Kevin A. Walker, age 49, of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 16, 2017.

Kevin was born in the Manhattan section of New York City. Soon after his family moved to Wanaque, NJ where he spent his formative years. After graduating from DePaul High School with the Class of 1986, Kevin attended Misericordia University in Dallas, PA where he majored in history. After earning his bachelor’s degree in 1990, he began full time work as an inside sales representative with the Ricoh Corporation. For the next twenty years he enjoyed much success and satisfaction and enjoyed the camaraderie of his customers and associates. Most recently, he joined the sales team at PTS Data Center Solutions in Oakland, NJ.

In his spare time, Kevin could often be found on the green at the Preakness Valley Golf Course in Wayne and the Sunset Valley Golf Course in Pompton Plains playing eighteen holes of golf with his buddies. He was a big fan of America’s favorite pastimes of baseball and football choosing to cast his loyalties first and foremost to the New York Mets and New York Giants. His love of sports was surely instilled in him as a young boy playing baseball, football, hockey, and racing wood go-carts with his brother and his neighborhood friends. Kevin also enjoyed music – especially classic rock.

While leisure-time amusements were fine, nothing was more important to Kevin than being with his family. He loved gathering during the holidays with his numerous uncles, aunts, and cousins, visiting his brother and sister, and most recently, he loved hanging out with his little nephew Ryan.

Kevin will always be remembered for being one who always put the needs of others above his own needs. He will be dearly missed.

Kevin is survived by his dear brother Brian and wife Kimberly Walker of Wanaque, his dear sister Kerith Ann Walker of Glassboro, his nephew Ryan Walker, and numerous uncles, aunts, and cousins. He was predeceased by his loving parents Arthur and Joan Walker.

Phyllis Virginia Andersen, age 87, formerly of Wyckoff, passed peacefully on Wednesday, November 15, 2017.

She was born in Brooklyn, New York and lived briefly on Long Island before spending her childhood in Ridgewood, New Jersey. Phyllis graduated from Ridgewood High School with the Class of 1948. After high school she enrolled in the Green Mountain Junior College in Vermont. This was an all-girls school and when her mother found out the girls would go to bars on the weekends to try and meet boys she pulled her daughter right out of there. She then went to Ottawa University in Kansas where she received her Associates Degree in Home Economics. Always trying to improve herself, in her early 50’s she enrolled at William Paterson University in Wayne and received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology.

As a young girl out of college Phyllis worked as a bank teller for the Peoples Trust Bank in Ridgewood. In 1952, Andrew joined the youth group at the Broadway Baptist Church in Paterson. The president of the youth group, Phyllis Read, introduced herself to him and they soon began dating. Her parents took a liking to Andrew right away, which surely provided the encouragement he needed to propose marriage. They exchanged nuptials on July 17, 1954 at Broadway Baptist and enjoyed a honeymoon in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. They first settled in Clifton, then lived in Wayne, before Andrew was able to design his dream home which they built in Wyckoff. Together, they raised their family there and enjoyed their home for more than forty seven years before moving to Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains. Andrew and Phyllis had sixty years of loving and devoted marriage before his passing in February of 2015.

Phyllis will be remembered for her loving personality, unpretentious willingness to be goofy sometimes, and love of laughter. She was a truly dedicated mother to her three children and deeply loved her four grandchildren; she focused on making her home a warm and inviting place for all. She lovingly cared for both her and her husband’s parents in their autumn years and was the go-to person whenever a family member was sick or in need. Her children fondly remember over forty years of two week summer vacations at the Twin Lake Village in New Hampshire. Phyllis also cherished the time with her grandchildren often playing board games with them and was always very proud of their accomplishments. Her love of games lasted her entire life as she most recently enjoyed playing BINGO and dominos. She was a good cook, fastidious housekeeper and was always vacuuming. When she wasn’t cooking or cleaning she was either eating ice cream or drinking a glass or two of white wine. Her husband Andrew used to get mad at her because she would have ice cream for lunch! Even most recently she would eat ice cream every day and sometime twice a day. She was also an animal lover and always had a special spot in her heart for her two poodles Jackie and Rusty.

Phyllis was very dedicated to her Christian faith. This faith was born from a seed planted by her paternal grandfather who was a Baptist minister. She was an active member of the Broadway Baptist Church in Paterson, the Ramapo Valley Baptist Church in Oakland, and later the Hawthorne Gospel Church in Hawthorne.

Phyllis and Andrew both enjoyed traveling and toured throughout Europe, Scandinavia, Israel and Egypt, the Far East, Ireland, Scotland and England, Russia, the Baltics, as well as many vacations to the Caribbean. They wintered at a condo in Venice, Florida and so as not to be a “golf widow” she took up the game of golf. They played together all over the world including during the winter in Venice and at the North Jersey Country Club in Wayne where they were members for many years.

Phyllis was the loving wife of 61 years to the late Andrew Andersen (2015); devoted mother of James Andersen and his wife Elise of Wayne, Beth Andersen-Pochtar and her husband Paul of Basking Ridge, and Barbara Andersen of Newton, MA; she was the cherished grandmother of Darby Pochtar, Jacob Andersen, Hayley Pochtar, and John Andersen.

Dr. Edward J. Rahuba, age 82, of Wanaque and formerly of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 15, 2017.

The son of Alexander and Albertyna Rahuba, Polish immigrants who came to America through Ellis Island, Ed was born after they arrived in the U.S., in Paterson, and he grew up in Fair Lawn, graduating from Fair Lawn High School with the Class of 1952. After further study at Seton Hall University in South Orange where he earned his B.S. degree, he went on to receive his Doctorate from the Chiropractic Institute of New York in 1959.

While in college, he met his wife Barbara Tranberg at a Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) social gathering. Their first date was to the movies in Totowa where they saw Marlon Brando star in “The Wild One.” They soon fell in love, and were united in marriage before family and friends on Saturday, November 29, 1958 at St. Anne’s Church in Fair Lawn. They honeymooned in the Poconos and settled into their new life together.

In 1960, Dr. Rahuba began his chiropractic practice in Wayne. His office was originally on Valley Road but five years later he moved it to his new home on the corner of Alps Road and Eleron Place in Wayne. This location served as the home in which he and Barbara raised their two sons and three daughters and the place that many in the community came as patients for relief and wellness for themselves and their family through Dr. Rahuba’s skilled and caring hands. For 50 years, until retiring in 2010, Ed faithfully served his patients. He also served the profession well as Treasurer of the Garden State Chiropractic Society and then the Council of NJ Chiropractors. His philosophy of chiropractic revealed a lot about who he was - someone who trusted in the inherent wisdom of the body to heal itself when free of interference. His children recall that when they were young, Ed would enthusiastically explain the importance of this philosophy and how Chiropractic served its place in helping people express their highest level of health. That enthusiasm was contagious as it inspired his daughter Kim to ultimately embrace the profession for herself, and soon, two of his grandchildren will also graduate Chiropractic College. Ed surely made a great mark for himself and his legacy lives on through the generations of patients he served and the generations in his own family that he inspired to pursue the profession for themselves.

Ed and Barbara enjoyed a loving 56 year marriage filled with the blessings of children and grandchildren and lots of fine memories. For example, during the early years of raising their family, Ed and three other families purchased a 28-foot Winnebago Motor Home. Each family got to use it for two weeks in the summer and Ed made the most of that time by taking his family up and down the east coast including trips as far north as Sebago Lake in Maine to as far south as Florida. In the fall, Ed and Barbara piled in the motor home to go to football games at West Point with lifelong friends. Ed also loved spending time at the summer home down the shore in Long Beach Island. The friends and memories from Kentucky Avenue were a huge part of their life. In later years, when the weather turned cold in New Jersey, he and Barbara gladly escaped to their winter home in Sarasota, FL and they enjoyed trips to Germany, Italy, Russia, Denmark, France, and Hawaii, as well as cruising. Ed felt very lucky to enjoy his seven grandchildren and there was nothing he loved more than having his whole family gathered for the holiday. Founding parishioners of Our Lady of the Valley Church in Wayne, Ed and Barbara had the privilege of renewing their wedding vows there in 2008 after 50 years of marriage. He really missed his sweet Barbara when she passed away in the summer of 2015. Around the house, it seemed that Ed was always working on some project. When they moved into that home in Wayne, he made it even more beautiful installing all the Wainscot and special trim himself. He also planted 150 tiny shrubs which, over many years, grew to become a beautiful natural privacy fence. He took great pride in those bushes, always brushing off the snow after a big storm so that the branches would not be damaged.

While enjoying his family and being the best chiropractor he could be were Ed’s greatest passions, he had other interests which made his life interesting. Ed was quite a cook who enjoyed making good food for himself but equally enjoyed sharing his kitchen creations with others. He seemed to have a thing for clams and, while spaghetti with clam sauce was his most frequently made recipe, he would also make clams casino, clams oreganata, and clams posillipo, just to add some variety. He loved clams so much that, his family recalls many times at the shore when these wonderful appetizers left little room for the actual dinner! Ed loved computers because they were great for looking up information and he loved music – especially big band and show tunes. When retirement years arrived, the extra hours of leisure were often spent getting together with his buddies to play eighteen holes of golf. He played all over the place including at the former High Mountain Country Club, the Passaic County course and, when at the beach house in LBI, he played at the Seaview Golf Course, and in Sarasota, Florida at the Palm Air Country Club. At those courses in Jersey, he and his buddies gave themselves a name – the Romeos, aka Retired Old Men Eating Out.

Ed was a quiet calm guy. So quiet and calm that his friends and business associates called him “The Ghost.” All of a sudden, there he was! Although quiet by nature, Ed leaves behind a plethora of special memories for his family and friends who will miss him greatly.

Edward was predeceased by his beloved wife Barbara in 2015. He is survived by his five children: Edward “Scott” Rahuba of Intervale, NH, Dr. Kim and husband Dr. Greg Stetzel of Branchville, Karen and husband Charlie Verhoog of Wyckoff, Donna and husband Manuel Cancel of Wayne, and Patrick and wife Rosalie Rahuba of Hamburg; and grandchildren, Emma and Gabbi Cancel, Billy and Danielle Stetzel, and Brianne, Charles and Christy Verhoog; and his loving sister-in-law and brother-in-law Ellen and John Donlevy and their family. He was also predeceased by his brother Walter Rahuba in 2014.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Edward’s name are asked to consider Institutional Advancement, Sherman College of Chiropractic, P.O. Box 1452, Spartanburg, SC 29304 (sherman.edu/donate).

Charles J. (Chuck) Werkley, 97 of Wayne, passed away on November 13, 2017 at the New Jersey Veterans home in Paramus. He was born on December 22, 1919 in Paterson NJ to John and Catherine Werkley. He is predeceased by his wife Janet, nee Lauder, in 2005, brother Jack in 1949, and sister Frances Lutoff in 1974.

After service with the US Navy during World War II, he was employed by the NJ Bell Telephone Company for 34 years, retiring in 1980. He was a proud member and Trustee of the Wayne Elks Club 2181 and served as past President of the Haledon Lions Club. In 1989 he relocated to Port St. Lucie FL, where he pursued a career in real estate, retiring in 2014, after which he returned to NJ to spend time with family. He subsequently authored an autobiography in 2013 entitled “Family Values”.

He is survived by his son Tim and wife Loretta Werkley, daughter Joan and husband Bob Duvalois, daughter Carol and husband Jim Talerico, grandchildren Daryl Marchant, Darrin Duvalois, Tim Werkley, Jim Talerico Jr., Lauren Lamoureaux and 8 great grand children.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Joseph Robert Duvalois Foundation (His great grandson who predeceased him in 2010), C/O Stephanie Ferrara, 31 Hill Street, Belleville, NJ 07109.

Irene King (née Chioccarello Quazza), age 86 of Wayne, died Saturday, November 11, 2017, after a brief battle with cancer. She had owned and operated Haledon Nurseries on Valley Rd. in Wayne since 1961.

Irene resided in Haledon and graduated from Central High School with the class of 1949. After high school, she served as the deputy borough clerk and tax collector for Haledon. It was there that she met Harold Quazza, who owned the newly-founded Haledon Nurseries in Haledon. The two of them hit it off and wedding plans were soon being made. They married on October 12, 1952, at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Haledon. Truth be told, Irene not only married Harold that day, but she married Haledon Nurseries as well! The two of them worked side by side, building the business together on Norwood Street in Haledon. In 1961, they purchased a small parcel of land in Wayne and moved the business to 262 Valley Road. Their home was also on the premises, where Irene and Harold raised their two children. Carl grew up in the nursery business, while Amy chose a career in the food industry. They recall their mom being very active in their lives not just as a mom, but also as Cub Scout Den mother, and PTA member. She never missed a dance recital or baseball game. Irene was also a terrific host; being social came easy to her and she loved entertaining. The parties at Irene and Harold’s home were to be remembered! Tragically, Harold died in a car accident in 1980, leaving Irene to run the business with her son Carl.

During her fifty years in the business, Irene enjoyed special friendships with many of her colleagues and she was widely respected throughout the Nursery and Landscaping industry. In 2004, she was inducted into the NJ Nursery and Landscapers Association Hall of Fame for her industry contributions during the fifty years she was in business. She urged education within the industry, stating that the public needs to know NJNLA members are very knowledgeable and are keeping America beautiful through the use of plant material which should be very important to everyone. She was quoted as saying; “It takes more than a shovel and a pickup truck” to make a company last.

In 1983, Irene married once more to Roy King, Jr. They enjoyed traveling and visited England, the Bahamas, Christmas Island, Alaska, Montana, and many other beautiful destinations. Harbour Island, Bahamas was her hands-down favorite! Roy enjoyed fly fishing, and Irene enjoyed visiting all the spectacular places that he wanted to fish. Sadly, Roy passed in 2006. Irene was an avid bowler and was a participant in many leagues over the years. She was the Secretary and Treasurer of the “Breakfast Club” bowling league at T-Bowl II Lanes at the time of her death. She also bowled in the Senior League on Tuesdays. She recently had a hip and knee replacement and was back to bowling as quickly as she could. Knitting and needlepoint were also among her leisure activities, but she wasn’t one to sit still for very long. Irene was always on the go and she enjoyed dining at fine restaurants throughout North Jersey and New York. She loved to dance, the NY Mets, and spending time laughing with her many friends and three grandchildren.

Irene is survived by her two children; Carl Quazza and his wife Bonnie of Wayne, Amy Quazza,(and partner Walter Murawinski) of Hoboken, three grandchildren; Darrell, Adam and Dana Quazza, all of Wayne, her sister; Dolores DeWitt and her husband John of Manahawkin. In addition, she is survived by three nieces and their families. During the past eleven years, Irene was in an extremely loving relationship with Mr. Michael Corbo, her bowling and life partner.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Wayne Township Memorial First Aid Squad, P.O. Box 2004, Wayne, NJ 07474 or New Jersey Fireman's Home, 565 Lathrop Avenue, Boonton, NJ 07005 would be greatly appreciated.

Margaret “Peggy” Baer, age 95 of Wayne, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, November 7, 2017.

Margaret was born in Boston, Massachusetts, on May 13, 1922. Her parents, Andrew and Jennifer Boyd had moved there from their homes on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada, which Margaret visited every summer as a child. She deeply loved her Nova Scotian heritage and throughout her life, she continued returning to the Island to visit family and friends, and enjoy her beloved Cape Breton fiddle music.

Margaret, the oldest of four children, soon moved with her family from Boston to the Bronx in New York City, where her father worked construction on the George Washington Bridge. In 1931, at age 9, together with her family, she attended the bridge’s ceremonial opening, an event presided over by then New York Governor, Franklin D. Roosevelt. Growing up in the Bronx, Margaret attended high school at Saint Nicholas of Tolentine on Fordham Road, where she graduated in 1940.

In 1946, she married William E. Baer, also of the Bronx, who was recently returned from service in the Pacific Theatre during World War II. Together with their three children, the family lived primarily in the Bronx until moving to Packanack Lake in Wayne, New Jersey, in 1960. While raising her three children in Packanack, Margaret initiated her life-long love of community theater, participating with the “Packanack Players” for many years as an actress, dancer, writer and director. In 1976, she received the Best Actress Award in a state-wide drama festival in Atlantic City for her performance in Something Unspoken by Tennessee Williams.

In 1970, she began working for the United States Post Office. Starting at the entry level, she quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming Director of Finance for the Paterson postal region, overseeing the finances of nearly a hundred post offices. She retired in 1990 as the Postmaster of Fair Lawn, New Jersey.

Margaret touched countless lives with her kindness, and was loved by everyone who knew her. She was predeceased by her husband, William E. Baer, her brother Andrew Boyd and her sister Evelyn Stuart. She is survived by her three children: Robert Baer of Wayne, New Jersey; William Baer of Wayne, New Jersey; and Richard Baer of Tenafly, New Jersey; as well as her daughter-in-law, Foon Wu-Baer of Tenafly, New Jersey; and three grandchildren, Margaret Baer of Silver Springs, Maryland; William Baer, III, of Vienna, Ohio; and Jennifer Baer of Tenafly, New Jersey. She is also survived by her brother, Jack Boyd, and her sister-in-law, Margaret Boyd, of Syracuse, New York, and her sister-in-law, Catherine Boyd of Goshen, New York, as well as fifteen nephews and nieces.

The world lost a beautiful young lady, Kerry Loftus, on Tuesday, November 7, 2017, after a brief illness.

Join Us.....Drumming was her passion!

We will be celebrating Kerry's life with a drum circle gathering on Sunday December 10th at the Community Church of Cedar Grove, 65 Bowden Road, Cedar Grove, NJ.  Please come and go as you please between the hours of 2 and 4:30 in the afternoon.  Sneakers and jeans were her style so come casual.  Hope to see you there.

Family and Friends of Kerry.

Please no alcohol or smoking on premises.  

The world lost a beautiful young lady, Kerry Loftus, on Tuesday, November 7, 2017, after a brief illness.

Kerry was raised in Wayne having graduated from Wayne Hills High School with the Class of 1989. She went on to earn her BS in Nursing and RN degrees from Fairfield University with the Class of 1993.

Her first job ever was working at Kay’s Bakery in Normandy Beach at the Jersey Shore. After college she worked as a nurse for a dermatology group in Montclair, an Administrator for Richards Associates Insurance in Clifton, and the Foundation for the Blind in Denville as a teacher relating to the technologies available to the blind.

Kerry was a warrior having fought through two kidney transplants, two pancreas transplants, blindness, diabetes, and did it all with a smile. She was fun loving, outgoing, always smiling, and drank coffee day and night. She would sip her hazelnut coffee and more recently Latte’s for hours on end until it was ice cold. Armed with her walking stick, coffee, and Uber app Kerry was fearless in her travels. She had a “Mr. Magoo-like” ability to narrowly avoid accidents and trouble that would make those accompanying her cringe.

Those that know Kerry will agree that she marched to a different drummer – both literally and figuratively. While working at the Foundation for the Blind she was introduced to Drum Circle Therapy that helped heal through rhythm and sound. She found great comfort in seeing the results of this therapy with the many and varied groups that were influenced by it.

To honor Kerry’s life her family is organizing a Drum Circle with WoodnDrums with whom she worked with for several years. The date and time of this Celebration of Kerry’s life will be posted here once they have been scheduled. To honor Kerry’s memory in the meantime the family asks you to order a coffee, sip it, and remember how she touched your life.

Kerry was the loving and devoted daughter of Ed and Carol “Snuffy” Loftus; beloved sister of Kevin Loftus and his wife Terri of Montville, Craig Loftus and his wife Emma of Ho-Ho-Kus, and Kristin Gallagher and her husband Scott of Verona; she was the much loved aunt of seven nieces and nephews and her much loved friend, Glenn Weissman, of Cedar Grove.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Transplant Center, RWJ St. Barnabas Health, 95 Old Short Hills Road, West Orange, NJ 07052 would be greatly appreciated.

Ada M. Kuiken, age 84, of Wyckoff and a former long-time resident of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 6, 2017,

Ada was born and raised in Clifton, NJ. She attended and later graduated from Eastern Academy in Prospect Park, known today as Eastern Christian High School in North Haledon. One night during her sophomore year, while attending an Eastern Academy basketball game, Ada met a very charming and engaging young gentleman, a farmer from Preakness named Herman Kuiken. She was fifteen at the time and Herm was twenty-one. Because of their age difference, later when they were married and were raising their own children, Ada’s husband would often joke with his kids, kiddingly explaining, “You know, kids, I actually brought your mother up.” They dated throughout Ada’s years of high school, and soon after graduating with the Class of 1951, they began to make plans for marriage – plans that were surely hastened by the fact that Herm was serving in the U.S. Army and was about to be deployed far from home. One day, while together in Herm’s 1942 Plymouth, he officially proposed marriage to Ada. Their wedding promises were made before God, family and friends at the home of Herm’s Aunt Jessie located at 370 North 10th Street in Prospect Park. The service was officiated by Reverend Hessel Bouma who was pastor of the Summer Street Christian Reformed Church in Paterson. Following a family reception at the Peacock House in Mountain View, the newlyweds left for a wedding tour of Washington D. C. and the southern states. Herm recalls that, while in our nation’s capital, they couldn’t find a parking space so they just drove around looking at all the different monuments.

Ada and Herman’s marriage life began residing with Ada’s parents in Clifton. Shortly thereafter, they rented an apartment on Hopper Street in Paterson before moving to Woodridge Terrace in the Preakness section of Wayne in 1955. This house became their home and the place where Ada lovingly served as a caring and dedicated mother to her three children – Susan, Richard, and Russell, and where she contributed to many happy family memories for the next 57 years. In 2012 it became time to pack up for a move to Montville. Then, in September, 2014, due to declining health, Ada moved to the Christian Health Care Center in Wyckoff where she had since received wonderful Christian care from their loving staff.

Prior to marriage, Ada worked as an office employee at Botany Mills in Passaic. When blessed with the births of Sue, Rich and Russ, she took a break from the outside work world to give them a loving, Christian upbringing before returning to the workforce. Little did Ada know that this would be the beginning of thirty years of service to the township in which she was ultimately promoted to the position of Purchasing Coordinator. Ada remained a highly valued employee and was rightfully honored at her retirement party on February 14, 1997 with an official proclamation from the mayor declaring that day “Ada Kuiken Day” in Wayne Township.

In their years of dating and early marriage, Ada and Herman enjoyed being members of the Summer Street Church bowling club. Ada cherished her family dearly and so family traditions were very important to her. When her children were growing up, the whole family enjoyed annual summer vacations to Brant Lake in the Adirondacks, and after church on Easter Sundays, the go-to place was to Grandma Kuiken’s house for the annual Easter egg hunt which Ada continued for her much-loved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. It was hard to tell who had more fun, them or her. For countless years Ada also looked forward to hosting huge 4th of July picnics for the entire extended family and many family friends as the 4th of July was also Herm’s father, Dick Kuiken’s, birthday.

While enjoying the blessing of family was of paramount importance, Ada also had a servant’s heart. Already as a young woman before marriage, she served as President of the Girl’s Society and as a member of the choir at Summer Street Christian Reformed Church. Later on, Ada joined Herm as a member of the Preakness Christian Reformed Church where Herm’s family were Charter Members. At Preakness she served as a member of the Mary and Martha Society and as Calvinette Counselor. Most recently, Ada was a member of the Pompton Plains Reformed Bible Church where she and Herm worshipped faithfully and loved being involved in the Senior Circle. A true believer in the value of a Christ-centered education, Ada also volunteered for many years at the Corner Closet – a thrift store in Hawthorne that donated all of its’ profits to the Eastern Christian School Association.

Ada will above-all be remembered for being a faithful wife and loving mother and grandmother, and also as true example of living a life in the service and trust of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It was this knowledge and trust in God which sustained her and helped her to find peace and acceptance in life’s challenges, and which helped her to recognize that the many blessings she enjoyed, were blessings from Him.

Ada is survived by Herman - her beloved husband of 65 years; her loving daughter: Susan and husband Bill Gaechter of Bloomingdale; two dear sons: Reverend Richard J. Kuiken and wife Margaret of Pompton Plains, and Reverend Russell J. Kuiken and wife Diane of Beaverton, Oregon; twelve adored grandchildren: Reverend Matt and wife Sabrina Kuiken, Jenny and husband Drew Robeson, Melissa and husband Ken Ritsma, Greta and husband Pete Godino, Holly and husband Matt Hoogmoed, Mandy and husband Jordan Minnema, Kelly and husband Jon Poag, Ben and wife Kathy Kuiken, Jesse and wife Tina Kuiken, Rachel Kuiken, Christie and husband Brian Lim, and Bethany Kuiken; twenty-five cherished great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her dear brother and two sisters: Herbert “Bud” Houseward, Helen Houseward, and Jeanne Vogel.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Ada’s name are asked to consider the Pompton Plains Reformed Bible Church.

Ada M. Kuiken, age 84, of Wyckoff and a former long-time resident of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 6, 2017,

Ada was born and raised in Clifton, NJ. She attended and later graduated from Eastern Academy in Prospect Park, known today as Eastern Christian High School in North Haledon. One night during her sophomore year, while attending an Eastern Academy basketball game, Ada met a very charming and engaging young gentleman, a farmer from Preakness named Herman Kuiken. She was fifteen at the time and Herm was twenty-one. Because of their age difference, later when they were married and were raising their own children, Ada’s husband would often joke with his kids, kiddingly explaining, “You know, kids, I actually brought your mother up.” They dated throughout Ada’s years of high school, and soon after graduating with the Class of 1951, they began to make plans for marriage – plans that were surely hastened by the fact that Herm was serving in the U.S. Army and was about to be deployed far from home. One day, while together in Herm’s 1942 Plymouth, he officially proposed marriage to Ada. Their wedding promises were made before God, family and friends at the home of Herm’s Aunt Jessie located at 370 North 10th Street in Prospect Park. The service was officiated by Reverend Hessel Bouma who was pastor of the Summer Street Christian Reformed Church in Paterson. Following a family reception at the Peacock House in Mountain View, the newlyweds left for a wedding tour of Washington D. C. and the southern states. Herm recalls that, while in our nation’s capital, they couldn’t find a parking space so they just drove around looking at all the different monuments.

Ada and Herman’s marriage life began residing with Ada’s parents in Clifton. Shortly thereafter, they rented an apartment on Hopper Street in Paterson before moving to Woodridge Terrace in the Preakness section of Wayne in 1955. This house became their home and the place where Ada lovingly served as a caring and dedicated mother to her three children – Susan, Richard, and Russell, and where she contributed to many happy family memories for the next 57 years. In 2012 it became time to pack up for a move to Montville. Then, in September, 2014, due to declining health, Ada moved to the Christian Health Care Center in Wyckoff where she had since received wonderful Christian care from their loving staff.

Prior to marriage, Ada worked as an office employee at Botany Mills in Passaic. When blessed with the births of Sue, Rich and Russ, she took a break from the outside work world to give them a loving, Christian upbringing before returning to the workforce. Little did Ada know that this would be the beginning of thirty years of service to the township in which she was ultimately promoted to the position of Purchasing Coordinator. Ada remained a highly valued employee and was rightfully honored at her retirement party on February 14, 1997 with an official proclamation from the mayor declaring that day “Ada Kuiken Day” in Wayne Township.

In their years of dating and early marriage, Ada and Herman enjoyed being members of the Summer Street Church bowling club. Ada cherished her family dearly and so family traditions were very important to her. When her children were growing up, the whole family enjoyed annual summer vacations to Brant Lake in the Adirondacks, and after church on Easter Sundays, the go-to place was to Grandma Kuiken’s house for the annual Easter egg hunt which Ada continued for her much-loved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. It was hard to tell who had more fun, them or her. For countless years Ada also looked forward to hosting huge 4th of July picnics for the entire extended family and many family friends as the 4th of July was also Herm’s father, Dick Kuiken’s, birthday.

While enjoying the blessing of family was of paramount importance, Ada also had a servant’s heart. Already as a young woman before marriage, she served as President of the Girl’s Society and as a member of the choir at Summer Street Christian Reformed Church. Later on, Ada joined Herm as a member of the Preakness Christian Reformed Church where Herm’s family were Charter Members. At Preakness she served as a member of the Mary and Martha Society and as Calvinette Counselor. Most recently, Ada was a member of the Pompton Plains Reformed Bible Church where she and Herm worshipped faithfully and loved being involved in the Senior Circle. A true believer in the value of a Christ-centered education, Ada also volunteered for many years at the Corner Closet – a thrift store in Hawthorne that donated all of its’ profits to the Eastern Christian School Association.

Ada will above-all be remembered for being a faithful wife and loving mother and grandmother, and also as true example of living a life in the service and trust of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It was this knowledge and trust in God which sustained her and helped her to find peace and acceptance in life’s challenges, and which helped her to recognize that the many blessings she enjoyed, were blessings from Him.

Ada is survived by Herman - her beloved husband of 65 years; her loving daughter: Susan and husband Bill Gaechter of Bloomingdale; two dear sons: Reverend Richard J. Kuiken and wife Margaret of Pompton Plains, and Reverend Russell J. Kuiken and wife Diane of Beaverton, Oregon; twelve adored grandchildren: Reverend Matt and wife Sabrina Kuiken, Jenny and husband Drew Robeson, Melissa and husband Ken Ritsma, Greta and husband Pete Godino, Holly and husband Matt Hoogmoed, Mandy and husband Jordan Minnema, Kelly and husband Jon Poag, Ben and wife Kathy Kuiken, Jesse and wife Tina Kuiken, Rachel Kuiken, Christie and husband Brian Lim, and Bethany Kuiken; twenty-five cherished great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her dear brother and two sisters: Herbert “Bud” Houseward, Helen Houseward, and Jeanne Vogel.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Ada’s name are asked to consider the Pompton Plains Reformed Bible Church.

Robert A. Ricker, Jr., age 57, of Wayne, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, November 4, 2017.

Bob was born in Annapolis, Maryland to Dorothy and Robert A. Ricker, Sr. His family moved to Atlanta, Georgia, then to Valdosta, Georgia in 1965 where Bob was raised. He attended Lowndes Junior and Senior High School in Valdosta where he participated in many competitions, festivals and concerts. Because Bob was exceptionally tall, he was often asked why he didn’t play basketball. His typical response was “Because the cheerleaders are all on the band bus.” He graduated high school with the Class of 1978 and, after one year at the University of Maine, Bob quickly concluded that the weather was too cold. He shifted gears and, in 1982, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps. After reporting for boot camp in San Diego Bob was sent to the Armed Forces School of Music in Virginia and soon-after he became a member of the Marine Corps Band where he was stationed in New Orleans. An extremely talented musician, Bob played saxophone, tuba, and string bass. While touring with the band, he was honored to play bass with famous American clarinetist Pete Fountain at a performance at Mt. Rushmore. There he also received a standing ovation for singing Lee Greenwood’s famous song “Proud to be an American.” Bob loved to tell stories about flying to concert locations in a C-130 plane and, for his service to his country, he was honored with two letters of appreciation, a certificate of appreciation, the Good Conduct Medal, and a Meritorious Unit Commendation.

After being honorably discharged from the Marines in 1985, Bob remained in his beloved New Orleans where he attended and graduated from Tulane University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in May, 1993. Bob supported himself by doing what he did so well – playing his guitar and singing along and telling jokes. He was so good at it, he was even billed “The Funniest White Boy on Bourbon Street.” Later Bob became part of The Bob and Dick Show along with his funny-man counterpart Dick Hughs. They kept everyone laughing in the French Quarter until 1995 when Bob was ready for a new adventure. He spent the next eighteen months in St. Thomas and, in the fall of 1997 he moved to New York City where he worked as an optician for Gruen Optica in Manhattan and East Hampton, NY. There he made many friends including Lynn Brescia in 1998. They fell in love and were married on June 6, 1999 settling in the Pines Lake area of Wayne, NJ and Amagansett, NY. Bob received his New Jersey real estate license in 2000 and greatly enjoyed working for Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in the Wyckoff/Franklin Lakes Regional Office alongside his wife Lynn Brescia as her online marketing expert and photographer.

Bob possessed a tremendously active spirit. He enjoyed long cross-country motorcycle trips, including a ride to Alaska where he met his brother-in-law for a continued trip together to the Arctic Circle. There were also the annual trips to Mardi Gras to catch up with old friends, and frequent trips to Broadway where he always liked to sit in one of the first three rows to see the Christmas Show at Radio City Music Hall where he loved the Rockettes and swears that one of them winked at him. The tickets for this year were already purchased. Bob also loved to sail so he spent lots of hours on his Hobie Cat sailing around Gardiners Island and last year taking a sail with his good buddy Aaron Romaine around the Statue of Liberty from Atlantic Highlands, NJ. Around Thanksgiving you could always find Bob frying lots of turkeys for his family but also many for his friends. You could be sure that his precious “Pumpkins” – his beloved Shih Tzu’s Pearl, Bruno, Bubba and Lulu would be by his side angling for a piece of that delicious turkey.

Bob will be greatly missed by all his Pines Lake friends who he would see while walking the lake, always greeting everyone with a huge smile and a warm hello.

Bob was the beloved husband of Lynn Brescia of Wayne, with whom he shared nineteen years of divine happiness and laughs, and her daughter Noelle Brescia, who he affectionately called Boo Boo, of Pompton Plains, NJ; loving son of Dorothy and Robert Ricker, Sr. of Clermont, Florida; dear brother of Michael Ricker and wife Christine and their daughters Ryeigh and Aly of Mount Dora, Florida, and Terri Martin of Winter Garden, Florida; loving nephew of Audrey Warren and Lucille Dickerson, both of Maryland; loving uncle of Megan Brashears of NYC, Michele Townsend and partner Kenneth Webb and their daughter Serenity of Anniston, Alabama, Crystal Shaw of Colorado Springs CO, Rachel and husband Danny Lauretta of Wayne, NJ, and Bjorn Holmgren and wife Sunshine of Wantage, NJ; dear son-in-law of Brooks Scholz of Wayne, NJ; dear brother-in-law of Mary Holmgren of Wayne, NJ, and Claire Shaw and husband Ike of Florissant, Colorado; and dear friend to many in Long Island, NY and friends in Georgia who just visited in late October.

A light has gone out but, because you touched so many people while you were here, we will pay it forward. You will be in our hearts forever.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Bob Ricker’s name are asked to consider The Carter Center at One Copenhill, 453 Freedom Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia, 30307 (cartercenter.org), or The SYTA Youth Foundation, Attention Hazel Mejia, 8400 West Park Drive 2nd floor, McLean, Virginia 22102 (sytayouthfoundation.org)

Lewis “Lou” Vincent Benfatti, Sr., age 75 of Green Pond, passed away peacefully at home with the comfort of family by his side, on Friday, November 3, 2017.

