1953.

In 1953 she met the love of her life Edgar (Ed) Pass. They married in June 1955 at St Claire’s Church in Clifton, NJ. Ed & Marianne settled in Clifton shortly after marriage where they welcomed the birth of their first son Ed Jr in 1956 and their second son Bobby in 1959. The family of four moved to Wayne Township in 1961 where they lived most of their life.

Marianne lived a full life as a wonderful mother, homemaker and worked at various Kelly Services locations as a receptionist before her and Ed retired to Jupiter, Florida in 1993 where they remained until returning to Wayne in 2015.

Marianne loved traveling with her family and friends; enjoyed Friday night dinner dates with her girlfriends, capping the evening off with a game of Rumikub or cards and get-togethers with the neighbors. She was part of the Our Lady of Consolation Prayer Shawl Knitting Club & the Golden Age Club

Marianne was an amazing cook, great seamstress, and skillful at knitting & crocheting, making blankets afghans for her loving grandchildren and great grandchildren. To top it off, she had a green thumb, whether it was her plants inside or flowers out in the garden, she enjoyed and took pride in them all.

Marianne and her family were founding parishioners of Our Lady of Consolation Church. She will be profoundly missed by family and numerous friends.

Marianne is survived by her two sons; Ed Pass Jr. and his wife Kim of Winter Garden, FL, and Bob Pass and his wife Kathy of Wayne, NJ, three grandchildren; Eddie Pass III, Ashley Hawthorne and her husband Stu, and Todd Pass and his wife Kelly, six great grandchildren; Micah, Ava, Jack, Hawk, Remy and Emma. She was predeceased by her devoted husband Edgar, older brother George Caluori and her great grandchild Baylee Pass.

‍

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Marianne’s name are asked to consider one of the following charitable organizations:

Our Lady of Consolation R.C. Church

1799 Hamburg Turpike

Wayne, NJ 07470

Friends of Wayne Animal Rescue

FOWA

PO Box 3701

Wayne, NJ 07470

Click here for Mail-in Donation form

Liam Christopher Pakonis, age 16, of Wayne, passed in a tragic accident on Friday, March 31, 2023. 

Liam was born to Gregory and Fiona Pakonis and was a Junior at Wayne Hills High School, Wayne where he was a multiple award-winning swimmer in the 50- and 100-meter Freestyle events.

Liam loved to cause trouble, hated to have dirty hands, loved cars and enjoyed washing them, was always playing computer games, and even built his own computer. He was a huge fan of the Marvel Universe and loved Iron Man and the Avengers. He was a night owl who would sleep all day and be up all night.  His family knew him as the Midnight Mouse as they would hear him eating cereal and toast at all hours of the night.  Liam was also known as a neat freak and the only child in the Pakonis home that didn’t need to be told to clean his room.

Liam was the beloved son of Gregory and Fiona Pakonis; was the dearly loved brother of Logan and Caitlin Pakonis cherished grandson of Patricia and Vito Pakonis and Joy and Peter Sanger; he was loved by his aunts, uncles, cousins, girlfriend Emma and many friends.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Liam's name may be made to the Wayne Hills Swim Team Booster Club, c/o Christine Gentile, 33 Marlton Drive, Wayne, NJ 07470, an option to make donations through venmo is also available; @waynehillsswim2022 . All donations will go towards an award and scholarship in Liam's name.

‍Mary Frank (nee Pfeiffer), a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at the age of 84 in Wayne, NJ.

Mary was born on February 8, 1939, in Satnica, Yugoslavia, the 13th of 15 children born to Franz and Katharina Pfeiffer. During the first twelve years of her life, she and her family experienced the tumultuous era of World War II, and subsequently endured the upheaval that ensued in the aftermath of the conflict's conclusion. At the age of 12, she immigrated to the United States from Germany in 1951, accompanied by her parents and six of her fifteen siblings, settling in Passaic, NJ. Despite not speaking a word of English and her formal education ending before high school graduation, Mary worked tirelessly to ensure her family did not endure the same hardships she faced throughout her life.

Growing up in Passaic, NJ, Mary spent her teenage years frequenting a dance hall called President's Palace. It was there that she met the love of her life, a Hungarian immigrant named Johann (John) Frank, whom she married on May 2, 1959. Just six months later, on November 12 of the same year, John, still a German citizen, was drafted into the United States Army. He was eventually deployed to Heidelberg, Germany, leaving behind his new bride. Mary joined him overseas, on June 22, 1960, and on May 12, 1961, their son, John Frank Jr., was born. After serving overseas for one year and nine months, John, Mary, and John Jr. returned home to and settled in West Paterson, NJ. On April 13, 1965, Mary and John welcomed their daughter, Linda Frank, into the world.

Both Mary and John were skilled craftsmen. John worked as a Master Cabinet Maker, while Mary pursued a career as a seamstress for most of their children's young lives. She worked at Botany Mills in Passaic, NJ, and later at Jack Fin Clothing Company in Paterson, NJ, before deciding to retire to focus on raising her children. However, her boss couldn't bear to lose such a valuable seamstress, so he sent a professional-grade Singer Sewing Machine to her home and arranged for pants, shirts, and dresses to be delivered there. Naturally, this sparked jealousy among others in the factory. In a way, Mary can be considered a pioneer of work-from-home moms. She was also not one to sit idly by when there was work to be done. She frequently assisted her brother-in-law, Ignatz (Iggy) Frank, in his machine tooling shop, supporting the manufacturing of T's for jet engine aircraft. Additionally, Mary worked at Ken-Mar Mfg. Corp, where she meticulously deburred medical implants and components used in human joint replacements.

In 1976, Mary and John broke ground in Wayne, NJ, and fulfilled their dream of building their beautiful home. Mary found great joy in working on the house, particularly on landscaping and gardening projects. She also actively supported the Sports Friends Soccer Club in Wayne, where her husband played a pivotal role in establishing one of North Jersey's earliest dedicated soccer complexes.

Tragedy struck on July 6, 1991, when Mary, at just 52 years old, lost the love of her life in an instant. Despite the heartbreak she endured, Mary demonstrated remarkable resilience and an unwavering determination to persevere. She drew strength from the cherished memories she shared with her beloved John and found solace in the love and support of her family and friends.

In the years that followed, Mary continued to exemplify her unwavering work ethic and dedication to her family and loved ones. She poured her heart and soul into being a devoted mother, grandmother (Oma), and recently great grandmother, providing them all with unconditional love, guidance, and encouragement. Mary's nurturing nature extended beyond her immediate family, as she embraced her role as a cherished sister, Aunt, and a loyal friend to many.

Throughout her life, Mary remained deeply connected to her roots and cherished her heritage. She was an active member of Germania Park serving as the entertainment chairwoman for years, was a member of the singing club, often hosted band members from Germany during the clubs annual Octoberfest and enjoyed hours of dancing to her favorite German songs. She treasured the fond memories and the strong bonds she forged with her large Germania Park family. Mary's legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched with her kindness, strength, and unwavering spirit.

