Dolores Gabriele (nee Rutz), age 90 of West Milford, died on Friday, January 24, 2025. She grew up in Fort Lee where her family made a name for themselves in the lace and embroidery industry.

Dee, as she was affectionately known, met her husband, Charles, at a local sock-hop. They hit it off from the start and were married soon after. They wasted no time starting a family and soon needed more space for their kids. They moved to West Milford in the 1960’s, which was like a different world from Bergen County. Their kids had room to explore and Dee earned the nickname “copperhead killer.” Rural West Milford came with some unwelcome neighbors, but they were no match for Dee. She was an athlete and a sports fan her whole life. She was an avid tennis player and encouraged her kids in all sorts of sporting activities. Somehow she managed to make it to every game and every practice, and her children are all very grateful for it. Dee’s life was built around her family, and nothing made her more happy. Dee was also a devout Catholic and nurtured her strong faith at St. Joseph RC Church on Germantown Road in West Milford. She was a faithful parishioner there for many years.

Dee is survived by her four children: Charles Gabriele, Jr. and his wife Deb of West Milford, Alexis Roberts and her husband Doug of Hawley, PA, Greg Gabriele and his wife Theresa of Wayne, and Eric Gabriele and his wife Jaimie of Highland Lakes, nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Charles in 2012, after enjoying more than sixty years of marriage together.

Vivian V. Costanzo (nee Tagliaferro), 87, of Wayne, NJ, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 23, 2025 surrounded by loving family. The older of two children of Stephen and Flora Tagliaferro, she was born and raised in the Bronx. Vivian attended Evander Childs High School, graduating in 1955. Although she enjoyed truly wonderful high school years, Vivian often complained about her swimming class – noting that the school always issued bathing suits riddled with holes, making an already awkward experience even worse.

Vivian never learned to ride a bike, a fact that set her apart from most of her peers. Raised by ultra-caring parents, she wasn’t allowed to take risks like other kids. Her parents always insisted it was safer to walk or be driven, shielding her from what they saw as unnecessary harm. Like a scene from the movie “A Bronx Tale,” Vivian grew up in a very large and fun Italian family with many living nearby in the same neighborhood. She could often be found enjoying time with them on the apartment building’s front stoop or playing weekly Italian card games such as Scopa.

Vivian attended Westchester Community College in NYC where she studied to be a lab technician. After earning her associate’s degree, she accepted a position at a NYC doctor’s office where she worked for a few years.

Vivian later left the workforce when she married and dedicated herself to being a full-time homemaker. She moved to Woodbridge, NJ and eventually to Wayne where – for more than 50 years – she was devoted to her family, nurturing and caring for her children. After her children had grown, Vivian went back to work for several businesses, including Montclair Radiology in Nutley until her retirement in 2007.

While her children were in school, Vivian was a member of the PTA. She enjoyed sewing and was an extraordinary cook, famous by family and friends for her meatballs. Her family remembers their weekly traditional Sunday dinner get-togethers at her home – the aromas of amazing food and the guarantee of much fun and laughter around a table filled with her love.

Aside from her talents, hobbies, and interests, Vivian’s greatest passion was for her family. Nothing in the world meant more to Vivian than providing for and spending time with her children, and especially her grandchildren. Throughout the years, Vivian especially cherished family trips to Disney World and their summers in Ocean City at the Jersey Shore. While at the beach, she was often found basking in the sun and reading Daniel Steele novels. Over the years, her grandchildren affectionately referred to her as “G-Viv,” and more recently referring to her lovingly as simply “G.”

Vivian was not only dedicated to her family but also to her Catholic Faith. She was a parishioner of Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary RC Church in Wayne for more than twenty years. Vivian found solace and strength in her Catholic faith, which became her anchor as she navigated the profound grief of losing her beloved daughter Maria DeBenedetto in 2023.

Vivian was an extraordinary emotionally strong woman of faith who was kind and compassionate. She often thought of others’ needs before her own. She had an unwavering belief in the goodness of others. Vivian was a truly special person who touched the lives of everyone she met and will be missed tremendously by her family and friends.