Lou grew up in Paterson as the oldest in a family of 7 children.  He was active at Paterson Central High School as a football, basketball, and baseball player. He was in two school plays with a lead role in Oklahoma.

Lou met the love of his life Judy Scripture during a Palm Sunday service in Totowa when she was 13 and Lou was 14. They were both in the choir where Lou told Judy to read the wrong lines in the hymnal! (This was the beginning of what would become 53 beautiful years together.) Judy followed his sports career from afar, but they went their separate ways until he was in college. Judy eventually went to one of his Montclair wrestling matches. They began dating after that. They were engaged at Mayfair Farms after Lou’s college graduation in June, and married in November. They have enjoyed a loving and devoted marriage of 53 years. Their first home was in Green Pond where they rented for 8 months and then bought a house in Bloomingdale. They moved back to Green Pond in 1971 with three kids, and soon were blessed with 2 more, and have lived there for the past 46 years. They considered Green Pond a special place to live and raise their children and now their grandchildren get to enjoy the special place Green Pond is.

Lou graduated from Montclair State University in 1964 with a degree in Physical Education and Health and where he also eventually completed his Masters degree in School Administration. He quickly began his teaching career at Jefferson Township and when the head wrestling coach position opened at Wayne Valley High School in Wayne, he moved there to teach both physical education and health. Along with coaching wrestling, he also coached football, track, and field hockey. He taught and coached at Wayne Valley until he retired in 2004.

He was also instrumental in starting a swim team in Green Pond to keep track of his own kids. By now there were five. His oldest child Jill is married to Danny and they have five children, Ally Gunther (Steve), Kristen, Danny Jr., Lindsay, and Connor. Robyn is engaged to Antonio and has three children; Kylie, Skyler, and Harrison. Lou Jr, is married to Jodi and has 4 children, Cole, Drew, Danae, and Gavin. Sheri is married to Rick and has 5 children, Olivia, Sydnee, Trevor, Landon, and Sawyer. His youngest child Dave is married to Vanessa and has 3 children, Gianna, DJ, and Mia. The kids are involved with many sports thanks to his leadership and encouragement. Lou was the loved brother of Vincent Benfatti (Irene) of Naples, FL, Mary Ann Smith (Joe) of Lakewood, Elaine Bisciotti (Bruce) of North Haledon, James Benfatti (Janet), and Lori Dougherty (John) of Bloomfield, and the late Ronald Benfatti.

Lou, Mr. Ben, Coach Ben, Papa Lou, Pop Pop, and Uncle Lou to most of the people at Green Pond will be lovingly remembered for his encouraging ways, positive attitude, and smile. He had a great sense of humor and was always ready with a funny saying, quip, quote, cliché, or pun. He had a gift for teaching, coaching, and motivating students to be the best they could be. He never shied away from hard work, was always punctual, and never had enough fire wood. This unattainable quest for enough fire wood would give him several injuries to his neck, hand, and leg. He was a get it done person who wanted the task at hand done yesterday. He will also be remembered for liking his food and/or coffee hot, not warm but hot! He was a great house painter, made many wooden outdoor Christmas decorations for his kids, and enjoyed boating. He was a lover of animals, had many dogs over the years, and will be greatly missed by his Golden Retriever named Chloe. He always enjoyed taking the dogs out for a walk, especially if he was in the doghouse himself. Most of all Lou was proud of his grandchildren. He unconditionally loved all of them and was by far the proudest Pop Pop at any of their activities he attended.

Lou was a longtime member of the Green Pond Bible Chapel and had a deep faith in his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. One of his proudest accomplishments was passing this faith on to his family. He was very active at the Green Pond Bible Chapel with Youth Group, Couples Club, softball, and where since he retired, began the Upward Basketball program. He felt God had a real sense of humor placing him in this role, as this was not one of the sports he had ever coached.

In 1976, Lou and Judy took their first trip to Disney. This actually was the start of what would become an annual family trip that has given them much joy and pleasure. Some of their best memories were made there. Recently there was a family cruise to Bermuda which included 34 immediate family members and Lou’s sister Mary Ann and her family. Another favorite experience has been their annual trips to the Outer Banks with special friends every May.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Green Pond Bible Chapel, P.O. Box 99, Newfoundland, NJ 07435 would be appreciated.  You can also donate online by visiting the church website at www.greenpondbible.org.

Anthony L. Giannini, age 87, of Wayne, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday, November 3rd, 2017.

Anthony was born and raised in Newark, New Jersey where he graduated from Central High school. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served three years in the Korean War obtaining the rank of Corporal. During his service he was awarded several prestigious medals including the Korean Outstanding Service Medal and Bronze Service Stars. Anthony was also awarded a medal by the Passaic County Freeholders for his distinguished military service.

He loved to share many very poignant stories of his service, but the most touching one happened on Christmas Eve during an extremely cold night. A young Korean boy approached him; freezing and hungry. The boy stood in front of Anthony staring and shivering. Being the person he was, Anthony gave all his rations to the young boy. This act of selflessness and generosity carried through countless times throughout his life.

Upon returning from service, Anthony had his eyes set on a lovely young woman who happened to live across the street from him. Anthony asked Ann on a first date to see Johnny Ray at the Paramount Theater in New York City. Persistence paid off and Anthony and Ann fell in love. They got married on November 14,1954 at St. Rocco's RC Church in Newark.

Upon marriage Anthony and Ann lived in the Ivy Hill Section of Newark. They moved to Irvington where they started their family and were blessed with three boys. They finally moved to Wayne, NJ where they lived ever since.

As a young man Anthony attended the Newark College of Engineering and started his lengthy career as a Mechanical Design Engineer for Atlantic Design in Newark. As his career progressed, he worked for several prestigious companies such as Bendix, Simmonds Precision, and finally with the B.F. Goodrich Aerospace Division, in which he retired in 2002.

Anthony loved to be with his family at holidays, simple gatherings and truly enjoyed seeing his family laugh and enjoy life. He was a parishioner at Holy Cross Church in Wayne, NJ and a member of the Golden Age Circle of Wayne and the Wayne Elks.

Anthony was a loving and devoted husband for 63 years to Ann (Cifelli) Giannini. A devoted father to the late Robert (2004) and his surviving wife Jane (Kunis) of Bethlehem Township, Pa, Michael and wife Virginia (Federico) of Wayne, NJ and Anthony and wife Sharon (Leins) of Blandon, Pa; and cherished grandfather of Anthony, Deanna, Michael, Christina, Stephanie, and Ava.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959 would be greatly appreciated.

Ruth Clover, 86, of 106 Old Friends Lane, Shelby, NC, was joyfully received into the loving arms of Jesus and her family and friends gone before on November 2, 2017. She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Henry, and three sons: Thomas of Denville, NJ, David of Sioux City, IA, and Stephen of Shelby, NC.

Born in Paterson, NJ, Ruth spent most of her life in Passaic County before moving to Shelby, NC in 2012. Her life was centered in raising three sons in the fear and nurture of the Lord and service in the church – choir singing, piano playing, and serving as a secretary in Central Reformed Church in Paterson, NJ. She also enjoyed reading, knitting, crocheting, bowling and cross-word puzzles. Her working career spanned 25 years as a secretary in the Paterson, NJ school system, primarily at John F. Kennedy High School in Paterson. She was a member of the Preakness Valley United Reformed Church in Wayne, NJ before moving to Shelby under the care of family. At the time of her passing into glory she was a member of the McBrayer Springs Presbyterian Church in Shelby, NC.

Daughter of the late Rev. Walter H. and Elizabeth A. MacMillan, she also leaves behind six grandchildren: Laura, Daniel, Joseph, Heather, Brendan and Breanna, and five great grandchildren: Eli, Dylanee, Paislee. Ruthee, and Sonora.

Memorials may be sent to the Christian Health Care Center, 301 Sicomac Avenue, Wyckoff, NJ 07481 and the Preakness Valley United Reformed Church, 480 Valley Road, Wayne, NJ 07470.

Olivia McKay Minutolo

March 2, 1941 - Oct 29, 2017

Olivia was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland and spent the first 22 years of her life there. She was the eldest of 4 siblings and took pride in her education. Olivia was one of the few in her neighborhood who did well on the exams which determined whether you go on for further education or prepare for work.

She continued her education until her father’s illness caused him to stop work and caused her to quit school and go to work.

She immigrated to the United States in 1963 as a governess for a family with 3 children in Connecticut. That didn’t last for long and she found herself working in administration. Olivia married Martin McKay, also from Belfast and member of the 1960 Irish Olympic cycling team. She moved into human resources when she was a part-timer at the newly opened Livingston Bamberger’s store. She progressed in human resources and started working at Fortunoffs. They encouraged her and paid her tuition at William Paterson where she received a BS in business management while working part time and raising her family. She continued to grow and worked for Konica Medical and then Merrimac Industries. She was proud of her growth from governess to Director of Human Resources.

Olivia’s brother Samuel predeceased her and her brother James and sister in-law Hilary live in Ballyclaire, Northern Ireland. Her sister Margaret lives in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Olivia has 2 children, Martin and Erica. Erica passed away in 2012 of breast cancer at the age of 40. Martin, his wife Annie and their 2 wonderful children Aidan and Evan whom Olivia adored live in Wayne, NJ.

Olivia married Frank Minutolo and they have been together for the past 22 years as residents of Wayne. She has been an active member of Preakness Reformed Church since 1972.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Preakness Reformed Church, 131 Church Lane, Wayne, NJ 07470 would be appreciated.

Constance “Connie” Little, age 95 of Wayne, died peacefully at home on Tuesday, October 31, 2017. She had lived in Wayne since 1954.

Connie grew up in Paterson, the daughter of proud Italian immigrants during the Great Depression. She learned the values of hard work, education, self-reliance and family life. Connie recited Depression-era stories to her children teaching them the same values. After high school, Connie went on to business school and learned to be a bookkeeper. It was at one of her early jobs that she met a handsome man while distributing the payroll checks one Friday. Thomas Little was his name, and they began dating. When Tom asked her to marry him, she said “yes” and they married on May 25, 1952. They lived in Paterson during the early years of their marriage while Tom built their home in Packanack Lake. It took him two years to finish building their home and they moved there in 1954. Connie and Tom were blessed with a “solid” marriage, truly committed to one another.

Connie became the consummate homemaker when they moved to Wayne and she enjoyed being a full-time mother, raising her two children. She became a den mother with the Cub Scouts and Brownie mom with her daughter. She was always there for them. Over the years she enjoyed cooking, sewing, embroidery, crocheting and water-color painting. Her children recall fun family vacations at the Jersey Shore each summer to various beach towns. They were fun times and made for great family memories. Connie also encouraged her children to go to college and she and Tom put them both through school, something her children appreciate greatly. Connie and Tom were also founding parishioners of Immaculate Heart of Mary RC Church, Wayne. They attended the very first masses which were held in the Packanack Elementary School, adjacent to where the church was being built at the time. In retirement, they traveled all around the US, to Canada and also to a WWII reunion in England. She has missed Tom dearly since he passed in 2009.

Connie is survived by her two children; Patricia Little of Wayne, and Dr. Thomas Little and his wife Ruth Ann of Cookeville, TN, and three grandchildren; Angela Little of Easton, PA, Ryan Little of Los Angeles, CA, and Brenden Little of Easton, PA. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Thomas in 2009, by her sister Josephine Hartman and by her brother Samuel DeFeo.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Immaculate Heart of Mary RC Church, 580 Ratzer Rd., Wayne, NJ 07470, or to the Wayne Memorial First Aid Squad, P.O. Box 2004, Wayne, NJ 07474, would be greatly appreciated.

Arthur J. Di Stasi, age 103 of Allendale and formerly of Wayne, joined his loved ones in eternity on Sunday, October 29, 2017.

There are so many things to say about Dad, a man loved by his family, and admired by his friends and colleagues.

Who was he really? There were many facets to this ever moving, bow-tie wearing bundle of physical and mental energy. His family was the most important part of his life. We never saw him cross or angry, he always had a positive attitude (although we’re sure on occasion he just shook his head)… With his “OK, let’s try that” and “roll with the punches” philosophy, life in our house always seemed fun and interesting.

Dad had three brothers, Frank, Mike, and Albert, a sister, Millie and a step sister, Clara and is the last to make this journey. He was a good student, going to high school at night and working during the day. After high school, he continued his education graduating in 1938 from the Casey Jones School of Aeronautics now called Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology in Queens, NY. To complete his education, he obtained Professional Engineering degrees for New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

After graduating, his first engineering jobs were in California. He spent 3 years there, but moved back to NJ where he married Ida in 1944, who was the love of his life. He knew her family because he used to bootleg for her uncle. In his early days, he drove the trucks of sugar, but graduated to building a still and making liquor…said he was really good at it too! But that’s a story for another time.

He became a family man when Bob was born in 1945 and Linda in 1947. That responsibility was simply and naturally the next chapter in his life, and he made the most of it. Of course, we thought everyone had a dad like ours. He could fix anything and built some wonderful toys…like the full size, motor-driven carousel made from airplane fuel drop tanks which he erected and ran in our backyard...anything for his kids! Bob had a pedal car with a propeller on the front – one of a kind in the neighborhood…seemed normal to us. He was a very resourceful fellow. Because of the WWII, conveniences like washing machines were not to be had, except he somehow managed to have one delivered to our house, along with some precious nylon stockings, making life easier and happier for mom...!

Dad was interested in everything. He loved the water…he bought a boat…we all learned to water ski…and spent many weekends at the Jersey Shore for the beach and boardwalk activities. He loved airplanes…we attended many airshows, noted as background footage in numerous family photos. His love for mom was evidenced by making sure we had lots of time with her family and our cousins. We visited his family in Trenton as well, and picked wonderful fresh vegetables from “pop pop’s” garden including those delicious figs. One “oops” at pop pop’s house: the children once spent a joyful hour in the old unused coal bin…we had fun getting dirty…he rolled his eyes. His children loved animals, so we always had a four-footed friend around, and if horses were his daughter’s love, he got her to the nearest stable to learn to ride. Bob became a good sailor and pilot because of Dad’s enthusiasm with the “go ahead – try it” attitude. Dad’s creative juices – with mom’s input - were put to good use when he designed and built 3 homes – one in West Trenton, one in Brookside, NJ and the final one on Merion Drive in Pennsylvania.

His love of airplanes and flight started very early in his childhood. His first plane was a simple fuselage built in his teens. His career was airplanes, his hobby was airplanes and we often thought he should have been a bird he loved flying so much. He obtained his pilot’s license, bought planes, refurbished and flew them. Sometimes his planes came in baskets of parts – “needs some assembly” was the operative phrase but he loved the challenge. He also learned to fly sail planes, but the most fun he had was building his Fly Baby in 1970…that took a few years. We hauled that “project” from New Jersey to Florida, to Maryland and back to New Jersey where it was completed and he finally got to fly it. That little single-seat, open cockpit plane was quite an accomplishment for him to build and a thrill for him to fly. Eventually he sold it and started building and flying ultra-light airplanes and finally at 94 was learning to fly helicopters. Model airplanes also fascinated him, and his basement was full of ongoing projects some new ventures and some crashed models in need of “fixing.” See what I mean about the “bird” complex…?

So the guy with all the energy, what else did he do? Of course he had a job. He worked at Cape Canaveral on the early space programs, Curtiss-Wright and Boeing Rotocraft Systems as a critical skills engineer. He and Mom became the entertainment chairmen at their country club, organizing and decorating for holiday parties and bringing in local talent for the enjoyment of club members. He bowled, became a ham radio operator, joined the Masons and Elks, and was president of his local AARP group for a few years. In his later years, he learned how to use a computer enjoying many hours learning AutoCAD and designing parts.

He and mom went dancing on Saturday nights, they learned to snow ski, travelled extensively and visited much of the United States…cruised the islands and went overseas to Italy, England, Spain and North Africa. While in North Africa as mom went shopping, Dad said he ended up trying to ride a camel although he didn’t stay on very long. He worked many years after his “formal” retirement and eventually volunteered his time at Boeing on some special projects. The American Helicopter Museum and Education Center in West Chester, PA also received a lot of his attention and he enjoyed his many hours of service there.

So what is his legacy? With a twinkle in his eye he said “I’d just like to be remembered.” Well, who in our family can forget him? His enthusiasm was infectious. He was the energizer bunny with a penchant for surprises. He loved his family more than life itself, and was delighted to have daughter-in-law, Lynne, and son-in-law, John, join the family…then came 2 grandchildren–Jeff and Stephanie. The icing on the cake was that Jeff married Jessica and Stephanie married Ben. He had mom beside him for 70 years…he was a very happy man and in honor of his request…we will certainly remember this unforgettable man who had a very rich, full life.

Arthur was predeceased by his beloved wife of seventy years – Ida Di Stasi (nee Lanzi). He is survived by his son, Robert Di Stasi, wife Lynne; his daughter Linda Di Stasi Schweighardt, husband John; Grandchildren: Jeffrey Di Stasi, wife Jessica, and Stephanie Di Stasi Roewer, husband Ben; and great granddaughter Annie Roewer.

Mary-Louise Clark, age ,98, passed peacefully in her home on October 26, 2017.

Louise was a former resident of New York, where she worked as an Executive secretary for CIT, and a resident of New Jersey before moving to Fort Lauderdale Fl.

Mary-Louise is the beloved wife of the former G. Russell Clark , sister of Rene Binginot of Stowe, VT, sister-in-law to Bernice Binginot of Stowe, VT, aunt to Michele Hochmuth of Middleboro, Ma, and James Binginot of Morrisville VT, great aunt to three grand nephews, Jason and Jeffrey Hochmuth and Matthew Binginot, Step mother to Douglas Clark, Jane Seeley and the late Gordon Clark.

She was a member of Lago Mar and former member of Ft Lauderdale Country Club .She was also a member of St Sebastian Catholic Church.

Vincent Della Valle, 75, of Wayne, formerly of Newark, passed away at exactly 11:29pm on October 24 at Good Shepherd Hospice in Port Jefferson, NY. It was a warm and rainy night surrounded by his wife and kids as he transitioned peacefully into pure love and light.

Vincent, called Jason by many, and Ice Poppy (because of his ability to create spontaneous and hilarious freestyle raps) by some, was born on August 21, 1942 and raised in Newark. Born to the late Nicholas & Eleanor Della Valle, he graduated from Barringer High School in 1960 before graduating from Upsala College. During this time, he became a black belt in karate and played music in various bands, including The Plurals, The Bachelors 5 and then finally The Jason Craig Band, of whom he was the band leader for over 25 years.

To many people, he was known as Jason Craig, the namesake of his company for many years, Jason Craig Entertainment. During his over 50 year career as an Entertainer and musician in New Jersey/New York, he sang for tens of thousands of people, always bringing his light and exuberant energy to every event which he felt privileged to attend. For the past 5 years, he sang at countless nursing homes and elder facilities, bringing his voice and sense of humor to people of all ages until the very end of his life. A true entertainer never retires.

In 1977, Vincent met his wife of 39 years, Jacqueline Winand. They met when Jacque attended a family friend's wedding that Jason was singing at. The rest is history. They honeymooned in Lake George and had their first child, Jason, 9 months later in 1979. They moved from Jacque's home town of East Rutherford to Packanack Lake in Wayne, where they continued to grow their family. Five and seven years later they brought their daughters Jocelyn and Jolie into the world.

Vincent had many hobbies and was known to throw himself whole heartedly into his sports and passion projects, excelling at everything he put his mind to. He was a long time skier and golfer, and he had a passion for practicing his Italian & Spanish. He enjoyed going to Hunter Mountain and Killington to ski and learning his lyrics for his upcoming events. Over the years, he became an EMT and even a member of the Hidden Valley Ski Patrol. He skied so much and always wore loud and colorful outfits made by the brand Spyder, which earned him the nickname Spyderman at Hunter Mountain. He went to the gym almost every day and was on a first name and friendly basis with virtually everyone who crossed his path.

But most of all his accomplishments, Vincent was a dedicated and beloved husband to Jacqueline. Father to Jason, Jocelyn, Jolie, and his chihuahua Tito. Brother to Nicholas, Annie, & Stephen. Grandfather to Sloane, Kai, Georgie, & Maréa. Beloved Uncle, Nephew, and a friend to so many. An inspiration to all who knew him. A generous spirit and a tender soul who appreciated life and lived it graciously, with dignity, color, and style.

His favorite movie was Summer of 42. His favorite TV show was Curb Your Enthusiasm. His favorite singer was Johnny Mathis. His favorite word was Gobagool.

We will all miss his presence, his sense of humor, his vitality, his enthusiasm for life. He will be surely celebrated by all who knew him.

Vincent's gift to the world was his spirit and his energy. Music was his vehicle and he used it to bring entertainment, peace, and healing to other souls. Therefore, because there will be no burial and In lieu of flowers, we ask that any contributions or donations be made in Vincent's name to Ukulele Kids Club (www.theukc.org), a nationally recognized non-for-profit organization that harnesses the healing power of music by gifting ukuleles to sick children in cancer hospitals and other medical facilities though their music therapy teams. Online donations can be made at: https://www.gofundme.com/ukulele-kids-club-house-concerts Any checks can be made out to: Ukulele Kids Club and mailed to PO Box 1564, Wayne, NJ 07474.

Frank P. Brattole, age 89, of Wayne, formerly of  Jersey City and Parsippany, passed peacefully at home on Sunday, October 22, 2017.

Frank was born and raised in Jersey City having graduated from Snyder High School in Jersey City with the Class of 1946 before attending Rutgers University.

Frank served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War and was Honorably Discharged as a Private First Class. He served as a Field Artillery Fire Control Man and as a Field Artillery Crewman. He received the Honorable Service Lapel Button, the Marine Corps Discharge Button, and the Good Conduct Medal.

When Frank returned from his service with the Marines he settled in to civilian life in Jersey City. Frank, with the nickname “Marine Bean,” was invited to a picnic after returning from the service. At this picnic he was spied by a pretty girl named Joan Lamont. Joan was engaged to be married but upon seeing Frank she said to her friends “I’m going to marry THAT man.” Joan broke her engagement and Frank separated from his girlfriend at the time and the two soon fell deeply in love. They married on October 16, 1954 in Jersey City. The October 16 date is an important one as that was the date of Frank’s parents wedding, and more recently the date of Frank and Joan’s daughter Francine’s wedding. Frank and Joan honeymooned at Niagara Falls, New York and settled in to life at 325 Liberty Avenue in Jersey City where they started and raised their family. They enjoyed a loving and devoted marriage of sixty years that can best be characterized as “peanut butter and jelly” as they were truly meant for each other. Frank lived in Jersey City, Parsippany for many years, before moving to Wayne two years ago.

As a young man just out of the Marine Corps he took a job working for the Erie Railroad as an electrical engineer. He stayed with the railroad his entire working career as it changed names to the Erie Lackawanna, Conrail, and NJ Transit before his retirement in 1990 after forty years. He was proud of his service to the railroad and his “Lifelong Pass” with NJ Transit. For many years, in his retirement, he would take his grandchildren, individually, to the Hoboken Rail Station and visit the train yard. They would ride the trains with the Engineer and then go to lunch afterword. This was an annual tradition with his grandchildren for many years. Although the grandchildren enjoyed it some will say Frank enjoyed it much more.

Frank will be remembered as a loving family man. For many years Frank and Joan loved helping at their son Joseph’s business in Parsippany. Frank was a “glass half empty” kind of guy, and would predict, in February, that his beloved Yankees were going to be beaten by the Boston Red Sox in the upcoming season. The family remembers a Frank having a discussion/argument at the table (most Italian families will understand the subtleties) about who was the best Yankee ever. Joe DiMaggio and Lou Gehrig’s statistics were being thrown around when Frank’s little grandson Matthew stated his opinion that Mickey Mantle was the best. He backed up his statement with statistics and took all the fight from Frank’s argument as he loved his grandson so much he couldn’t contradict him. He loved all of his grandchildren and cherished the time he spent with each one of them. Frank was very proud of his granddaughter Marissa when she became a doctor. He especially enjoyed watching football with his son and grandson and truly enjoyed walks around Lake Parsippany taking his grandchildren for ice cream. He and Joan were also fond of just sitting on the deck, overlooking Lake Parsippany watching the boats, ducks, or swans for hours on end. He loved the old black & white movies, and enjoyed doing puzzles. Once a puzzle was finished he would shellac and frame it. He will also be remembered as a walking, talking encyclopedia. History, dates, current events, facts - if he saw it, read it, or heard it, once he could recall it instantly. He was great at Jeopardy, Wheel of Fortune, and a brilliant mathematician. When it came to math he did everything longhand, never a calculator, and could show you all kind and manner of mathematical shortcuts. Since Joan’s passing in 2014 Frank and his daughter Francine have treasured their past three years together.

Frank was the loving husband of the late Joan (Lamont) Brattole (2014); devoted father of Joseph Brattole of Del Ray Beach, Florida, and Francine Karamian and her husband Rich of Wayne; he was the cherished grandfather of Dr. Marissa Petralia and her husband Nicholas, Joseph Brattole and his wife Eileen, Matthew Karamian, and Rachel Karamian; he was the loved brother of the late Joseph Brattole (killed in Germany during WWII), the late George Brattole, and Thomas Brattole and his wife Joann of Toms River; he was the much loved uncle to Chrisanne, Joseph, Frank, and Anthony.

Doris V. Porta age 87 of Port Richey, FL and formerly of Wayne passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 22, 2017 while receiving the loving care of her family.

Doris was born and raised in Wayne. Immediately after graduating High School, she earned a clerical position at Haband in Wayne. She worked there for a short time and then while attending a square dance at a hall in Totowa, she danced with a handsome young man named Eugene Porta. It turned out that they lived a very short distance from one another. They danced together and hit it off great. They dated for a couple of years and as fate would have they fell in love, were married on August 4th, 1951 at Mt. View Methodist Church in Wayne and honeymooned at The Fernwood Resort located in the Poconos.

After getting married, Eugene and Doris settled in Wayne and called it their home for the rest of their lives together. This is also where they would also raise their two children, Debra and Robert. Shortly after the birth of their first child, Doris took on the daunting but rewarding task of a homemaker. She dedicated herself to caring and nurturing her family. In 1981 tragedy struck Doris’ life when her son Robert passed away unexpectedly in an automobile accident. Although Doris was a strong woman and dedicated to her faith, she never really recovered from the loss of her only son. Shortly after her son passed away, Doris lost her true love Eugene in 1982. Doris and Eugene were able to cherish thirty years of loving and loyal marriage. Doris eventually went back to work after her children had grown. She worked odd jobs and in school cafeterias and also at Meyer Brothers Department Store in Paterson.

One of Doris’ passions was dancing, she loved to dance and was great at it, whether it was the Jitterbug or Disco Dancing at various clubs in the area. She was also a wonderful tap dancer, as a youth she danced the Mandy dance at various minstrel shows with her Sister Gloria. Doris never lost her love of music and dancing.

Doris could have been a professional seamstress, she made her own wedding gown as well as her daughters! She was also a dog lover all her life, and she always had a dog and treated it as a member of her family. Sometime after her husband’s passing she reconnected with an old friend of the family named Richard Riedel. They reacquainted and became companions up until Richard’s passing in 2005. In 2007, Doris moved to Florida for the warm weather she had always cared for, but mostly to be near to her only daughter Debra.

Doris was an extraordinary person, “like an Angel”, her family remembers. She was loving, caring and always had her door open to anyone that needed help. She was the kind of person that everyone seemed to like, she was sassy and was always the best dressed person in the room. Aside from all of Doris’ interests, talents and hobbies, nothing was more important and there was no greater passion than her family. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Doris touched the lives of many people and will be sincerely missed by all who knew her.

Doris is survived by her sister, Gloria Post and her husband Robert of Wayne, her loving daughter, Debra Stockland and her husband Roy of Port Richey, FL, nephew Eugene Porta of Bloomingdale, three grandchildren; Danny and his wife Tammy of Hudson, FL, Michael and his wife Connie Jefferson Twp, PA, and Kristin of Port Richey, FL and five great grandchildren; Destiny, Dakota, Dusty all of Jefferson Twp, PA, and Samuel and Nicholas both of Hudson, FL, and she is also survived by her dog and best friend Patches. She was predeceased by her only son Robert Porta in 1981 and her husband Eugene Porta in 1982.

Walter G. Moeller, age 91, of Walton, NY and a long-time former resident of Lincoln Park, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 21, 2017 at the New Jersey Firemen’s Home in Boonton.

Walter was born in Paterson. During the Depression, his family moved to Queens Village, NY and later to Smithtown Branch, NY. When Walt’s father got a job with the Brooklyn Navy Yard, the family moved again. His father was working on the North Carolina Battleship and Walter got to be there for the ship’s christening. While there, Walter attended Brooklyn Tech. He later moved to Lincoln Park and lived with his grandmother while attending Bloomfield Tech until his sophomore year. He worked various jobs including at the fountain in the local drug store, on various farms including the Parson’s farm where one of his responsibilities was fixing the tractor, at Harmon’s Machine Corporation, and driving a truck with deliveries to New York City.

In 1945, Walter enlisted in the United States Navy and served as a soldier during World War II until the war ended in 1946. While in the Navy, he gained more mechanical knowledge which would prove to serve him well going forward in his life’s vocation. In thanks for his time in the Navy, Walter was the recipient of the Victory Medal, Asiatic Pacific Medal, and American Theatre Medal.

After the war, Walt returned home to Lincoln Park and got a job as a truck driver with Halls Motor Freight in Paterson. He met Margaret Morgan at the roller skating rink one night and quickly fell in love. Believing that Margaret always deserved to be picked up in a clean car, while they were dating, he rented a garage next to the trucking company, to house that car so it wouldn’t get unnecessarily dirty sitting outside all day. Their mutual affection led to marriage on Saturday, November 6, 1948 at the Reformed Church in Ridgewood.

After the wedding, Walter initially took a job working for Margaret’s uncle delivering bricks, but his love of auto mechanics ultimately led him into that field of work. Walter owned a Texaco gas and repair business on Chapel Hill Road in Lincoln Park, then, in 1966, he built a state-of-the-art, five-service bay Shell gas and service center at 275 Comly Road in Lincoln Park. Walt placed a high value on customer service. Consequently, if an employee failed to clean a customer’s windshield or ask them if they’d like their oil checked, they would find themselves seeking employment elsewhere. As part of his business, he also operated a busy tow truck fleet. On one particular call, Walt went to do the tow himself. Not knowing that it was Walt, the customer said, “Just tell Walt I’ll pay him when I see him” to which Walt replied, “I’m Walt and you can pay me now.” In 1971, Walt shifted gears again. He leased the gas station to Shell Oil and began a new venture – a mobile service which he called “Walt’s Automotive Service.” In this business, his work was strictly restricted to the repair of commercial trucks and, instead of customers coming to him, he would go to where the customer was.

In the late 1960’s, Walt and Margaret purchased land and built a home in Trout Creek, NY. They enjoyed weekends upstate until moving there permanently in 1990 after Walt retired. Throughout their 47 years of marriage, Walt and Margaret enjoyed many good times together until her passing in 1995. They got to go to Hawaii once and, because of their love for country music, they loved trips to Branson, Missouri.

Throughout his entire life, Walt lived a life dedicated to the service of his family, friends, and neighbors. In addition to his voluntary service in the U.S. Navy, you could name almost any organization and Walt probably served in it, including many faithful years as a local member of the Lincoln Park American Legion Post 279, the Lincoln Park Lions Club, The Free and Accepted Masons, and The Shriners. When he was just 16 years old, Walt joined the Lincoln Park Fire Department Hose Company #1. For the next 50 years he responded to fire calls day and night in Lincoln Park and the surrounding area and, when he permanently moved to Trout Creek, NY, he promptly joined the local fire department there and served for another 25 years, as well as at the local Trout Creek Masonic Lodge and Lions Club. He even had his own antique American LaFrance fire truck.

Recently, Walt moved into the New Jersey Firemen’s home in Boonton. He enjoyed playing bingo, going to concerts and other musical programs, being outside on a beautiful day, and especially socializing with fellow-retired fire fighters from all over the state. As a tribute to his fellow residents Walt even took it upon himself to create a huge map of New Jersey on which he marked the name of every resident fire fighter by the town on the map where that fire fighter had served.

Walt was a beloved human being who loved gathering his whole family, including his grandchildren, at his home in New York State, or serving others through his community presence and involvement in so many philanthropic organizations. He had the honor of touching a lot of lives during the course of his 91 years on this earth. Walt knew so many people and, consequently, it seemed that, no matter where he went, he would often be overheard asking someone “Where are you from?” He will be dearly missed.

Walter was predeceased by his beloved wife Margaret Moeller (nee Morgan) in 1995. He is survived by his daughter Carol Ann Anderson of Lincoln Park; two sons: Daniel W. Moeller and wife Barbara and Donald K. Moeller and wife Maria, both of Lincoln Park; five grandchildren: Kristie and husband Rob, Courtney and husband Adam, Danielle and husband Dave, Alysia, and Donald; five great-grandchildren: Emily, Timmy, Logan, Callie, and Chase; his longtime companion Eleanor Misner of Walton, NY; his two sisters: Doris and Edna Mae; and Lois Moeller. He was predeceased by his sister Kathy Moeller.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Walter’s name are asked to consider the New Jersey Firemen’s Home, 565 Lathrop Avenue, Boonton, NJ 07005.

Raymond A. Solowski of Wayne, died on Friday, October 20, 2017.

Born to the late Joseph and Mae Solowski, (née Hoffman) Ray was raised by his parents in Perth Amboy where he enjoyed a boy’s childhood with his brother, Joseph, and sister, Carol, as well as many cousins and friends. It's there where the seeds of a lifelong love and commitment to family were planted.

After graduating St. John Kanty Prep HS, he began his college education in pursuit of his future. However, he selflessly set aside his own plans and interrupted his education when his parents needed him more.

He enlisted in the US Navy where, ironically, he never served aboard a ship during his Naval career. Instead he found himself on a plane, part of a crew flying Navy dignitaries to and from the nuclear test sites all around Bikini Atoll and the Marshall Islands, giving him an early start on his frequent flyer miles.