Mary also enjoyed crafting in many forms and Christmas trees everywhere are adorned with her ornaments year after year. She also enjoyed playing cards, however it was smart to set aside her sweet and innocent demeanor when playing with her because she didn’t like to lose. Friends and family were convinced she’d often change the rules mid game if the cards were not in her favor. She took her cards seriously and everyone loved it. Mary loved cooking and baking, yet she had a habit of preparing meals that were always disproportionate to the number of people she intended to serve. It became a regular occurrence for her to leave containers filled with stuffed peppers, hot potato salad, schnitzel, and her beloved chicken paprikash (also known as chicken o'my gosh) on people's doorsteps. Unfortunately, a significant number of people have discovered themselves burdened with a few extra pounds, all thanks to the time Mary spent in her kitchen.

On Tuesday, May 30, 2023, Mary peacefully passed away in her sleep, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and determination. She is survived by her son John Frank, Jr. and his wife Susan; daughter Linda (nee Frank) Carlucci and her husband Paul; her grandchildren Alexandra Frank and her fiancé Alec Rhoads; Robert Frank, Madison (nee Carlucci) Bingler and her husband Justin; Joseph Carlucci; and her great grandson Joseph Bingler. She is also survived by her brother Stefan (Steve) Pfeiffer and his wife Gloria, sister-In-law Gertrude (nee Gruberman) Pfeiffer, and many nieces and nephews. May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with her beloved John, and may her inspiring spirit continue to guide and inspire all those whose lives she touched.

In Loving Memory of Dolores Slivka

Dolores Slivka (née Ruppert), loving wife, mother, grandmother and sister passed away peacefully on May 29, 2023. She was born August 6, 1934 in Clifton, New Jersey, to her beloved parents Anna and Stephen Ruppert.

Dolores' warm and compassionate nature inspired all who knew her. She met the love her life, William Slivka, at a local ice cream shop. They married in 1955, spent 51 wonderful years together, celebrating their 50th anniversary visiting Europe, before WIlliam's passing in 2006. Dolores is survived by her brother, Stephen Ruppert II of Ft. Myers, Florida; her sons, William Slivka of South Amboy, Robert Slivka of Pompton Lakes; and three grandchildren, Justin, Lauren, and Nicole. 

She touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all. The family will be having a private burial celebrating her life. 

With love and sympathy,

Robert Slivka and family

William “Bill” Spirig passed away at home surrounded by his three children on Monday, May 29^th, 2023. He was born in November 1958 at Valley Hospital.  Bill was raised in New Jersey by his parents Annelise and Arnold with his surviving brother, John.

Bill was an avid reader, enjoyed going to the movies, and loved cooking.  Whether it was taking a trip to the Bahamas or going to Ikea, he treated everything like an adventure.  What was most important to him, though, was being able to spend that time with his children.

Bill is survived by his brother John and his wife Barbara, and his three children Michael, Kristen, and Kevin.

Rita Joan Magarelli nee Wisner, age 89 of Port St. Lucie, FL & Wayne, NJ passed on May 28th, 2023. She was born on December 1, 1933 in Jersey City, NJ. She will be remembered as a loving and devoted mother and wife. 

Rita is survived by her children: Mary Vacca & her husband Keith Vacca, Theresa Sebastiano & her husband Frank Sebastiano, and her son Guy Magarelli; her 6 grandchildren: David Vacca & his wife Amy, Courtney Vacca, Jonathan Vacca, Corey Vacca, Joseph Sebastiano & his wife Juliane, and Rita Sebastiano & her husband Michael Leslie;  her 7 great grandchildren: Matthew and Nicholas Vacca, Dominic and Isabella Sebastiano, Gianna, Francesca and Michaela Sebastiano. She is predeceased by her husband Ottavio David Magarelli, her mother Mary Scottie & father Preston Wisner, and her brother Preston Wisner Jr.

John M. Hatala SR., age 61, of Wayne peacefully passed Friday, May 26th, 2023. 

John was born to Eleanor (Bundas) and John Hatala in 1962. As the eldest of three children, John was a role model for his brothers, Mark and James. Beginning at a young age, John enjoyed tinkering with his “toys”. He was always seen fixing a car, motorcycle, and even the occasional flaming tennis ball launcher. While attending Wayne Valley High School, he continued to work with his hands by taking wood shop and metal shop. It came as no surprise when he graduated high school that he wanted to pursue a career in engineering. 

John graduated with his bachelor’s degree from NJIT in electrical engineering. The first job he landed after college was at Lakehurst Naval Base for the Department of the Navy. At Lakehurst, he was a contractor that assisted in purchasing of materials for weapons, structures, and other naval defense systems. After leaving his position in Lakehurst, he worked a couple different jobs before finally settling at Passaic County Community College in Paterson, NJ. He began there in 2007 as a testing department administrator and quickly felt at home. Before his passing, he was the testing and technical operations manager for the entire testing department. 

John normally came across as a grumpy or stoic man, but everyone that knew him knew the real John. He became a second dad to most of his children’s friends.  He was constantly joking, smiling, and laughing -especially when he became “Grandpa”. Throughout his life, he always had some sort of project that he was working on. He would fix old lawn mowers, snowblowers, cars, motorcycles - you name it! John also loved to garden and use all his fresh produce to try new recipes. In the last few years, he was really into his smoker and crafting his own beer. He would spend hours perfecting ribs, chicken, and his own homemade jerky. If it was too cold for him to spend his time outdoors, he was inside working on his model trains. 

Out of everything in his life, his two children were the biggest obstacle, yet, the most rewarding. Some of the fondest memories his children have are from hot summer nights, being stuck under a car, trying to hold the flashlight in the “perfect spot” for him. He never missed a graduation, an awards ceremony, or any of their sports events. John was always the man that you could count on to show up and show his support. His love grew even more when his first grandson, John Michael the 3rd (JJ), was born in June of 2020. John loved chasing JJ around the yard and getting down to show him all his trains, including all the ones that made very loud noises. 

John was loved by many and he will be greatly missed. Predeceased by his father, John Hatala JR., his mother Eleanor Hatala (Bundas), and his daughter Melissa Hatala. He is survived by his son, John Michael Hatala JR., daughter-in-law, Ashlyn Hatala (Miller), and their son John Michael the 3rd of Wayne, NJ; his daughter Sheila “Alex” Hatala and her fiancé, Andre Vicari of Wayne, NJ; his brothers - Mark Hatala of Morristown, NJ and James Hatala of Glen Cove, NY; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Yellow Ribbon Fund would be greatly appreciated.

Vincent Louis Bolognini, age 65, of Flanders passed unexpectedly on Wednesday, May 24, 2023.

Vincent was born to Louis and Dolores Bolognini in Whitestone, Queens, NY in 1957. He attended Francis Lewis High School, followed by college at The Cooper Union, where he earned his degree in mechanical engineering. He would go on to attain a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering from NYU, and an M.B.A. in corporate finance from Adelphi University.

Vincent started his professional career as a mechanical engineer working for Lilco in power generation. Staying within that industry he moved on to work at Con Edison and then for 35 years at the Ogden Corporation now known as Covanta Energy. He rose through the ranks into the role of Executive Vice President of Business Development and was admired by his colleagues and family for all that he accomplished. His life saw him evolve from delivering newspapers on his bicycle in Queens to brokering business deals with foreign officials.