Vivian is survived by three children including Guy Costanzo and his wife Lisa of Anderson, SC, Stephen Costanzo and his wife Donna of Oak Ridge, NJ, and Laura Stinziano and her husband Joe of Wayne, NJ; her son-in-law Martin DeBenedetto; one brother Steven Taglia and his wife Maxine of Bradenton, FL; and nine grandchildren including Hannah Costanzo, Daniella Martin (Brendan aka Gregory), Ryan Sylvester (Brie), Matthew Costanzo (Kenya), Joey Stinziano, Michael DeBenedetto, Jaclyn Stinziano, Zachary Costanzo, and Olivia Costanzo. She was predeceased by her daughter Maria DeBenedetto and also her longtime companion Michael Guarino.

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In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made in Vivian’s name to Alzheimer's Association  or the Maria Costanzo DeBenedetto Memorial Foundation (find Foundation on PayPal, or by check mailed to MCDM Foundation, 19 Point Road, Wayne, NJ  07470).

Margaret Ellen Cully, of Wayne, NJ, passed away on January 23, 2025, with the comfort of family by her side. She was 88 years old.

Margaret was born to Jacob and Clara Kypers in Little Falls, NJ.

She graduated from Passaic Valley High School and worked for American Cyanamid, which eventually became Home Products.

Before Margaret started work, she and her husband raised four daughters. Robert and Margaret married on April 14, 1956. They honeymooned in Niagra Falls, NY. Margaret and Robert were blessed with four daughters, Laureen, Susan, Deborah and Lisa.  They enjoyed 65 years of marriage together.

Margaret enjoyed hosting neighborhood parties, cruises, sunbathing and the beach. She enjoyed taking care of the neighborhood feral cat community and was a crazy cat lady.

She is predeceased by her husband, Robert, grandson-in-law, Michael Basso, her parents, Jacob and Clara, and all of her siblings.

She is survived by her daughters, Laureen, Susan, Deborah and Lisa; her grandchildren; Tracey, Jessica, Brandon, Brian, Kristen, Rachel and Daniel.

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

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Barbara C. Wheeler (nee Curtis), age 79, of Wayne NJ.

Barbara passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 while receiving the loving care of her family. She was raised in Albany, NY and was the youngest of three children to F. Norton and June Curtis.  While growing up in Albany, Barbara attended high school at St Agnes School for Girls.  While a student at St Agnes School for Girls, Barbara excelled in sports, playing on the girl’s tennis and field hockey varsity teams.

Following her high school graduation with the class of 1962, she attended a local college for a couple of years.  While attending a sporting event at Colgate College, Barbara met a handsome young student by the name of Richard Wheeler.  The couple hit it off great and started dating.  As fate would have it, they fell in love and in 1968 they exchanged wedding vows, becoming husband and wife.

They newlyweds resided in a few different locations throughout New York State while Richard was working toward his law degree.  They eventually settled in Wayne, NJ where they raised their two sons, Andrew and Daniel.  Their journey as husband and wife lasted over twenty years but unfortunately ended in divorce.  During Barbara’s marriage, she dedicated herself to being a homemaker, nurturing and raising her sons.  She later re-entered the workforce, accepting a position as an insurance agent with Gorga Insurance in Fairfield, NJ and later with Richards Associates Insurance Company in Clifton, NJ.  Barbara’s career as an insurance agent spanned nearly thirty years until her retirement in 2010.

Barbara kept the love of sports throughout her life, being an avid tennis player and a member of the Packanack Lake Tennis Club.  She loved to cook and was famous with family and friends for her Strawberry Shortcake, her Baked Mac & Cheese, and her mashed potatoes.  Aside from Barbara’s talents, hobbies, and interests, her greatest passion in life was for her family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Barbara than providing for and spending time with her children, grandchildren, and her dear cat Pumpkin.

Barbara was a chatty, bubbly, and charming lady who loved to interact with others.  Standing at just five feet tall, she was a petite figure who held her own in any social gathering. Her height a charming contrast made her all the more unique.  She was the kind of lady who would often “go with the flow” but was not afraid to speak her mind when she felt strongly about something.

Barbara was a truly special person who touched the lives of everyone around her.  She will be sincerely missed by her family and friends.

Barbara is survived by her two sons, Andrew Wheeler and his wife Christine of Pompton Lakes, NJ, and Daniel Wheeler of Wayne, NJ; two grandchildren, Alexander Wheeler, and Nicholas Wheeler.  She is also survived by her cat Pumpkin.  She was predeceased by her sisters Susan Thompson, and Nancy LeGacy.

Those wishing to make a donation in Barbara’s name are asked to consider House of Dreams Shelter

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Barbara C. Wheeler (nee Curtis), age 79, of Wayne NJ.