Upon his discharge in 1956, he took advantage of the GI Bill and completed his education, earning a degree in Electrical Engineering from Fairleigh Dickinson. He enjoyed a successful career in sales, continuing to add on to those early frequent flyer miles as he traveled the country, earning the respect of colleagues and competitors alike. His tall stature, business knowledge, and outgoing personality made him memorable amongst his peers. These traits, along with his sales acumen, led to many industry awards. At his retirement, he was the National Sales Manager for MagneTek of Torrance, California.

In spite of his professional success, family is truly where his heart lay at, with his wife Diane at the root. He met her after agreeing to drive his sister on an outing to the Jersey shore with her pen pal, Diane. Upon meeting her, he gladly agreed to drive his sister to Diane's anytime.

Their romance blossomed and they were married on May 27, 1961 at St. Joseph Church in Passaic followed by a honeymoon to Florida. After a first apartment in Edison, they settled in Wayne to start their family. They’ve enjoyed fifty six years of a loving and devoted marriage and she will miss him dearly.

Despite his busy work schedule, Ray always had time for family. He was a frequent and an enthusiastic PAL girls’ basketball coach who developed a reputation for winning championships. He enjoyed traveling with his wife and daughters, and loved spending days at the Jersey shore, often with extended family. He took pleasure in watching college and professional basketball and was an avid Yankees and Giants fan. Although “retired” from coaching, Ray became an avid spectator at his grandchildren’s sporting events and school activities.

Ray was a hero to his family through the daily sacrifices he made to his whole family. He delighted in his family and they will always treasure his warmth and love. He was a great storyteller with a wonderful laugh and an infectious smile. A more devoted Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother, Uncle, Brother-in-law, Father-in-law you could not ask for. A gentleman always, he set an example they will always look up to and strive for, and he will leave a hole that can never be filled.

Ray is survived by his beloved wife Diane of Wayne, three daughters; Tracy Solowski of Wayne, Lisa Velicky and her husband Paul of Parsippany, and Dr. Nancy Solowski and her husband Kevin Kampherstein of Maryland, eight grandchildren; Alex, Tristan, Christopher, Nicholas, Sarah, Paulie, Breyen, and Eme, his sister; Carol Lloyd of East Windsor, NJ, sisters-in-law; Margaret Solowski of Sewaren, NJ, and Susan Mortaro and her husband Louis of Wayne, and many dear nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother Joseph in 1993, and by his brother-in-law Philip Lloyd in 2000.

Eligio “Eli” Pelosi, age 65 died on Thursday, October 19, 2017 with his family at his bedside. He had lived in New Jersey for many years before moving to Florida in 2001.

Eli was raised in Serino Avellino, Italy and contracted polio when he was 2 years old. He immigrated from Italy to America when he was 12 years with his mother to meet up with his father and brother, Claudio in New Jersey. He settled in Haledon and graduated high school from East Side High in Paterson, NJ and he enjoyed a lengthy career as an accountant.

Eli was a talented singer and musician who played keyboard with various local bands that played a variety of Italian and popular music. He had a great time during those years, and he simply loved to perform. When he moved to Florida in 2001, he started his own DJ & Karaoke business with a friend and began working at local restaurants and events. He was a great entertainer and was always the life of the party.

Eli was extremely resourceful and independent. He enjoyed taking things apart from appliances to computers and cars. He made costumes and toys for his kids and some of their favorites were his homemade rubber band guns and Ghostbusters costumes. His creative approach to fixing things left everyone stunned in awe from a screwdriver in the carburetor, to a heating system made from tin foil and toilet paper rolls, to using a paneling nail to fix and accelerator cable. He always included his kids in his projects and amazed them by what he could accomplish using just a roll of duct tape.

Eli enjoyed camping, rafting, and fishing with his family. Every year he would plan family trips to go rafting down the Delaware River. He loved the outdoors and would frequently go camping with some of his favorite spots being Stokes State Forrest and the Jersey Shore. Eli enjoyed visiting family and every year would load up his station wagon and drive his family out to Chicago to visit his brother, Donato and his nieces and nephews. His curiosity brought him close to alligators, manatees, and he even befriended a few chipmunks along the way. His kids all have wonderful memories to cherish of the great times they all shared together, and they will miss him dearly.

Eli is survived by his five children; Diana Scinto and her husband Rob of Wayne, Jennifer Pelosi and her fiancé Bret Utter of Wanaque, Christopher Pelosi of W. Milford, Michael Pelosi and his fiancé Olga Chomicova of Libertyville, IL, and Alexandra Gregory of Pompton Lakes, two brothers; Claudio Pelosi and his wife Filomena of Haledon, NJ, and Donato Pelosi and his wife Rosa of Melbourne, FL, and four grandchildren; Rocco and Dante Scinto, Arianna Scott, and Bret Utter, Jr.

Dr. Thomas F. Killeen, PhD, 68 of Wayne, passed away suddenly on October 17, 2017.

Tom was born in Jersey City, NJ and lived in Lyndhurst as a child. The family moved to Wayne when Tom was a teenager. He graduated from DePaul High School and received his undergraduate degree from Siena College.

Tom began a long and distinguished career in education, retiring as a principal of KAS Prep in North Bergen, NJ. Through the years he managed to add two Master’s degrees and a Doctorate Degree to his list of accomplishments, along with the publishing of two books. Tom would tell you that his greatest achievement however, was the countless students he helped to reach academic goals they only dreamed of before coming to KAS Prep…a father figure to some and a friend to all.

Even in retirement, he was continuing in his pursuit to “save kid’s lives,” by speaking to politicians, including the Governor, about establishing what he knew was a successful program for young people struggling in school. Tom grew increasingly frustrated by their bureaucratic inaction. Tom lived by the famous words of Jim Valvano; “Don’t give up…don’t ever give up,” right to the day he died.

He leaves behind his wife “Kitty” of Wayne, his daughter; Heather of Lincoln Park, two brothers; Peter Killeen of Manahawkin, NJ and Francis Killeen of Jupiter, FL, sister-in-law Diane Killeen of Hawthorne, NJ, and three nephews; Ryan, Kyle, and Sean. He was predeceased by his brother Michael Killeen of Hawthorne, NJ in 2012.

Donations in Tom’s memory would be greatly appreciated. He always had a special place in his heart for animals, so it would be appropriate if you made a donation to your local animal shelter.

Theresa Slonieski, age 87, of Wayne, passed away on Tuesday, October 17, 2017.

Theresa was born and raised in Nanticoke, PA where she graduated from Nanticoke High School with the Class of 1946.

While living in Nanticoke, Theresa met a young gentleman named Raymond Slonieski at a corner tavern. She had to sneak in as she was only sixteen years old at the time. She and Ray fell in love and she gladly accepted Ray’s proposal of marriage on Christmas Eve at her parent’s home. They married on Saturday, October 23, 1948 at Holy Trinity Church in Nanticoke. They had no money for a honeymoon but they felt blessed anyway.

In 1952, Theresa and Ray moved to Wayne where she had continued to live – 65 years in all! Theresa settled into her role as homemaker and loving Mom to their daughter and son Patricia and Raymond. Her husband Ray got involved in the Wayne Elks Lodge 2181 where he was very influential in establishing Elk’s Camp Moore in Haskell and was also a dedicated volunteer on the Wayne Elks Crippled Children’s Committee. During those years, Theresa was always volunteering right beside her husband and attending all the events as a member of the Elks Ladies Auxiliary.

In 1967, when her kids were old enough to enjoy some independence, Theresa decide to re-enter the workforce. She took a job with the Kodak Corporation in Fair Lawn as a film processor and film cutter. It was her job to take those 24 or 36 exposure rolls of film that consumers brought in for processing, and cut each roll into individual negatives. Later in her twenty-year tenure with the company, she got involved in touching up customers photos for a more pleasing final product. In 1971, while he was attending college, Theresa’s son Ray joined her at work in a part-time capacity. Together, they worked the 4:00 to 12:00 midnight shift and would occasionally go out together to grab a beer after work. They both thought that was pretty cool!

When Theresa retired from Kodak in 1987, she filled her days spending much-enjoyed hours with her husband Ray. They took weekly trips to Atlantic City where their casino of choice was always Caesars. Closer to home, she was a regular at Bingo night at the Wayne Boys and Girls Club. Her love for bingo was sparked from a very young age when her own mom and dad would take her to play. If Theresa wasn’t out looking for fun, you could usually find her at home, curled up on the couch watching old time movies on television, and Sundays were always started by attending mass at Our Lady of the Valley Church in Wayne, followed by Sunday dinner at her daughter Pat and son-in-law Chris’ house.

Theresa and Ray were blessed with a loving and devoted marriage for sixty-three years until Ray’s passing in 2011. Her son and daughter will always enjoy reminiscing about growing up in Wayne and vacationing as a family down the Jersey shore, and up in Lake George, NY.

Theresa was predeceased by her beloved husband Raymond in 2011. She was the loving mother of Patricia and husband Chris Hoey of Wayne, and Raymond and wife Anne Marie Slonieski of Toms River; cherished grandmother of Christopher Slonieski of Toms River and Kelsey Slonieski of Boston, MA; loved sister of the late Geraldine Diaz.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Theresa’s name are asked to consider the Elks Camp Moore c/o Wayne Elks Lodge or the Special Needs Children’s Fund at the Wayne Elks Lodge, 50 Hinchman Avenue, Wayne, NJ 07470.

Jean A. Breeman, age 80 of North Haledon, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 17, 2017. Her family stood by in loving and comforting support, playing hymns of her Christian faith to encourage her at the time of her passing.

Jean was born in Paterson and raised in the family’s home on 12th Street in Prospect Park. She was a graduate of Hawthorne High School, Class of 1954,

After completing her schooling, Jean initially worked as a bank teller. Soon after, she started dating Robert Breeman – a handsome guy she knew from church. Her children recall how Jean would tell them about some of her and Bob’s first dates together, ice skating on Gaeds Pond on Pompton Road in Wayne. They fell in love but marriage had to wait a bit as Bob was called into service in the U.S. Army. When he returned, they exchanged their wedding vows before God, family and friends at the Morningside Chapel in Haledon. After the wedding, they initially settled in Prospect Park before moving to North Haledon in 1963.

Jean settled into the busy role of homemaker and mom. Showered with the blessing of children, their home in North Haledon was situated in a perfect neighborhood to raise a family. A quiet street with each house on a relatively small lot, there was a great sense of community in the neighborhood and lots and lots of kids. It seemed that the Breeman house emerged as the hub for kids to gather and play. This of course was not by accident. Nothing made Jean happier than to know that her home was a welcome place and she fostered that in many ways. Her sons and daughters were encouraged to invite their friends for sleepovers, or to come swim in the family pool, and of course, there were always fresh home-made treats to be enjoyed. When her children were all grown up and married, Jean loved it when they would return home with the greatest gifts a mom could ever ask for – grandchildren! She was blessed with seven in all including her grandson Jeffrey who was actually raised his whole life in Jean’s home by Jean so that her daughter Carol could go to work to provide. Jeff and all his cousins, when they frequently came to visit, continued to foster the Breeman home to be a hub for all the new generation of neighborhood kids to gather, and Jean made sure the welcome mat was always out for this new generation of kids.

Having family gathered together was Jean’s greatest joy and Jean’s family got to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal on a daily basis. Every Sunday after church, the Breemans came home, gave God thanks for their blessings, then enjoyed the time-honored tradition of a delicious Jean-prepared Sunday pot roast complimented with potatoes and vegetables. The family did everything together and Jean was the glue that held them all together. She shared her love of ice skating with her family and after a good snow storm, they all headed to the big hill at Manchester High School or Goffle Brook Park for sleigh riding. Summer times featured backyard pool parties and annual vacations down the Jersey shore to Wildwood Crest, and Beach Haven at LBI. Those shore trips went on for at least twenty consecutive years.

One of Jean’s favorite place to be was right in her kitchen. She produced some of the most delicious home-baked goods you could imagine in that room. Her family would get really excited (and hungry) if you asked them about their favorite recipe that Mom baked, including pineapple upside down cake, graham cracker squares, chocolate cake with homemade white icing, pumpkin pie, sour cream coffee cake, cream puffs, and rice pudding. Yes, it’s true, Jean always made sure her family had plenty of treats in the house to enjoy but she loved sharing her baked goods with many folks beyond her family. For example, if you were sick and Jean found out, you’d get cookies. Or if you just needed some encouragement, you’d get a cake. Or if you paid Jean a compliment for something she had baked, you could be sure she would make a special batch of that treat just for you. In the fall season, when apples were ready for picking, her kitchen become a canning factory. She’d fill hundreds of Ball mason jars with delicious, juicy, sweet apples and apple sauce and, of course, she gave a lot of it away. In fact, because her generous heart caused he to give so much away, her family learned to hide some bottles so that they would be able to enjoy a little too. When Jean’s mother-in-law passed away, she was called upon to carry on the family tradition of making the Easter bread and, since baked goods were almost like a ministry to her, Jean always made countless more loaves than she needed with the express intention of blessing others with a loaf.

In later years, Jean and Bob seized on the opportunity to travel a bit. They enjoyed trips together with their good friends Pete and Marie Drost to Myrtle Beach South Carolina, and a cruise to the Bahamas. A little closer to home, they especially liked going to Lancaster, PA where they usually stayed at the Bird- in-Hand and enjoyed hearty meals at the Shady Maple Smorgasbord. Jean also loved the simple things of life like simply gathering with her good friend Carol Ann Boonstra for coffee, or spending time with her grandchildren, or cheering on her beloved New York Yankees.

Above all else, Jean was dedicated to her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Her faith defined everything that she did and everything that was important to her. As Jesus invested himself into the lives of others, so did Jean. That’s why baking was such a ministry to her and that’s why she spent time in prayer every day for her family and friends. She greatly desired to know that her children and grandchildren were walking with the Lord and she did her best to teach them all to be faithful stewards through her loving example. For many years she was a faithful member of Bethany Reformed Church in Prospect Park.

Jean will be fondly remembered by her family and friends for her genuinely loving and caring heart. It often becomes a bit of a cliché but Jean truly did care about others more than she cared about herself. She learned this from her Christian faith and, while her family is thankful for her life, love and example, and that she’s now at peace, she will be truly missed.

Jean was predeceased by her beloved husband Robert in 2004 and her dear daughter Karen Breeman in 1960. She was the loving mother of Janyce and husband James MacRae of Port St. Lucie, FL, Robert and wife Annmarie Breeman of North Haledon, Carol Breeman of North Haledon, Douglas and wife Catrina Breeman of West Milford, and Steven and wife Colleen Breeman of Oak Ridge; adored grandmother of Frank and wife Marissa Liccardo, Nicole and husband Tim Boyd, Robert Breeman, III, Joshua Breeman, Jeffrey Breeman, Steven Breeman, and Victoria Breeman; cherished great-grandmother of her soon-to-be-born great-grandson Lucas David Liccardo; and dear sister-in-law of Lois Verblaauw of Punta Gorda, FL. She was also predeceased by her dear brother Richard Verblaauw in 2008.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Jean’s name are asked to consider The Myelodysplastic Syndromes Foundation, Inc., 4573 South Broad St., Suite 150, Yardville, NJ 08620 (www.mds-foundation.org).

Marlene G. Baez (nee Di Maio), age 66, of Wayne, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, October 16, 2017.

Born in Newark, she was a resident of Verona where she graduated from Verona High School with the Class of 1969.

After high school, Marlene began a long career in retail. Working in various shopping malls, she met a wonderful gentleman named Nery Baez while they were both working at the Woodbridge Mall. Nery worked at Lorry’s Restaurant in the mall and Marlene worked at the Franklin and Simon Department Store in the mall. They enjoyed each other’s company, fell in love, and eloped on November 19, 1976.

After marriage, Marlene continued working in retail and she and Nery moved to Wayne in 1976. In December, 1983, they received the greatest Christmas gift anyone could ask for – a beautiful son which they named Jason. From that time forward, Marlene dedicated her life to the care of her newborn son. As he grew, Marlene and Nery learned that Jason was developmentally disabled. They became their son’s greatest advocates and Marlene was present for all of Jason’s endeavors including his participation in the bowling competition at the Special Olympics which took place in Wayne’s T-Bowl. When Jason became an adult, she found a great place for Jason to work called the Foundation for the Handicapped in Wayne. This organization was founded to provide long-term employment for developmentally disabled adults. Over the ensuing months Marlene got to know the wonderful workers and volunteers at the foundation and this prompted her to start volunteering some time there herself. Before she knew it, she was working at the Foundation full-time, most recently as the Plant Manager. It became her job to book jobs for the workers, supervise them, and handle all the payroll. She became the true “Jack of all trades” and she loved every moment of it. In all, she had been with Foundation for the Handicapped for the last ten years.

In 2011, Marlene and Jason experienced the loss of a wonderful husband of 35 years and a father when Nery passed away. Marlene was a warm person with a bubbly personality, a great sense of humor, and a real heart for the work she felt called to. She was a sincere advocate for the developmentally disabled and she will be dearly missed by her family and friends whose lives she truly touched.

Marlene was the beloved wife of the late Nery Baez who passed away in 2011. She was the loving mother of Jason Baez of Wayne, dear sister of: Angelina Farand and husband Maurice of Old Bridge, Ralph Di Maio of Oxford, CT, Rocco Di Maio of Provincetown, MA, Samuel Di Maio of North Branford, CT, and Madeline Rowan and husband Thomas of Verona; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Marlene’s name are asked to consider the Foundation for the Handicapped Inc., 30 Woodridge Terrace, Wayne, NJ 07470.

Doris Van Hoven (nee Streelman), age 84 of Pompton Plains, NJ died on Thursday, October 12, 2017. She had lived in W. Paterson since 1956 before moving to Cedar Crest Village in 2007.

Doris was born at home in Hawthorne, NJ and graduated third in her class from Hawthorne High School in 1950. She went to work for Bell Telephone, who at the time would only hire the brightest graduates in the top 10% of the class. Doris was quickly frustrated there, however, when she was given nothing more than menial tasks, essentially just pushing papers around. When the workers went on strike, she quit and found a new job at Brogan Cadillac in Paterson, where she managed the bookkeeping for the showroom sales staff. She eventually became the bookkeeper for Verduin Machinery in Paterson and retired in 1995.

Doris was a good cook and an excellent baker! She made cakes, pies, almond cake, homemade applesauce, and a host of other delicious treats that her family will surely miss. Along with her husband John, she was a member of the 2nd Reformed Church in Little Falls for many years and she volunteered at the “Corner Closet” second-hand thrift store. Once they moved to Cedar Crest Village, Doris joined the Cedar Crest Church Committee and they began attending services there.

Doris met her husband John through a mutual friend. They had been acquainted for years but when John returned from serving in the U.S. Army, they began dating. They married on July 17, 1954 with a service right in her sister’s home, followed by a honeymoon to Lake George. During their sixty three years together, they never fought and were blessed to share a bond with one another that grew stronger through each year. John recalls how Doris would often make a sandwich for the two of them to share, and she would always offer him the larger half. But John would kindly offer it back to her, taking the smaller half for himself instead. There’s no doubt that the little sacrifices made their years together so enjoyable. Their family vacations to the Jersey Shore, including Ocean Beach and LBI made for some wonderful memories, and more recently they enjoyed going to visit family in Florida and taking trips out to Lancaster, PA.

Doris is survived by her loving husband John of Pompton Plains, two daughters; Diane Spath and her husband Alfred of Edison, NJ, and Nancy Huhn of Parsippany, NJ, five grandchildren; Stephen Huhn and his wife Kendra of Houston, TX, Daniel Huhn of Parsippany, Lauren Spath of Edison, Gregory Spath of Edison, and Michael Spath and his wife Laura of Oklahoma, two great-grandchildren; Aubrey and Bryce Huhn of Houston, TX, and one sister; Beatrice Belanus and her husband Neil of N. Carolina.

Donations in Doris’ memory would be appreciated to the “Resident Care Fund” at Cedar Crest Village. Mail donations to; Cedar Crest Village, c/o Philanthropy Dept., Cedar Crest Drive, Pompton Plains, NJ 07444.

Mary Gawrys, age 96, formerly of Wayne, passed away peacefully at her home in Toms River, on Monday, October 9, 2017. She was in the loving and supportive company of family at the time of her passing.

Mary was the eighth of Andrew and Anna Elchin’s nine children and she was born in Portage, PA. She grew up in Portage where, having skipped the third grade, she graduated from high school a year earlier than most kids her age. When she was eighteen, she moved to Clifton, NJ where she lived in with a family serving as their fulltime nanny. In 1946, when she turned twenty-five, she married A. Edward Gawrys a handsome young man who came to the United States from Poland in 1914. Their first home together was in a two-family in Clifton, and in 1959, Mary and Eddie moved to their brand new home in the Lions Head Lake section of Wayne.

During their years in Wayne, Mary and Ed were faithful parishioners of Our Lady of Consolation Church. In fact, they were attending the church when it began by meeting in the auditorium of the Schuyler-Colfax Junior High School. Wayne was a great place to raise their family during the 1960’s and 1970’s and Mary especially enjoyed entertaining her family and friends through many pool parties and holiday parties at her house. Being the great cook and baker that she was, Mary also supplied all the goodies for these occasions.

As a young wife, Mary wore multiple hats including serving as a mother to three children and working as an electronics assembler for Dumont Oscilloscope in West Caldwell. She worked there for many years until retiring in 1977. A year later, she and Eddie sold their home in Wayne and moved to Toms River where they enjoyed carefree days in the sun and surf and vacations to California, Mexico and cruises in the Caribbean. At this time, Mary also got involved in taking dance lessons and she danced well into her seventies. She especially enjoyed visits from her grandchildren and getting to entertain them for the day at the beach in Seaside Heights or the community pool. In 1995 her beloved Ed passed away but Mary remained in Toms River for the rest of her life.

Mary always especially enjoyed caring for her beautiful flower gardens and indoor plants and those who were guests at her house were always especially impressed with her magnificent African violets. Mary also enjoyed her collection of Hummel’s and the company of her feline friends – Yachie, Smokey and Fred.

Mary was the beloved wife of the late A. Edward Gawrys (1995); dear mother of Pamela Zalusky of Wayne, Brian Gawrys of Toms River, and Gary Gawrys and wife Lucy of Fort Lauderdale, FL; cherished grandmother of Jennifer Bubenik, Brian Gawrys, Thomas Zalusky, Amy Agelis, Erica Guay, and Michael Gawrys; adored great-grandmother of Robert Bubenik, Dylan Bubenik, Dino Agelis, Parker Guay, and Elodie Agelis. Mary was also predeceased by her dear sister Helen Timura, her seven dear brothers: Andrew, Michael, John, Steven, Pete, George, and William Elchin; and her dear son-in-law Thomas Zalusky.

Ronald G. Clegg, age 81, of Port Charlotte, Florida, formerly a forty year Wayne resident, passed peacefully in his sleep at home on Thursday, October 5, 2017.

Ron was born and raised on 58 Sheridan Ave in Paterson having graduated from Central High School. He continued his education at William Paterson Teacher’s College in Wayne. Ron eventually joined the Plumbers Local 49 in Paterson which eventually merged into the Pipefitters Local 274. With over twenty years of service in the Union he worked his way through the ranks to General Foreman. He later worked as the Plant Manager for the Wayne Board of Education and coordinated all aspects of school maintenance. He retired from the Wayne Board of Education in 2002.

It was while working for the Wayne Board of Education that Ron met the love of his life Mary Jo Romano. They fell in love and married on October 21, 1984 at the Preakness Reformed Church in Wayne. They honeymooned in Hawaii and have enjoyed thirty-three years of a loving and devoted marriage. Ron truly loved and spoiled Mary Jo, who he affectionately called “Gorge” - short for gorgeous. He was always busy in his man cave garage always with a project whether it was making shelves, painting something, all at Mary Jo’s direction as she converted their house into a home.

Ron often enjoyed a cigar, a little Jack Daniels, and doting on Mary Jo. He also loved his children and grandchildren dearly and adored the nickname “Bum” they gave him. He will be remembered for his quiet, caring, considerate way and his good natured sense of humor.

Ron was the loving husband of Mary Jo (Romano) Clegg; devoted father of Ronald G. Clegg, III (Barbara) of Pompton Plains, Steven Clegg (Teresa) of Jefferson, Russell Clegg (Karen Hengge) of Vernon, John (Sue) of Rockaway, Caprice Vieldhouse (Kevin) of Wayne, and Pash Antonelli (David) of Teaneck; he was also the dear brother of Jacqueline Self (Ralph) of Wayne. Ron was the cherished grandfather of seventeen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959 would be appreciated.

Kenneth R. Cioletti, age 71, of Wayne, passed away on Thursday, October 5, 2017.

Born and raised in Paterson in his parent’s home on East 28th Street, Ken’s inquisitive nature and sharp intellect were contributing factors in helping him to be a member of the honor roll and graduating seventh in his class from Eastside High School with the Class of 1963.

After high school, Ken attended Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, NY, then graduated with a bachelor’s of science degree from Farleigh Dickinson College in May, 1967. He pursued more learning by going next to Rutgers College where, in 1970, he graduated with his masters of Science degree in chemistry, before moving on to SUNY College and graduating in 1978 with a doctorate in optometry. Ken began work as an optometrist but knew after one year that the challenge just was not there for him. A lover of photography, and a chemist at heart, Ken was able to formulate the chemicals needed to develop photos on his own, so he turned this knowledge into a career. He worked for a company formulating industrial press washes and hard surface cleaners for large scale printing. Then in 1995, he started his own company called Green Globe Industries in Rutherford, in which he developed chemicals for upstream oil production. Simultaneously, Ken started a consulting company which he called Sportco, consulting with various industries including sporting goods and cosmetics validation. His specialty was analytics – determining the chemical makeup of different products. Then, in 2015, Ken started a company with his son Matthew called Spec Chem in which they manufactured chemicals in Paterson. Ken was typically enthusiastic about all his pursuits, but none as much as working with his son in their new venture.

In 1973, Ken met his wife through mutual friends. Her name was Marie Hannan and, at the time they first met, Marie was actually dating someone else, but it couldn’t have been too serious. As Valentine’s Day was approaching, Marie decided that whoever gave her a Valentine’s card first – her present boyfriend or Ken – that would be who she would go out with. Ken gave her the card first and their first date was to The Barn in Wyckoff followed by a night at the movies for a showing of The Sting. They married on June 15, 1975 at St. Mary’s Church in Pompton Lakes. Then, after a reception at the Russian Hall in Singac, they honeymooned throughout Maine and New Hampshire before settling down in an apartment in Clifton. They moved for a short time to a better apartment, also in Clifton, before settling in Wayne in 1980. That house in Wayne has been home ever since. There, they raised their three sons and spent many fun-filled, interesting times together over their forty-two year marriage.

Throughout his entire life, Ken never had any trouble amusing himself and those around him. Ken grew up in the comic book era. Consequently, as a boy, a Sunday morning tradition typically included a walk to the local comic book store with a bunch of change in his pocket to get the latest edition of some sci-fi, super hero comic book. To this day, he still has all of those books from his childhood. His love of chemistry also started from a young age expressed through an interest in explosives. His sons remember Easter egg hunts at their aunt’s house where all the kids especially wanted to find the egg with $25 in it. One year, that prize egg was hidden in a gopher hole in the yard. When one of his sons reached into the hole to see if the egg was there, it slipped further down the hole and out of reach. Ken’s solution was to blow up the gopher hole to gain access to the prize. It worked……sort of, except that the egg and $25 prize became collateral damage from the explosion. Everyone had a good laugh though. Since he had an interest in pyrotechnics, it should be no surprise that Ken also enjoyed making his own fireworks and collecting guns – especially old guns that needed to be restored. While he and Marie were regular parishioners of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pompton Lakes, there were some Sunday mornings when Ken chose to attend “Our Lady of Perpetual Bullseye Church” instead (the local shooting range). Ken was a great student of history and he loved to discuss and debate politics. Armed with a memory for detailed facts, Ken would have surely been a Jeopardy champ if he just tried out for the show. Combining that sharp memory and love of history always made him a tough match if you engaged him in a debate about politics. Ken was also a collector. He never had a piece of paper he couldn’t throw away which means he had over thirteen file cabinets filled with anything from instructions for how he made stuff as a kid, to formulas for things he figured out as a professional chemist, to recipes for Thanksgiving dinner.

In spite of his personal pursuits, the essence of Ken was really that his family meant the world to him. To Ken, preparing for Christmas was a year round endeavor. Dubbed “Mr. Christmas by his family, Ken took a keen interest in what his boys were into and, throughout the year, if he saw something they liked, he’d picked it up and squirrel it away. Consequently, when Christmas day came, each of his sons were presented with a pile……no, a mountain of thoughtful gifts! Among all the gifts, it was a given that every year they could expect to get flashlight because it’s always good to be prepared for a power failure. In recent years, they were presented with remote-controlled helicopters, drones, and video games that he was convinced his sons in their thirties, would still like to play. Thanksgiving was also a much-anticipated holiday for Ken and, in preparation for that day, he took over the kitchen, turning it into a sort-of culinary laboratory. Yes, chemistry could be explored in the kitchen too and Ken took great delight in making every last course of food for the holiday feast. Everything was made from scratch. No stuffing mix for Ken! He also loved traveling with Marie, especially to restored villages and other historical sites. There were also many special memories made in the backyard where a swimming pool was put in so that family could enjoy times together.

Ken’s life was cut short all too soon by a diagnosis of Leukemia this past February. His family is thankful for the times they got to be with him, enjoying the fruits of his exploratory nature, his great sense of humor, and his special example of being a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Ken was a quiet man who lived by the philosophy that what people say doesn’t mean nearly as much as what they do.

Ken was the loving husband of Marie (nee Hannan); devoted father of the late Jason Cioletti (2012) and his wife Dana of Bloomingdale, Matthew and wife Krista Cioletti of Oakland, and Jeff and wife Raina Cioletti of North Haledon; adored grandfather of Lina and Gabriella Cioletti of Wayne, Matthew Cioletti, Jr. of Oakland, and Jackson, Caydence, and Kaia Cioletti of North Haledon; and dear uncle of several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Ken’s name are asked to consider St. Mary’s Special Needs Ministry, 17 Pompton Ave., Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442.

Nicholas V. Campanella, M.D., age 67, of Wyckoff, died on Wednesday, October 4, 2017 at the Valley Hospital in Ridgewood. He had lived in Wyckoff since 1983.

Dr. Campanella was raised in Brooklyn, NY and graduated from Xaverian High School. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Science from Brooklyn College before moving to Italy and completing medical school at the University of Bologna School of Medicine and Surgery. He returned to Brooklyn in 1978 and completed his residency at Maimonides Medical Center in Borough Park. He began working in private practice as an OB/GYN in 1982 and in 1990 he became the owner of Pilgrim Medical Center in Montclair, NJ. During his lengthy career, it’s estimated that he delivered somewhere in the neighborhood of 5,000 babies, and he’s earned numerous awards for skill and contribution to the medical profession. He was currently a Sr. Attending Physician at Clara Maass Medical Center in Belville, NJ and has been a Fellow with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecology for his entire career.

Dr. Campanella was also a loving husband, father and grandfather. He had an adventurous spirit that manifested in everything he and his family did together. Whether it involved a simple visit to a museum, or bringing his girls into the woods to cut down their own Christmas tree with an axe, Nick had a way of making things interesting. His daughters recall his enthusiasm to teach them to ride bicycles, ski and ice skate, roller skate, and even learn to scuba dive! They also enjoyed Broadway shows together, Caribbean vacations, and summers at the Jersey Shore. Nick was a very ‘hands-on’ dad and loved spending time with his daughters.

The story of how Nick met his wife, Marie Alfano, is charming; they were college students who shared a microscope during freshman biology lab. Not long after, they were strolling along the beach on Long Island when Nick proposed to Marie. They married on June 24, 1972 in Brooklyn, followed by a brief honeymoon of just three days in the Poconos. Nick had been accepted to medical school in Italy, so they packed their bags and moved to Bologna just two weeks after getting married! They lived in Bologna for six years before returning. Marie describes her husband as “a good man, with a good heart, who was passionate. He was a determined man, and if he put his mind to anything, you could bet it would come to be.” Nick and Marie have enjoyed a “fun” marriage for forty-five years and she will miss him dearly.

Dr. Campanella also enjoyed riding his motorcycles. He would often take his bike out for a ride up to Bear Mountain and back on any nice day. He would also enjoy going for rides with the Southern Cruisers Riding Club in the Tampa Bay, FL area, of which his brothers-in-law were members. He had a great comradeship with the other riders there and loved to go cruising with the club. More importantly, he enjoyed the fact that the club was a charitable organization that raised money for children’s charities, particularly St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Nick also loved taking his rescue dog, Pepper, for long walks around town on beautiful spring and fall days and was a strong advocate for animal rescue.

Dr. Campanella is survived by his beloved wife Marie (nee Alfano) of Wyckoff, his three daughters; Dr. Lisa Campanella-Coppo and her husband Thomas Coppo of Wyckoff, Cristina Hyde, Esq. and her husband Lt. Col. Milo Hyde, IV of Alexandria, VA, and Gina Campanella, Esq. of Wyckoff, and his three dear grandchildren; Julia Marie Coppo, Elissa Nicole Hyde and Anna Leigh Hyde.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Nick’s name to either St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, (www.stjude.org) or the ASPCA (www.aspca.org). Donations can be made online, or if mailing your donation, please use these addresses: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Pl., Memphis, TN 38105-9959 and for the ASPCA; PO Box 96929, Washington, DC 20090-6929.

Teresa Gaffney, age 78, of Mallory Villages, Florida, formerly of Wayne, NJ, passed Monday, October 2, 2017.

Teresa, who was known as Terry, was born in Harrison, New Jersey on May 25, 1939 to Theresa and Theodore Piwaski. She attended Our Lady of Czestochowa Grammar School in Harrison and then Kearny High School. At Kearny High School, she was a twirler and the Vice President of her Senior Class. It was at Kearny High School that she met the love of her life, John Gaffney. They met as freshmen. After graduating from Kearny High School in 1956 and John completing two years of service in the Army, John and Terry dated for two years and were married on November 19, 1960. The couple lived in Kearny and Lake Hiawatha before moving to Wayne in 1969. The couple lived on Bullens Avenue in Wayne for 45 years before retiring to The Villages in Florida in 2014. The couple had three sons; Brian, Teddy and Johnny.

Terry was an active participant in the lives of her children and was a volunteer with the Wayne Little League, the Wayne Boys Club and the Our Lady of the Valley Grammar School Cub Scouts and CYO. She was an active member of the Wayne Elks and Our Lady of the Valley Parish.