Vincent was also an intelligent and opinionated man. He enjoyed spirited debate on all manner of topics, and was also known to deliver the occasional joke with a wry smile. On top of the time he spent at work, he loved listening to music and would travel to attend concerts with his friends and family. He was an avid golfer, and lover of all New York sports, especially the Yankees. He spent as much time as possible outside, whether working on the yard, swimming in the pool, or just lounging in the sun. He also loved trips to the beach, making many dear memories with his family during annual trips to Longboat Key in Florida.

Vincent was a devoted father, husband, son, and brother. He was a deeply selfless and dependable man. He enjoyed 33 years of marriage with his beloved wife Marcia, and raised his two children Nicole and Daniel with love and care. He was overjoyed to attend the weddings for both of his children that took place in 2022. Vincent is survived by his two parents Louis and Dolores, who loved and cherished him deeply. He also relished the time when his whole family could be together during holidays and special occasions, including his siblings Cathy and Philip, and nieces and nephews Jack, Sophia, James, and Danielle.

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In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Vincent’s name.

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Memorial Processing

501 St. Jude Place

Memphis, TN 38105-9959

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Eugene J. Tully of Pompton Plains.

Eugene passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 24, 2023 while receiving the loving care of his family.

Eugene was born in New York City and was the middle child of three children to John and Sarah Tully.  Those who were closest to Eugene came to know him affectionately as Gene.  Gene’s family lived in New York City for a time and as a young boy they moved to Fair Lawn, NJ where he spent his formative years.  Gene attended Fair Lawn High School where he started dating his high school sweetheart Marilyn Collins.  Although Marilyn and Gene attended different high schools, Marilyn at Eastside High School in Paterson and Gene in Fair Lawn, as fate would have it, they fell in in love and were married on October 5, 1957 just two years after graduating with the class of 1955. 

Gene was gifted with the entrepreneurial spirit as a young man and opened an Esso gas station in Wayne, NJ when he was only in his early twenties.  He owned and operated the Esso station for about two years when he decided to change careers and accepted and internship with his father-in-law as an optician.  After earning his certification as an optician, Gene again started his own business in 1960, EJ Optician located in the Preakness Shopping Center in Wayne, NJ.  Gene also owned an operated Tri Lite Optics, a company that manufactured prescription eyeglass lenses.  Gene owned and operated both businesses concurrently until 1995.  After Gene closed his Tri Lite Optics business he continued to own and operate his EJ Tully Optician until 2002 when he retired.  Gene’s career as an optician and local business owner spanned more than thirty years. 

Shortly after getting married, Marilyn and Gene settled in Elmwood Park, NJ.  While residing in Elmwood Park, they welcomed into their lives, their first four children Barbara, John, Karen, and Linda.  Tragedy struck Gene and Marilyn’s lives when their daughter Karen passed away suddenly and unexpectedly when she was just a toddler.  The family persevered then moved to Wayne where they were blessed with their fifth child, Susan.  Gene and Marilyn remained in Wayne for many years to come and raised their family there. While living and working in Wayne, Gene was closely involved with the Wayne’s Lions Club and their Blind box, donating and recycling eyeglasses. 

Gene was a loyal New York Yankees fan and a long-time season ticket holder.  He was a loyal fan of the New York Giants as well.  One of Gene’s favorite places to be was in the casino playing Black Jack and the slot machines. He also enjoyed purchasing and playing his daily lottery tickets.  Aside from all of Gene’s interests, talents and hobbies, his greatest passion was for his family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Gene than spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.  Gene and Marilyn cherished forty-two years of loving and loyal marriage until Marilyn’s passing in 1999. Gene touched the lives of all those around him and will be sincerely missed by his family and friends.

Gene will forever be remembered as a devoted husband, and a loving and cherished father, grandfather, and great grandfather.

Gene is survived by his four children; his daughter Linda Albolino of Florida, his son John Tully and his wife Rosalie of Vernon, NJ, his daughter Barbara Warhurst and her husband Gregg of Wayne, NJ, and his daughter Susan Pedicone and her husband Bob of Pompton Plains, NJ, two sisters Lorraine Gontzes of Florida, and Dolores Infante and her husband Lenny of Florida, seven grandchildren; Karen Ziegler of Florida, Christina Sellitti and her husband Anthony of Ogdensburg, NJ, John Tully and his wife Brigitte of Little Falls, NJ, Ashley Warhurst of Wayne, NJ, Brooke Warhurst and her fiancé Michael Sochaski of Wayne, NJ, Joey Pedicone of Pompton Plains, NJ, and Jake Pedicone of Pompton Plains, NJ, and two great grandchildren Gianna and Anthony.  He was predeceased by his wife Marilyn Tully, and his daughter Karen Tully.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gene’s name may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org

Jean Tahan, 91, of Totowa, formerly of Clifton, NJ, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 21, 2023 surrounded by her children and grandchildren.

Jean lived most of her life with her loving husband, Basil, and seven children.  Jean graduated from the nursing school at Mountainside Hospital in Montclair, NJ in 1952, and worked as a registered nurse for 45 years thereafter.  She spent 40 years at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center in Paterson, NJ in the maternity and NICU departments, where she helped deliver thousands of babies into our lives and helped so many new parents.  She and Basil were devoted volunteers at their church, St. Ann Melkite Catholic Church in Woodland Park, NJ.

Jean is survived by her seven children, Elaine Farraye and husband Tony of North Carolina: Kathy Pospiech and husband Steve of Stockholm, NJ; Norman Tahan of Clifton, NJ; David Tahan and wife Mimi of Morristown, NJ; Sharon Olivo and husband Jim of Towaco, NJ; Patti Tahan of Philadelphia, PA; Brian Tahan and wife Heather of Morristown, NJ; brother Philip Fimiani of North Carolina, sister Catherine Fimiani of Arizona, Godchild Chrissy Fimiani of North Carolina, brother-in-law Frank Petriello of Clifton, NJ, and sister-in-law Joan Tahan of Clifton, NJ, 12 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Jean’s memory to St. Ann Melkite Catholic Church, 802 Rifle Camp Road, Woodland Park, NJ 07424, or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Jean & Basil.  Two hearts – One love

Lily E. Berenbroick (nee Haiss), age 95 of Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains, died on Friday, April 21, 2023, after a brief illness.  She had lived in River Edge, Woodcliff Lake, and Green Pond, New Jersey before retiring to Deerfield Beach, Florida where she lived for nearly thirty-five years.  In 2008, she returned to New Jersey, settling in at Cedar Crest Village.

Lily was born in New York City to the late Alice and Raymond C. Haiss.  She graduated from Rhodes High School in New York City and attended Berkeley College until her marriage to A. Starr Berenbroick in 1947.  After marrying, Lily took great pride in raising her family.  She was a PTA President, Little League Mother, Cub Scout Den Leader, Girl Scout Leader, and was President of the Green Pond Summer Women’s Club.  After volunteering, she worked at many different jobs.  These included Manager of Knits Galore in Newfoundland, Secretary at Mayer Beaton in Totowa and Trainer of new Tellers at Glendale Federal Bank in Florida.