Barbara passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 while receiving the loving care of her family. She was raised in Albany, NY and was the youngest of three children to F. Norton and June Curtis.  While growing up in Albany, Barbara attended high school at St Agnes School for Girls.  While a student at St Agnes School for Girls, Barbara excelled in sports, playing on the girl’s tennis and field hockey varsity teams.

Following her high school graduation with the class of 1962, she attended a local college for a couple of years.  While attending a sporting event at Colgate College, Barbara met a handsome young student by the name of Richard Wheeler.  The couple hit it off great and started dating.  As fate would have it, they fell in love and in 1968 they exchanged wedding vows, becoming husband and wife.

They newlyweds resided in a few different locations throughout New York State while Richard was working toward his law degree.  They eventually settled in Wayne, NJ where they raised their two sons, Andrew and Daniel.  Their journey as husband and wife lasted over twenty years but unfortunately ended in divorce.  During Barbara’s marriage, she dedicated herself to being a homemaker, nurturing and raising her sons.  She later re-entered the workforce, accepting a position as an insurance agent with Gorga Insurance in Fairfield, NJ and later with Richards Associates Insurance Company in Clifton, NJ.  Barbara’s career as an insurance agent spanned nearly thirty years until her retirement in 2010.

Barbara kept the love of sports throughout her life, being an avid tennis player and a member of the Packanack Lake Tennis Club.  She loved to cook and was famous with family and friends for her Strawberry Shortcake, her Baked Mac & Cheese, and her mashed potatoes.  Aside from Barbara’s talents, hobbies, and interests, her greatest passion in life was for her family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Barbara than providing for and spending time with her children, grandchildren, and her dear cat Pumpkin.

Barbara was a chatty, bubbly, and charming lady who loved to interact with others.  Standing at just five feet tall, she was a petite figure who held her own in any social gathering. Her height a charming contrast made her all the more unique.  She was the kind of lady who would often “go with the flow” but was not afraid to speak her mind when she felt strongly about something.

Barbara was a truly special person who touched the lives of everyone around her.  She will be sincerely missed by her family and friends.

Barbara is survived by her two sons, Andrew Wheeler and his wife Christine of Pompton Lakes, NJ, and Daniel Wheeler of Wayne, NJ; two grandchildren, Alice Wheeler, and Nicholas Wheeler.  She is also survived by her cat Pumpkin.  She was predeceased by her sisters Susan Thompson, and Nancy LeGacy.

Those wishing to make a donation in Barbara’s name are asked to consider House of Dreams Shelter

Marah R Malgapo passed Sunday January 19, 2025 in Bayonne, NJ. Marah was the beloved daughter of Mel and Carol List and loving sister of Darren List. She is preceded in death by her father, Mel List.

Marah was raised in Montclair NJ and enjoyed playing violin throughout her childhood. She became a nurse and spent many years dedicated to the care of others.

Marah’s love of music, which came from her father, continued into her adulthood. Everyone who knew her, knew she was an avid fan of 1980s music especially Madonna and Boyz II Men. Marah shared her mother’s love of animals and spoke often of her own cat Angel and the place she held in Marah’s heart. She enjoyed spending time with her friends and her family.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to https://colelchabad.org would be greatly appreciated.

Joseph Dodds, Jr. age 83, of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 18, 2025.

The elder son of Joseph and Ruth (Seiberlin) Dodds, Joe was born in Paterson and raised in Wayne at the family homestead located at 864 Ratzer Road. He was a graduate of the original Wayne High School Class of 1959, where he excelled at football and baseball. During his high school years Joe was also a talented competition ice skater, earning him the Silver Skates award after placing first in a skating competition at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

After high school, Joe worked a variety of jobs before establishing a career as an owner operator of his own trucking business based in Wayne, NJ. He owned two eighteen wheelers with which he typically hauled cargo from Pennsylvania to New York City and Newark, NJ. Later Joe moved his business to Florida where he primarily hauled paper for recycling. Eventually he sold his trucking business to pursue a new adventure as a restauranteur. Joe was the owner of Darby’s Pub in Brandon, FL – a popular spot on Friday and Saturday nights for many years.

Joe was a devoted sports fan and active community member. While raising his two sons and daughter in Wayne, NJ, he served as a head coach for the Wayne PAL for 15 years. Coaching his sons in football and baseball was a source of considerable pride for him. He also loved golf and never missed an opportunity to play eighteen holes, particularly with his sons. Joe also enjoyed watching sports as much as he enjoyed playing – especially football. When his granddaughter Kirsten began attending the University of Notre Dame, the Fighting Irish became his favorite team to cheer for—second only to the New York Giants.