Terry worked as a staff accountant with several women’s clothing companies and took classes at William Paterson College.

Terry had a strong faith in God and a tremendous love of life. She loved to dance, travel, shop, complete projects in her house, make ceramic and stain glass works of art, complete puzzles, read and watch TV game shows. Most of all she loved her family and friends. She loved her children Brian, Teddy and Johnny and their spouses Linda, Theresa and Claudine. She loved her eight grandchildren, Michael, Katelyn, Megan, Marie, Sean, Faith Mary, Maeve and Matthew as well as her sister Joanna and all of her cousins, nephews and nieces and relatives. Most of all, she loved and supported her husband John, with whom she shared 57 years in a loving and committed marriage.

Terry will be sorely missed by her family and friends.

In Lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Terry's name are asked to consider the Boys & Girls Club of Wayne, 153 Garside Avenue, Wayne, NJ 07470.

"Answers questioned."

Joel Harold Horowitz, age 79 of Wayne, New Jersey died on Monday October 2, 2017.

Joel was born and raised in Paterson, New Jersey and graduated from East Side High School. He continued his education and earned a Ph.D. from University of Georgia in 1975. He taught sociology at Columbus University Columbus, Georgia for 25 years when he retired. He became the department chair for many years and his exemplary teaching style earned him the teacher of the year award on more than one occasion. Joel was well known in town for establishing “Wednesday Night Live” where he facilitated lively discussions at a local restaurant with students and staff.

For all who knew Joel he had a knack for stimulating serious discussions which had people think and explore their beliefs and attitudes more thoroughly. As a result of his unique style a dear friend made up business cards and a hat for Joel with a tag line “answers questioned.”

Joel will be missed by many dear friends and relatives. He is survived by his sister Marcia Laky, her husband, Stephen Laky his nieces Diana Leu and her husband James Leu, Sandra Galdieri and her husband John Galdieri, two grand nephews, Tyler Leu and Xavier Galdieri and two grand nieces, Keira Leu and Cassidy Galdieri.

Caroline H. Connell, age 88, of Wayne, passed away peacefully with her loving family close by her side, on Monday, October 2, 2017.

Born at Mountainside Hospital in Glen Ridge, Caroline grew up in Bloomfield. She graduated from Bloomfield High School with the Class of 1946, and wasting no time, the following week, Caroline reported to her first full-time job as a secretary for Prudential Insurance Company in Newark.

Caroline met her future husband, Ray, also a Bloomfield High graduate, in Ray’s neighborhood, across the street from Holsten’s Ice Cream Parlor on Broad Street in Bloomfield (site of famous last scene from the Sopranos TV Series). One of their first dates together was a trip to the local movie theater to see Gone with the Wind. On Saturday, November 19, 1949 they exchanged their wedding vows at St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Bloomfield with a reception following at the former Robinhood Inn in Clifton (now the Regency). Caroline was just twenty years old at the time. After the wedding, they enjoyed a weekend honeymoon in New York City. Caroline and Ray’s first home was a little apartment in Richfield Village in Clifton.

Working a total of four years for Prudential Insurance, Caroline left her secretarial position for what she considered a much higher calling - staying at home to take care of her firstborn – a baby girl which she and Ray named Karen. Sharon arrived less than a year later.

In 1953, the family moved to Wayne and Caroline has remained there for the last 64 years. The blessing of children continued with Jim arriving the following year and then Mary Beth, Danny and David all in a row shortly after. Caroline had her hands full. When her youngest son David was old enough, Caroline returned to the workplace where she was a sales associate in the housewares department of the former Bamberger’s Department Store in the Willowbrook Mall in Wayne. In all, she worked there a total of ten years.

Caroline was a dear wife and mother who quietly went about her business lovingly caring for her family and taking care of her home. Her spare time was most enjoyed curling up with a good book, a daily perusal of the latest news in the newspaper and challenging herself with daily crossword puzzles. She always had a cup of tea in hand and collected tea pots, along with music boxes. For many years, she and Ray went to shows twice a year at the Montclair Operetta Club where she was a longtime season ticket holder. She was a huge fan of Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune and everyone that was close to her knew not to call Caroline on the phone when those two shows were airing. She simply would not answer! She was the best friend of every two and four-legged creature that would come into her yard. Feeding them regularly, she certainly gave Snow White a run for her money.

Caroline’s faith in God was an integral part of everything that she thought about and did in life. A founding parishioner of Our Lady of the Valley Church in Wayne, she and her husband Ray were always active in the life of the church, serving on various committees. For as long as her health would allow, she always faithfully attended daily mass, and even when her kids were little, she’d get up early to go to the 6:30 morning mass so she could be home again before they awoke.

Caroline will be remembered for being the kindest and gentlest of souls. Her children will testify that in all of their lives, even to the present, they never ever heard their mom yell at them (or anyone). Rest in peace “Sweet Caroline”.

Caroline was the beloved and devoted wife of Raymond until his passing in 1998. She is survived by her six dearly loved children: Karen Connell of Montclair, Sharon Ferguson and her partner Terry Ow of Santa Cruz, CA, James Connell and his partner Valerie Hrabal of Kinnelon, Mary Beth Sullivan and her husband Steve of Wayne, Dan Connell and his wife Helen of Mapleville, RI, and David Connell of Lincoln Park; eight cherished grandchildren: Danny Sullivan and his wife Caitlin, Erin Marrero and her husband Davy, Allison Connell, Kevin Sullivan, Sean Connell, Laura Kane and her husband Mark, Kaitlin Connell, and Lauren Connell; one precious great-granddaughter Lily Marrero; one dear brother: Charles Wolski and his wife Ellen of Dawsonville, GA; and one dear sister: Lee Toth and her husband Bob of Salisbury, NC.

Caroline’s family would also wish to express sincere thanks to Zenny, Caroline’s compassionate and dedicated caregiver for the last three years.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Caroline’s name are asked to consider Catholic Charities USA, P.O. Box 17066, Baltimore, MD 21297-1066, or online at www.catholiccharitiesusa.org.

Marie G. Maio (nee Nasello), age 83 of Wayne, died on Wednesday, September 27, 2017. She had lived in Wayne since 1964.

Raised in Kearny, NJ, Marie graduated from Georgian Court College with a degree in Education. She continued at Seton Hall University and earned her Master’s in Business Administration. She joined the Kearny School District as a teacher in 1957 and worked her way up. She retired as head of the Business Department in 1996, after a career spanning more than thirty-nine years!

Marie was quite the socialite and always kept up with the latest fashions and styles. She passionately avoided activities that might be considered ‘age-appropriate’ for her generation, and instead chose to enjoy herself in a much more youthful way. You’d never find her at a Bingo hall, but instead she liked going out on the town, sipping her gin and tonic cocktails, and having a good time. She was fortunate to have traveled to Alaska, the Caribbean Islands, London, Scotland, all corners of Europe, and even the Panama Canal. She had also made countless road trips including a favorite stop at Graceland. When all was said and done though, she was most happy enjoying summer sunset from the deck of her family’s home in Manasquan, at the Jersey Shore.

Marie met her husband Milton while she was in college. Milton’s sister was also a student at Georgian Court University and she introduced the two. They married on April 4, 1959 at St. Cecilia’s Church in Kearny, followed by a wonderful reception at the Essex House in Newark. They honeymooned at Nassau, Bahamas and settled in Clifton for a few years before finally building their home in Wayne in 1964. Marie was very proud of her home and decorated it beautifully. After thirty-eight years of marriage, Milton passed away in 1997, just two years after Marie had retired. She found the strength to forge on in the years since, traveling extensively and making many more wonderful memories with her family.

Marie is survived by her son Douglas of Pompton Lakes, by her sister Evelyn Valdeon of Montville, NJ, her three nieces; Courtney Valdeon and her spouse Donna Anderson of Boonton, NJ, Lindsay Valdeon of West Orange, NJ, and Pamela Hurley and her husband Pete of St. Pawleys Island, South Carolina, one nephew; Justin Valdeon and his wife Stephanie of Little Silver, NJ, as well as five grand-nieces and grand-nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Milton in 1997.

James S. Lacava, age 78, of Woodland Park, formerly of Wayne, passed Wednesday, September 27, 2017 .

He was born and raised in Paterson having graduated from Seton Hall Prep High School in South Orange. He continued his education at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting. He served an accounting internship at a firm in Paterson and once he received the title of CPA he worked for the Edward T. Boyle Firm in Hackensack. He later opened his own accounting firm on Ward Street in Paterson and eventually secured a position as Comptroller of the City of Hackensack. He served as Comptroller for twenty years and served another fifteen years as the City Manager of Hackensack before retiring in 2005. Although he officially retired in 2005 he was still working for several private clients, family, and friends up until last year. He was a member of several occupation related organizations including the NJ Society of CPA’s, the American Institute of CPA’s and GFOA (Government Finance Officers of America).

When James was fifteen years old he went to a Grammar School graduation party in Paterson where he met a cute thirteen year old name Beatrice McCauley. This chance encounter would lead to several years of dating and a proposal of marriage, after asking Beatrice’s father, at the family home located at 341 Trenton Avenue in Paterson. They married on June 2, 1962 at Saint Brendan’s RC Church in Clifton. After a reception at the Bow & Arrow in West Orange they honeymooned in Bermuda and Nassau in the Bahamas. They have enjoyed a “loving couple” marriage, as characterized by a friend recently, of fifty-five years.

James will be remembered as a loving family man who was strong willed, meticulous to a fault. To help understand his fastidious nature one only has to hear two examples: the first is about how he was fussy regarding the angle of a staple in document as you can’t fold over the pages correctly if the staple is not on a 45 degree angle and how he had business cards printed up with the exact way a bartender should make his Rob Roy cocktail. He was definitely a Type-A personality but there was usually a method to his madness. His family has fond memories of time at the NJ Shore town of Lavallette and over twenty years of spending the month of March at Marco Island in Florida.

He was very active in his community having been a member of the Lions Club, UNICO, and ARC all of Hackensack, the Italian Circle of Paterson, the Do Good House in Totowa, the Moose Lodge 399 of Ortley Beach, and the Packanack ROMEO’s.

James was also very giving of his time when it came to youth sports. He volunteered many hours as a CYO basketball coach at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Wayne, served as an American Legion and Little League baseball coach, and officiated at high school football games for many years. His dedication earned him a listing in the DePaul High School of Wayne’s Hall of Fame and entry into the Amateur Football’s Passaic County Chapter of the National Football Foundation’s Hall of Fame. He was also huge NY Giants fan and has been an original season ticket holder since 1976.

He was a devoted parishioner of Immaculate Heart of Mary RC Church in Wayne for many years.

James was the loving husband of Beatrice (McCauley) Lacava; devoted father of the late James Lacava (2010), Lynn Kahn and her husband Eric of Florham Park, and Beth DeMayo of Lincoln Park; he was the cherished grandfather of Amanda-Marie DeMayo and Nicole and Courtney Kahn; he was also the loved brother of the late Letitia Pellosie (2016), and uncle of Carmine Pellosie III and his wife Jennifer.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the James G. Lacava Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o DePaul High School, 1512 Alps Road, Wayne, NJ 07470 would be greatly appreciated.

Salvatore “Sam” Occhipinti, age 93, passed away on Tuesday, September 26, 2017.

Sam, as he was known to all, was born and raised in Paterson. He remained a resident of Paterson his entire life until joining his daughter Diane in her home in Wayne in 2015.

Sam attended Eastside High School but, like so many young folks from that era, he left school before graduating to join the workforce. His first job was with Meyer Brothers Department Store in Paterson. It was there that he would meet the woman who would become the love of his life. Her name was June Ketch and she was the secretary to Mr. Bert Meyers. Sam had the pleasure of training June on a system that the store used to print addresses for packages going out for shipment. This gave Sam a great chance to get to know June which quickly led to him asking her out on a date. Their love for each other grew but marriage would have to wait due to World War II raging in Europe. Consequently, in 1943, Sam was called into service and, putting on the Army uniform, he proudly served as a rifleman in Central Europe during World War II as a member of the Army’s 71st Division, 66th Infantry. Sam was awarded the American Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal.

Soon after returning to civilian life in 1946, Sam and June’s wedding date was set. They exchanged wedding promises on Sunday, July 6, 1947 at Our Lady of Victories Church in Paterson. This was followed by a honeymoon train trip to Montreal Canada.

After the wedding festivities, Mr. Salvatore and Mrs. June Occhipinti settled into the first of several houses they would call home over the course of their 67 happy years of marriage - all of those homes in the City of Paterson until June’s passing in 2014. Sam had already begun a new job in one of Paterson’s many dye houses. He worked there for sixteen years and his family used to joke that he lost his fingerprints during that time due to the many chemicals he had to work with.

After the dye house, Sam became a letter carrier with the U.S. Postal Service. His route was always on foot which suited him since he loved to walk. He began letter carrying in 1962 and he worked more than two decades before retiring in the mid-1980’s. Sam wore the soles off many pairs of shoes but he loved his work and made many friends along the way as he faithfully delivered their mail.

Sam’s idea of relaxation and fun included pretty much anything centered on being at home and being with his family. He loved being outdoors so working in his beautiful vegetable garden and making sure his yard always looked ready for a feature story in Better Homes and Garden magazine were constant quests. In the kitchen, Sam’s wife June got off a little bit easy because Sam also loved to cook. His granddaughters, whom he adored, loved Poppy’s chili and everyone will always cherish the sweet memory of Sunday mornings enjoying his delicious pancakes. They’ll also remember marathon Scrabble games that could go on for three hours but never get boring because you’d always have to watch out for Sam trying to get away with fake words for a triple word score. Sam also was a bit of a closet accordion player who would only play for himself and an occasional private duet with his granddaughter Megan who would join him on her flute. When it came to entertaining Sam, he always went for a good western – either in book form or watching a movie, especially if it was starring the ultimate cowboy…John Wayne. A man of abiding faith in his creator, Sam and June were longtime, faithful parishioners of St. Paul R.C. Church in Prospect Park.

Sam loved being an American. He expressed his patriotism in many ways and especially enjoyed traveling all over the country with June to attend his Army 71st Division, 66th Infantry reunions where he could reminisce with old comrades.

Always guick with a joke, he often seemed to have a song in his heart which found its way to his lips via a whistle or a hum.

Sam was predeceased by his beloved wife June (nee Ketch) in 2014 and his dear daughter Jo Ann Dale in 2012. He is survived by his dear daughter Diane and husband Albert Clark; three adored grandchildren: Kimberly Dale, Kelly Dale Gisonna and husband Nick, and Megan Clark; one cherished great-grandson James Gisonna; one dear sister: Anna Contini; his sister-in-law Rosemarie Occhipinti; his son-in-law John Dale; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was also predeceased by his brother Edward Occhipinti, his sister Carmela “Millie” Tafaro, and his brothers-in-law Angelo Contini and Vito Tafaro.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Sam’s name are asked to consider Wounded Warrior Project PO Box 758517 Topeka, KS 66675-8517, or at WoundedWarriorProject.org

Edward R. Halat age 83 of Wayne passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday September 26, 2017.

Ed was born in Dupont, PA to Frank and Elizabeth Halat and was one of fourteen children. He was raised in Dupont but followed his older siblings to NJ where he lived his entire adult life. When he arrived, he earned a position as a machinist. Eventually, in 1977 he bought the company that we was working for at the time Adco Liberty in West Orange, NJ. Following a very successful career Ed retired in 1999. When he was ever asked what he will be doing today, (in his retirement), he would answer, “Whatever I want!”

Ed was scheduled to meet his wife Joan at a Bingo game. Sadly, she stood him up! However, soon thereafter Ed learned that she didn’t stand him up on purpose, but had been asked to work late that night. Under the circumstances, and long before cell phones, there was no way she could contact him that night. Nevertheless, once they did have that first date, there was no way to separate them. They were married on May 19, 1956 in Clifton and enjoyed a honeymoon to Florida and Cuba. Ed and Joan cherished fifty-eight years of loving and loyal marriage until Joan’s passing in July of 2014. During their time together they traveled to Europe, Hawaii, and the Caribbean. Shortly after they were married, a little more than a year, Ed was called to serve his country in the United States Army. He was stationed in Germany during his service, where he served very honorably.

Ed enjoyed golfing, fishing, playing cards, telling jokes and especially spending time with his grandson Ajay. He was the light of his life. Throughout his life, Ed always owned boats. He loved boating and vacations at the Jersey shore where he and his wife owned a few homes over the years. Ed was always on the go, either building or fixing something. He had a wonderful sense of humor, always had a joke to tell, and you would be hard-pressed not to have a smile on your face while being in the same room with him. He was devoted to his Catholic faith. Above all of Ed’s interests and hobbies, he was devoted to his family, always there for his wife and children. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Ed touched the lives of many people and will be sincerely missed by all who knew him.

Edward is survived by his daughter Holly Halat of Wayne/Florida and her boyfriend Billy of PA, his son Randy and his girlfriend Lina of Wayne, his one grandson Ajay Halat, and one sister Mae Pawlowski of Totowa, he is also survived by two very dear friends Marianna Trofa/Nelson and John Anthony. He was predeceased by his wife Joan Halat in 2014. He was also pre-deceased by twelve of his siblings. Hank, Matt, Steve, Joe, Frank, Edmund, Stella, Cecilia, Casey, Agnes, Betty and Ann.

Helyn M. Johnston (nee Rossback), age 88 of Wayne, died on Monday, September 25, 2017. She had lived in the Packanack Lake section of Wayne since 1955.

Helyn was raised in Cleveland, Ohio. She attended Ohio University, in Athens, Ohio, and was a member of the cheerleading squad. It was there that she met fellow student, E. Ray Johnston, who was a standout on the OU Track and Field team. The two of them fell in love and were married on August 13, 1949. Ray’s employment eventually brought them to New Jersey where they found the newly-developing community of Packanack Lake in Wayne. They purchased a vacant lot and built their first home there.

Helyn loved the Packanack community so much that she brought countless friends and acquaintances to the lake and soon became the best salesperson that the local builder could have ever asked for! Helyn simply had a charisma that endeared her to many and she made friends everywhere. She was on a first-name basis with the likes of Arnold Palmer and Nancy Lopez, having met both during local golf tournaments. She collected autographs from many, including Joe DiMaggio and even chased former Vice President Dan Quayle on a golf course to get his autograph – which didn’t go over too well with the Secret Service detail that was protecting him. Helyn also earned herself a spot as a contestant on “The Price is Right” where she not only met Bob Barker, but went on to win the grand prize which included a much needed new washing machine and dryer! Helyn surely had many great stories to tell and and plenty of good fun during her eighty-eight years.

Helyn was the consummate wife and mother, taking her family responsibility quite seriously. She was devoted to her husband and did everything she could for her children. She was keenly active in her children’s lives and always stood up for them. Her children recall how she went to bat for them on one particular occasion during high school, and successfully caused the township to provide busing to school after it had initially been denied. She also actively engaged her family at the Packanack Community Church. Her Christian faith unquestionably provided the strong foundation of her moral compass. She held firm to her convictions, loved America and was perhaps the most ardent fan of Mickey Mouse and his kingdoms on both the east and west coasts – her happiest places on earth.

Helyn is survived by her two children; Scott R. Johnston (and his wife Elyse) of Wayne, New Jersey, Leslie Durgin (and her husband Paul) of Milton, Massachusetts, and her seven grandchildren: Kiersten, Scott, Spencer and Shaffer Johnston, all of Wayne, New Jersey, and Lindsay Rae Durgin of South Boston, Massachusetts, Harrison Durgin of New York, New York, and Coleman Durgin of Boston, Massachusetts, as well as many dear friends and extended family. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Ray, in 1992.

Donations in Helyn’s memory would be greatly appreciated to the Packanack Community Church, 120 Lake Drive East, Wayne, NJ 07470.

George Robert Kelly, of Wayne, passed away peacefully at Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, NJ on Monday, September 25, 2017 surrounded by his family.

George was born on a snowy day in the Bronx, New York on January 20, 1943. He was the 9th child of Ethel and Jack Kelly. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Veronica as well as his brothers, John, Arthur, Owen and Jimmy and his sisters Patricia, Kay and Mary. He is survived by his sister, Barbara. He is also survived by his five children Andrew Kelly and partner Roseann, Anne Kelly and husband Harry Gopoyan, Christopher Kelly and wife Sharon, Jennifer Miller and husband Peter, and Shannon Jimenez and husband Camilo. George raised several of his grandchildren and his relationship with each one of them was more a father than a grandfather. Their world is shattered. They are Michael Kelly, Luke Kelly, Chelsea Parisi, Zachary Jordan, Chloe Kelly, Tony Kelly, Jessica Kelly, Shane Kelly, Samantha Kelly and Sadie Kelly. He delighted in his great-grandchildren Calyx, Mia, Cameron and Luna.

George proudly served in the U.S Navy during the Vietnam War and was on active duty during the Cuban Missile Crisis. After serving his country, George returned home and married his adoring wife Veronica on August 22, 1964. Veronica and George met and fell in love in the Bronx in April of 1959. According to George she was wearing a blue-green paisley blouse and a white pleated skirt but all he could see were her magnificent blue eyes. Ronnie and George were married for 49 years. Even after her death his love for her remained as steadfast as the day he fell in love with her.

George started with Western Electric in their Yonkers warehouse in 1965. During his 30 years of employment, there were many corporate changes and promotions. George was involved in many aspects of global subsea fiber optic telecommunications cable installations. These included being the Shore End Installation Senior Manager and ended with his retirement as the Senior Marine Personnel Manager where he was responsible for crewing and the logistical support of several large cable laying ships, including the world renowned CS Long Lines. He was the vessel Personnel Manager responsible for all employees. George retired in December of 2001 to take a full time role in caring for Veronica who suffered a traumatic brain injury in 1991.

George was the epitome of a Patriarch. He guided each member of his family through good times and bad and his absence will be something that will be felt for many years to come. He was a valued and beloved confidant to many friends. Acceptance and gratitude were the most important lessons George taught his family. His absence is palpable, but his legacy will carry them through for all the days of their lives.

For all who knew George he had a knack for always giving the best advice and wisdom but his greatest gift was teaching by example. For many who knew him, his word was everything and he could be counted on no matter what. “One Day at a Time”, “An attitude of gratitude” and “Most people are about as happy as they choose to be” were some of his favorite words of advice. He will be missed by many.

George often spoke of missing Veronica terribly and his family takes great comfort knowing they are together again.

Flowers are welcomed and can be sent to the funeral home.

Elizabeth (“Betty”) J. O’Brien (nee Guinane), age 88 of Wayne, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2017.

Betty was born in Gloucester, MA and grew up in White Plains, NY. After graduation from high school, she attended Georgian Court College in Lakewood, NJ and graduated with a major in Business and minor in Spanish. While at college she met and fell in love with her roommate’s brother, David O’Brien. They were married in 1953.

They moved to New Milford, NJ and then settled in the Packanack Lake section of Wayne, NJ in 1962 to raise their five children.

After the untimely death of her husband in 1969 at the age of 43, Betty was devoted to raising her family.

Betty returned to work and had a very successful career as an Executive Assistant to the Medical Director of American Cyanamid.

Betty was dedicated to her Catholic faith and most recently was a parishioner of Our Lady of The Valley Church. Through the Church she volunteered providing homebound people with rides to their healthcare appointments. She continued her volunteer work at the Foundation For The Handicapped of Wayne where she worked with the “kids” for over 20 years.

In more recent years, Betty enjoyed residing at Sunrise of Wayne. She was an active resident who quickly made new friends and participated in all activities including bingo and rummikub. When not socializing, she was a voracious reader and could be found with a book in hand.

Betty was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. The family enjoyed many vacations visiting relatives in Old Say Brook, CT and the Jersey Shore. She will be remembered as a kind, strong woman who was sharp as a tack, and had a wonderful sense of humor. She will be sincerely missed by everyone that knew and loved her.

Betty is survived by her four children, David O’Brien and his wife Marci of Wayne, Betsy O’Brien of Coopersburg, PA, Joe O’Brien and his partner Thomas Barker of Guttenberg, NJ and Patty O’Brien of Parsippany, NJ; three grandchildren, Lisa and her husband Tommy Gyongyosi of Andover, Jacob O’Brien and Jesse O’Brien of Wayne; four great grandchildren, Alexis Alberti, Kyra Alberti, Carly Gyongyosi, Zach Gyongyosi and many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her husband David O’Brien (1969), her daughter, Sharon Sasso (2002) and sister Mary Finch (1994).

In lieu of flowers, donations in Betty’s name may be made to the Foundation For The Handicapped, Inc., 30 Woodridge Terrace, Wayne, NJ 07470.

Richard “Dick” Urba, age 87 of Wayne, died on Sunday, September 24, 2017. He had been a Wayne resident for 57 years.

Dick grew up in Kearny and graduated from Kearny High School. He joined the U.S. Air Force and was stationed in England during his time in the Service. He was trained as a Weather Technician and made some lifelong friends while serving. Upon being discharged, he returned to the U.S and by this time he was already married and had two children. With all the responsibility, going to college full-time wasn’t an option so he worked during the day, and began taking night classes at Newark College of Engineering. His perseverance paid off and he eventually graduated as an Electrical Engineer. He had worked for ITT in Nutley, then EDI of Yonkers, and then did a short stint with General Instrument in Mexico, before returning to EDI. All told, he worked nearly thirty years with EDI before retiring in the early 1990’s. However, Dick wasn’t the type to ‘retire’ in the traditional sense, and he kept working as a consultant for Dean Technologies in Tinton Falls up until just a few months ago. Many in his field found themselves outpaced by the advances in technology, but not Dick. He was a very smart man and enjoyed working with and mentoring the younger engineers.

Dick will always be remembered with a pipe in his mouth. He really enjoyed smoking his pipe, and reading a good book. He had a love for fishing and would often go to the lake to cast a line in the water. Dick, for many years, had a passion for raising tropical fish, at one time having over 20 fish tanks in his home. He also enjoyed joining his family for football games at Rutgers University.

Dick and his wife Muriel were married for fifty nine years, having first met while square dancing in Bloomfield, NJ. They were just young kids at the time, but they fell in love and married on December 26, 1950 and slipped away for a honeymoon at Niagara Falls. Dick shipped out to England with the Air Force shortly thereafter, and Muriel joined him the next year. They started their family while living in England and came back in 1953, as soon as Dick was discharged. They moved into Dick’s childhood home before moving to Wayne in 1960. They were inseparable during their fifty nine years together. They were by each other’s side always, went everywhere together, and simply loved each other very much. Family was the foundation of their relationship, and all holiday celebrations involved large family gatherings. In the earlier years of their marriage, the two of them joined bowling leagues and had a lot of fun. Dick’s league was, perhaps, more of a “beer league” than anything else, but they did get extremely lucky one year, bringing home a championship trophy to everyone’s surprise! Dick described his marriage to Muriel as “perfect and loving,” and he missed her dearly in the years since she passed.

Dick is survived by his four children: Kathleen Lysyj and her husband Robert of Hillsborough, NJ, Valerie Ross and her husband Barry of W. Caldwell, Dr. Walter J. Urba and his wife Caryn of Portland, OR, and Richard C. Urba and his wife Susan of Budd Lake, NJ; twelve grandchildren: Tracy Kelly and her husband Jeremy, Brad Urba and his wife Masaya, Chris Urba and his wife Jeanine, Kim Johansen and her husband Jason, Emily Urba, Kyra Tighe and her husband Michael, Michael Lysyj, Laura Mascola and her husband Greg, and Matthew, Christopher, Justin and Kyle Ross; eight great-grandchildren: Ashlyn Urba, Ethan Kelly, Ariana Urba, Caleb Kelly, Kylee Ross, Aubree Tighe, Aaden Tighe, and Delilah Ross.

Dick was predeceased by his beloved wife Muriel E. Urba (nee Emmerich) in 2009; his grandson Steven Urba; and his two brothers: Charles Urba, and John Urba and his wife Gertrude.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Earle A. Chiles Research Institute would be appreciated. Please make donations payable to “Providence Portland Medical Foundation” and write “Earle A. Chiles” in the notes field of your check. Mail them to Providence Cancer Center, 4805 NE Glisan St., Suite 2N35, Portland, OR 97213. You can also visit the website and donate online at: www.oregon.providence.org.

Jozef Czekaj, age 84, of Lehighton, PA, formerly of North Arlington, passed after a tragic accident, on Friday, September 22, 2017.

He was born in Jaslany, Poland and came to the United States at the age of thirty. He settled on Duke Street in Kearny and found work as a butcher at the Kohler Meat Products Company in Newark. For many years Mary and Jozef lived at 58 2nd Street in North Arlington where they raised their family. Jozef worked at Kohler Meat Products for thirty-two years before retiring in 1995. He and Mary settled into retirement life in Lehighton, PA where they have lived for over twenty years.

While a young man growing up in Poland he served a compulsory two years in the military where he was a paratrooper. He always maintained deep Polish roots. Many will remember that he had a command of about three English words. With his limited English he wasn’t much for talking on the telephone as he couldn’t understand what you were saying. Instead of trying to figure out what was being said he would simply hang up on you. After hearing that you would thing Jozef was antisocial but the opposite was true. He loved having company over and would invite people to the house all the time. He also enjoyed many hours at the Polish National Home in Harrison, a decidedly Polish social club, where he commanded the pool table and tended bar. For several years he served on their Board of Directors. He will be lovingly remembered for his love of going out for a steak, as a hard worker, always willing to take a risk, strong will, German beer, soccer – not American football, watching Polka dancing on TV, having a shed full of wood he split, and his love of good shrimp scampi. He will also be remembered for having two lawn mowers. A pristine John Deere for the front yard as that had nicer blades, and an old ratty one for the back yard.

Jozef was the loving husband of Mary (Malecki) Czekaj; devoted father of Barbara Cipriano and her husband Charlie of Delray Beach, FL, and Christopher Czekaj and his wife Cheryl of Wayne; he was the cherished grandfather of Demi Cipriano and her fiancé Shannon Graves, and CJ Cipriano, Isabella, Faith, and Ava Czekaj; he is the loved brother of Helena Glaz and Jerzy Czekaj both of Jaslany, Poland.

George Vande Vrede, age 75, of Briarcliff Manor, NY, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 22, 2017.

George was born in Paterson and raised in the family home on Struyk Avenue in Prospect Park.

Immediately following graduation from Hawthorne High School with the Class of 1960, George began full-time work as an accountant with Rice and Verblaauw of Ridgewood. At night, he took classes at Pace University where he earned his B.S. degree in Accounting. In 1966 he had to take a pause from work as he was drafted into the U.S. Army where he served in the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1968. After the war George returned to his work as an accountant with employment through Pete Marwick and Mitchell Accountants in New York City. George’s career culminated as an auditor with the accounting firm of Price Waterhouse in New York City. He retired in 2007. In his spare time George enjoyed a round of tennis with friends in Briarcliff Manor and he was also a bit of a sports car enthusiast.

George was the beloved husband of Alma Vande Vrede (Strauss). They met through mutual friends and exchanged their wedding vows before God, family and friends in 1973 at the Ebenezer Netherland Reformed Church in Franklin Lakes. They were blessed with a loving marriage of thirty-seven years until Alma’s passing in 2010.

George is survived by his dear brother David and wife Gerda Vande Vrede of Lincoln Park; 7 dear nieces and nephews; and 16 dear great-nieces and great nephews.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in George’s name are asked to consider Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, 2965 Leonard St. NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525-5828, or online at prts.edu.

Charles “Andy” Jantzen, age 62, of Wayne passed peacefully at home on Wednesday, September 20, 2017.

He was born in Jersey City to the late Charles and Marjorie Jantzen. He was raised in Clifton and when he was seven the family moved to Wayne. Andy attended Holy Cross School in Wayne and Don Bosco Technical High School in Paterson. He continued his education at Seton Hall University and later Farleigh Dickinson University, where he discontinued school needing only two classes to complete his degree. As a young boy, he worked at a candy store in the Mountain View section of Wayne and later worked at the AeroLift Company in Fairfield. As a young adult, Andy worked in customer relations and sales at both Schneider Lenses in Hackensack and later the Kinotone Projector Company in Paterson. Andy then joined the family owned business of Photographic Analysis Company in Wayne, where they used film-based high-speed imaging technology to solve complex motion analysis problems. As the digital photography age came to be, he co-founded the company of Vision Research. His company received an Emmy Award and he personally received an Oscar for his work in high-speed imaging. Their Phantom Cameras are used for super slow-motion imaging in military applications, sports broadcasting, medical applications, fluid dynamics, crash testing, advertising, and feature films. Andy worked at Vision Research as CEO and then Director of New Product Development until retiring in April of 2013. He considered all his employees family, and was extremely proud of how they changed the world.

Andy will be remembered as a creative, generous, and considerate man. He was always fixing something for someone and lived by the motto “if you want to do it bad enough, you can accomplish anything you want.” He found great satisfaction in woodworking having made two canoes, one Adirondack Guide Boat, and a kayak. He also loved to visit Yellowstone National Park and Cody, Wyoming, where he ran the first cellular company permitted in the park. If there was one thing in the world Andy considered a challenge, it was people telling him “it’s not possible, you can’t do that.” He would work twice as hard to find a means to an end.

Andy met his future wife, Linda Bonadies, while working at Schneider Lenses. Their first official date, after they figured out they didn’t dislike each other, was on Christmas Eve (his birthday) at Linda’s brother Artie’s home. Linda had even gotten a birthday cake for him. They fell in love, got engaged six months later, and were married a year after that on July 30, 1977 at Blessed Sacrament Church in Paterson. After a reception at the Brownstone House in Paterson, they honeymooned as they drove all along the California coastline.

Andy was the loving husband of forty years to Linda Jantzen; he was the devoted father of Phillip Jantzen (Meghan) of Boonton Township, Daniel Jantzen (Carrie) of Boonton Township, Stephanie Sigman (Stephen) of Lansdale, PA, Clare Edwards (TJ) of Greentown, PA, and considered a second father to others; he was the cherished grandfather of Elizabeth Jantzen, Charlie Jantzen, and Harper Edwards, his pride and joys; he was the loved brother of Art Jantzen (Ileana) of Wayne, Joseph Jantzen (Jeanne) of Trenton, ME, Connie Jantzen (Ray) Stuart, FL, Julie Sauciuc (Walt) of Monroe, NC, and the late Donald Jantzen.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959 www.stjude.org or Habitat for Humanity, 274 South Salem St., Randolph, NJ 07869 www.morrishabitat.org would be greatly appreciated

Roy De Petro, age 86, of Wayne passed peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Friday, September 15, 2017.