 She enjoyed sailing, golfing, tennis, dancing, and playing Bridge.  She truly enjoyed time spent with her dear friends at Cedar Crest playing Duplicate Bridge, Pinochle and Polish Poker.  She loved the many trips into New York City and the two river cruises in Europe.  She was particularly proud to have bowled many 300 games with the Wii bowling league at Cedar Crest.  She was also grateful for all the memories and dear friends she enjoyed at Green Pond throughout her many years there.  For the last fifteen years, she looked forward to having lunch on the deck of the Green Pond Yacht Club with her daughter and family.

Lily was predeceased by her husband of sixty years:  A. Starr Berenbroick in 2007.  She was the adored mother of Carolyn Keegan and her husband James of Green Pond, New Jersey, and son Starr H. Berenbroick and his wife Debbie of Radcliff, Kentucky.  Cherished grandmother of James C. Keegan and his wife Maribel, Carly Carrocioli, Phillip Berenbroick and his wife Reshma, and Jacob Berenbroick and his wife Adriane.  She was a loving great-grandmother to Maya, Marc, Ryder, Hunter, Indira and Nikhil.

Barbara Ann Boyle (nee Carlile), age 76 of Wayne, died peacefully on Saturday, May 20, 2023.

Barbara was born on April 5th, 1947 and enjoyed her childhood years at Packanack Lake and has been a lifelong resident of Wayne.

Barbara graduated from Wayne High School with the class of 1965 and soon began working at the First National Bank in Totowa. It was here that she met Bill Boyle and their romance led to wedding bells on July 13, 1969. After a honeymoon to Bermuda, they settled in Wayne and raised their two sons together. Barbara was a devoted wife and mother, always on the go and doing everything to keep her family and household running smoothly. Barbara also enjoyed the performing arts, attending shows at the Papermill Playhouse regularly, and she also loved to see Broadway shows in New York City. She and Bill enjoyed fifty-two years of loving marriage together before Bill passed away in May of 2022. Losing Bill weighed heavily on Barbara’s heart during these past twelve months, and she has missed him terribly every day since.

Barbara’s childhood included a strong Catholic foundation, which she nourished throughout her lifetime. As a parishioner of Our Lady of the Valley RC Church in Wayne, she became deeply involved in all sorts of church activities. She was one of those parishioners who would volunteer for everything and anything, and the church became like a second home for her. She became the church secretary and served in that role for about 20 years before retiring close to 10 years ago. She loved her church family at OLV, and she was truly devoted to her Catholic faith.

Barbara is survived by her two sons; Christopher Boyle and his wife Jenny, and Carl Boyle, all of Wayne, her three siblings; Susan Frerichs of Wayne, John Carlile and his wife Jill of Blairstown, NJ, and James Carlile of Arizona, as well as many loving nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Bill, in May of 2022.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Barbara’s memory would be appreciated to ASPCA, www.aspca.org, or the Wayne Township Memorial First Aid Squad, www.waynefirstaid.com 

Rather than continue to watch the useless activities of a dysfunctional government, Ron (Ronnie) Califre passed into eternal rest on May 20, 2023, albeit reluctantly, after a 2.5 year battle with cancer.

The loving son of Italian immigrants, Peter and Claire Califre, Ron grew up in Paterson, NJ and remained fiercely proud of his Paterson “roots” throughout his life. Ron was a graduate of Montclair State College, receiving a bachelor’s degree in Biological Science and a Doctor of Science (hc) from the institution—where he remained active in an advisory capacity.

He started his professional career with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and later transitioned into pharmaceutical research and development. He then worked 30 years for the Swiss-based innovator, Novartis, and its predecessor companies, in positions of increasing responsibility.  Among other roles, he functioned as Head, Sr. V.P, Medicine and Clinical Development and ultimately retired as Sr. V.P., Research and Development, U.S. Operations, where he had oversight for the multi-disciplinary new drug development activities of over 2000 highly-skilled employees. He was proud of his work, but even more proud of the people he worked with and the innovative therapies that they brought to patients.

While at the FDA, he met his loving wife of 38 years, Marcy, and embarked on a life and adventure that he never dreamed of as a young kid in Paterson. He was a devoted husband and the extremely proud, loving father of Evan and Gabrielle Califre and father-in-law to her husband, Brendan Boerbaitz.  Ron was predeceased by his parents and a brother, Frank, as well as many aunts and uncles, but leaves behind a large, loving family of cousins, nieces, nephews, and brothers and sisters in-law, as well as what he could only describe as the best friends anyone could ever have—bar none. 

He traveled extensively, internationally and domestically, in both his professional and personal life and left feeling like he’d had a fulfilling life. He had read once that “you get one spin” and by his own admission, he crammed a lot of living into his years—perhaps to a fault. LOL. A life-long nature and animal lover, he favored the outdoors—hiking, biking, fishing and golfing. Ron was also skilled at art, another interest and hobby, and had a number of scientific illustrations published. 

He was a “foodie” at heart and took great pleasure in cooking for friends and family—an activity that served as the platform for consuming copious amounts of red wine—another favorite pastime.  Following his retirement, Ron and Marcy split time between homes in Pines Lake and Long Beach Island—the latter enjoying a special place in his heart. He loved meeting and talking to people and was never a stranger to anyone for very long. Not big on material things, he left this world viewing his family, friendships, relationships and experiences as the greatest gifts anyone could have ever bestowed upon him.

In his words, “it was a good run” and in reflecting on his own life at the end, counseled folks with a quote from Dr. Seuss: “don’t cry that it’s over; smile that it happened.”

Thanks to all, including his physicians and the staff at Valley Medical Group, Atlantic Health, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, for their expertise, compassion and care. 

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Ron’s name are asked to consider donating to the National Leiomyosarcoma Foundation (NLMSF) or to the Laurelwood Arboretum in Wayne, NJ.

Remedios Arevalo Arcilla, age 80, of Jersey City passed away Friday, May 19, 2023, with the comfort of family and God.

Remedios was born to Mateo and Juliana Arevalo and graduated from Far Eastern University/FEU Philippines with a Bachelor of Nursing degree. Remedios was a distinguished student who excelled in all her disciplines. She became a student teacher and was instrumental in guiding and helping candidates to also realize their dreams of becoming a nurse.

In the early 1970s, Remedios was selected and accepted a nursing sponsorship in West Orange, NJ USA. Leaving her husband Felicito and 2-year-old son Adrian, Remedios was determined to find and ensure a better life for her family. The first year in the United States was difficult and lonely but she persevered and using her strong work ethic was able to quickly acclimate and excel in her profession. In 1976, her family was finally able to join her in the US. Soon thereafter, the Arcilla family moved to Jersey City, NJ where she continued her career working for multiple hospitals that included, St. Francis Hospital, Jersey Medical Hospital, Greenville Hospital and Bayonne Hospital. Remedios’ nursing career spanned 40 years until 2014 when she decided to retire and become the caretaker for her beloved grandchildren.