Way before it enjoyed popular acclaim, Joe was a country music fan. He enjoyed listening in his truck, to classic artists like Hank Williams and Johnny Cash, but he appreciated modern country music as well. One of Joe’s other favorite pastimes was an evening at home watching a good old classic western.

More than anything else, Joe enjoyed his family, and treating his grandchildren to a nice cash gift on their birthdays and Christmas gave him much joy.    

Joe was the loving father of: Michael Dodds of Tahoe City, CA, Kolleen “Kelly” Gibson of Lawrenceville, NJ, and Kevin and wife Christine Dodds of Wayne; cherished grandfather of: Lena, Elize and husband Todd, Colin, Kirsten, Kyle and Kai; dearest great-grandfather of Sage and Rider; dear brother of William and his wife Cheryl Dodds of Longmont, CO; and dear uncle of Christine and husband Greg, and Casey and wife Kim.

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

American Foundation for the Blind

Attn:  Gift Processing

1108 Third Avenue, Suite 200

Huntington, WV 25701

Please make your check payable to American Foundation for the Blind and indicate that it is in memory of Joseph Dodds.

Catherine “Kay” Granville, age 91, of Clifton passed away early Saturday morning, January 18th, 2025.  She was surrounded by the love of her children and grandchildren all week as she slowly transitioned to leave us.    

Catherine was born and raised on Center Street, in Dunmore Pennsylvania, the daughter of the late Donato Fabricatore and RoseMarie DiNicola Fabricatore. She graduated from Dunmore High School in 1951. After graduation she was employed by Picardy Mills.  She loved spending time with her friends, going to Virginia Beach and the many dances her and her friends would attend on the weekends. At one of these dances is where she met her long time husband of over fifty years, Earl Richard Granville of Carbondale Pennsylvania who preceded her in death in 2013.  He was living in New Jersey at the time and they dated for three years before they wed in November of 1962.  

Over the years, she worked in a few places while raising her children, the last being Sprectrix Material Inc, from where she retired.  She enjoyed being with her grandchildren and was lucky to see them all grow up.  She attended numerous sporting events over the years that her grandchildren participated in and never missed a birthday, special occasion or function with her family. Kay loved to go to Atlantic City and play the penny slot machines. She put in a big 40 cents a spin sometimes and would sit there for hours having so much fun.  She loved to talk to anyone that would listen and made friends everywhere she went.  Everybody loved her.  

Kay was the youngest of 7 children, and was preceded in death by 1 sister Francis, and 5 brothers, Peter, Angelo, Anthony, Joseph and Gerald.  She was a loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother, Aunt, sister and friend.  She made friends with everyone everywhere she went and always left her beautiful smile behind.   She is survived by a daughter Rose Marie and husband Tony Loffredo of Ringwood, a son Earl Granville, III and wife Lori Loftus of Clifton.  Six grandchildren, Melanie and Breanna Loffredo of Ringwood, Veronica Granville and fiancé Reuben Cottingham of Clifton, Shannon, Kyle and Chris Loftus of Old Bridge and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.

Josephine Pudup, age 96, passed away peacefully on January 17,2025. Josephine was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Growing up in the South Side, she played volleyball and enjoyed activities at the Polish Falcons. In the aftermath of World War II, Josephine crossed paths with a handsome U.S. marine just returning from his service in the Pacific theater. Leo Albert Pudup and Josephine fell in love and in 1949 the couple were married. They enjoyed a long, loving marriage that spanned more than six decades until his passing in 2013.

Josephine was a devoted homemaker for most of her life. She served as a Den Mother for the local scouts and became known for organizing successful candy sale fundraisers for her parish. She enjoyed summer vacations down to Long Beach Island and loved attending theater performances with her friends.

Josephine is survived by her three children, Leo David (Suzanne), Gary (Kathy) and Dawn (Gary d 2012). GrandChildren Michael (Alima), Edward (Cassie), Pamela (Shawn) Dwyer, Tommy (Elaine) Clar, James (Tabatha) Clar, Colleen (Tom) Pirog. Great grandchildren Leo Michael Pudup, Owen and Griffin Pudup, Colin and Emily Dwyer, Garret and Gabriela Clar, Forest Clar, Chase, Cole and Carolina Pirog. Josephine would have also recognized her close friends, the Russell Family.