Roy was born in Paterson to Agostino and Edith (née Credaro) De Petro and was raised in the Riverside Section. When Roy was twelve, the family moved to Fairlawn, where he became a standout football player for Fairlawn High, graduating with the Class of 1948. He continued his education and football career at Upsala College in East Orange, NJ, graduating with a degree in Business Economics in 1953.

After college, he served in the US Air Force in Texas and California. After his military service, Roy obtained his real estate license and joined his Uncle Tony’s firm Krugman & DePetro Realty in Clifton. Roy eventually found his niche in in the commercial and industrial real estate market, where he forged a prestigious career, spanning over fifty years. While at Krugman and De Petro, Roy met the late Saul Weinberg. Together, they founded Weinberg & DePetro in a small office in Wayne. The business expanded and they built a new headquarters in Little Falls, where they continued to grow for many years, building successful sales teams and bringing on a third partner, the late Raymond Tumminello. Roy and Ray would eventually found DePetro-Tumminello Realty Group together, which eventually became RA DePetro Realty Group upon the passing of his longtime partner. Proud of his accomplishments, Roy enjoyed taking drives with his children and grandchildren to show them what he had built.

In honor of his long career in the industry, Roy was granted Realtor Emeritus status. Throughout his career, he belonged to several industry-related organizations, including the Passaic County Board of Realtors and the Industrial Office Real Estate Brokers Association (IOREBA), where he organized and played tennis in their annual tennis and golf outings for many years. He was a long-time and dedicated member of the Wayne Rotary Club, always living the mission of service above self and instilling a similar sense of social responsibility in his children. Roy also embraced Rotary’s mission to promote international exchanges, supporting his daughter and granddaughter’s European exchange years and hosting several exchange students in his home. Roy was also a member of the UNICO Club in Wayne, serving as President of the Wayne chapter and a term as the UNICO National District Governor.

A loving husband, father and grandfather, Roy met his wife Judy on a blind date. They were set up by Judy’s sister, and as the story goes, Roy had tickets to a baseball game and asked Judy if she wanted to go with him. Judy, who is now a baseball fan, was not amused at the time and suggested that they find another day. However, Roy must have seen something special in her, because he gave up those baseball tickets to take Judy out on a romantic date. (Some say that was the last time he gave up tickets to a sporting event.) As was the custom of the day, Roy went to Judy’s home to meet the family. Judy’s mom Mae said, “Watch out for him…he looks like a wise guy.” The stars aligned, and Roy proposed marriage to Judy, after only three months, on the front porch of her family’s home in Ridgewood. They were married on October 25, 1958 at Saint John’s Cathedral in Paterson by Fr. James Murray and honeymooned in Miami Beach, Florida. Fifty-nine years, five children and six grandchildren later, Roy never regretted giving up those tickets to the game, and Mae loved him as her own son.

Roy will be remembered as a vivacious, intelligent man who loved life and took advantage of all that life had to offer. A gourmet to the end, he loved fine food and wine! In fact, Roy was a connoisseur of the double-cut veal chop, and any waiter who brought him a veal chop that was not perfectly rare would never forget the wrath of Roy! With three other couples who all shared autumn anniversaries, Roy and Judy formed the Knife and Fork Society- where they would celebrate their mutual passion for travel, food and wine.

Roy was also a sports fanatic and loved tennis, coached basketball and baseball, and sideline coached all of his kids and grandchildren’s sporting events. An avid supporter of the NY Giants, NY Mets and NY Nets, he remained faithful to his teams both in good times and bad. Always resourceful, Roy enjoyed many trips to the US Open and even negotiated a deal to sit front and center with the center court cameraman for the whole tournament over many years. Many will remember Roy’s passion for tennis, tennis, tennis. Always demanding the best and using his business savvy to find a good work-life balance, Roy built an indoor tennis club, the Willowbrook Racquet Club, in Wayne when, at the time, nothing met his standards. He eventually became an early bird tennis player for many years at both the Clifton Racquet Club and Tiger Racquet Club in Fairfield, where his children would often join him and the gang in the early morning hours.

His children will tell you that he was always home for dinner and that he never missed their sporting events. Roy could always be heard sharing stories of all his children’s successes throughout the years. He was especially proud of his son Steven’s stellar wrestling career, which included matches all across the United States up to his recognition as a US Olympic team prospect. His children remember him making great breakfasts, and Judy remembers the fact that he never cleaned up after himself. Roy and Judy loved to travel, as long as it was to where Roy wanted to go, which meant some place with tennis courts and good restaurants. Aside from numerous trips within the US, they travelled extensively throughout the Caribbean and to many countries in Europe.

A true Renaissance man, Roy loved and appreciated music and the arts. He took voice lessons for over fifty years, always filled the house with his wonderful piano playing and singing before dinner, and loved going to the opera and Broadway musicals. His children also remember wonderful family holidays, especially Christmas, where Roy would film them coming out on Christmas morning in matching PJs to see the abundance of gifts under the tree. Much to his children’s dismay, Roy and Judy continued this tradition well into their young adulthoods. He also loved to garden to the very end, planting his last flowers in his yard in May of this year.

Roy was the loving husband of Judy (née D’Annunzio) De Petro; devoted father of Cindy Saypol and her husband Bob of Wayne, Lori Dhuyvetter and her husband Rick of Wayne, Steven De Petro and his wife Mona of Carlsbad, CA, Barbara Bricoli and her husband Stefano of Cedar Grove, and Kristen Livshin and her husband Michael “Nem” of Geneva, Switzerland; he was the cherished grandfather of Alex Bricoli, Cristina Bricoli, Gabrielle De Petro, Christopher De Petro, Madison Saypol, and Maximilian Livshin and step grandchildren Scott Saypol and Ariel Saypol; much loved brother to JoAnn De Petro of Oakland, CA, the late Gregory De Petro and the late Sondra Campana; and adored uncle to many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Roy’s memory to the Foundation for the Handicapped or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

Florence Ricciardi, age 91 of Wayne passed away peacefully on Friday September 15th, 2017 while receiving the loving care of her family.

Florence was born and raised in Jersey City. She graduated from Lincoln High School in Jersey City with the class of 1944. Shortly after she graduated high school she met a young man by the name of Angelo Ricciardi. They dated for a couple of years and as fate would have it they fell in love and were married on August 25th 1948. They were married at Our Lady of Victory Roman Catholic Church in Jersey City and honeymooned at Culver's Lake in Frankford Township, NJ.

Almost immediately after being married, Florence took on the daunting but very rewarding job of a homemaker. She dedicated her life to taking care of her husband and raising their four children.

First Florence and Angelo lived in Jersey City with Florence's mother in a two-family house. This is where their first two children Robert and Richard were born. Then in 1956 they moved to New Milford where the next two children Judy and Ray were born. They stayed in New Milford for some time and then moved to Hackensack for a short period and eventually moved to Wayne eighteen years ago.

Florence was an extremely strong person who always fought and overcame adversity. At the early age of forty-six, Florence suffered a cerebral hemorrhage. She spent the rest of her life fighting and overcoming the disabilities and complications related to this event. This led her to become a member of the post-stroke club for several years in Hackensack.

Florence was also dedicated to her Catholic faith. She was a Eucharistic minister in the Ascension Church in New Milford during the time she was living there. And later a parishioner of Our Lady of the Valley Roman Catholic Church in Wayne.

Florence loved to cook and always had her house sparkling clean for dinner with her family every night.

Aside from any and all interests and talents that Florence had, her greatest love was for her family. Florence was a loving wife and cherished nearly sixty years of marriage to her husband Angelo until his passing in 2007. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Florence was an extraordinarily strong person and generous to a fault. She touched the lives of countless people and will be sincerely missed by everyone who knew her.

Florence is survived by her three sons; Robert and his wife Deborah of Wayne, Richard of Ortley Beach, and Raymond of NYC, NY, one daughter; Judith O'Connor and her husband Gregory of Wyckoff, six grandchildren; Paul Ricciardi, Gina Aiello, Lisa Priestner, Tara Agelis, Sean O'Connor, and Melanie O'Connor, and seven great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Angelo Ricciardi in 2007.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Florence’s name to: Foundation for the Handicapped, Inc., 30 Woodridge Terrace, Wayne, NJ 07470. www.foundationforhandicapped.org

Sylvia M Baker, (nee Kriefski) age 71 passed away peacefully on Wednesday September 13, 2017 while receiving the loving care of her family.

Sylvia was born and raised in Passaic, NJ. She graduated from Passaic High School with the class of 1962. During her time at Passaic High School she received the “Daughters of American Revolutionary Award”. Following her graduation from High School, Sylvia earned a position as a legal secretary at a Law Firm named Professional Adjustment Bureau working with Jewels V. Stark. She worked there for approximately five years, then changed careers and became a flight attendant. She worked as a flight attendant for Eastern Airlines for eighteen years until her retirement in 1985.

While Sylvia was in High School, she started dating a young man by the name of Bill Baker. They were high school sweethearts and dated for a number of years. In August of 1971, Sylvia and Bill eloped on Sylvia’s birthday to San Juan, Puerto Rico. Bill and Sylvia lived in Hackensack for a couple of years after they were first married and then moved to Wayne in 1974. They would call Packanack Lake in Wayne their home for the rest of their lives together.  With Bill being involved in General Aviation at Teterboro Airport and Sylvia being an flight attendant, they travel extensively together and there were not many placing on this earth they haven’t been to.

Sylvia enjoyed reading, listening to music and volunteered her time at Chilton Memorial Hospital in Pequannock. Bill and Sylvia cherished 46 years of loving and loyal marriage together. Sylvia remained a devoted wife even though struggling with her diabetes and the complication associated with it. She had fought a long and courageous battle with her illness since she was diagnosed in 1972. Sylvia was an extraordinary person who touched the lives of many people and will be sincerely missed by all who knew her.

Sylvia is survived by her husband Bill Baker of Wayne, and her sister Kathleen Weber of Hampstead, NC. She was predeceased by her brother Michael Kriefski.

Those who wish to make a donation in Sylvia’s name may consider American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312, www.diabetes.org/donate

Antonios “Tony” Toulios, age 70 of Pompton Lakes, passed on Wednesday, September 13, 2017 after a brief, but valiant battle with cancer. Tony was a resident of Pompton Lakes for nearly fifty years, and had been a successful owner/operator of the Pompton Lakes Diner as well as a talented carpenter.

Tony was born and raised on the island of Kefalonia, Greece. At very early age, he worked in agriculture and construction. By the age of fifteen, he joined the Merchant Marines and found himself sailing around the world, visiting places like Russia, China, Japan, Panama and all points in between. During a stop in Long Beach, CA, he ‘jumped ship’ to start a life in the United States. That didn’t last long, as the young boy was caught and deported back to Greece! This caused him to be ‘black listed’ among the Merchant Marine community, but with his charm, he managed to get back onboard another ship and began sailing again. Not long after that, he landed in Philadelphia, PA and ‘jumped ship’ once again – but this time he managed not to get caught! He established himself well in the United States and within a few years of hard work, he had saved up enough money to purchase the Pompton Lakes Diner in 1972. He ran the diner for twelve years and established himself as a wonderful cook, despite having no formal training of the sort! He was truly an example of having lived the “American Dream” and along with the help of his family, they built a successful business and a great reputation. He sold the diner in 1984 and started his own carpentry business up until he had a golden opportunity to go back to the diner in 1997. He sold the diner once again and retired in 2003. Since then, he and his wife have enjoyed dividing their time between Pompton Lakes and visits back to Kefalonia, Greece.

Tony met his wife Anna (nee Lourdas) at her home in the Bronx, after being introduced by a mutual friend. Coincidentally, they had both been raised on the island of Kefalonia and their childhood homes were less than an hour apart. They were married on January 30, 1972 and enjoyed a honeymoon at a resort in the Poconos. They settled to a home in Old Tappan, NJ before moving to Pompton Lakes that same year. Their marriage was an example of two complimentary personalities; Tony was always joking around and laughing, being funny and looking for his next prank. Although Anna might say he was a bit headstrong and a procrastinator, she kept him well grounded and they loved each other. Tony was a very hospitable man and he treated everyone like they were family. He was a loving, caring, genuine, honest man, and everyone around him knew it, everyone around him felt it, especially Anna and his two children. He will be dearly missed.

Tony is survived by his devoted wife of forty-five years; Anna, by his two children; daughter Sofia Toulios and her husband Georges Saleh, and his son; Panos Toulios and Nicole Patlias with granddaughter; Demitra Toulios, all of Pompton Lakes, NJ. Tony was one of six children in his family and he is survived by four siblings; Spiros Toulios and his wife Eleni of California, Joanna Matiatos and her husband Athanasios of Kefalonia, Kostas Toulios and his wife Janet of Marlboro, NJ, and Dennis Toulios and his wife Shirley of Upstate, New York. He was predeceased by his loving big brother; Gerasimos Toulios of Middletown, NY in 2015.

George Markley Morris, Jr., age 78 of Wayne passed away peacefully on September 11, 2017 while receiving the loving care of his family.

George was born one of two boys to George and Adele Morris in Orange, NJ. He grew up in Orange and after his high school graduation he attended Ursinus College in Collegeville, PA where he earned a Bachelor Degree in Computer Science. Shortly after his graduation from college, George heard the call to serve his country. George served very proudly and honorably in the United States Air Force from 1961-1965, where he was a computer operator on B-52 Bombers.

During his service in the USAF and while attending a church meeting he met a young beautiful young women by the name of Gloria “June” Chatham. June and George dated for a couple of years and as fate would have it they fell in love and were married on a Sunday on July 12, 1964, at Kessler Air Force Base Chapel in Biloxi, Mississippi. They had to move once as a result of George being transferred to Great Falls, Montana but, after his honorable discharge from the service in 1965, they moved to Nutley, NJ. Eventually George and June moved to Wayne and would call that their home for the rest of their lives and would raise their son George M. Morris, III. George worked at a few different companies, like Western Electric, before earning a position as a Computer Analyst at Schering Plough in Kenilworth, NJ. He worked there for the next twenty eight years until his retirement several years ago. When George retired, he and June joined the Wayne Adult Community Center where they took computer classes and volunteered to mail out the center’s newsletter. They also took occasional trips to Mississippi to visit June’s brothers and they loved taking special vacations for several years in beautiful Boothbay Harbor, Maine at the Linekin Bay Resort. George and June cherished 52 years of loving and loyal marriage, but were also heartbroken in 2012 when their only son George Markley Morris, III passed away suddenly and unexpectedly.

George also belonged to several different local computer clubs in his area. George enjoyed collecting old radios and had an extensive collection of model trains. His family remembers his as being very smart, kind and considerate and frugal to a fault, always looking for a great deal to save his family some extra money. George was a devoted father and husband. He dedicated all of his time to caring for his wife June when she became ill and was at her side until her passing in September 2016. George was an extraordinary person who made long lasting friendships with many people and will be missed by all who knew him.

George is survived by his two brother-in-laws Dennis Chatham of Rose Hill, MS, and Gene Chatham and his wife Susan of Vicksburg, MS, and numerous nieces and nephews. George was predeceased by his wife, Gloria June Morris in 2016, and by his son George Markley Morris, III in 2012.

Alma Mary Polowichak of Wayne, age 92, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 11, 2017.

Alma was born and raised in the borough of Manhattan in New York City.

On the heels of her graduation from high school, the United States was attacked at Pearl Harbor and soon after the country was fully engaged in World War II. So many men enlisting in the war effort left large shortfalls in the U.S. industrial labor force. Consequently, the government put out a campaign aimed at recruiting female workers to support the war effort from home. The symbol of this campaign was a fictitious character named “Rosie the Riveter”. Wanting to do her part to serve, Alma told her mother that she wanted to be a Rosie the Riveter at Pearl Harbor. Since she wasn’t eighteen yet, unfortunately she could not go. Soon after though she got to realize her dream, becoming a “Rosie” at the Air Force Base in Rome, NY. Her job was to lead a team of other women in the reparation of B-12 Bombers that were brought back to the United Sates after being wrecked while in battle overseas. As head mechanic, she knew every part number that made up that aircraft. She was also proud of the distinction of being one of the first persons to see the initial jet engines that the military was developing.

Alma grew up with a handsome young man named Nicholas Polowichak. Along with two other couples – Rene and Eileen, and Alice and George, this group of six were faithful friends since youth. For Alma and Nick youthful friendship grew to a loving marriage ceremony on Tuesday, August 9, 1949 in Manhattan at St. Stephen’s Church on 28th Street between 3rd and Lexington Avenues. They enjoyed 41 years together as man and wife until Nick’s passing in 1990.

After getting married, Alma and Nick continued to live in New York City until 1966 when they moved to Glen Cove, Long Island. There they raised their two daughters, Susan and Nancy, and two sons, Steven and Mark. Alma remained there for 50 years before moving to Wayne near her daughter Nancy in 2016.

Alma was a dedicated mother and homemaker who poured herself into her children’s activities as they grew up. While her daughters were in Masquers Theater in high school, Alma thought nothing of showing up at the school theater with a home cooked meal of spaghetti and meatballs and bread and salad for her daughters and all their friends. She also made it her business to faithfully attend all of her son Mark’s sporting events. She loved exposing the kids to learning experiences and consequently, they basically got to have any pet they wanted. While there were the standard pets like cats and dogs, the family was also graced with frogs, toads, turtles, a duck named Daffy and a rooster named Sgt Eggbert, which turned out to be a bit of a noisy mistake. The family also raised schnauzers, having six of their own. For one brief time, they had upwards of twenty-one schnauzers in the house. Alma loved all creatures, even lady bugs and praying mantis. To many, her nickname was “Lady Bug” and she found the praying mantis to be a wonderful advocate in her garden for warding off other plant-destroying bugs. She believed this so much, she would even buy praying mantis egg sacks and give them to friends to release in their yards for bug control.

Alma loved working on crossword puzzles. While watching two of her favorite shows – Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy - she would become noticeably upset if a female contestant was beaten by a male contestant, feeling that that women needed to prove they were just as smart as men. Lately, she enjoyed watching Judge Judy at 4:00 PM and would do her best to avoid having her caregivers attend to her while the show was on.

Alma was a dearly-loved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who will be missed by all who knew her.

Alma is survived by her three dear children: Susan Polowichak of New York, NY, Nancy and husband William Azzolini of Wayne, and Mark Polowichak of Greensburg, PA; her five cherished grandchildren: Daniel and life partner Sarah, Christopher and wife Ashley, Patrick, Ashley, and Amy; four adored great-grandchildren: Jessica, Olivia, Damien, and Makenzie; and dear sisters: Dorothy Masters and Enid Valora, both of Utah. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Nicholas in 1990, her first born son Steven and her dear brother Al Rick.

Stephen A. Scoppettuolo, age 83, of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 6, 2017.

Born and raised in Newark, Stephen attended Westside High School where he excelled so much in sports, especially baseball, that he played on the varsity team his freshman year and was even offered a tryout with the New York Yankees.

After graduating high school, Stephen continued for a time doing what he had done since he was eleven years old, namely working for his father Michael in his lemon ice store.

Stephen proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955 during the Korean Conflict, attaining the rank of corporal.

While in high school, Stephen met his beloved wife Rose. It was during his time in the Army that he and Rose were united in marriage. Upon his return home to civilian life, he started working for the Hoover Vacuum Cleaner Company and eventually opened his own business – South Orange Vacuum where he successfully sold and serviced vacuum cleaners for over forty years. He ran his business in Newark for many years before relocating it to South Orange.

Stephen and Rose enjoyed a happy and loving marriage in which they were blessed with six children. Unfortunately, sadness came into his life with Rose’s untimely passing in 1990. Eventually Stephen found love again when he met Lois Esposito. The two remained true companions for the past twenty-six years.

Stephen always loved rooting for his favorite sport teams – the New York Yankees and New York Giants, spending weekends in Atlantic City where he really enjoyed taking his chances with “lady luck”, and for many years spending warm, sunny days in Aruba. Of course, being at home in Wayne where he could be with his whole family was always his most favorite pastime. He loved big family birthday parties, being surrounded by those who loved him. He loved the companionship of Abby his cockapoo, and he was the ultimate grandfather and great grandfather to his many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Stephen especially was called upon when they were babies because no one could help them to stop crying and fussing better than him. He was so good at calming them down that his family started calling him “The Baby Whisperer.”

Stephen was predeceased by his beloved wife Rose Scoppettuolo in 1990. He is survived by his three daughters and three sons: Susan McHale, Steven Scoppettuolo and wife Joanne, Anthony Scoppettuolo and wife Lauren, Cindy Foster and husband Drew, Janet Scoppettuolo and companion Tony Dragotti, and Johnny Scoppettuolo and wife Lorraine; his beloved companion Lois Esposito and her three dear children: Randy Esposito and wife Jessica, Suzanne Esposito and Danny Esposito and fiancé Diane; his numerous adored grandchildren and great grandchildren; and dear brother Carmen Scoppettuolo and wife Maryann, and many loving nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Stephen was also predeceased by his three dear sisters: Minnie Scoppettuolo, Maryann Gambrino, and Genevieve Salerno, and his son-in-law Charlie McHale.

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

June G Schumm (nee Murray) age 90 of Fort Myers Beach, FL passed away peacefully on September 6, 2017 while receiving the loving care of her family.

June was born to and raised in Jersey City, NJ. After graduating from Dickinson High School with the class of 1944 she earned a position as a secretary in Jersey City with a large construction company. June worked there for more than twenty years. During her time working in the construction industry she met a man by the name of Richard Schumm. As fate would have it, they fell in love and Richard and June were married in August of 1963.

June and Richard settled in Wayne, NJ immediately after they were married, and would call Wayne their home for the next forty five years and would raise their two children there. June went to work with Richard as a secretary of his construction company. In 1986 they bought a home in Fort Myers Beach, FL and would spend their winters there and their summers in New Jersey. June and Richard lived in Wayne until 2007, then moved to Mount Arlington. June and Richard cherished 51 years of a loving and loyal marriage until Richard’s passing in June of 2014.

During their time together, they savored life, traveling to Hawaii, California, Florida and many trips to all parts of Europe. They also enjoyed dancing, motor boating, sailing and socializing with the countless friends they made throughout their lives. June took a particular interest, and lessons, in Tap Dancing. She liked to play cards, read, water aerobics, and enjoyed bowling and volunteered her time at St Joseph’s Hospital in Wayne, NJ. She was extremely dedicated to her faith. June and Richard were members of Incarnation Lutheran Church in Pompton Lakes, where they were also very active and volunteered their time. June was a dedicated wife, a devoted mother and a wonderful grandmother. She touched the lives of many people and will be sincerely missed by all who knew her.

June is Survived by her daughter June Bonnett and her husband Robert of Woodcliff Lake, her son David Schumm and his wife Dawn of Scottsdale, AZ four grandchildren; Danielle Bonnett of Penn State (graduate 2017), Nicholas Bonnett attending NYU, Laura Schumm attending Northeastern University, and Kevin Schumm attending Scottsdale Prep.

Those wishing to make a donation in June’s name may consider St Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Incarnation, 220 Hamburg Tpk, Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442.

Margot Maiella (nee Binder), age 90 of Wayne, and formerly of N. Haledon, died peacefully after a brief illness on Monday, September 4, 2017.

Born in Fürstenfeldbruck, Germany, in 1927, Margot was raised in Germany during the hardships of World War II. She always remained very proud of her Bavarian culture. She met her husband, Joseph, who was serving in the U.S. Army, in the early months after the war’s end. Joe just happened to see two cute German girls at the movies at one evening, and he tried to make their acquaintance, but they avoided him and ran off. Joe just had to meet Margot, so he went door to door around the village until he found their home! Their romance blossomed, but fate interceded and Joe received orders to transfer back to the United States. They continued to write letters for the next two years before Margot came to join him in Paterson, NJ. Joe wasted no time proposing and they were married in 1948. A honeymoon followed to the Bronx Zoo before they settled on Warren St. in Paterson. Shortly after that, they moved to N. Haledon and then settled in Wayne. Over the years, Margot and Joe made many trips back to Germany to visit family.

Margot was a very strong willed, determined woman. She was a hard working homemaker who absolutely loved tending to her gardens, lawn, and flowers. She wore out more leaf blowers than her family can count, but nothing made her more happy than keeping the yard tidy. Her children recall what a fun mom she was, and especially her role as the “taxi mom” for all the local kids. She’d pile the whole basketball team into her station wagon and shuttle them all home, with far more kids in the car then there were seatbelts. Margot was a small lady, so she would stack pillows on the seat and behind her back, just so she could reach the pedals. It was common to see her driving with her poodle stretched out across her shoulders, and the dog’s snout out the window! Margot often said that she loved animals more than she did people, and if you knew her, that wasn’t necessarily a joke. She rescued more animals than her family can remember, and they always had dogs and cats as a part of their family. In keeping with Margot’s passion for animals, donations in her memory to the Friends of Wayne Animals would be appreciated and more information is below.

Margot is survived by her beloved children; Margot Williams of Wayne, and Jerry Maiella and his wife Virginia of N. Haledon, two grandchildren; Gary Maiella and his wife Lisa of N. Haledon, and Jason Maiella of N. Haledon, and three great-grandchildren; Joseph, Emily, and Michael Maiella, all of N. Haledon. She was predeceased by her devoted husband Joseph in 2013, by her parents; Hienrich and Carolena Binder, and by one brother and two sisters.

Friends wishing to make a donation in Margot’s memory are asked to consider the Friends of Wayne Animals (FOWA), PO Box 3701, Wayne, NJ 07474, or visit www.fowarescue.com, or Oakland Animal Food Bank, 86 Ramapo Valley Rd, Oakland, NJ 07436.

Kenneth Arnold Virula, age 38, of Wayne, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, September 3, 2017.

Kenny was born in North Bergen and raised in Paterson until moving to Wayne with his parents and two sisters in 1994. As a young boy, he always enjoyed athletics. Consequently, for much of his childhood, he actively participated in a traveling baseball league. He attended DePaul Catholic High School in Wayne where he starred as a point guard for the DePaul Spartans basketball team.

Following high school graduation in 1997, Kenny attended college before going to work full-time. In 2004 he was working for a heating, ventilating, and air conditioner contractor. Kenny was doing an installation for a customer who had an employee named Jennifer Mass. While he was working there Jen was immediately struck by Kenny’s good looks, describing him as “hotty po-totty”. He liked her too and later called the customer so he could ask for Jen’s phone number. Their first date together was to a Halloween party at Jen’s sister Jaime’s house.

For the past ten years Ken was employed by Lehmann Pools and Spas in Mahwah. He loved his job as a service manager and, because of his dedicated work ethic, he enjoyed the respect of his customers and colleagues.

When he wasn’t at work, Kenny enjoyed watching his favorite sport teams – the New York Yankees and Giants, or taking in eighteen holes of golf at the Preakness Valley County Golf Course in Wayne. Above all, his all-time favorite thing to do was to spend time with his four children – Isabella, Sophia, KJ and Mia. While it really didn’t matter what they did, he especially liked to take them for rides on his quad and play with them in the swimming pool at home and at the Crystal Springs Resort in Vernon. He truly adored his children and loved calling them by affectionate names often referring to Isabella as “Jelly Belly”, Sophia as “So-So-Delicious”, Mia as “Mia Mia”, and his son K.J. as “Mr. JJ Man.”

Kenny, or “Ken Dog” as he was known to many, will be remembered for his magnetic personality and larger-than-life presence. To many of his family and friends, he was often described as one of the funniest people they knew. Already as a kid, he was always pulling pranks like playing hide-and-seek with his sister Melissa. He’d show her where to hide then just leave her there while she patiently waited for him to “find her.” He used to set up ramps for his bike to jump over and have Melissa lay between the ramps. Kenny: everyone is going to miss your big smile! You are loved!

Surviving are Kenny’s four cherished children: Isabella, Sophia, and Kenneth “KJ” Mass Virula, and Mia Virula; his loving parents: Arnoldo and Aura Virula of Wayne; and his two dear sisters: Sylvia Virula of Wayne and Melissa Virula of Pompton Lakes.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Ken’s name are asked to consider a gift to help with future college expenses for his four children. Thank you for giving online at gofundme.com/bella-sophia-kj-mia.

Robert M. Coss age 75 of Wayne passed away peacefully on Saturday September 2, 2017 while receiving the loving care of his family.

Bob was born in Paterson and was raised in Haskell. After graduating with the class of 1960 from Lakeland High School, Bob worked for a few years and then got the call to serve his country. From the years 1964 till 1970, Bob served honorably in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany. During his service in the US Army, Bob proposed to his high School sweetheart, Nancy Nesbihal. Nancy and Bob were married while he was still in the Army in 1966. They were married in St Frances Church in Haskell and honeymooned at Niagara Falls.

Bob and Nancy settled in an apartment in Wayne shortly after Bob was honorably discharged from the service. They soon purchased a house and stayed in Wayne and would call it their home for the rest of their lives, raising their two children Brian and Tricia.

Following his marriage and service to our country, Bob earned a position as a Clerk at PSE&G. He worked there for the next thirty-five years until his retirement several years ago. His children remember him holding down two jobs to try to give his family all that he could. He pampered his wife and his children every chance he got. Bob and Nancy were parishioners of Our Lady of the Valley RC Church in Wayne and then St Mary’s RC Church in Pompton Lakes for many years as well. They were both very active parishioners in both churches. Bob and Nancy cherished forty-nine years of loving and loyal marriage until Nancy’s passing in September of 2015.

Bob greatly enjoyed gardening. His gardening efforts once earned him a nomination for best garden in Wayne by the Wayne Today Newspaper. He spent countless hours fixing up his house and beautifying it with flowers, decorations, etc. He was an “Old School Neighbor”, never turning down anyone that needed help with anything. He would give the shirt off his back for the people in his community. Because of his good hearted nature and his love for his community, Bob created many life-long friendships.

Although Bob was not into sports as a young man, he found an interest in baseball and the New York Yankees later in his life. He was an animal lover to say the least and volunteered at the Wayne Animal Shelter, where he also fostered and adopted dogs. He and his wife Nancy enjoyed traveling together on cruises to the Caribbean and vacations to Europe. Wherever they went they always had friends by their sides.

But whether it was working two jobs or his meticulous work in his garden, Bob always made time for his children and grandchildren. He was always there for them and never let them down. Above all of Bob’s talents and interests, his family was his greatest passion. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Bob was a very special person who devoted his life to his friends and his family, he touched the lives of countless people and will be sincerely missed by all who knew him.

Bob is survived by his daughter Tricia Winkler and her husband Ronald of Haskell, his son Brian and his wife Francesca of Wayne, three grandchildren; Kaitlyn, Aidan, and Jillian, one great-grandchild Skylar, one brother Richard of Vermont, and his three dogs; Cindy, Radar, and Cali. He was predeceased by his wife of forty-nine years Nancy (nee Nesbihal) in 2015.

Ney Tapia Mateo (“Rafelo”), 51, of Passaic, N.J., native of Pedro Santana, Dominican Republic, died at 3:51 a.m., Wednesday, August 30, 2017 at Temple University Hospital in North Philadelphia.

Rafelo was born on May 26, 1966, in Pedro Santana, D.R., and came to the United States as a young teen. His father migrated to Passaic, NJ in 1969 where he established a restaurant and eventually was able to bring his whole family from the Dominican Republic to join him here in 1981. Rafelo quickly made many friends in his new hometown of Passaic. Known as a very happy, friendly and charismatic person, Rafelo could make friends in any crowd. Rafelo was generous to a fault and would gladly give you the shirt off his back if he thought it would help you. Rafelo was a great dancer and he loved to eat! As a young boy, Rafelo was a bit of a rascal, always looking to have fun and very protective of his younger brother, Cristian.

Rafelo lived in Northern New Jersey for many years, and after his parent’s retired to the Dominican Republic; he would also spend time there. During one of his trips to the Dominican Republic, Rafelo’s only daughter, Luky Tapia (“Maria Elena”), was conceived. A few years ago, Rafelo moved to North Philadelphia with his longtime partner, Katherine Colon, and he lived there ever since.

Rafelo is survived by his loving daughter; Luky Tapia; his parents, Inocencio and Luz Maria Tapia; his brothers, Cristian Tapia and his wife Griselda Tapia, and Carlos David Tapia Florentino; his sisters, Julieta Tapia and her husband Jacobo Morillo, Yocasta Tapia-Lugo and her husband Pedro Lugo, Luz Mercedes Tapia, and Frances Tapia Mateo and her husband Englebert Santana; numerous nephews and nieces, as well as very large and loving extended family.

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Ney Tapia Mateo ("Rafelo"), 51, de Passaic, N.J., oriundo de Pedro Santana, República Dominicana, murió a las 3:51 a.m., el miércoles 30 de Agosto de 2017 en Temple University Hospital, Norte Filadelfia.

Rafelo nació el 26 de Mayo de 1966 en Pedro Santana, República Dominicana, y llegó a los Estados Unidos como un joven adolescente. Su padre migró a Passaic, Nueva Jersey en 1969, donde estableció un restaurante y finalmente pudo traer a toda su familia de la República Dominicana para unirse a él aquí en 1981. Rafelo rápidamente hizo muchas amistades en su nueva ciudad de Passaic. Conocido como una persona muy feliz, amable y carismático, Rafelo podía hacer amigos en cualquier multitud. Rafelo fue generoso, atento y le daría la camisa de su espalda a quien la necesitase. Rafelo era un gran bailarín y le encantaba comer! Cuando joven, Rafelo era un piscaro, juguetón y muy protector de su hermano menor, Cristian.

Rafelo vivió en el norte de Nueva Jersey por muchos años, y después de que su padre se retiró a la República Dominicana; el también paso tiempo allá. La única hija de Rafelo, Luky Tapia ("María Elena"), fue concebida durante uno de sus viajes a la República Dominicana. Hace unos años, Rafelo se mudó a Filadelfia del Norte con su pareja de mucho tiempo, Katherine Colón, y vivió allí desde entonces.

Rafelo es sobrevivido por su hija amorosa; Luky Tapia; sus padres, Inocencio y Luz María Tapia; sus hermanos, Cristian Tapia y su esposa Griselda Tapia y Carlos David Tapia Florentino; sus hermanas, Julieta Tapia y su esposo Jacobo Morillo, Yocasta Tapia Lugo y su esposo Pedro Lugo, Luz Mercedes Tapia y Frances Tapia Mateo y su esposo Englebert Santana; numerosos sobrinos y sobrinas, así como una familia extensa y amorosa.