Remedios was kind, generous, smart, loving, happy go lucky, devoted to family, and always spoke her mind. She loved to cook, entertain, and enjoyed having company over specially to celebrate New Year’s Eve, which was a family tradition. She had a witty sense of humor and did her best to make everyone feel comfortable and welcomed in her home. Her favorite past times were finding the best sales at the mall and testing her luck at the blackjack tables in Atlantic City. Her proudest life moments were the birth of her grandchildren Braylon and Sophia Arcilla who she loved beyond measure.  

She is survived by her husband, Felicito Arcilla, her son Adrian Arcilla, her daughter in law Yvonne Arcilla and her two grandchildren Braylon and Sophia Arcilla.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the American Cancer Society would be greatly appreciated. 

Therese Y. Shahin (nee Azouri), age 78 of Oakland, died on Monday, May 15, 2023. She lived in Oakland for more than forty years.

Therese was born in Cairo, Egypt and after finishing school, she began teaching French in an elementary school. It was here that she met Joseph Shahin of Jordan, who was in Cairo to visit family. It wasn’t long before they married, moved to Jordan and started a family. They remained in Jordan for only a few years before the civil unrest there motivated them to seek a better life in America.  They packed up and moved to Los Angeles in 1971. Therese had two little girls at the time and moving her family halfway around the world was no easy feat, but she knew that a better life awaited them all. They lived briefly in Los Angeles before finally settling in northern New Jersey. Hard work paid off and the family eventually owned two gas stations, and they both worked tirelessly to make them a success. She was a hands-on owner; pumping gas and changing tires on any given day, then going home to take care of the kids. 

Therese was a truly lovable person who was sincerely devoted to her family. She was everything a mother should be; loving, hardworking, and dedicated to her children.  Her grandchildren, who affectionately call her “Tatti,” all adore her and each of them will miss her dearly. Whether she was cooking for her family, playing “Left, Right, Center” with her grandkids, she was always there to make everyone happy. She was very easy to talk to and put everyone at ease.  She always remained very close to her relatives living in California, speaking to them daily (and sometimes more than once a day!). Her brother Antoine and sister Mary in California, as well as all of her nieces and nephews spread out far and wide, will all miss their beloved Zuza. 

Therese is survived by three daughters; Jeannette Saporito and her husband Richard of Oakland, NJ, Norma DiIanni and her husband Angelo of Wayne, NJ, and Rosemary Morgan and her husband David of Maywood, NJ, predeceased by her daughter, Suzanne "Suzie" Shahin; four grandchildren: Julia and A.J. DiIanni of Wayne, and Olivia and Abby Morgan of Maywood, a sister; Mary Azouri of Los Angeles, and two brothers: Tony and Farid Azouri, both of Los Angeles, as well as countless nieces and nephews. She was also predeceased by her brother, Alex Azouri.

Therese loved the color Red. For those inclined to send flowers, please use this as a consideration.

Harold G. “Smitty” Smith, age 100, of Wayne passed Thursday, May 11, 2023, with the comfort of family by his side.

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“The Rest of the Story” (courtesy of Paul Harvey)

Dad’s Mom Shafika “Sophie” Hanna Abi’Mansour, immigrated to the US thru Ellis Island just after the turn of the century with her first husband, Kosma Dammous Selloum in an arranged marriage, from current day Lebanon at 16, taking up residence in Brooklyn, NY.  Following the birth of 5 kids, he left them.  She then met and married our Dad’s Father, Harry.  The general story of our Grandfather Harry was that he was a German immigrant who himself, upon arrival at Ellis Island, had a difficult name and was given the name “Harry Smith” by the immigration officials – which he cheerfully accepted as a newly minted US citizen.  Alternately, there were rumors that his last name was actually “Wingate”… which seemed simple enough to spell and not exactly German.  Nevertheless, that’s what we knew / know.

Together they moved to Hoboken, NJ and had 4 children together.  One of nine children in total, our Dad was born to Harry and Sophie Smith on January 6^th, 1923.  Harry died of tuberculosis in 1932, leaving our Grandmother, Dad (age 9), and his 8 siblings to fend for themselves at the height of the Great Depression.  Later, our grandmother met Joe Labbeke, a Dutch Merchant Marine who elected to “jump ship” in the Port of NY.  At first he dated our Grandmother’s oldest daughter, our Aunt Emily, but ultimately fell in love and married our Grandmother and became the man we knew as our Grandfather.

So that’s the context of our Dad’s early life and Family.  Understandably, and no doubt the result of those experiences, Dad was a huge Family man – his parents & siblings, our Family, and later, our Families (grandkids and Great Grandkids).  He also became a master storyteller.  His stories ran the gamut from his childhood to the Army & WWII to meeting and marrying my Mom and everything in between.

As a child, Dad ran in the streets of Hoboken with his older brothers, playing marbles on the church steps betting with match sticks, and running numbers to help bring in much needed money during the great depression. Life Lesson: “Provide for your Family”

He shared a story in which he and his brother Vic climbed a telephone pole, hoisted then placed an overturned garbage can on top.  As the “cops” arrived and they tried to flee, Uncle Vic got caught on the pole by his pant leg, suspended upside down.  While they got caught, they broke free, hustling thru the streets of Hoboken to get home safely.  (There used to be a TV show called “The Bowery Boys” … which seemed to echo Dad’s stories… perhaps some of those episodes were inspired by his true-life exploits.) Dad attended the same high school as the one and only, Frank Sinatra.  While in High School, Frank, already graduated, came back to Demarest High School to perform, and “snaked” Dad’s girlfriend which, as you might imagine, left a sour taste in his mouth as Frank wooed her away with his crooning abilities. Despite the loss of a girlfriend, Dad remained a HUGE Frank Sinatra fan. Life Lesson: “Don’t hold grudges”

As children we were subjected to the Lawrence Welk show that both he and Mom loved.  To say that it was painful to watch would be an understatement as we were unwillingly introduced to the show.  We specifically found pain in the singing of Irish Tenor, Joe Feeny. The one saving grace on the show was the young, talented, and beautiful Anacani Echeverria, who the boys adored (even if we weren’t necessarily old enough to understand why).  But as “The Lawrence Welk Show” preceded “Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom” and “The Wonderful World of Disney” we soldiered on.  Life Lesson: “You have to give to get”

With the outbreak of WWII, the call to action for young men was palpable, made even more urgent with the attack on Pearl Harbor.  One by one, the 5 older brothers enlisted, with our Uncles Vic, Jimmy & Charlie in the Navy, and our Uncle Phillip and Dad in the Army.  Following basic training, Infantry training and reconnaissance school, Dad deployed to England.  Originally deployed as a replacement, upon discovery of his recon training, the undermanned 29^th ID Recon Company pulled him into their formation.  His platoon was aligned to the 116^th Regiment.  With his newly assigned unit, Dad participated in the pre-invasion train up at Slapton Sands and then Operation Overlord, the invasion of France, as part of the first wave on Omaha Beach on June 6^th, 1944.  He stayed with the Division, fighting across France, the Netherlands & Belgium, culminating in Bremen when the war ended.