Grace Klie (nee Wilson) age 89, of Wayne passed peacefully at home on Tuesday, August 29, 2017.

She was born in Boston, Massachusetts and raised in the town of Dover, Massachusetts. Grace graduated as Valedictorian from Dover High School and went on to Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. She was only sixteen years old when she started college. Grace graduated from Cornell with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Home Economics. While at Cornell she met Frederick Klie. Fred and Grace married on June 24, 1950 in Madison, NJ. They enjoyed fifteen years together before his untimely passing in 1965.

Grace was a stay at home mom raising two children Fred and Gretchen. When the children were young she supplemented her income working two nights a week at the Wayne Adult School. She later worked for the Packanack Co-Operative Nursery School in Wayne, the Theunis Dey School on Parish Drive in Wayne and finally for Chase Bank’s administrative offices on Valley Road in Wayne.

Grace was a long time member of the Packanack Community Church in Wayne. Over the years, Grace enjoyed the company of her numerous beloved dogs. They were a constant source of companionship and she often got a great kick out of their loving antics.

She was the loving wife of the late Frederick Klie (1965); devoted mother of Fred Klie of Wayne, and the late Gretchen E. Lape (1999); she was the adored grandmother of Stevie and Rick Klie.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Alzheimer’s New Jersey, 400 Morris Ave., Suite 251, Denville, NJ 07834 (ALZNJ.org) would be appreciated.

Joseph W. Carlucci, age 84 of Pompton Plains, formerly of Wayne, passed peacefully on Monday, August 28, 2017.

He was born to William and Julia Carlucci in Port Chester, New York. He was raised at 15 Wesley Avenue in Port Chester having graduated from Port Chester High School with the Class of 1950 where he held the several school record for pole vault. For a short time he also held the New York State record for pole vault. He lived in Wayne before moving to Pompton Plains.

Joe served in the US Army Signal Corps during the Korean War. Upon being Honorably Discharged in 1954 he received the Korean Service Medal with one Bronze Star, the Presidential Unit Citation, the United Nations Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal.

He had a lifelong career in logistics having worked for the Exxon Corporation in Florham Park and more recently the Ricoh Corporation in Fairfield before retiring in 1988.

Joe will be remembered for his quiet, reserved way. His easygoing demeanor endeared him to just about everyone he met. He was an avid golfer, could tell you the best restaurants in just about any town, and loved a good red wine.

He was the loving husband of Marilyn (Scott) Carlucci of Pompton Plains; he was the devoted father of Paul Carlucci and his wife Linda of Wayne, and William Carlucci and his wife Sylvie of Verbier, Switzerland; loved step-father of Shannon Gibson and her husband Scott of Montclair, and Bryan Flynn and his wife Jane of Cedar Grove; he was the cherished grandfather of Madison, Joseph, Jonathan, and Jessica Carlucci and Hollen, Norah, and Leland Gibson; he was the dear brother of Marie Sileo and Doris Lancia both of Rye, New York, and the late Joan Forte.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Alzheimer’s New Jersey, 400 Morris Ave., Suite 251, Denville, NJ 07834 (ALZNJ.org) would be appreciated.

Adeline "Dolly" Scaglione (Pasqua) age 96, of Pompton Plains passed peacefully at home on Saturday, August 26, 2017. She was born in Hoboken to Giovina and Davide Pasqua and was raised in Fairview. As a young woman, Dolly worked as a seamstress and was a member of the International Ladies' Garment Workers Union. Dolly has sewn almost every type of garment including her own dresses, her children's special Sunday clothes and all their Halloween costumes.

Dolly married Cirino "Red" Scaglione when he returned from WWII in 1946. They resided in Cliffside Park where they raised their three children, Carol, Elaine and Bill. Dolly was a stay-at-home mom who dedicated herself to raising her family. Later, when the children were older, she enjoyed working as a Cafeteria Lady at Cliffside Park High School.

Dolly moved to Palisades Park where she was a very active member of the Ridgefield Senior Citizens. She especially enjoyed line dancing where most participants followed her moves. She took countless day trips to AC, theatre shows, holiday luncheons, trips to Hawaii and San Francisco. Dolly was the lady who cut the cake at bingo and card day (because she cut them the best). She loved card games and everyone always played by "Dolly's Rules". She had a regular weekly canasta group that always instilled lots of laughs and yelling when someone went out unexpectedly. The night always ended with a shot of Drambuie for all.

Dolly was a fabulous cook and baker. We will always remember her roasted red peppers with lots of fresh garlic and olive oil, her from scratch pasta for her lasagna, manicotti, gnocchi and noodles to name a few. As for sweets, anise biscuits, walnut tarts (a/k/a Dolly Tarts), fluffy cheesecake and her famous Birthday Cake. She made The Birthday Cake for everyone's birthday. It was through her cooking that Dolly showed her love for family and friends. She was independent and outgoing, and at times, a feisty and no-nonsense woman. But you could always count on her to lend a helping hand to those around her.

Dolly was the loving wife of 34 years to the late Red Scaglione who predeceased her in 1980. She was the devoted mother of Carol Calvi, husband Louis of Hasbrouck Heights, Elaine Baccarella, husband Pasquale of Pequannock, and Bill Scaglione, wife Janet of Albany, CA. She was the cherished grandmother of Peter Teubner, Matthew Calvi, Sherry Manning, Damian Baccarella, Stephanie Koerella, Gabriel Scaglione and Laura Scaglione. She had six great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her three brothers Angelo, John and Anthony.

In her later years she lived at Cedar Crest Village, Pompton Plains. There she was a master of crocheting and over the years made and gave away hundreds of doilies to the employees and friends. Everyone knew her as the "Doily Lady". During the Belmont Friday Happy Hour she was probably best known as the lady who danced while the pianist, Wanda, played "Hello Dolly" with everyone singing along. Dolly could not sit still while any good music was playing. Even dancing to the music in the middle of the Willowbrook Mall with her walker. There are probably a few cell phone videos of her dancing as people stopped and enjoyed watching her boogie.

The family is very grateful to Adelaide Manu, mom's live in aide, for her devoted and loving care of Dolly for the past five years.

Adeline "Dolly" Scaglione (Pasqua) age 96, of Pompton Plains passed peacefully at home on Saturday, August 26, 2017. She was born in Hoboken to Giovina and Davide Pasqua and was raised in Fairview. As a young woman, Dolly worked as a seamstress and was a member of the International Ladies' Garment Workers Union. Dolly has sewn almost every type of garment including her own dresses, her children's special Sunday clothes and all their Halloween costumes.

Dolly married Cirino "Red" Scaglione when he returned from WWII in 1946. They resided in Cliffside Park where they raised their three children, Carol, Elaine and Bill. Dolly was a stay-at-home mom who dedicated herself to raising her family. Later, when the children were older, she enjoyed working as a Cafeteria Lady at Cliffside Park High School.

Dolly moved to Palisades Park where she was a very active member of the Ridgefield Senior Citizens. She especially enjoyed line dancing where most participants followed her moves. She took countless day trips to AC, theatre shows, holiday luncheons, trips to Hawaii and San Francisco. Dolly was the lady who cut the cake at bingo and card day (because she cut them the best). She loved card games and everyone always played by "Dolly's Rules". She had a regular weekly canasta group that always instilled lots of laughs and yelling when someone went out unexpectedly. The night always ended with a shot of Drambuie for all.

Dolly was a fabulous cook and baker. We will always remember her roasted red peppers with lots of fresh garlic and olive oil, her from scratch pasta for her lasagna, manicotti, gnocchi and noodles to name a few. As for sweets, anise biscuits, walnut tarts (a/k/a Dolly Tarts), fluffy cheesecake and her famous Birthday Cake. She made The Birthday Cake for everyone's birthday. It was through her cooking that Dolly showed her love for family and friends. She was independent and outgoing, and at times, a feisty and no-nonsense woman. But you could always count on her to lend a helping hand to those around her.

Dolly was the loving wife of 34 years to the late Red Scaglione who predeceased her in 1980. She was the devoted mother of Carol Calvi, husband Louis of Hasbrouck Heights, Elaine Baccarella, husband Pasquale of Pequannock, and Bill Scaglione, wife Janet of Albany, CA. She was the cherished grandmother of Peter Teubner, Matthew Calvi, Sherry Manning, Damian Baccarella, Stephanie Koerella, Gabriel Scaglione and Laura Scaglione. She had six great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her three brothers Angelo, John and Anthony.

In her later years she lived at Cedar Crest Village, Pompton Plains. There she was a master of crocheting and over the years made and gave away hundreds of doilies to the employees and friends. Everyone knew her as the "Doily Lady". During the Belmont Friday Happy Hour she was probably best known as the lady who danced while the pianist, Wanda, played "Hello Dolly" with everyone singing along. Dolly could not sit still while any good music was playing. Even dancing to the music in the middle of the Willowbrook Mall with her walker. There are probably a few cell phone videos of her dancing as people stopped and enjoyed watching her boogie.

The family is very grateful to Adelaide Manu, mom's live in aide, for her devoted and loving care of Dolly for the past five years.

Al Kasperowicz, age 54, of Pompton Plains, passed away on Friday, August 25, 2017.

Al was born in Luban, Poland. Seeking more opportunity and a better life, he emigrated with his parents to the United States when he was thirteen years old. His family initially settled in a railroad apartment on Pavonia Avenue in Jersey City and there he remained until joining the US Navy. He served his country from 1983 to 1987.

Upon Al’s return to civilian life he rejoined his family in Jersey City and after marriage in 1991, he moved to Fair Lawn, and then Bloomfield, where his first and second sons were born. He then moved to Wayne in 1998 where his third son was born. He then moved to Pompton Plains after his divorce in 2007.

Since 1993, Al was employed by UBS in New York City, Hoboken, and most recently in Weehawken as a wealth manager. His position was very unique in that he was responsible for processing the conversion of foreign currencies to complete a corporate action. He always tried his best to explain what he did to his family and friends but everyone had a hard time wrapping their heads around it. He clearly was a maverick and very valued by his company.

Al had a very creative side which he expressed in many different ways. One way was through his photography. He loved taking pictures of his three sons, and nature. This love of taking pictures worked hand-in-hand with his love of travel. Traveling gave him many subjects to photograph, such as the Rocky Mountains in Colorado and Arches National Park in Utah.

Al loved to see different parts of the US and so he and his three sons took many trips including the US Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Chicago, Illinois. Out west he and the boys visited Wyoming and South Dakota where they got to see Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse monument. They also went south to the Four Corners which marks the quadripoint where Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah meet. Al’s camera was always out.

He liked taking his three sons to tour different baseball stadiums. They saw the Cubs play at Wrigley Field, the Rockies play at Coors Field, the Phillies play at Citizens Bank Park, the Pirates play at PNC Park, the Orioles play at Camden Yards, the Nationals play at Nationals Park, the Mets play at Shea Stadium and Citi Field, and the Yankees play at Old and New Yankee Stadium. Regardless of all the baseball, Al and the boys bonded most over their mutual love for the New Jersey Devils.

Al kept in touch with a group of great friends that he made just after arriving in the US. They welcomed him into their neighborhood in Jersey City and played a major part in his learning of a new language. A great memory shared often by his friends was the one that gave Al his nickname, “Woosh.” One day while playing basketball, he kicked the ball straight into the hoop. Al’s accent still ripe, he said “woosh” instead of “swish.” It has stuck ever since.

Late last year, Al suffered a stroke. After several weeks in the hospital, and months of rehab, Al made his way back to work. His sudden passing comes as a shock to many but he will always be loved and remembered by those who were blessed to have known him.

Al is survived by his first son Christopher and his fiancé Amanda Squicciarini, as well as his middle and youngest sons, Alexander, and Zachary Kasperowicz of Wayne; his former wife Lenore Kasperowicz of Wayne, his loving mother: Marianna Kasperowicz of Jersey City; his dear sister Henryka and husband Zdzislaw Wojtowicz of Boynton Beach, FL; nieces Elizabeth Wojtowicz of Boynton Beach, FL, and Marta and husband James Jurewicz of Jersey City. Al was predeceased by his loving father Henryk in 1978.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Al’s name are asked to consider the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454 Alexandria, VA 22312 or at www.diabetes.org

Robert E. Kueppers, age 91 of Wayne, passed peacefully at home on Friday, August 25, 2017.

He was born in Passaic and raised at 146 Dundee Avenue in Paterson. He had been a Wayne resident for over sixty years.

Bob was a proud WWII Veteran having served with the 329th Infantry of the 83rd Division. He was a Technician Fifth Grade and Light Tank Crewman with campaigns in Ardennes Central Europe. For his service he received the Combat Infantry Badge, African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, and the WWII Victory Medal. He was Honorably Discharged on June 2, 1946. As a young boy he served in the Oakland Military Academy in Oakland NJ.

While driving in Paterson with the roof down in a convertible Bob spotted a classmate from high school named Edith Warren. They waved to each other and as fate would have it they fell in love. Bob and Edith married on May 8, 1948 at Saint Brendan’s RC Church in Clifton and honeymooned in Florida. They have enjoyed sixty-nine years of a loving and caring marriage.

Robert was the loving husband of Edith Kueppers; devoted father of Lorraine Kueppers of Beachwood, and the late Robert Kueppers; beloved grandfather of Jeffrey and Jennifer Kueppers; cherished great-grandfather of Adrianna Kueppers.

Al Kasperowicz, age 54, of Pompton Plains, passed away on Friday, August 25, 2017.

Al was born in Luban, Poland. Seeking more opportunity and a better life, he emigrated with his parents to the United States when he was thirteen years old. His family initially settled in a railroad apartment on Pavonia Avenue in Jersey City and there he remained until joining the US Navy. He served his country from 1983 to 1987.

Upon Al’s return to civilian life he rejoined his family in Jersey City and after marriage in 1991, he moved to Fair Lawn, and then Bloomfield, where his first and second sons were born. He then moved to Wayne in 1998 where his third son was born. He then moved to Pompton Plains after his divorce in 2007.

Since 1993, Al was employed by UBS in New York City, Hoboken, and most recently in Weehawken as a wealth manager. His position was very unique in that he was responsible for processing the conversion of foreign currencies to complete a corporate action. He always tried his best to explain what he did to his family and friends but everyone had a hard time wrapping their heads around it. He clearly was a maverick and very valued by his company.

Al had a very creative side which he expressed in many different ways. One way was through his photography. He loved taking pictures of his three sons, and nature. This love of taking pictures worked hand-in-hand with his love of travel. Traveling gave him many subjects to photograph, such as the Rocky Mountains in Colorado and Arches National Park in Utah.

Al loved to see different parts of the US and so he and his three sons took many trips including the US Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Chicago, Illinois. Out west he and the boys visited Wyoming and South Dakota where they got to see Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse monument. They also went south to the Four Corners which marks the quadripoint where Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah meet. Al’s camera was always out.

He liked taking his three sons to tour different baseball stadiums. They saw the Cubs play at Wrigley Field, the Rockies play at Coors Field, the Phillies play at Citizens Bank Park, the Pirates play at PNC Park, the Orioles play at Camden Yards, the Nationals play at Nationals Park, the Mets play at Shea Stadium and Citi Field, and the Yankees play at Old and New Yankee Stadium. Regardless of all the baseball, Al and the boys bonded most over their mutual love for the New Jersey Devils.

Al kept in touch with a group of great friends that he made just after arriving in the US. They welcomed him into their neighborhood in Jersey City and played a major part in his learning of a new language. A great memory shared often by his friends was the one that gave Al his nickname, “Woosh.” One day while playing basketball, he kicked the ball straight into the hoop. Al’s accent still ripe, he said “woosh” instead of “swish.” It has stuck ever since.

Late last year, Al suffered a stroke. After several weeks in the hospital, and months of rehab, Al made his way back to work. His sudden passing comes as a shock to many but he will always be loved and remembered by those who were blessed to have known him.

Al is survived by his first son Christopher and his fiancé Amanda Squicciarini, as well as his middle and youngest sons, Alexander, and Zachary Kasperowicz of Wayne; his former wife Lenore Kasperowicz of Wayne, his loving mother: Marianna Kasperowicz of Jersey City; his dear sister Henryka and husband Zdzislaw Wojtowicz of Boynton Beach, FL; nieces Elizabeth Wojtowicz of Boynton Beach, FL, and Marta and husband James Jurewicz of Jersey City. Al was predeceased by his loving father Henryk in 1978.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Al’s name are asked to consider the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454 Alexandria, VA 22312 or at www.diabetes.org

Lani Curcio (nee Dancko), age 70, of Towaco, passed Thursday, August 24, 2017 after a courageous battle with cancer.

She was born as the only child to her loving parents, the late Stephen and Margaret Dancko (2013 and 2002 respectfully) in Passaic and lived in Garfield before moving to Clifton. Lani graduated from Clifton High School with the Class of 1965 and went on to receive her secretarial associates degree.

Lani met the love of her life in eighth grade. She dropped her pencil and kicked the boy in front of her in science class at Woodrow Wilson Jr. High School in Clifton. That young boy was Patrick Curcio, and the rest, as they say, is history. Lani and Patrick dated for nine years and were engaged for another two years before marrying on September 15, 1968 at Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral in Passaic. They honeymooned at the Lucayan Beach Hotel on the Grand Bahama Island. They spent the first six years of marriage in Nutley and then moved to Towaco where they have lived for over forty years. During the sixty year span that Lani and Patrick spent with one another, they shared many joyful memories together as well as encountering some more challenging moments in their relationship. However, deep down Patrick and Lani had a long-standing love and devotion for each other that stood the test of time.

Lani was truly dedicated to her Eastern Orthodox faith and was a parishioner of Holy Resurrection Orthodox Church in Wayne.

Lani worked as a secretary for a research doctor at Hoffman La Roche Corporation in Nutley and then dedicated herself to raising her son, Jason, whom she loved dearly. She later worked as a legal secretary for several years and then acquired a position as secretary for the Lincoln Park Board of Education where she retired in 2006.

Lani will be remembered as a meticulous, strong-willed woman who was also very giving and caring of others. She adored her two granddaughters and had many fond memories with them including: sleepovers and making great breakfasts together, pool days at the house, doing crafts and dying Easter eggs together, as well as family trips to their second home in Naples, Florida. She enjoyed entertaining family and friends for dinner and barbeques, listening to the music of Jimmy Buffet (with a good margarita or martini in hand), golfing with her friends in the women's league, shopping for fashion accessories and jewelry, home decorating, relaxing at the pool and on the beach, creating silk floral arrangements and wreaths, and spending time outdoors beautifying her garden. She treasured her memories of family summer vacations in Wildwood as well as reminiscing about joyous past Christmases with family. She loved trying out new recipes to cook and her special touch on traditional Russian Easter specialties like babka bread and other dishes will be greatly missed.

Lani was the loving wife of Patrick Curcio; devoted mother of Jason Curcio and his wife Danielle of Caldwell; cherished grandmother of Makayla and Juliana; pet mom to her precious dog Cali; and dear loving friend of sixty-six years to Evelyn Tosi of Little Falls, who since the age of four referred to each other as “a sister she never had.”

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Holy Resurrection Orthodox Church, 285 French Hill Road, Wayne, NJ 07470 or the American Cancer Society would be greatly appreciated.

Charles Michael Hankinson, of Hawthorne, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 24, 2017. He was 101.

In this present age of record national budget deficits, it’s hard to fathom that there was a time when our U.S. government could actually be running a budget surplus, but in 1916, the year Charles was born, that’s the way the government was run. Born in Hoboken, he later moved to Jersey City.

Charles’ first job out of high school would turn out to be the only job he ever needed. He started at the bottom, in the mail room, sorting mail at Sterling Drug Corporation on Park Ave. in New York City when he was just nineteen years old. During the next forty years he ascended from that mail room, working by day and going to college at night, to the ultimate title of Accounting Supervisor. To realize that accomplishment, he took business classes at Rutgers University but eventually earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Pace University in 1967.

While his experience of working at Sterling Drug brought many blessings for Charles, no blessing was greater than meeting a beautiful lady with the bluest eyes and the sweetest smile in the world named Elizabeth “Betty” Binder, who also worked for the company. The two of them fell in love and decided to marry on Saturday, March 5, 1938. Betty’s name should have been on Charles’ bachelor’s degree too. She did all she could to support him in his pursuit of a degree, including typing most of his assignments on a manual typewriter.

After their wedding, Charles and Betty lived in a couple of different places in Jersey City, including a house on Webster Street. They soon welcomed a little baby girl which they named Carole, and a few years later, in 1951, this family of three moved again – this time to 196 New Jersey Ave., in Bergenfield. In 1961, Charles had the honor of walking his “little girl” down the aisle, giving her hand in marriage to Donald Kuder. Two years later, Charles and Betty were packing their bags once more, this time moving to Westwood where they called home together for 43 years.

Charles’ life was one of frugality and hard work. He was a strong believer in the merits of education but, since he loved to learn, this was never viewed as a burden. Even after college, he was always looking for the next thing to read – a New York Times best seller and certainly a daily look at various newspapers including the New York Times and Wall Street Journal. He also loved to walk, so walking became a part of his daily routine. In his commute to work, he’d walk from his house to the bus stop in Westwood, then after taking the bus to the Port Authority Terminal in New York City, he walked from there to his office on Park Ave – rain or shine. At the end of the workday, he’d repeat this routine to get back home. Betty would have supper ready and after the dishes were done, the two of them would enjoy walks together downtown, combining this with grocery shopping.

When retirement came for Charles in 1975, he and Betty began some years of great enjoyment. While their life together continued to be defined by certain routines – a walk together downtown in the morning to the grocery store, and another walk in the afternoon uptown to do all the other errands, they also got the chance to do a lot of traveling. Never flying to their destinations they traveled exclusively by bus. They especially enjoyed national parks including trips out west to see Yellowstone, Sequoia, and Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon. They also took trips to Branson, Missouri to see all the musical shows and occasionally they visited Florida. Charlie and Betty made many friends on these adventures and enjoyed seeing them again from year-to-year. Together with their daughter Carole and son-in-law Don, they visited Gettysburg, Williamsburg and Letchworth State Park, as well as more local destinations to Bear Mountain, Lake George, Amish country in Lancaster, and, because Charlie was a bit of a baseball fan, to Cooperstown, NY.

In-between travels, Charlie and Betty were a great support to Carole and Don, helping them assemble lamps and lamp shades in their lighting company and especially taking care of their children, Michael, and the twins - Richard and Laurie, so Carole could go to work. They adored their grandchildren and established many memorable traditions with them. The love was certainly mutual!

Charles and Betty enjoyed 68 years in a wonderful, loving marriage until Betty’s passing in 2006. Suffering from Alzheimer’s in her final years, Betty remained Charles’ true love! He faithfully cared for her on his own for as long as he could at home, then visited her every day to be by her side. His devotion for his sweetheart in those difficult years was a lasting demonstration of his integrity for all of his family to witness. After Betty’s passing, Charles remained in Westwood for a short time, then moved to Siena Village in Wayne before moving to Van Dyk Park Place in Hawthorne four years ago. For his 100th birthday, Van Dyk’s threw him a big party which was celebrated by all of his family, as well as the residents and staff.

While we mourn his passing, we, Charles’ family, are abundantly thankful for the privilege of sharing in his life and benefitting from his genuine love, integrity, values, and, of course, his amazingly dry sense of humor.

Charles was predeceased by his beloved wife of 68 years - Elizabeth (nee Binder) in 2006. He is survived by his loving daughter Carole and husband Donald Kuder of Wayne; three dear grandchildren: Michael and wife Heidi Kuder of Paramus, Richard and wife Ruth Kuder of Wayne, and Laurie and husband Richard Kuipers of North Haledon; ten cherished great-grandchildren: Madeleine and Brigitte Kuder; Rachel and husband David Thompson, Andrew, Abigail, Samuel and Daniel Kuder; Elisabeth, Anneliese, and Benjamin Kuipers; and one adored great-great grandson: Alexander Thompson.

He was also predeceased by his two sisters: Lillian and Grace; and four brothers: Howard, Alan, Kenneth, and Lyle Hankinson.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Charles’ name are asked to consider the Children’s Tumor Foundation, 120 Wall Street, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10005-3904, or at www.ctf.org

Tyler Glenn Collins, of Wayne, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, August 22, 2017, at the age of 31.

Tyler is survived by his mother Stacy Collins (nee Wright) and father, Glenn Collins, both of Wayne, as well as two brothers; Kyle of Tortola, B.V.I., Ryan, also of Wayne, and his sister, Tara Anne, who lives in South Lake Tahoe, CA. Additionally, he is survived by his maternal grandmother, Shirley Wright (Gram), his paternal grandparents, Thomas Collins (Pops) and Nicie Collins (Gramma), and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and his Pitbull, Mack.

Born into a family that treasures the outdoors, Tyler loved to be out in the fresh air. In younger years Tyler enjoyed playing soccer, snowboarding, riding quads and dirt bikes, and always loved hiking, camping, and boating. Preferring always to be in outdoors, and never in the classroom, one of his favorite days was in 2004 when he graduated from Wayne Valley High School. He continued his education at Monmouth County College where he received his Associates Degree in Automotive Technology. Tyler had a true talent for and interest in fixing cars and trucks, and put it to use after getting his degree by working as a mechanic, as well as doing towing and plowing. Tyler could fix most anything.

Tyler’s love of the outdoors included a wide variety of favorite places; Normandy Beach, NJ where he vacationed with his family every summer, camping in Brewers Bay Tortola, B.V.I. near his brother Kyle, and Indian Lake NY, where he camped with family and friends as often as possible. For Tyler, work was a means to get to one of these destinations, and he particularly enjoyed traveling and adventuring with his brother, Ryan, who was also his best friend.

Anyone who knew Tyler was familiar with his passion for animals, and his raise and release adventures. He enjoyed horses and had great times as a trail guide at Echo Lake Stables. He was also very involved in Pitbull rescue, which is where he found Mack, and homes for many other puppies..

Tyler was a sweet boy who grew into a loving man. He touched the lives of many people and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Wayne Friends of Animals, P.O. Box 3701, Wayne,NJ 07860, www.fowarescue.com, or The Last Resort Animal Rescue, www.thelastresortrescue.com

Friends may visit with the family on Sunday August 20. 2017 from 2-6PM at VanderMay Wayne Colonial Funeral Home, 567 Ratzer Rd Wayne, NJ.

Rosa Burrafato (nee Cannata), age 94 of Wayne passed away peacefully on Friday August 18, 2017 while receiving the loving care of her family.

Rosa was born in Vittoria, Sicily, Italy. As a young girl she battled epilepsy but in no way did it hold her back. She grew up in Italy during World War II and the reign of Mussolini. These years proved to be some of the most controversial times in human history. Rosa remembers her homeland being bombed and later American troops arriving in Italy and handing out chocolates to the children.

Rosa had a neighbor named Angelo Burrafato. Angelo was born in the United States. His family then moved back to Italy when he was four years old. This is when they became neighbors. Angelo served in the Italian Air Force during the war. After living next to each other for several years as fate would have it they fell in love and were married. Their first son John was born shortly after they were married. In 1954 Rosa and Angelo decided they would immigrate to the United States in search for a better life and the American Dream. They first settled in an apartment in Paterson. Angelo worked in the construction industry. They eventually bought a house there after saving for several years. This is when their daughter Doreen was born.

After getting married, Rosa dedicated herself to the daunting but rewarding career of a homemaker. Years later when her children were grown, Angelo and Rosa moved to Florida for five years but eventually moved back to Woodland Park, NJ having missed their children too much. Rosa loved family gatherings and attending family events such as weddings and baptisms. She was always meticulous about how she looked. She was dedicated to her Catholic faith was a parishioner of St Michael’s in Paterson for many years. She loved to dance and was extremely proud of her Italian heritage. Above all of Rosa’s interests and talents, her greatest love for her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Rosa was blessed to have a long, healthy, and fruitful life. She touched the lives of many people and will be sincerely missed by everyone who knew her, family and friends alike.

Rosa is survived by her daughter Doreen Sigona and her husband John of Wayne, her son John and his wife Lydia of North Haledon, one sister Vita Sulsenti of Davie, Fl, two brothers; Biagio Cannata of Davie, FL and Giuseppe Cannata of Clermont, FL, six grandchildren; RosaAnna Filemano and her husband Anthony, Angelo Burrafato and his wife Cheryl, John Joseph Burrafato and his wife Dawn, Cristina Burrafato, Vittoria Busardo and her husband Gerry, and Alessandra Kovacs and her husband James, four great grandchildren; Valentina, Jeremy, Lucy, and Carmelo. She was predeceased by her husband Angelo Burrafato in 1995, as well as her daughter-in-law Lucia Burrafato. She was also predeceased by her two brothers Vincenzo and Gaetano Migliorisi,

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

Lambert A. Rose, 99 of Wayne, passed away on Fri., Aug. 18, 2017. A Wayne resident since 1948, Mr. Rose was Sr. Executive V.P. of National Community Bank in Maywood before retiring in 1993.

Lambert was a very bright student in high school and began working at the Rutherford National Bank as a young man. He was drafted into the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1944 and proudly served until the war’s end in 1946. Upon returning home, he went right back to work for Rutherford National. His career there survived a few acquisitions and eventually spanned more than fifty years. He rose to become the Sr. Executive Vice President of National Community Bank, based in Maywood, and even after his retirement he remained on the Board of Directors until 1993, when the bank was purchased by Chase. He had a remarkable career and was a truly gifted man with a purely ‘banking’ mindset.

Lambert came from a very large family, which included nine children, of which he fell right in the middle of the age order. He remained close with all of his siblings throughout the years and he was the last of them to survive. He remained faithful to the idea of having a large family and eventually had seven children of his own. He and his wife, Matilda, who passed in 2002, met at their church in Passaic and were married on June 4, 1941. They honeymooned at Fort Ticonderoga in New York. They first settled in Passaic before moving to Wayne in 1948. They built their home on Parish Drive in Wayne and proceeded to raise their family there, sharing sixty one years of devoted marriage before Tillie passed in 2002. Lambert was a man of faith and he served many years as a Sunday School Teacher and Elder at the Netherlands Reformed Church in Clifton. One of his hobbies was binding books, often using some tools he had bought on Ebay, and many of the Psalter books in his church were repaired and bound by his caring hands. Attending church on Sunday was essential to Lambert, so much so that even when travelling, he and Tillie would plan their trips such that they would be in the vicinity of a Netherlands Reformed Church every Sunday. They had attended services at NRC churches as far as Washington State and Alberta, Canada. In Lambert’s memory, donations would be appreciated to the Netherlands Reformed Christian School, 164 Jacksonville Rd., Pompton Plains, 07444, or to the Holland Christian Home, 151 Graham Ave, N. Haledon, NJ 07508.

Lambert is survived by his seven children; Lois Marples (Ellis) of Stockholm, Marion Van Houten of Wayne, Ed Rose (Doris) of Jenison, Michigan, Doris Den Herder (Dale) of Macungie, Pennsylvania, Jim Rose (Carol) of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, Deb Hults (Bob) of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Nancy Slingland (Edward) of West Milford, twenty one grandchildren, sixty-five great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren, as well as an even larger, extended family. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Matilda “Tillie” in 2002, by his grandson; Richard A. Kersten in 1976, by two sons-in-law; Abe Kersten and Jack Van Houten, as well as his eight siblings; Cora Rose, John Rose, Cora “Sis” Bush, Eunice Miester, Tom Rose, Claude Rose, Wilber Rose, and Margaret VanGrouw.

Houda Sabeh, 83 of Clifton, died on Thursday, August 17, 2017. She was raised in Aleppo, Syria and immigrated to the United States in 1980.

Houda and her husband Hikmat were married on May 1, 1960 in Aleppo, Syria. They honeymooned in Damascus, Syria and began to raise their family in Aleppo. Hikmat’s sister had moved to America during the 1970’s and he became inspired to move his family to America as well, seeking a brighter future. After waiting nearly ten years for the Visa to be approved, Houda, Hikmat and their five children packed their bags and came to the United States. They settled in Clifton, NJ where they have resided ever since. They started off in a small two family house, but then grew their family into a one family home

Houda has always been the family’s matriarch and has instilled strong, traditional family values in her children. Today, they all enjoy a close relationship with one another, based upon her loving example. She was a wonderful cook, passing down all the traditional Syrian recipes to her daughters, and she spoiled her boys as a loving mother enjoys doing. She’s knitted countless garments, hosted wonderful family get-togethers, and shared more hugs and kisses than anyone can count. Houda was also a dedicated wife to her beloved Hikmat. The two of them recently celebrated their fifty-seventh anniversary and their love continued to grow even stronger! Throughout the years, they have travelled back to Syria on several occasions to visit family and friends, as well as vacations to Hawaii, Florida, Caribbean cruises, and summer vacations to the Jersey Shore. Their roles switched nearly twenty years ago when her health took a turn, and he has been lovingly caring for her each day since. Their devotion to one another never faltered and Hikmat will miss her dearly.

Houda was blessed with eighteen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immeasurable joy. With such a large family, there was reason for a celebration nearly every week of the year, and Houda was always there to take part. Nothing made her happier than being with them all, and her passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill.

Houda is survived by her devoted husband; Hikmat of Clifton, five children: Albert Sabeh and his wife Rimonda of Parsippany and their children Hikmat and Nadia, Sylvana Sabeh of East Hanover and her children Elias, Lila, Diana and Selena, Gilbert Sabeh and his wife Najla of Wayne and their children Hikmat, Nadia, Jessica, Jennifer, Andrew and Crystal, Alan Sabeh and his wife Mayla of East Hanover and their children Houda, Lani and Hikmat, and Auror LoRe' and her husband Derek of Wayne and their children Mia, Alana and Vienna; and two great-grandchildren: Ethan and Kataleah. She was predeceased by her brother; George Zalat in 2011.

Henri “Hank” DelDonna, age 81, of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 17, 2017.

Hank was born in Paterson and grew up in Garfield where he met his beloved wife Corinne. They married in 1958 and enjoyed 42 years together in a loving and devoted marriage until her passing in 2001.

In 1957, Hank earned his B.S. degree from Seton Hall University. He worked as a regional sales manager with Minwax Company until retirement in 2005. He was a parishioner of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Wayne. Hank enjoyed gathering with family and friends, especially during the holidays, to share a delicious meal, a fine glass of wine, and, since he loved to sing, maybe a song or two.

Hank is survived by his two dear godsons: Tom Penn of Wayne, and Dave Penn and his fiancé Ivett Beltran of Wayne; his goddaughter Kathleen Penn of Wayne, and their father Noel Penn of Clifton. In addition to his wife Corinne, Hank was predeceased by his cousin Patricia Penn in 2012.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Henri’s name are asked to consider the American Lung Association, 3001 Gettysburg Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011 or at www.lung.org.

Kathleen “Ginger” Belle (Booras) age 74 of Wayne passed peacefully at home on Wednesday, August 16, 2017.

She was born in Long Island Hospital in Brooklyn Heights, New York. She was raised on Pacific Street and Hicks Street in Brooklyn Heights and graduated from Bishop McDonnell Memorial High School with the Class of 1961. She continued her education at Bergen Community College and went on to William Paterson University in Wayne where she graduated with her Bachelors of Arts Degree in the 1980’s.

In her younger years, Ginger worked as a hostess and waitress in New York City, and after raising her three children, began a career in interior design. She started her own business, called Beau Belle, which she was dedicated to for many years.

Ginger met her husband Louis in Greenwood Lake, where they were introduced by a mutual friend. From a first date at Tavern on the Mall in Paramus, Ginger and Louis would date for four years, before getting married on January 20, 1973. They lived in Haledon before moving to Wayne thirty years ago.

Ginger will be lovingly remembered as being an intelligent, supportive, and loving person. She enjoyed shopping, mostly top shelf items, loved reading, and enjoyed playing Scrabble on her iPad.

She was the loving wife of 44 years to Louis Belle; beloved mother of Robert Belle and his wife Bricia of North Haledon, Lara Belle and her husband Scott Stegen of Tuxedo, NY, and Heather Cruz of Sloatsburg, NY; she was the cherished grandmother of Siena Cruz, Madison Cruz, Alessandra Stegen, Jack Stegen, and Logan Belle; she was also the much loved sister of Patricia Booras of New York City and the late Constance Banta.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959 would be greatly appreciated.

Kristine “Kris” Jones, age 65, of Wayne for the past 23 years, passed away after a long illness Monday, August 14, 2017.

She was born to John and Margaret Jones at the Chelsea Naval Hospital, Chelsea, Massachusetts. She was raised at 13 Rolling Ridge Road in Franklin, MA and graduated from Franklin High School with the Class of 1969. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and soon thereafter moved to New York City. While in New York City she received a Doctorate in Economics from The Graduate Center of the City University of New York .

While living in New York City she began working as an health economist for the Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research in Orangeburg, New York before retiring in September of 2016.

Kris will be lovingly remembered as a quiet, generous, warm person. She was a great friend who was compassionate, kind, and welcoming to all. She loved Sudoku, reading – especially mysteries and thrillers. She was a founding member of “The Birthday Club,” a group of friends that she met during her New York days that were near and dear to her heart.

Kris tragically lost her husband Frank DeSena in November of 2007. She is the loving mother of Sean DeSena of Wayne; the loving sister of Clifford Jones and his wife Kum Ae of Seoul, Korea, Martin Jones and his late wife Diane Herman (2016) of Cambridge, MA, Gary Jones and his wife Theresa of Franklin, MA, Stephen Jones of Plymouth, MA, and the late John Jones (1998); she was the much loved aunt to many nieces and nephews, including the children of the Birthday Club members.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Lakeland Unitarian Universalist Fellowship would be appreciated.

Rosemary F. DePinto (nee Fecanin), 57 of Pompton Plains, died on Sunday, August 13, 2017 after a brief battle with cancer. She has lived in Pompton Plains since 1992.

A 1978 graduate of Clifton High School, “Ro” was a member of the Mustang Marching Band and had performed at many locations across the country. She attended Syracuse University and was also a member of their marching band before transferring to Parsons School of Design. She graduated from Parsons and pursued her career in interior design. Most recently, she was part-owner of “Through the Window Interior Design” in Pompton Plains. She was a very talented designer and her own home was warmly decorated and welcoming. She was an extremely organized person as well, and ‘party planning’ was one of her specialties. She helped to organize gala events for the Catholic Charities, and she was a Dame of Mary Help of Christians Academy in N. Haledon. She loved a good party almost as much as she loved to go shopping, swim in her pool, or relax on the beach.

Rosemary met her husband Steve in the 1980’s when the two of them were working for Stern’s department store. They were married on May 28, 1988 at Holy Spirit Church in Pequannock, followed by a fabulous honeymoon to Spain and Morocco. Steve will tell you that he “couldn’t have found a better wife” and their twenty nine years together have been wonderful. They were fortunate to have explored beaches together throughout the Caribbean islands, Mexico, and Florida, with her favorite destination being Grand Cayman Island. Raising two children; Jordan and Jenna, was among her crowning achievements and she couldn’t be more proud of her kids. There wasn’t anything she wouldn’t do for them and she loved them both dearly. They’ll miss watching re-runs of “I Love Lucy” with her, or her favorite movie of all time; The Godfather. Rosemary’s dearest friends of all were of the four-legged variety; her dogs Liberty, Rocco, and Louie who she loved so, so much. She will also be missed terribly by her large network of loving and devoted friends throughout her community of Pompton Plains who all know her as a kind and generous person.

Rosemary is survived by her beloved husband Steven of Pompton Plains, two children; Jordan and Jenna, both of Pompton Plains, her mother; Josephine Fecanin of Clifton, one sister; Georgianna Eben Vaughn and her husband David of Horsham, PA, her in-laws; Louis and Frances DePinto of Pequannock, three brothers-in-law; Richard DePinto and his wife Lorin of Pompton Plains, Robert DePinto and his wife Jennifer of Charlotte, NC, and Paul DePinto and his wife Loren of Lincoln Park, and many loved nieces and nephews; Christopher and Alexandra Eben, Catherine Foy and her husband John, Richard DePinto, John DePinto, David DePinto, Jillian DePinto, Dean DePinto, Gia DePinto, Alec DePinto, and Frank Galante, Jr. She was predeceased by her father George Fecanin in 2001.

Friends wishing to make a donation in Rosemary’s memory are asked to please consider the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, PO Box 27106, New York, NY 10087-7106 www.mskcc.org.  or Villa Marie Claire 718 Teaneck Road, Teaneck, NJ 07666 www.villamarieclaire.org.

William Haug, President of Northeast Equipment in Cedar Grove, age 83, passed peacefully on Friday, August 11, 2017.

In 1933 he was born in Passaic to the late William and Grace Haug, and raised at the family home located at 66 Merrill Road in Clifton. Bill graduated from Clifton High School with the Class of 1951. While in high school he met the love of his life, Audrey Lenk, who lived nearby. They dated from the age of fourteen, and it is said they never dated another. Bill and Audrey delayed getting married directly after high school because they were worried Bill was going to be drafted. They later married on June 9, 1956 at the Allwood Community Reformed Church in Clifton, with a reception at the Blue Mirror in Passaic. They drove to Florida and along the Florida Keys for their honeymoon, arriving home only to find a letter notifying them that Bill had been drafted into the Army.

Bill proudly served in the US Army Armored Division from 1956 to 1958, and was stationed in Germany for most of his service. His new bride soon followed, and during Bill’s leave time he and Audrey traveled throughout Europe, including visits to Switzerland, France and Italy, to name just a few of their destinations. Shortly after the end of Bill’s military service and their return to the United States, they purchased a home at 53 Kenzel Avenue in Nutley, where they started their family. In 1968, they bought a home on Clifford Drive in Wayne, where they would raise their two sons and a daughter.

From an early age, Bill was known for his enterprising spirit and ambitious nature. He began working at the age of 12, finding work wherever he could and often holding more than one job at a time. He started out as a newspaper delivery boy, while also working for a local sweet shop and convenience store in the Allwood section of Clifton. After discharge from the Army, he found work at the Walter Kidde Company in Belleville. In 1968, Bill took a job with Bonland Industries in Wayne, where during his 16 years of dedicated service he rose to the position of Controller. However, Bill always had the desire to own his own business, and in 1984 he left Bonland and purchased Northeast Equipment, a lawn and garden power equipment retailer in Totowa. His children joined him at Northeast, and it soon outgrew the Totowa property. To accomodate the growing business, in 1988 he acquired a larger location on Route 23 South in Cedar Grove, which serves as Northeast's current location. Always a tireless worker, Bill was on the job 6 days a week up until June of this year, and was still the President, Manager and top salesman of the company when he passed.

Bill will be fondly remembered for his sharp-witted humor, friendly demeanor and easygoing manner. He was a voracious reader and loved to absorb facts about a wide variety of new things. He enjoyed sharing his knowledge with others and was always eager to learn even more from their experiences. He and his wife were avid gardeners, and Bill also enjoyed nature, animals, fishing and visiting local car shows.

Bill was the loving husband of 33 years to Audrey R. Haug (nee Lenk), who predeceased him in 1989. A devoted father, he is survived by his son William R. Haug and his wife Laura of Kinnelon, his daughter Debra A. Siciliano and her husband Paul of Wayne, and his son Kenneth A. Haug of Wayne. He was also the cherished grandfather of William G. Haug and Samantha A. Haug, and the dearly beloved brother of Dee Ann Miller of Clifton and Gale Haug of Montclair. In addition, Bill is survived by his late wife's brother, Richard Lenk and his wife Annette of Clifton.

Memorial donations to the Cancer Research Institute would be greatly appreciated.

Our beautiful Mom and Grammy, Rosemary Anne Stephan, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 11, 2017. With her goes a piece of our hearts.

Born in Newark, NJ, Rosemary was the child of immigrant parents from Germany. After high school she was employed at the Newark Airport. It was there that she met United States Air Force pilot Henry A. Stephan.

After marriage, Rosemary and Henry initially moved to Little Falls, NJ. As the family grew, they moved to Verona, NJ where they lived for the next twenty-five years. Rosemary was employed at the West Essex High School in North Caldwell, NJ until retirement. For a time, she and Henry lived in Skaneateles, NY where she learned the craft of needlepoint and she sold her creations to local gift shops. Retirement years were enjoyed traveling across the country to visit family and to enjoy the beauty and grandeur of the U.S. National Parks.

After ten years of country living, Rosemary and Henry moved back to New Jersey to enjoy their many grandchildren. When Henry passed in 1999, Rosemary moved to the Summer Hill Senior Living community where she made many close friends and enjoyed the association of the Golden Age Club members from the Church of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Wayne, NJ.

Rosemary was an awesome cook and baker. Her family delighted in all her homemade specialties and holiday dinners. She was a fun and happy woman who cared deeply for her children and grandchildren. She always had a warm smile and was generous to all. She was also a very talented artist, skilled in pastel and drawing.

Rosemary raised, loved and supported each of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren with unconditional love. All have fond memories of the times shared together. The family treasures Rosemary for her caring, strong, graceful and fun personality, as a mother, grandmother and great-grandmom!

Numbers 6:24-26 - May GOD bless you, and keep you protect you. May the Lord make His face shine upon you with favor, surrounding you with loving kindness. May GOD lift up His countenance upon you with divine approval, and give you peace.

Rosemary is survived by her daughters and son: Diane C. Stephan of Princeton NJ, Barbara Stephan of Holladay UT, Carol Danzi of Oakland NJ and Kenneth Stephan of Windsor CA; six cherished grandchildren: Roshan, Keihan and Bijan Rasekhi, Christopher Danzi, Jenna and husband James Cullere, and Alyssa Danzi; and great-grand children: Kasper Rasekhi, James, Brody, and Chloe Cullere, and Christopher Danzi. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Henry A. Stephan and her dear brother of Arthur Benz.

James Mastej, age 69, of Wayne, slipped away peacefully and unexpectedly, on Friday, August 11, 2017.

Jim was born in Hackensack and raised in Teaneck where he attended Teaneck High School. He went on to enlist and proudly serve in the United States Marine Corps where he was a helicopter mechanic and crew chief, and recipient of the Marksmanship Rifle Badge.

Upon his return to civilian life, Jim accepted a position as a grounds crewman with Atlantic Aviation Corporation at Teterboro Airport. One of his responsibilities involved fueling the various aircraft under his care. One day, while driving the fuel truck, his eyes fell upon a young woman walking between the company’s two hangars. Never shy, Jimmy promptly pulled over, jumped out of the truck, walked up to that woman and introduced himself. She introduced herself as Patricia Hauser, then they shared some small talk before going on with their daily duties. A few days later, while Patricia was having lunch, Jimmy ran into her again, but this time he asked her if she would like to go out with him. That first date, which took place on March 15, 1968, began with dinner in a restaurant on the top floor of the Marriott Hotel in Saddle Brook. It was a double date and, after dinner, things were going swimmingly well so Jim, Pat and the other couple decided to head over to the Country Squire (today known as the Cosmopolitan) on Route 23 in Wayne for a nightcap. But the night didn’t end there; on to The Suburban Diner (because that’s the beauty of dating in New Jersey where they’re open 24/7)! It wasn’t until 3:00 in the morning when Jimmy finally dropped Patty off at her parents’ home. Patty’s dad wasn’t even mad - which helped her know how much he liked Jimmy from the start. As the saying goes, that first date was “in the books” but chapter one was just the beginning of a loving and storied relationship. Seven-and-a-half months later, on November 1, 1968, those lovebirds headed to see Patty’s Uncle Fred, who owned a jewelry store in Jackson Heights Long Island. They picked out a ring and that day served as their official engagement. Wedding bells rang on Sunday, June 1, 1969 at St. Philip the Apostle Church in Saddle Brook. After a reception at Natoli’s, Jimmy and Patty left for their honeymoon in New England.

After the honeymoon, the newlyweds settled into their first home together – an apartment on Lupton Lane at Acquackanock Village in Haledon. Two years later they purchased a little two-bedroom house on what was known by the locals as Ely’s Island in the Mountainview section of Wayne. “The little red house on the island,” as Patty and Jimmy always referred to it later, became even more of a home when they welcomed their first child. No, not Stacie (she would come a little later). Max. When many of us think of Jimmy, we think of his deep and abiding love of dogs, which all began with their first golden retriever, Max. A wonderful guard dog and friend, taking care of Max helped Patty and Jimmy know they were ready for parenthood! And so, “the little red house on the island” welcomed its newest resident in June of 1974 with the birth of Jimmy’s first daughter, Stacie Aileen. Another baby was on the way soon thereafter, and “the little red house on the island,” where Jimmy had lived for five years, soon became a rental property as the Mastej family bought their house on Alps Road in August of 1975. They’ve called that home ever since. It was in that new house that Jamie Anne was welcomed in January of 1976, and the Mastej family was complete. For a long time, anyway. Eventually, Jamie would marry Andy and Stacie would marry John. And Jimmy loved this growing family even more. But it was in 2007, when Jimmy became a grandfather that he really took on the role he was born for: Grandpa! First came Erin Mary, and then, less than two years later, came Megan Shannon. The girls describe their grandpa as “the best in the world.” According to Erin and Megan, “Grandpa was kind, and loving, and always thinking of other people before himself.”

Though Jimmy met Patty at Atlantic Aviation, they didn’t work together long. In 1968, Jimmy left his job there to become a truck driver. He was driving for Boss Linco Trucking Company, but deep in his soul, he yearned to be a police officer. His interest in law enforcement was kindled by a great cop, nicknamed Blackie, a man who had the lamentable duty of coming to Jimmy’s house to break the news to him and his siblings that their father had been killed and mother severely injured in a car accident by a drunk driver. Six-year-old Jimmy was deeply moved by Blackie’s kindness that day, and from that time on he knew he wanted to be a cop himself. With Patty’s encouragement, he took the test and, on September 7, 1972, became a police officer with the Township of Wayne. It wasn’t an easy transition since this decision meant a pay cut from the $15,000 he was getting paid to drive a truck to just $8,200 as a first-year cop. Despite the pay cut, Jimmy never looked back. He truly loved being a policeman and serving his community.

While working fulltime as a patrolman, he also started taking night classes at William Paterson College. It wasn’t easy balancing a full-time job, tons of side jobs, two little kids, and college, but in 1980 he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Being so sociable, Jimmy enjoyed working those side jobs as a security guard at Fun-N-Games in the Willowbrook Mall and at Burger King. He became friends with everyone he met, and the owner of the arcade was no exception. As a result, Jimmy could bring his girls to the arcade any time he was off duty, and Stacie and Jamie are proud that they learned to drive so well because of a lot of time playing Pole Position.

During his years on the force, Jimmy enjoyed a well-respected reputation for being an excellent marksman. When involved in firearms training, shooting a 300 is considered a perfect score. Well, Jim shot plenty of 300’s and this earned him the privilege of being an FBI-trained firearms instructor with the Wayne Police Department and Passaic County Police Academy. Before retiring in 2004 as a Corporal, he worked primarily as a patrolman but also spent some time in the detective bureau. As a member of the Passaic County SPCA, he also worked to protect the welfare and rights of animals. Above all, Jimmy had a big heart and he loved helping people. For example, he did his best to help a homeless man who had a substance abuse problem. Concerned that giving the man cash for food would result in too great a temptation to buy more alcohol, Jim told the man that any time he got hungry, he could go into a local luncheonette in Mountain View, order any food he’d like, and charge the bill to Jim’s running tab. We could share a hundred stories like this one because Jimmy always did what it took to be the best cop he could be.

James Mastej was passionate about his hobbies outside of work, too. In earlier days, it was motorcycle riding with Patty and their neighbor Joyce. Then it was boating on Lake Hopatcong on the “Offspring” with his offspring and their friend Caren, who he always considered a “Mastej Family appendage!” Later, after retiring, Jimmy started taking flying lessons, but a diagnosis of diabetes prevented him from ultimately becoming licensed. This was a disappointment, but he eventually found his next passion with the game of golf. Not only did he get part-time jobs at the Passaic County and the Sunset Valley golf courses, he always enjoyed playing any chance he got.

On the home front, Jim was the best husband, father, and grandfather anyone could ask for. When he was working the midnight shift, he’d drive by the house and shine his big search light up into Stacie’s bedroom when he saw that she was up reading, just to say hi. He coached Stacie and Jamie’s soccer teams; they were never terribly good, but they sure had fun! He enjoyed simple things in life. A good meal with the family or friends? Yes, please. A midnight ride with Patty to the post office to get their mail? Sign him up. Watching some TV in his comfy leather chair? You bet. A Costco run? Oh, there was nothing he liked more than one of those! Eventually, their basement had more stock in it than Costco itself. When his kids and grandkids came to visit, they could literally shop in his basement. And they did. Always so generous, he was happy to give you anything he thought you might need. More, in fact. It’s safe to say that Jim couldn’t come back from the store without buying Erin and Megan some cute little outfit, toy, or book. With a sparkle in his eye, he’d say something like, “These just happened to fall into my cart at Costco.” When he would visit his daughters, he would hide two-dollar bills for them to discover weeks or months later in the craziest places, like in the toilet paper roll, the ceiling fan, the back of a picture frame, his granddaughters’ dresser drawers, tucked between a stack of shirts. When Erin or Megan would discover one, she’d shout, “Grandpa!” and run to the phone to call him. “Guess what I found,” she’d yell and thank him profusely. They hope they haven’t found the last of them and that they’ll have that rush of joy six months or a year from now in finding another little reminder that he was here, and he was generous, and he loved to surprise us.

Jimmy will be remembered for being one of the most caring human beings that ever walked this earth. This is not hyperbole; it is accurate. Whether it was learning sign language so he could better communicate with his deaf next-door neighbors, or notarizing something that you needed notarized (he was extremely proud that he was a notary), or washing his daughter’s friends’ cars when they came over to visit, Jim would give you the shirt off his back. Don’t ever express interest in something in front of Jim because he would buy it for you. Rest in peace dear Jimmy!

Jim was the beloved husband of Patricia. They were blessed with 48 years of marriage. He was the most loving father of Stacie and husband John Collins of Old Tappan, and Jamie and husband Andy De Vault of Richmond, VA; cherished grandfather of Erin and Megan Collins; and dear brother of Joseph and wife Barbara Mastej of Siler City, NC, Edmund Mastej of Vero Beach, FL, Frank Mastej of West Haven, CT, Michael Mastej of Siler City, NC, and Jerry and wife Judy Wisnofsky of Wayne. He was predeceased by his sister Wanda Mastej, and his two brothers: Stephen Mastej and Henry Wisnofsky.

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

Mary B. Jarger, age 92 of Wayne, passed peacefully on Monday, August 7, 2017.

She was born in Garfield to the late Peter and Pearl Bilanin. Mary was raised at 50 Grand Street in Garfield and graduated from the Garfield High School with the Class of 1943.

Mary married John A. Jarger on May 10, 1947 at SS Peter & Paul Russian Orthodox Cathedral in Passaic. They lived on Hope Avenue in Clifton and Stadler Lane in East Paterson before moving to Wayne in 1959 where they raised their three children.

Mary worked as a secretary and then dedicated herself to raising her family. After the children were grown Mary worked as a baker for the Wayne Board of Education. She held the position at the Schuyler Colfax and later Wayne Hills High School before retiring in 1991.

She will be remembered as a quiet person who loved taking bus trips to Atlantic City where she got a roll of quarters, free lunch, and got to play the slot machines for a few hours. She and John enjoyed many years of family vacations to Lake George in New York State and Chadwick Beach at the Jersey Shore. They also traveled and visited family in Czechoslovakia and visited many states including Hawaii, Maine, Florida, Oregon, California, and New York. She will also be fondly remembered for her baking. Apple cake and her special China Chews with apricots, walnuts, and powdered sugar were always favorites.

Mary was the loving wife of forty years to the late John A. Jarger who predeceased her in 1987; devoted mother of Russell Jarger and his wife Carol of Wayne, Paula Greene and her husband David of Jupiter, FL, and Lorraine Covello and her husband Tony of Kinnelon; she was the cherished grandmother of Rosemarie Condrillo and her husband Rob, Laura Covello, Adam Greene, Brian Greene, Amanda Walters and her husband Will, Sarah Greene, Kristin Jarger, Nancy Daly and her husband Brian, Erik Jarger and his wife Lauren, and Emily Jarger; she was the much loved great-grandmother of Ian and Mia Jarger, Penelope Walters, and Matthew Daly. She was predeceased by her four brothers Peter, John, Michael, and Edward.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing to make a donation in Mary’s memory are asked to consider Pompton Falls Volunteer Fire Department, 130 Jackson Avenue, Wayne, NJ 07470, or at www.waynefire3.com

Edith Margaret Rohrbach (nee Orr), age 91, of Ocean City, formerly of Wayne for over 50 years, passed peacefully on Sunday, August 6, 2017.

She was born in the Bronx, New York to the late Sidney and Martha Orr. Edith was raised in the Bronx having moved to Wayne, NJ in 1959. She lived in Wayne for over fifty years and in her retirement she lived in Ocean Grove for 11 years before moving to Ocean City 2 years ago.

For over 20 years she was a Crossing Guard in Wayne before retiring in 2004.

Edith was a member of the United Methodist Church in Wayne for over fifty years. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star’s Mountain View Chapter 205 for over 65 years. She was also a member of the Pompton Plains Fellowship Group in Pequannock for many years.

Edith and her late husband Jack met on a blind date arranged by friends. They were married in August of 1959 in Wayne by Jack's father, Edgar.  They honeymooned in Myrtle Beach, SC before raising their family in Wayne.  

Edith was the loving wife of the late Jackson S. Rohrbach (May 1995); devoted mother of John S. Rohrbach and his wife Holly of Carmel, IN, and James S. Rohrbach and his wife Rebecca of Fort Lauderdale, FL.; cherished grandmother of Haley, Kal, Heidi, and Tarike Rohrbach.

Edith was cared for by the loving staff of the United Methodist Homes. Donations in lieu of flowers to the United Methodist Communities Foundation at 3311 State Rt. 33, Neptune, NJ 07753 would be appreciated.

Joseph Silvestri, Jr., age 81 of Wayne and formerly of Oakland, died peacefully on Saturday, August 05, 2017. He had lived in Oakland for fifty years before moving to Wayne in 2013.

Joe had worked as a sales manager in the heating oil business for most of his career. He started with Hess Corporation and one of his favorite perquisites were tickets to go see the NY JETS play football! He later worked with Home Fuel Oil Company of Englewood, NJ, and he made a lot of dear friends during those years.

Joe was raised in Paterson, NJ and graduated from Central High School where he was an outstanding basketball player. His love of sports never ended and he loved to go to West Point for football games. As a teenager, he moved to Haledon with his family and shortly after high school he was drafted into the U.S. Army. After training at Fort Dix, Joe was deployed to Germany where he really enjoyed himself. He made some lifelong friends in the service and they were fortunate to be able to tour all around Europe while they were there. It was truly a great experience and he spoke about it often.

Upon returning home from the Army, Joe met Rosemarie Remish at a bowling alley one evening. She was a fantastic bowler and caught Joe’s eye that very night. He invited her out on a date for hotdogs at the Falls View Grill and the rest, as they say, is history. They were married on May 2, 1964 at St. Stan’s Church in Garfield and after a memorable honeymoon to Bermuda, they settled to their Oakland, NJ home for the next fifty years. They raised their two daughters there and enjoyed vacations to Chadwick Beach on the Jersey Shore every summer. Joe was a devoted husband and a good provider. His daughter recalls that no matter how hard he worked, and how tired he may have been when he got home, he always made time to play games with his two girls. When Joe was eventually blessed with a grandson, he was delighted to spend as much time with him as possible. He taught Matthew to play sports and they did all sorts of things together. Matthew was like the son he never had, and Joe could not have been happier to watch him grow up into the young man he’s become. Joe loved his family dearly and he’s left them all with many memories to cherish throughout their lifetimes.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife of fifty years; Rosemarie of Wayne, by his daughter Tina Cillo and her husband James Bennett of West Milford, NJ, his grandson Matthew Cillo of West Milford, two sisters; Victoria Corallo and her husband Peter of Ocean County, NJ, and Elvera “Vera” Mariano of Totowa, and a brother; Pat Silvestri and his wife Mildred of Butler, NJ. He was predeceased by his daughter Lynda in 2015, and by his sister Rose Nativo in 2006.

Friends wishing to make a donation in Joe’s memory are asked to consider the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312, www.diabetes.org, or the National Kidney Foundation, Finance Department, 30 East 33rd St., New York, NY 10016, www.kidney.org.

Diane L. Petracca “Chiefie” (nee Walsh), age 64 of Lincoln Park passed away peacefully on Monday, August 1, 2017 while receiving the loving care of her family.

Diane was born the only child to Edward and Dorothy Walsh in Jersey City, New Jersey in 1952. Although born in Jersey City, she grew up and spent her formative years in Rutherford. She attended St Mary RC High School in Rutherford and graduated with the class of 1970.

Following her graduation from high school she immediately set her sights on a career and enrolled at Lions Institute in Hackensack where she studied to become a Certified Dental Assistant. Her first job was at the dental office of Leonard M. Kovar located in Passaic. After several years working with Dr. Kovar, the practice was then taken over by another team of dentists named Press & Berman DDS who then moved the office to Clifton.  Diane continued working with them until her illness late in 2016 forced her to stop. Diane worked more than forty-six years at the same location.

As a young woman in St Mary’s High School, she would walk home from school and pass the Rutherford High School Track & Field area where the Rutherford students would run and have their meets. Day after day she saw a young man by the name of John Petracca running at the track, who would always flirt with her through the athletic field fence. Eventually, they met near the "wall"--a popular hang out spot for teenagers near a church on Park Avenue. Eventually, John got the nerve up to ask her out to the movies. They dated for a few years and, as fate would have it, they fell in love and were married on September 23, 1972 at St Mary’s RC Church in Rutherford.

Shortly after they were married, John and Diane moved to Lincoln Park. This is where they raised their two sons David and Matthew. John and Diane cherished forty-five years of loving and loyal marriage together. Throughout the years that David and Matthew were growing up, Diane was always by their side and encouraged them to participate in any and all sports they wanted. Diane was always by her children’s side to give them advice throughout their lives. Diane was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She was also especially fond of her Yorkie-Poo “Meadow”, who was always so happy to see her "mommy." She occasionally enjoyed sewing and knitting in her spare time. She loved taking the time to decorate her house and also enjoyed her daily soap operas such as “General Hospital” and “Days of Our Lives.” She was fond and took pride in how she decorated her house and also of her swimming pool, which she spent many a summer day beside. She was also proud to have owned her “Dream Car,” her Lincoln MKZ. Diane had a soft spot for Atlantic City and the NJ Lottery, and an even softer spot for slot machines. She loved taking trips down to AC and to the Pocono-area casinos. Aside from all of Diane’s interests, hobbies, and talents, there was no greater love for Diane than her family. Diane touched the lives of many people and will be sincerely missed by her family and friends alike.

Diane is survived by her husband John Petracca of Lincoln Park, two sons; Matthew Petracca and his wife Stephanie of Kinnelon, and David Petracca and his wife Diana of Wayne, two grandchildren, Natalie, and Amelia. Diane was pre-deceased by her parents Edward and Dorothy Walsh.

William A. Van Kluyve, age 73, of Wyckoff, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 31, 2017.

Born in Passaic Bill grew up in Clifton. He attended Eastern Christian High School and it was there that he met his love for all time. Her name was Linda Struck and Bill rode right into her life with his red and white 57 Chevy. Their love for each other was surely mutual and wedding bells rang on March 12, 1962. The newlyweds initially settled in Paterson, moved later to Prospect Park and had most recently lived in Wyckoff since 1990.

Soon after marriage Bill and Linda welcomed their firstborn, a baby girl which they named Sandra Lee. This was followed soon after by the arrival of their son Ronald. Blessed with endless energy and an iron will to do all he could to provide for his family, those early days saw Bill working literally day and night at three jobs at one time. He held a full-time job with Givaudan Fragrances with the added perk of regularly coming home with the latest perfumes for his bride. In between Bill loaded milk trucks in the middle of the night for Stokes Dairy in Franklin Lakes and drove a dump truck mainly for construction on the NJ Turnpike near the Meadowlands.

In search of a steadier career, Bill decided to take the test to become a police officer. He easily passed and, on August 1, 1969, he began a career in law enforcement with the City of Paterson. Just 25 years old when this new career started, Bill was wiry but strong and extremely fast, soon earning him the nickname “The Dart” because no suspect was a match for him in foot pursuits. Over the course of his career, he saw duty as a patrol officer, work in the detective bureau and he also accepted his share of plain-clothes assignments. Bill was always one of the first to accept extra night duty working security. This led to the inspiration for a side-business selling police equipment. He and a partner established the business on Union Ave. in Paterson and called it Silk City Shields. To make himself a better cop, he also attended classes at William Paterson College and, in 1977, received his B.S. degree in Criminal Justice. Attaining the title of Lieutenant, Bill served for numerous years on the executive board of the PBA where he proved to be quite effective in contract negotiations, and he also served as an active member of the police pistol team earning high scores for regularly shooting perfect bulls eyes.

With his career as a police officer well established Bill found himself at a good point in life. A motorcycle enthusiast since the late 1970’s he only owned Harley’s and he always had multiple bikes. The kids were becoming more independent so he and Linda started taking motorcycle trips with friends. They also like stealing away for trips alone. One of their favorite places to go was Aruba so they typically went two to three times a year. Then in the early 1990’s, with the advent of the internet, Bill started exploring his Dutch ancestry. This led to trips to Europe and connections with long lost relatives in Holland. Those relatives showed he and Linda all that was worth seeing in Europe and they reciprocated by hosting those same European relatives here in the United States. What a way to see the world!

Retirement from the police force took place in 1994 and Bill quickly realized that putzing around in his workshop every day was not going to sufficiently burn up his boundless get-up-and-go. He found himself wondering “what should I do now?” Interestingly enough, he started playing around with slot machines – not the sophisticated electronic machines of today. Instead, he found amusement with the pre-1940’s mechanical type. Bill would buy an old machine in a condition which he described as “a rat”, then pour endless hours into taking it apart, refurbing, cleaning, polishing, and painting it to its original authentic beauty and charm. Over a period of years, he had slot machines all over his house which he had restored, and when friends came over for weekly pool parties, they often exclaimed that his house was like a casino. Billy’s grandchildren, who were quite young at the time, would also play with “Opa’s” vintage slot machines, needing to stand on milk crates (which he probably “acquired” from Stokes Dairy) to reach the coin slot and the lever. Over the ensuing years, Bill attended many auctions and trade shows where he met other vintage slot machine enthusiasts. Consequently he earned quite a reputation as a respected authority and he regularly received inquiries from literally all over the world for advice. In the last ten years, Bill joined the Blue Knights and, together with his son Ron, enjoyed the adventure and camaraderie of riding motorcycles with his brother police officers.

Above all else, Bill loved and was deeply devoted to his family. From the time he was a very young man, he always demonstrated a consistent drive and determination to do whatever it would take to provide for them. He always remained deeply in love with Linda and together they made a great team. You could say that Bill made the bacon and Linda cooked it up. When Linda passed away, all too soon, in 2015, he missed her so much and never felt complete again without her. He displayed that same love and enthusiasm for his kids and grandkids, and was delighted with the arrival of his great-grandson Mason who squirmed for everyone but always sat contented on Opa’s lap.

Everyone will remember Bill in their own unique way, and he’ll always be admired by all (even his much loved cat Sonny) for his warm heart, engaging personality and highly commendable character.

In addition to his beloved wife of 53 years - Linda, Bill was predeceased by his dear daughter Sandra Lee Van Kluyve just six days before him, and his brother Robert. He is survived by his dear son Ronald of Wayne; four much-loved grandchildren: Matthew and wife Stephanie La Sala of Wayne, and Nicole, Danielle, and James Van Kluyve, all of Wayne; one cherished great-grandson: Mason; three dear siblings: John and wife Lori Van Kluyve of Woodland Park, Edward and wife Peggy Van Kluyve of Haverstraw, NY, and Marjorie Lucas of Atlanta, GA; and his sister-in-law Virginia Van Kluyve of Virginia.

Sally Ann Herrmann, of Lake Shawnee of Jefferson Township, formerly of Totowa Boro, Little Falls, Cedar Grove, and  Pompton Lakes, passed at home on Saturday, July 29, 2017.

She was born to Salvatore and Anne Longo in Paterson and raised in Totowa Boro for the first twenty-five years of her life. She graduated from Passaic Valley High School with the Class of 1973.

Sally’s work history includes working at Trudy’s Bakery in Little Falls where she loved the crumb buns. She trained to be a cosmetologist and worked at The Gallery in West Caldwell, Hair Power in Fort Lee, and finally opened her own shop called Identity which she operated in West Caldwell. She later worked for the Dynafair Corporation in Parsippany as a Service Manager for all 50 states and Puerto Rico. When the company moved its headquarters to Tampa Florida she worked from home. Most recently she worked as a groomer for Laura’s Pet Spa in Whippany.