After the war, he reenlisted, serving as a part of the occupation force in West Berlin before ultimately completing two additional tours Stateside, completing 10 years of active-duty service, and achieving the rank of Technical Sergeant (E7).  His service, as well as that of his four brothers, inspired their youngest brother, Harry, too young for WWII, to enlist in the US Marine Corps and fight in Korea – despite his Mother’s protests. Life Lesson: “Service to Country matters”

After a proud and successful military career, Harold met his wife to be, Aurora Zanin in 1957.  They first met at the Chestnut Lodge in the Poconos, with Dad proposing to her on their first date.  My Mom’s response, “What are you, nuts?”.  Yet, he persisted, and she acquiesced, marrying on November 8^th, 1958.  Life Lesson: “If it’s worth having, it’s worth pursuing”

Marrying relatively later in life, there was an apparent sense of urgency to have children.  In the span of 5 years, they had the four of us: Cliff, Louise “Wease”, Steve, & Dave.  Life Lesson: “Set priorities and stick to them”

After Cliff’s birth, they moved to the North Jersey town of Saddle Brook, buying a small “Cape Cod” home within walking distance of our Grammar School.  That was where we shared our formative years under our parent’s oversight and, at least for us, remains “home”.  There, they provided us all we needed, each working hard giving us a wonderful childhood.

Dad worked as a “warper” at a textile mill in Little Ferry, NJ near current day Teterboro Airport.  (Now you’re asking yourself… “what’s a warper? In the textile industry, it is both the machine used to wind warp ends in preparation for weaving and the title of the individual operating said machine… “the more you know”).

He worked there for many years but was let go when the company folded in the early 70’s. Unwilling to accept unemployment, he landed a job as a driver / delivery man for McGraw Hill Publishing and Time Life Magazine bringing clients and products in and out of New York City for many years, all on tight timelines that he met without fail. He was later hired back by his original firm, now under new ownership, to again serve as a warper until all four kids were grown and out of the house.  He transitioned one more time, completing his “working career” as a school crossing guard for Saddle Brook Township for 15 years, from 1985 – 2001, including several years serving alongside his brother Jimmy who lived just up the street from his post.  Life Lesson: “Earn your way in life and provide for your Family”

For our Dad, discipline and a strong work ethic were a thing.  He was a strict, yet loving father and he modeled the work ethic and values he sought to instill in us.  He expected everyone to do their part without hesitation and to do every assigned task “to standard”.  As young kids, he would publish a weekly “duty roster,” prominently posted on the inside door of the center kitchen cabinet.  It outlined who was responsible for what each night – washing, drying, clearing the table, and sweeping the floor.  Outside, he’d line us up in the spring and summer to conduct “police call”.  Sweeping the front and backyard for debris, admonishing us, “if it isn’t living, pick it up”.  He’d inspect our rooms for cleanliness and to ensure we’d made our beds.  At the table, he expected us to eat whatever my Mom cooked and was on our plates.  Homework was to be done and he’d review it, call out errors and make us “fix them”.  (Dave probably recalls that last bit in vivid detail.) Infractions of any of the aforementioned items did not end well.  Life Lesson: “If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing correctly”

He enjoyed and proved to be an exceptional home gardener, enthusiastically growing a variety of fresh vegetables for family and neighbors.  Gardening was a great joy to him as he found solace in the activity which he did, as with all things, with meticulous detail.  He was most proud of his HUGE Jersey Tomatoes, some weighing as much as two pounds each.  Life Lesson: “Find something you enjoy doing… and do it”

When Cliff became a Cub/Boy Scout, Dad volunteered to serve as an assistant scout master, running the pack along with former Army Drill Sargent, Don Cypher (imagine that fun).  Together, they instilled a discipline and taught us “field craft”.   During camping trips, neither Dad nor Mr. Cypher exhibited much sympathy for the cold and sometimes overwhelming weather conditions. “It builds character, they both explained”, to our tremendous dismay along with our fellow “Scouts”.  We looked at them both in amazement and fear.  Between these two hardened veterans, they created one tough group of scouts who never quit, looking up to them with sincere admiration.  Life Lesson: “99% of your limits are in your head”

Although not a huge sports nut, Dad was an avid Yankee fan.  As a result, so are we. He would routinely share stories about the Yankees from his childhood… yes, those Yankees – Ruth, Gehrig, DiMaggio, Berra, et.al.  Whether listening to them on the radio, watching them on TV or going to the game.  And, like most of us, when they lost, he somehow found a way to blame himself for watching and “causing them to lose”!  But that of course was never the case, to wit, he attended Game 6 of the 1977 World Series with our Grandfather Orazio (Mom’s Dad) at which Reggie Jackson hit 3 HR’s and earned the moniker “Mr. October”.  Life Lesson: “Yankees Rule”

In 2021, Mom & Dad moved from Saddle Brook to Wayne, NJ, getting a condominium called the Four Seasons where they lived together for the next 23 years.  As grandchildren began “arriving”, Dad’s disposition changed dramatically.  Gone was the strict disciplinarian and stoic.  More stories began to flow, in greater and sometimes, “startling” detail… like wait… what?  Holy cow Dad!  While the four of us were spread across the Country / World… we would reassemble for major Family events at their new home, celebrating and sharing our own stories… and often, revealing some of our own “added details” to what our parent’s “thought they knew”.  Life Lesson: “Home is not a place, it’s your Family”

As the year’s passed and Mom’s health and memory began to fade, there was an amazing “role reversal”.  Dad stepped up “big league,” assuming full responsibility as her sole care provider.  He did the cooking, the cleaning, the shopping, the pill sorting, the bills … he did it all and pushed back against any offers of assistance, with a gentle, “No, no, thank you.  That’s my responsibility”. Life Lesson: “You are responsible for your Family”

In January of this year, we had the privilege of celebrating our Dad’s 100^th birthday.  It was an amazing celebration and an incredible milestone. Towards the end of last year, with Dad’s health failing, and shortly after his birthday, we made the decision to move them to the Sunrise Assisted Living community in Fairfield, NJ.  They spent the last 4 months together there and we remained routine fixtures in their lives, visiting often, assisting them as necessary, and basking in the warmth of their eternal love story.  Life Lesson: “We are our Father’s Keeper”

Cliff:  Dad was a very supportive father, when his schedule permitted, teaching his eldest son, Cliff to pitch sidearm like Sandy Koufax. At a young age Cliff was a dangerous threat to opposing teams, which brought him great joy watching him throw his one and only no-hitter. Cliff now resides in San Diego California after a 33-year career with Marriott Hotels. Life Lesson: “Teaching and Learning is a Life Sport”

Wease:  As Dad’s only daughter I can confidently say I was treated in a gentler way growing up.   Having a very difficult childhood, Dad was hardened in many ways.  A child of the Great Depression, losing his own father at the age of nine and being in World War II it is no wonder he was a tough guy.   But, despite all that he had a gentler side that few got to see.  As he aged it would become more apparent, but I was lucky enough to get that side of him early on.  Every night as a child he would come to kiss me good night and tell me our special story.  He dubbed me “Princess Louise” and would make up magical stories that included my brothers coming to my rescue. I married my high school sweetheart, Mark, in 2016 and have three adult, married daughters, Lindsay, Jackie, and Melanie.  Lindsay and her husband, Yaron have a young son, Aiden, and a beautiful baby daughter, Becca.  No matter the kind of day Dad might be having, a visit, or a shared video or picture of his great grandbabies would bring so much joy.  Jackie and her husband Mike are both in the medical field.  Jackie has been our parents’ constant in everything related to their medical care and beyond.  My Dad would call her all the time and she would drop everything to be by his side.  Their relationship was extra special.  Melanie and her husband Kevin are expecting their first baby in September.  Melanie was Dad’s personal hair stylist as her skills he could not deny.  He loved her sense of humor, and they would have long talks.  He imparted his wisdom and opinions often and all the “kids” would listen and absorb intently.  He had no problem posing for selfies and being silly with them.  They will carry his memory with them always.  To feel so loved and protected is something I was privileged to feel throughout my life.   I will love and miss him forever.  Life Lesson: “Love is All”

Steve: My Dad’s life and influence on me cannot be overstated.  Like my siblings, I am steeped in the lessons he taught us.  My memories of him are vivid and I am thankful to have had the privilege of being his son.  As a child of the 70’s… long hair was a thing, for me and my brothers.  While Dad hated it, because I was a pretty good student, he kept his feelings somewhat at bay.  I guess his biggest lesson for me was his sense of duty.  His military service inspired my own.  In retrospect, my mistake was not letting him know my intentions sooner.  I applied and pursued entry into the US Military Academy “in secret,” largely because I didn’t want to be embarrassed if I failed to get in.  But as the process went forward and I needed a military physical, not yet owning a car, I had to ask my Dad to drive me to Fort Dix. From that day forward, I could do “no wrong”.  Instead of chastising me for my hair or coming home late, Dad became my biggest supporter and advocate, to the point he’d push back on my behalf to my Mom if she was on my case about something, “Aww come on Aurora, he’s gonna be a Soldier for crying out loud.”   I married my own High School sweetheart, Irene (although she hates me saying that since technically, we didn’t begin dating until late in our Senior Year… but I’m writing this, so too bad).  We have two wonderful adult children of our own, Steve and Kelly. Growing up as “Army Brats,” they didn’t get to know my Dad as well as my Sister’s daughters, but nevertheless, were always a central focus of any conversation I had with my Dad, even until the very end.  Life Lesson: “Service to Country and something bigger than yourself is an obligation”

Dave:  Being the youngest of four siblings you'd think I'd be the spoiled one by my Dad, you'd be wrong. Trust me, I felt his wrath and in all cases I deserved it. My Dad didn't have the patience for misbehavior. He was old school and is what is missing in today's world. There have been so many great memories of my dad but one simple one stands out. I remember when I was young sitting on the stoop waiting for my dad to come home from work. He’d make that right turn and I’d see that big old Chevy station wagon (’62 Bel Air) and he slowed down and stopped and waited for me to run toward the car. The door would open, and I'd sit on his lap and grab the steering wheel. From there he'd let me steer the rest of the way home while he controlled the gas and brake pedals. He would tell me good job David as we parked in the driveway.  It's the little things that I'll remember of my Dad. Like Steve, I followed in my Dad’s military footsteps, enlisting, and serving as a Marine for 10+ years.  I met and married my wife Emily, (who also served as a Marine, for 20+ years) and together, we have two adult children, Justin, and Dani.  Justin, currently serving as a Marine, is himself married to Emily, with a young Son, Keanu, and another on the way.  Dani is living in CA and is an aspiring actress.  I love you Dad and miss you.  Love David.  Life Lesson: “Little things matter”  

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Harold’s name are asked to consider donating to Children of Fallen Patriots.  Children of Fallen Patriots provides college scholarships and educational counseling to military children who have lost a parent in the line of duty.  Donations can be made online at Donate to CFP Donation Page (fallenpatriots.org) or by mail, with a note indicating the donation is “in honor of Harold G. Smith” and addressed to:

Children of Fallen Patriots

1818 Library Street

Suite 500

Reston, VA 20190

Total: $

Tax ID – EIN#: 47-0902295

It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Mark Andrew Lamberski of Wayne, NJ from a sudden heart attack on Thursday May 11, 2023. Mark was only 54.

Mark was born in Passaic, NJ on August 1, 1968 to Edwin and Christine Lamberski. He has one younger sister, Amy. He attended St. Philip the Apostle Preparatory school in Clifton, NJ until 1980, when his family moved to Wayne, NJ. He finished his elementary education at Our Lady of the Valley School in Wayne and went on to graduate from Don Bosco Technical High School in Paterson, NJ. After high school, Mark enlisted in the United States Air Force and earned an honorable discharge in 1988.

In 1992, Mark fathered his only son, Mark (Markie) Ruiz. He adored his son and worked long hours to provide for him, first as an Equipment Manager at Verizon Wireless and later as a Manager at Radio Shack.

Those who knew Mark speak fondly of his enormous heart, kind spirit, generosity, humor and unwavering love of his family. Mark was selfless, consistently putting the needs of his family and friends ahead of his own. He was a great lover of animals and found much joy in spending time with his many furry companions over the years, including Sooty, Cecil, Kitty, Molly and Pippi, to name a few. He was an extraordinary person who touched many lives and will be missed by all of those who were blessed to have known him.

Mark is survived by his son, Mark Ruiz of Wayne, NJ; his mother Christine (Snyder) Lamberski of Wayne, NJ; his father Edwin Lamberski and his wife Maryann Lamberski of Cape Coral FL; his sister Amy Herlihy and her husband Donagh Herlihy of St. Petersburg, FL; his nephews Sam Herlihy of Boston, MA and Kieran Herlihy of St. Petersburg, FL; his step-sisters Deborah Valanzola of Flanders, NJ and Michele Gowing and her husband Pete Gowing of Randolph, NJ; and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. He was predeceased by his grandparents Christine Snyder, Wilfred (Bud) Snyder, Kasimer (Casey) Lamberski and Sophie Lamberski.

Flowers are welcome, or those that wish to honor Mark’s memory may make a donation in his name to a charity of their choice. 

Anthony A. Angelicola, age 85, of Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains, and formerly of North Haledon, died peacefully on Wednesday, May 10, 2023

Tony, as he was known by family and friends, was born and raised in Paterson, NJ.  He attended the Paterson school system, where he met the love of his life, Anna or Annie, as he called her.  He attended East Side High School.  In 1955, at the young age of 17, he married Anna and enlisted in the Army.  While serving on Active Duty, Tony learned to repair airplanes and helicopters, and became a skilled mechanic.  Upon honorable discharge from the Army in 1958, he went to work in auto body repair.  He soon realized he could combine his skill set of mechanics with his organizational and people skills to land a job with Allstate Insurance Company.  He held several positions with the company during his nearly 40 year tenure, the last of which was Property Claims Manager. 

Tony and Anna remained in Paterson for the first twelve years of their marriage, and then moved to North Haledon in 1967.  It was here that they raised their three children, and it was here that they called “home” for many decades.  They enjoyed 38 years of marriage together before Anna lost her battle with cancer in 1993.  He would never remarry, insisting that he already had a wife…Anna.