Sally will be remembered as a thoughtful, artistic, caring person who was meticulous, patient, and who always put family and friends needs ahead of her own. She made awesome cheesecake, cream puffs, rum cake, and excellent Cannoli’s. All that she baked tasted great but she also used her artistic flair to accentuate the flavors to come. She cared deeply about family and friends which was always evidenced at her Christmas party where she would lovingly shop for unique ornaments to gift to each person who came.

Sally was the loving wife of 37 years to Gene Herrmann; loving sister of Roseanne Fisher and her husband Bill of Franklin Lakes, Bernadette DeSilver and her husband James of Sparta, and Barbara Longo of Lake Hopatcong; she was the much loved aunt of Anna Luna and her husband Scott, Brian Fisher and his wife Leilani, Michael DeSilver and his wife Lauren, and Bradley Fisher and his wife Lina; she was deeply loved by many great-nieces, great-nephews, and friends.

Howard Bradford Fisher, age 91, left his earthly life to be with his Lord on July 28, 2017.

Howard was born on March 1, 1926 to Cornelius Fisher and Irene (née Weinbrock). He was raised, along with his loving sister Annette, in Clifton NJ. Despite an early bout with rheumatic fever that limited his activity as a child, his heart found joy in all things in life - great and small.

After graduation from Clifton High School, Howard enthusiastically joined the US Navy. As a first class seaman, he enjoyed training, but his recurrent heart issues forced him to the care of the US Navy Hospital in Miami, until his honorable discharge in 1945.

The navy training experience identified potential vocational skills for Howard for use in his post service life. The testing suggested watchmaking. After countless hours and years of training for this career route, Howard developed a great disdain of all things that tick or chime, but fortunately found joy in a related field - jewelry.

He also found the greatest joy of his life, Ann Conte, and he proposed to her by placing an engagement ring in her Cracker Jack box. She accepted this proposal, and remained his soul mate for the remainder of his earthly life.

Howard trained as a Jeweler and eventually launched his own business, Howard Jewelers, in Paterson, New Jersey. Howard, Ann, and their two young children Irene and Howard, cherished the memories of holidays at the store. Neighbors were always welcome to stop by for a holiday celebration, or to find a caring hand to help them buy an affordable holiday gift. Howard cherished his role in designing and providing gifts that celebrated the lives of others, whether it be births, engagements, anniversaries, or other important life events.

Upon his retirement, Howard and Ann enjoyed golf and tennis in the Florida sunshine of Marco Island among many wonderful friends. Golfing brought Howard great joy, and also great fear by anyone else standing anywhere within 360 degrees of him. Thankfully, his lack of golfing prowess never affected his ability to laugh. Packanack Lake in Wayne NJ remained their family home and “Camelot” from 1968 until his recent passing.

Howard enjoyed dinners and cocktails parties with his local “gang”, and attending sporting and dance events that included his children and grandchildren. He also enjoyed taking his family on cruise vacations.

Howard enjoyed reading of the action of WW2 that he missed, as well as breakfast with his friends, the ROMEOs. A regular assistant at Packanack Church, he and Ann cherished all things Packanack.

Howard’s heart may not have been medically strong throughout his life, but we believe it never stopped him from living life to its fullest, and loving everyone and everything that he encountered. He will be greatly missed.

His family wishes to thank the many people were kind to Howard in his time with us and shared his life. We thank God for his presence in our lives, and we pray for the peace of his loving soul.

“Big How” is lovingly remembered by his wife Ann, daughter Irene Hicks and son Howard Fisher, son-in-law Bob Hicks, daughter-in-law Janice (née Steible) Fisher and Howard’s granddaughters: Kristin, Lindsey, Emily, Emilia, and Claire, as well as his niece Joanne Snead.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any gifts be provided to Packanack Community Church.

Marilyn (Lehmer) Helzer, age 78 of Wayne passed peacefully on Thursday, July 27, 2017.

She was born in Paterson to William and Jessie Lehmer. Marilyn was raised in Hawthorne and lived in Prospect Park and Wayne for over thirty years before moving to Fort Collins, Colorado fifteen years ago.

Marilyn was the loving mother of Deborah Vieldhouse, Kevin and Caprice (Antonelli) Vieldhouse, and Jodi (Vieldhouse) and Michael Zaccone, and cherished grandmother of 8 grandchildren. She was the much loved sister of the late Judith Cooper.

She graduated Eastern Christian High School in Hawthorne and graduated with the Class of 1956. She was always the life of the party and enjoyed spending time with her many friends. To maintain her high school friendships a “girls club” was established and a monthly get together lasted over 30 years, but the friendships continued her entire life. After moving to Colorado she became active in her church and was a weekly greeter. Her faith and love for Jesus was relentless as she enjoyed reading her daily devotions. She enjoyed ceramics, painting, reading, was a huge Elvis fan, loved her dogs, and anything that involved using her creative talents. Her outgoing personality won her “Class Flirt” her senior year in High School and a place on the cheer leading team. Her cheer leading skills were evident as she watched her children’s activities as they grew up, especially her son, Kevin’s, wrestling and boxing matches. Much to his embarrassment! She was an avid fan of the Denver Bronco’s and enjoyed watching all types of sporting events.

Lottie Shefcik Darling, age 98 of Green Pond, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, July 27, 2017, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Garfield, NJ to the late Joseph and Sofia Szefczyk. She has lived on the lake at Green Pond for the past forty years.

After graduating from Garfield High School, Lottie went to work for Bigelow Sanford Carpet Company where she met her husband, E. Wallace Darling (Wally). They were married for 66 years until Wally’s passing in 2006. Previously they lived in Teaneck, and Tenafly before moving to Green Pond. They traveled to many parts of the world and had an active social life.

Lottie was a parishioner of Saint Simon the Apostle RC Church, Green Pond, NJ, she was a member of the Green Pond Women’s Club and active in the Green Pond Yacht Club. Aside from her many artistic and design talents, and joy in renovating their homes, Lottie’s greatest love was for her family.

She was the mother of Gary Darling and his wife Jane, of Green Pond; Karen Darling Theodore and her husband George (deceased 2003) of North Caldwell, NJ; and, Donna Mead and her husband Col. Robert C. Mead of Hamden, CT. She was the cherished grandmother of five grandchildren; Suzanne Darling Dieffenbach; Debra Darling Ill; Tara Mead Joffe; Denise Mead Studebaker; and Eric Wallace Darling; and, the beloved great-grandmother of; Katya and Vladimir Dieffenbach; and, Megan, Sabrina and Ella Studebaker.

Lottie is survived by Irene Nawojczyk her sister; and O. Robert Darling, her brother-in-law and Diane Darling, her sister-in-law, many nieces and nephews who she loved, and, over the years were guests at the many parties and celebrations she hosted in her home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Saint Simon the Apostle RC Church, Green Pond; 1010 Green Pond Rd., Green Pond, NJ 07435; Green Pond First Aid Squad, 1 Dump Rd., Green Pond, NJ 07435; or St. Barnabas Hospice, 80 Main Street, West Orange, NJ 07502.

Sandra Lee Van Kluyve, age 54, of Wyckoff, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 25, 2017. Her family was gathered with her in loving support at the time of her passing.

Born in Paterson, Sandra grew up in Prospect Park where she attended School Number 1 on Brown Avenue and Manchester Regional High School. She later lived in the Haskell section of Wanaque and had most recently been living in Wyckoff.

Possessing a heart of gold and a seeming love for anyone, it was as natural as breathing for Sandra to strike up a conversation with a total stranger. For many years, she used her magnetic personality to wait on customers as a bartender at the former County Cork in Pompton Lakes, now known as The Side Door Bar & Grill. She also worked for National Beryllia, Inc. – manufacturer of beryllium oxide products in Haskell, as a delicatessen employee at Foodtown Grocery Store in Haskell, and for many years as a dental assistant for Dr. Brian Trava in Hawthorne.

Sandy’s “me time” preferences included pretty-much anything outdoors but she especially enjoyed summer days taking in the sun, sand, and ocean water down the Jersey Shore or going for a hike along the Cannonball Trail off of Skyline Drive in Ringwood, the MacEvoy Trail to Ramapo Lake off of Skyline Drive in Oakland, or at the Ramapo Reservation in Mahwah. She also enjoyed her pets – kitties Smoky and O.J. who passed away before her, and Sylvie, her cockatiel whose wings she admittedly neglected to clip so one day the little bird literally flew the coop.

While days down the shore or hiking in the woods were fun, Sandy also derived great satisfaction by engaging in the act of serving others. She went all-out in support of her son Matthew, in fact, while describing her as somewhat too supportive, Matt admittedly appreciated her mothering attempts to guide him down worthy life paths without dictating specific ones for him to take. Proud to be an American and even more proud of Matt’s U.S. Marine service, Sandy was inspired to join the American Legion, Post 57 of Waldwick to serve in any capacity where needed. Consequently, she served for a number of years as the post’s recording secretary and gladly gave of her spare time to raise funds and to prepare and send care packages to deployed U.S. troops abroad and to their families anxiously waiting at home for their return. Having a healthy intolerance for injustice, she also once helped a veteran of the Vietnam War receive the medals that he didn’t receive but clearly deserved. Sandy also served for many years as a Ladies Auxiliary member of the Apshawa Volunteer Fire Department in West Milford.

Two years ago, Sandra received one of life’s greatest gifts when she graduated to the roll of “Grandma”. Given the gift of grandson Mason by her son Matthew and her daughter-in-law Stephanie, it seemed Grandma Sandy couldn’t spoil little Mason enough. Subsequently, the UPS truck was pulling up to Mason’s house almost daily with gifts from Amazon addressed to Mr. Mason La Sala. He was a lucky little guy to have grandma who was so excited to have him in her life.

Sandra was a true inspiration to countless souls whose life path crisscrossed with hers. Diagnosed with Juvenile Diabetes when she was just 17 years old, Sandy battled this disease with an “I can overcome anything” attitude for the rest of her life. Those that knew her would tell you that she always wore a smile on her face which was just a reflection of a happy heart that was too busy blessing and encouraging others to be concerned about herself.

Sandra is survived by her dear son Matthew and wife Stephanie La Sala of Wayne; loving father William Van Kluyve of Wyckoff; cherished grandson Mason; dear brother Ronald Van Kluyve of Wayne; and her nieces and nephew: Nicole, Danielle, and James Van Kluyve. She was predeceased by her loving mother Linda Van Kluyve in 2015.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Sandra’s name are asked to consider the Waldwick American Legion, Post 57, 46 Franklin Turnpike, Waldwick, NJ 07463.

Jeffrey A. Guidetti, age 65, of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 23, 2017 surrounded by his beloved wife and three loving children.

Born in Kearny, Jeff was raised in Lyndhurst. Always a go-getter, following graduation from Rutherford High School with the Class of 1970, Jeff wasted no time starting his own business, Guidetti Wallcovering and Contracting when he was just eighteen years old. He embarked on a direct path to success.

In 1975, while bowling at the Bowl-O-Drome in North Arlington with mutual friends, Jeff met a sweet girl named Donna Abrescia. Their first official date together was to a restaurant called Maxwell’s Plumb in New York City on the Upper East Side. Since they enjoyed their dinner together, they figured they would make the date a little longer by going for dessert to a place called Peppermint Park. For the foreseeable future, this became a Saturday night tradition and, over a series of more dinners and desserts, their love for each other grew and grew. One night, while out for dinner at a venue closer to home – Nico’s Pier 17 in Paramus, Jeff endearingly proposed to his future wife. While she ran to the lady’s room, Jeff slipped an engagement ring on her dessert fork. They married on Friday, March 3, 1978 at the Church of the Annunciation in Wayne. Not only did Donna marry the man of her dreams, but also inherited a loving son Anthony. After making their wedding promises before God, family and friends, they hosted a beautiful reception at the Wayne Manor, then headed off to Acapulco for their honeymoon. Jeff and Donna’s journey as husband and wife began in North Arlington where they resided until 1983 when they moved to Wayne. In all they enjoyed 39 years in a loving marriage.

The months peeled off the calendar quickly and soon Jeff and Donna were the parents of a beautiful daughter Nicole and then a beautiful daughter Denene. Through lots of invested energy and hard work Jeff’s contracting business continued to grow and prosper, blessing him with the means to be able to provide admirably for his adored family. In the fall of 2008, when the economy had a serious setback, Jeff made a necessary life adjustment. He returned to school in early 2009 and obtained his New Jersey home inspection license. Over the course of the following eight years, Jeff started and successfully established Perfection Home Inspections. A determined man and tireless worker, Jeff conducted a home inspection as recently as last week.

Jeff was the consummate “Car Guy”. His most recent project was a 1933 steel Ford coupe which, for all intents and purposes, was complete and ready to gas up and drive. But Jeff was a bit of a perfectionist. Presently, the car was taken apart and Jeff was enjoying the process of making that car into exactly what he envisioned it should be. In the past he had also owned three other cars including a yellow 1937 Minotti coupe. Being the car enthusiast that he was, Jeff derived great joy from attending car shows, cruise nights, and being a car club member.

Jeff found great satisfaction in living a healthful life style. When at the family condo in Myrtle Beach or shore house in Mantoloking, he was always up and outside way before the rest of his family. After an early morning three-mile jog on the beach, he would walk into the house all energized, grab a Krispy Kreme donut, some fresh fruit and his juicer to make himself an energy drink. While standing there enjoying that drink, he’d express wonder as to why Donna and his kids weren’t as raring to go as he was. He loved playing racquetball too. At home he was a member of the Kings Court Health and Sports Club in Lyndhurst where he played semi-pro racquetball. He always wanted to play against younger guys because the guys in his own age bracket were just too easy to beat.

Above all else, Jeff adored his family and one of the greatest chapters in his life came with the arrival of his three grandchildren – five year old Aviana, two year old Lucci, and 4 week old Matteo. They were the light of his life. Nothing made him happier than spending time with them. There wasn’t a day that went by that he didn’t stop by to visit them. They loved coming over his house to play. He played games like "Tiger Bear" with Aviana, read car magazines with Lucci, and took them for pool time at Grams.

Jeff is survived by his beloved wife Donna; his dear son Anthony L. Guidetti and Kimmy of Upper Saddle River; two dear daughters: Nicole and husband Nicholas Serapiglia of Wayne, and Denene Guidetti of Wayne; three cherished grandchildren: Aviana, Lucci, and Matteo; and his two nephews: Steven and wife Jennifer Taylor of Mahwah, and Christopher and wife Ana Taylor of Wayne. He was predeceased by his two dear brothers: Stephen Guidetti in 1977 and Richard Guidetti in 2017; and his beloved niece: Jennifer Cantrella in 2006.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Jeffrey’s name are asked to consider, Recanati/Miller Transplant Institute Liver Cancer Research Fund, One Gustave L. Levy Place,

Box 1104, New York, NY 10029.

Doris L. Glowa (nee Lucas), 87 of Wayne, died peacefully on Thursday, July 19, 2017 at the Christian Healthcare Center in Wykcoff. She had lived in Wayne since 1972.

Doris was raised in East Paterson, now known as Elmwood Park, and she graduated from Lodi High School with the class of 1948. She worked for the Felsway Corporation in Totowa from the 1970’s and into the 1990’s before retiring.

Just one year after high school, Doris met John Glowa at her cousin Irene’s wedding; Doris was Maid of Honor and John was the Best Man. They hit it off and John invited her out on a date. Doris accepted but thought it was a bit odd that John scheduled their date for three weeks later! She eventually learned that John had been saving up his money during those weeks so that he’d be able to take Doris wherever she wanted to go. Lucky for John, she was content to simply go for ice cream, and one year later they married. After exchanging vows at St. Anne’s Church in Fair Lawn, they embarked on a cross country honeymoon to visit Doris’ childhood friend, Sonia Hill, who had moved to Phoenix, Arizona some years earlier. Doris and John loved the American Southwest and made the road trip several times to visit Sonia and the rest of the Hill family. Doris loved to travel and she was a bit of a history buff as well, so their trips were often planned with historical destinations in mind. Doris had a vast knowledge of history and she knew all sorts of trivia. She certainly took advantage of the public library and spent a great deal of time there. She also had a fantastic sense of humor and loved a good joke. She loved to watch movies and her ‘movie knowledge’ was astounding! She knew all the stars, their filmography, awards, and even what some of them were up to in their personal lives. She had a particular liking of Timothy Dalton, who had played James Bond at one point in his career. When she discovered the “Timothy Dalton Fan Club,” she could not resist the temptation to join. It became a sort of social activity for her, corresponding with other members of the club, sharing trivia, making friends, and generally having fun.

When John became ill, Doris took great care of him. She was a devoted wife and did everything she could for her beloved John. He passed in 2003 after fifty three years of marriage and Doris missed him dearly.

Doris is survived by her two beloved daughters; Andrea Galazzo and her husband Joseph of Wayne, and Patricia Pignatello and her husband Paul of Wayne, granddaughter Allison Pignatello of Wayne, a step-grandson Joseph Galazzo and his wife Rachel of Hoboken, her cousin and godson; Jeff Lipesky and his wife Clorinda of Flanders, NJ, and of course her dearest, lifelong friend; Sonia Hill of Phoenix, Arizona. She was predeceased by her beloved husband John in 2003.

Friends wishing to make a donation in Doris’ name should consider the Alzheimer’s Association Greater New Jersey, 3 Eves Drive, Suite 310, Marlton, NJ 08053, www.alz.org.

Irene C. Hannan (nee Riley), age 92, of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 18, 2017 while in the presence of her loving family.

She was born in Paterson to Frank and Clara Riley. She graduated from St Mary’s High School with the Class of 1943 and has lived in Wayne for the past sixty-eight years.

After graduating from High School, Irene went to work in a grocery store for a couple of years. During her employment there a women by the name of Mary Hannan stopped in the store frequently to buy daily groceries. She thought that Irene was a lovely young lady and asked her if she would be interested in meeting her son William Hannan. Eventually Irene agreed to the meeting and as fate would have it they fell in love and were married shortly after the Second World War on December 26, 1948. They were married in Lady of the Lourdes RC Church in Paterson. They lived together in Paterson for a couple of years then in 1950 they moved to Wayne. It wasn’t long after they got married that Irene dedicated her life to a rewarding and noble career of a homemaker. Wayne is where they would call home and raise their six adoring children. William and Irene cherished fifty-two years of loving and loyal marriage together until William’s passing in January of 2000.

Irene loved to cook and was an extraordinary baker. Her family remembers many large family holiday dinners together throughout the years. Irene was also dedicated to her Roman Catholic Faith and was a parishioner of Saint Mary’s RC Church, Pompton Lakes for many years. Aside from her cooking and baking and other interests, Irene’s greatest love was for her family. She was a devoted Wife, Mother, Grandmother, and Great-Grandmother. Irene touched the lives of many people and she will be sincerely missed by her family and friends alike.

She was the loving wife of the late William J. Hannan, Sr. (2000); devoted mother of Marie Cioletti and her husband Kenneth of Wayne, Patricia Popovich and her husband John of Wayne, Irene Graham of Franklin Lakes, Mary Boughton and her husband Scot of Wayne, William J. Hannan, Jr. and his wife Susan of Franklin, and James Hannan of Wayne; cherished grandmother of twelve grandchildren; Jonathan, Michael, Jason, Matthew, Jeff, William, David, Elyse, Taylor, Barbara, Sarah, and James; loving great-grandmother of; Lina, Gabby, Jackson, Caydence, Kaia, Matthew, Jonathan, Ava, and Mia. She was predeceased by her sisters Lillian Riley and Grace Riley, and her brothers Frank Riley, Charles Riley, and James Riley.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Saint Mary’s Church, Special Needs Ministry, 17 Pompton Ave., Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442 would be greatly appreciated.

Edward John Parks, 75 of Wayne, died suddenly at home on Tuesday, July 18, 2017.

Born on December 10, 1941 in Suffern New York to Elmer and Alice Parks, he was raised in Paterson where he graduated from Don Bosco Technical High School in 1960. Ed worked for his father’s business, “Parks & Son Hardware” on Union Boulevard, Totowa, until the age of 20 when he became a meter reader with PSE&G. It was here that he met his beloved wife, Regina (nee Pecoraro), and married on October 27, 1973. They exchanged vows at St. Joseph’s Church in Lodi, honeymooned along the coast of California, and immediately settled in Wayne to raise their family. After 42 years of dedication with PSE&G, Ed retired as an account manager.

Ed enjoyed spending time outdoors tending to his immaculately manicured yard and large vegetable garden. His bountiful harvest was always shared with family and friends and often appearing on the doorsteps of his children’s homes. He was a great cook and an even better artist. His artwork decorated the hallways of his home and won countless awards at the Passaic County Senior Art Shows. Summer vacations were spent at the Jersey Shore even though he preferred deep sea fishing rather than sitting on the beach. He enjoyed traveling with his family and visited wonderful destinations including Cape Cod, Disney, Alaska, Russia, Ireland, and Hawaii.

His grandchildren were his greatest pride and joy. His constant tickles and mouth popping sounds always brought out the contagious giggles which he cherished immensely. They will forever miss his art lessons, annual toboggan sleigh riding in the backyard, tractor rides down the hill, and all of the “grandpa” moments made special for each and every one of them.

Ed was a faithful parishioner and active member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish on Valley Rd., Wayne. He has most recently been an altar server with the Funeral Ministry at Our Lady of the Valley, assisting families during their time of need.

Ed is survived by his loving wife Regina of Wayne, three children; Allison Winkler and her husband Thomas of N. Haledon, Aimee Bongiovanni and her husband Thomas of Wayne, and Edward Parks, Jr. and his wife Megan of Lake Hiawatha, eight adored grandchildren; Thomas Winkler, Jr., Braydon Winkler, Nicholas Bongiovanni, Emma Winkler, Justin Bongiovanni, Sophia Parks, Ava Winkler, and Everly Parks, one sister; Gail Stager of Oak Ridge, and a large extended family that includes nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

His presence will be sorely missed by his family, as well as by all who loved him.

He shall live on in our hearts through many wonderful, fond memories we all have to cherish for years to come.

Lillian Figlar, age 93, of Wayne, died peacefully at home on Monday, July 17, 2017.

She was born and raised in Wallington and lived for many years in Clifton before moving to Wayne in 2003.

Lillian was a member of St. Clare Church in Clifton until she moved to Wayne, and joined the parish family at Our Lady of the Valley Church.

As a young woman, Lillian loved to roller skate and it was at the roller skating rink in Passaic that she met Stephen Figlar, the love of her life. She became his wife in October, 1943 and their marriage lasted 68 years. Lillian had worked in the electronics field at Kearfott, Litton and ITT. When she retired, Stephen taught her to play golf and together they enjoyed many rounds of golf at the Passaic County Golf Course as well as at various courses they came across while vacationing. Two sets of golf clubs were always kept in the car’s trunk, just in case they came upon a desirable course. They also enjoyed many golf outings at Wyndham, NY with friends.

Lillian even had a ‘hole in one’ at the county course!    

She also enjoyed playing golf with the Women’s Golf Club at the Passaic County Golf Course, bowling on the Women’s Bowling Team at T-Bowl Lanes in Wayne, playing bingo with the ladies at the Golden Age Circle of Wayne, and being a member of the Wayne Elks Auxiliary.

Lillian was predeceased by her beloved husband Stephen in 2012. She is survived by her

Four children: Marilyn Borowinski and husband Roger of Wayne, Patricia Jacukiewicz and husband Ziggy of Lakewood, Diane Koenig and husband Warren of Andover, and Gregory Figlar and wife Cynthia of Clifton; seven cherished grandchildren: Jennifer Warren, Dawn Mc Cune, Kim Rodman, Justin Borowinski, Karen Jacukiewicz, Tara Flach, and Marissa Figlar; and eleven adored great-grandchildren: Derek, Madison, Isabelle and Dylan Borowinski, Aiden and Liam Warren, Jonathan, Daniel, and Nicholas Rodman, and Elsa and Landon Flach.

Lillian will be forever missed but will always remain in our hearts.

Robert Henry Brockmann Jr., age 84, of Lancaster, SC and a former long- time resident of Wayne, NJ passed away on July 15, 2017, while in the presence of his loving children.

“Bob”, as he was known to most, was born in Hackensack, NJ to Robert Henry Sr. and Edna Ellen (nee Carroll) Brockmann. He was raised in Wood-Ridge, NJ, graduated Wood-Ridge H.S. in 1951 and was a member of the Blue Devils Football State Champions (North 1 Group 1) 1948 and 1949.

Bob joined the navy in November, 1952 during the Korean War, attained the rank of 1st Class Petty Officer and was honorably discharged in October, 1956. While in the service he was awarded the Good Conduct Metal, National Defense Metal and Navy Occupation Service Metal.

After military service Bob entered The Culinary Institute of America in New Haven Connecticut. Attending school in the day and working at night in a box factory to help pay for his education, he graduated with an A.A.S. Degree in Culinary Arts. In 1958 Bob entered New York City Community College and graduated with an A.A.S. Degree in Hotel Technology. Bob worked 36 years in the institutional food service industry, retiring in 1996 as the East Coast Sales Manager for Alberto Culvers Food Service Division.

In the summer of 1958, Bob met Alice Elizabeth “Betty” White while vacationing at Point Pleasant Beach, NJ. They eventually got engaged and Bob married Betty, the love of his life, in November, 1960. They spent 53 wonderful years together.

Bob was predeceased by his loving wife Alice Elizabeth “Betty” in 2014. He is survived by his five children, Robert and his wife Patricia, William, his daughter-in-law Janet, Douglas and his wife Marian, Brenda Leardi and her husband Michael, and Ken and his wife Carmelina; and his fifteen grandchildren, Clifford Jr., Alyson, Alexa, Douglas Jr., Michael Jr., Kathaleen, Ashley, Brian, Owen, Eric, Veronica, Nicole, Frankie, Amelia and James. He is also survived by his sister Marilyn Waldman; he was predeceased by his sister Ellen Brockmann, and his son, Clifford Brockmann Sr.

Catherine Purdy, 94, of Wayne, New Jersey passed away peacefully, her daughter Kathleen by her side, on July 15, 2017.

Born in New York City, the daughter of the late Mary Elizabeth Moran and Daniel Moran, Catherine lived in Miami, Atlantic City, Paterson and Wayne. Catherine graduated in 1942 from Central High School, Paterson, New Jersey. Catherine worked for Curtiss-Wright during WWII, then Prudential Insurance Company, and she retired from the New Jersey Division of Motor Vehicles in 1993. Catherine was known to her friends as “Kitty” and to her immediate family as “Mims.”

Catherine married William Purdy in 1948. Together, they lived in Paterson and then Wayne, where they raised their five children. Catherine loved her Wednesday night bowling league. She was also a leader of the Girl Scout Troop of Lionshead Lake. Catherine worked for the Herald News as a reporter of local news from Lionshead Lake. She was an auxiliary member of the American Legion Post in Wayne, NJ. Catherine was also an officer with the Wayne Golden Age Circle. She enjoyed traveling with the club and performing in their talent shows. She also enjoyed regular bus excursions to Atlantic City to play the slot machines.

Catherine is predeceased by her husband William Purdy and survived by her five children. Eileen Kimbell-Meaney (Tom Meaney) of Pompton Lakes, William of Riverdale, Joan Kain of Passaic, Thomas (Karen Volino) of Elmwood Park, and Kathleen Padula (Bob Padula) of Fort Lee. She is also survived by her first-cousin Eileen McGrady as well as nieces, a nephew and many cousins.

Catherine is also survived by her 6 loving grandchildren, William Kimbell and his wife Vicky, Matthew Kimbell and his wife Tracee, Joseph Volino, Thomas Purdy, Max Padula, and Jade Padula. Catherine is also survived by a great grandson, Joshua.

Catherine’s passion was music. She loved 1940’s big bands and enjoyed traveling to marching band competitions with her close friend Nancy D’Amelio. Catherine’s children fondly remember her always singing around the house and introducing them to the American songbook. She genuinely enjoyed the company and laughter of friends and family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be sent to the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, 4370 Tujunga Ave., Suite 330, Studio City, CA 91604.

Joan L. Boughton (nee Marshall), age 88 of Wayne passed Friday, July 14, 2017.

She was born in Paterson to Kenneth and Cora Marshall, and was a lifelong resident of Wayne. Joan’s father passed away at the age of 37 from pneumonia when she was just nine years old.

Joan graduated from Pompton Lakes High School (there was no high school in the rural town of Wayne) with the Class of 1946 and soon found employment with the Chase Bank in New York City. She worked for Chase for about seven years before dedicating her life to raising her family.

Through her twin brother, Bob Marshall, she met a cute young man named George Boughton. Their first date was bowling at the O’Dowd’s Bowling Alley in Pine Brook. They soon fell in love and George, after asking her mother and step-grandfather, proposed marriage. George and Joan married on March 31, 1951 at the United Methodist Church in Wayne. For their honeymoon they traveled in a 1940 Black Pontiac that George purchased for $50.00. It was a scrap car with a bent frame. As a young man George worked weekends and holidays at his father’s mechanic garage and repaired the car by replacing the frame. They honeymooned in that car having traveled to Niagara Falls, NY, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington, D.C. and home again. George and Joan have enjoyed a loving and devoted marriage of sixty-six years. George will tell you Joan was the love of his heart.

She was a dedicated member of the United Methodist Church in Wayne and for many years ordered the supplies for the Sunday School classes. Her children all remember being recruited to help her sort all of those supplies. Joan was a great baker and her Pumpkin Chiffon Pie, Christmas Cookies, and Anise Cookies left loving memories with all. She enjoyed oil painting, her four Cocker Spaniels, and fishing in Beach Haven and Barnegat Light with George. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star for many years.

Joan was the loving wife of George Boughton; devoted mother of Glenn and his wife Freddie Boughton of West Milford, Ken and Carol Boughton of Ironia, and Thomas Boughton and his wife Mary of Wayne; she was the loved sister of her late twin brother Robert Marshall (2013); she was the dedicated grandmother of Jeffrey and his wife Bambi Boughton, Steven, Kristin, Andrew, and Todd Boughton; much loved great-grandmother of Kailey and Temperance Boughton; she was also dearly loved by her step-grandchildren Deidre and Nicole LaPlaca and her step-great-grandchildren Madison, John, Cheyenne, and Stevyn.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the United Methodist Church, 99 Parish Drive, Wayne, NJ 07470 or the Order of the Eastern Star-Mt View Chapter, 15 Hamburg Tpk., Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442 would be appreciated.

Ernest Gilbert Wheeler, Jr. age 82, resident of Wayne passed on Thursday July 13, 2017.

He started his life on December 24th, 1934 in New York City born to Ernest Gilbert, Sr. & Catherine Wheeler. Ernest graduated in 1952 from Power Memorial Academy in Manhattan. After high school he served in the U.S. Army for four years. Once he returned home he met Catherine Hall, they were married April 29, 1967 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Brooklyn, NY. Once the family started growing they decided to leave the city and make a home in Wayne, NJ where they spent the last 42 years

Ernie started working in the Theater district in NYC at the age of 16 and was initiated into the Treasurers and Ticket Sellers Union (Local 741) in 1957 and retired from Local 741 43 years later. He loved the theatre and all live performances from the opera house to lectures at college campuses. Ernie had a passion for collecting coins, airmail covers, stamps and casino memorabilia. He enjoyed his regular trips to Atlantic City and going to swap meets looking for his next treasure of casino history.

Ernest is a widower to Catherine Wheeler (Hall) and is preceded by his brother James Wheeler. Survived by his five children Jennifer Duncan, William Wheeler, Michael Wheeler, Veronica Wheeler and Edward Wheeler and four beautiful grandchildren, Seraphine Wheeler, Johnathan Wheeler, Amelia Duncan and Logan Wheeler.

He was a history buff and loved traveling to historic places and learning about history, his travels took him all through Europe, and he and his wife enjoyed many trips as well.

Ernest was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and recently joined the Golden Age Circle in Wayne and looked forward to his weekly get-together with friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Ernie’s memory would be appreciated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959, or visit www.stjude.org.

Gloria J. Trongone (nee Pelka), age 74 of Wayne, died Wednesday, July 12, 2017. She had lived in Wayne since 1976.

Gloria was raised in Garfield and graduated from Garfield High School in 1961. She earned her bachelor’s degree and began teaching elementary school in Garfield. Her teaching career lasted three years before she became a wife and full time mother. Then, in 1984, she decided to go back to work and found a position with the Private Industry Council of Passaic County. She started there with the summer employment program, but she loved the job so much that she began working full time. She enjoyed twenty two years at the Private Industry Council before retiring in 2006.

Gloria met her husband Robert when they were setup on a double-blind date. She went to a dance at the East Paterson High School (now Elmwood Park) with Robert and they truly hit it off. They were soon married on June 27, 1964 at St. Leo’s Church in East Paterson, and they honeymooned to Washington, D.C. They settled in Wallington briefly before moving to Clifton and then Wayne in 1976. Robert will tell you she was the “perfect” wife and if he had it all to do over again, he wouldn’t change anything. She was truly the love of his life and he will miss her dearly. Gloria was also the “perfect” mom; devoted to her family. She was an awesome hostess, throwing great parties at their home and filling the yard (and the pool!) with family and friends. Gloria was like a ‘best friend’ to so many people, willing to lend an ear, offer advice, or just be there for you no matter what. Others will recall her skill as a seamstress; hemming a dress, fixing a tear, or making something from scratch; she could simply do it all. She was also very artistic, enjoying painting and marveling at her son’s talented photographic work.

When Gloria’s daughter Beth Ann got married, Gloria made it overtly clear that she wanted to become a grandmother! When Josephine and Frankie came along, it became abundantly clear that Gloria was also the most perfect grandmother! She became their best friend and they loved spending time with her. Some of their best memories are those that included “pool time” with their grandmother, floating in Gloria’s pool. They all loved her very much and will miss her greatly.

Gloria is survived by her devoted husband Robert of Wayne, two children; Beth Ann Russo and her husband Frank of Pompton Lakes, and Robert, Jr., her two beloved grandchildren; Josephine and Frankie Russo of Pompton Lakes, her brother; Richard Pelka and his wife Margo of Downsville, NY, and many loving nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother Peter Pelka in 1966.

In lieu of flowers donations to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959 www.stjude.org or Vietnam Veterans of America, 8719 Colesville Rd, Suite 100, Silver Spring, MD 20910, www.vva.org.20910