His family was the most important thing to him and he always made each of his children feel important and loved.  He coached sports teams, served as a scout leader, attended school functions, and remained a loving and supportive parent throughout the years and until his time of death. 

Tony always maintained his love of mechanical things.  He could fix just about anything, and he was especially fond of and good at fixing engines of any kind, both large and small.  He was a skilled carpenter as well, and added an addition to his home, built a garage and workshop where he could tinker, and finished basements for himself and his children.  He was an avid reader and loved learning about all kinds of things.  He took numerous college courses and certifications in subjects of interest to him.  He loved playing on his computer and forwarding what seemed like a million emails a week to his children and grandchildren!

His oldest daughter remembers her Dad as being a great listener, a skill he passed on to her that she deems to be one of the most important skills a person can possess. 

Tony is survived by his three children:  Ann Meyer and her husband Richard of Tewksbury, Patty Goerl of Wayne, and Carlo Angelicola and his wife Susan of Morris Plains, his three grandchildren:  Jessica Pertuz and her husband Gregory, Matthew Goerl and his wife Dakota, and Nicholas Goerl and his wife Stefani, and three great grandchildren:  James Goerl, Indiana Goerl and Lucas Anthony Pertuz, one sister, Gloria Varcadipane of Illinois, and his “Brother from another Mother”, Ben Della Cerra of North Haledon.  Tony was predeceased by his wife Anna in 1993, his grandson, Jordan Meyer in 2007, a brother Dan, a sister Caroline Biagi, and by his son in law, James Goerl in 2014. 

For those wishing to make a donation in Tony’s memory and in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org.  

For those wishing to make a donation in Tony’s memory, please consider St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Leonard Dale.
Leonard Dale, age 89, of Bloomingdale, NJ passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 10, 2023 while receiving the loving care of his family.

Leonard was born in Paterson and was the older of two children to Floyd and Edna Dale.  Those closest the Leonard knew him affectionately as “Lennie”.  Lennie and his family moved to Totowa, NJ when he was only a few years old.  As a young man and while a student at Passaic Valley High School, Lennie decided to leave school and enter into the workforce early.  He found employment very quickly with a local construction company. 

After working in the construction field for several years, Lennie got the call to serve his country and was selected for service in the United States Army.  Lennie served honorably in the US Army for several years.  Subsequent to his honorable discharge, Lennie immediately got back to work in the construction industry.  While working for another private construction company, Lennie got the opportunity to join the Operating Engineers Local Union 825 based in Springfield, NJ.  Lennie continued to work in the Engineers Union for many years until 1996 when he retired.  His career in construction spanned more than forty-five years.

In 1962, Lennie married the love of his life, an attractive young lady by the name of Nancy Abrams.  After getting married, the newlyweds settled in West Paterson, now known as Woodland Park.  Nancy and Lennie moved to Bloomingdale a few years later and have been there ever since.  Lennie always had a love for sports and coached little league while his stepson Frank was growing up.  Later, as Lennie got older, he enjoyed going to the sporting events of his nieces, nephews, as well as his neighbor’s children. 

One of Lennie’s favorite past times was gardening and landscaping.  His back and front yards were his pride and joy and were always meticulously manicured.  Lennie was a wonderfully kind and thoughtful person.  He always spoke his mind and “told it like it is.”  He was well known and well loved in his neighborhood and would always drop what he was doing to help one of his friends or neighbors.  He also enjoyed listening to music, particularly the famous crooners such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Tony Bennett. 

Lennie will be forever remembered as a thoughtful and kind man who took great pride and interest in his community and loved his family very deeply.  Lennie was a very special person who touched the lives of many people and will be missed by everyone that knew him.

Lennie is survived by his sister Pat Miklos and her husband Andrew Miklos of Hamburg, NJ, his stepson Frank Delmonaco and his wife Linda of Florida, his nephew Louis Coppa and his wife Linda Mae of Kinnelon, NJ, his niece Lisa Moore of Lebanon, TN, a step grandson Ryan Delmonaco, three grandnieces: Melissa Coppa, Kate Coppa, and Emily Coppa, and one grandnephew Louis Coppa, Jr.

Wayne LoPresti, aged 74 of Wayne, passed away on Tuesday, May 9th after a long battle with cancer. 

Wayne was born in Biloxi, Mississippi before moving in his early years to Clifton, NJ. He was the proud graduate of St. Peter’s Prep where his independence and passion for life began. Wayne will be remembered for his great sense of humor and his ability to carve his own path through life that led others to admire him.  

He started his professional career scaling telephone poles and “climbed” his way up the ranks within AT&T into telecommunications sales and project management positions. He concluded his career using his accumulated knowledge on various consulting jobs within the industry. 

His success in his professional career is outshined by his passions outside of his work life. Wayne was well known as a musician whose skill with a guitar first manifested itself in his garage band at the age of 16. They were called “The Jades” and his followers will remember rooting for him and The Jades in the Battle of the Bands. He would go on to play in several rock and roll bands where he would perform professionally for weddings. In addition to his music, Wayne loved spending time outside. He maintained a thriving garden and landscape. 

Beyond all of Wayne’s hobbies, he was most passionate about his family. Wayne shared a loving marriage of 42 years with his wife and soulmate, Catherine. Wayne and Catherine’s marriage was a strong bond built on a deep connection, bringing a sense of joy and contentment to their daily lives together. Their shared love led to Wayne’s pride and joy; their two children Michael and Erica. Wayne was the biggest fan of his children – he shared deep connections with them and led a life that helped shape theirs as well. 

Wayne enjoyed making cartoons and his daughter Erica embodied his artistic talent and expanded on it. Wayne prized her art above anything he created, and he loved that her artistic talents flowed with his own. Thanks to her father's nurturing influence, Erica developed not only exceptional creativity, but also a strong sense of independence and confidence in forging her own unique path in life. Wayne also inspired Erica to cultivate her own green thumb and find joy and fulfillment in nurturing and growing beautiful plants.

Michael inherited Wayne’s musical ability and love for baseball. Wayne was a lifelong Yankees fan, and he took great pride in Michael’s baseball career that spanned from little league all the way up to the minor leagues of professional baseball. Wayne’s unwavering passion for watching his son play baseball not only brought him immense joy, but also helped him form meaningful relationships with fellow parents and coaches who shared his love for the sport and their children. Wayne’s passion for the guitar also inspired Michael to learn to play himself. 

Wayne will be remembered for his incredible sense of humor and his unique passion for all that life has to offer. He always had the best jokes and was truly one of a kind. He leaves behind an indelible mark on all of those who were lucky enough to learn from and spend time with him. He will be missed.

Wayne is survived by his wife Catherine LoPresti of Wayne and their two children: Michael LoPresti of Wayne and Erica LoPresti of Wayne; his brother Bob Lopresti formerly of Clifton and Pompton Plains; his niece Jackie Grasso, her husband Tom Grasso, and their two children Xander and Averie of Lake Hiawatha, and his nephew Robbie Lopresti and his wife Jackie Lopresti of Montville; and his 4 cats: Cali, Lucky, Luna, and Axel. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made out to St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital, The Wounded Warrior Project, or Tunnel to Towers Foundation.