Edith M. Ryle, age 78, of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 16, 2025.

One of the last surviving members of the famed Ryle family, who established the silk industry that earned the City of Paterson its nickname, "Silk City," Edith was born in Paterson to James and Edith (Ryle) McTighe.

A proud graduate of St. Bonaventure High School in Paterson, Edith called Paterson home until her marriage and the blessing of her two sons, Michael and Jeffrey, inspired her to move to Wayne, where she resided for the remainder of her life.

During her sons’ childhood years, Edith’s life revolved around nurturing and caring for them. She always put Michael and Jeffrey’s well-being first, and they credit her with countless important life lessons. They were also the lucky recipients of her culinary talents. Jeffrey especially loved her "Tatties and Mince", a delicious take on shepherd’s pie—while Michael was thrilled whenever she baked her famous red velvet cake. As active members of the Wayne PAL sports teams, her sons benefited from her unrelenting support. Edith participated in countless fundraisers and kept the team fueled with endless supplies of Gatorade and homemade food, earning her the affectionate nickname "Team Mom."

When her sons grew older and became more independent, Edith began working in the administrative office of the Passaic County Sheriff’s Department. She wore her uniform with immense pride and cherished the camaraderie, respect, and friendships she formed during her ten-year career, which spanned from 2000 until her retirement in 2010.

Edith had a boundless love for animals and a heart as compassionate as it was generous. She never met a dog, cat, or even more exotic creatures—like her son’s ferret—that she didn’t adore. Particularly drawn to Old English Sheepdogs, Edith provided a loving home to many of them throughout her life. Her kindness extended to homeless pets as well. Her deep love for animals was something she instilled in her sons, and later in life, she found immense joy in visiting with her beloved "grand dogs."

Edith was a true people person. Her optimistic outlook on life radiated from within, drawing family, friends, and even strangers into her warm, glowing presence. She was deeply involved in various charitable and community efforts, including Sheriff’s events, fundraisers, and political gatherings.

More than anything else, Edith’s greatest joy came from her loving family. The loss of her parents, her brother, her nephew, and other dear family members brought her profound sadness, but her spirit remained strong. The last twelve years of her life were particularly challenging as she endured the effects of dementia and other health concerns, but she remained surrounded by the love of her family.

Edith will be fondly remembered for her many virtues, including her sensitivity, empathy, compassion, nurturing spirit, strong will, and quiet wisdom.

She is survived by her two devoted sons: Michael Findlay of Paterson, and Jeffrey Findlay and his husband, John Miele, of Sussex; her cherished sister-in-law Elena McTighe of Delray Beach, FL; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; and her treasured "grand-dogs." Edith was predeceased by her beloved parents, James and Edith (Ryle) McTighe, her dear brother William J. McTighe, and her dear nephew, William “Billy” McTighe, Jr.

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

Alzheimer's New Jersey

Attn:  Development Dept.

425 Eagle Rock Avenue, #203

Roseland, NJ 07068

Father John’s Animal House

50 Father Johns Lane

Lafayette Township, NJ 07848

Frank John Sabatelli, born on a warm spring day, September 29, 1947, and sadly passed Monday, January 13, 2025.

He is survived by his wife Eileen and sons Frank and Brian residing in Ringwood. Frank and his wife Heather have three daughters: Olivia, Victoria, and Mia. Brian and his wife Jaclyn have a daughter Gabriella and son Brayden. Frank’s surviving brother Richard is married to wife Alena and other brother Ron and wife Christine. Frank is also survived by Mother Freida.  Also survived by his brother in-law John and Geralyn Korin with their two sons John Zachary and Joseph. He was named by his granddaughter Pa-Ba and the name has stuck all of these years…

Frank was born in NY city and was raised in Wood-Ridge, NJ by his parents Freida and Frank, along with his brothers Richard and Ron. He grew up across the street from Eileen, the love of his life. They met at an early age and grew up dating across the street! Frank went to Bergen Catholic High School and excelled in class as well as the baseball field where he was a star pitcher. His love for Baseball, academics and his future wife were all themes throughout his childhood and into High School. He went onto his undergrad work at Providence College in Rhode Island, where he studied Biology. He went to Seton Hall College to gain his Master’s degree. He ultimately started his amazing career at Schering-Plough as a Microbiologist. His career there spanned over 30 years where he became a Master Microbiology Scientist working on some of the biggest projects of the company’s success and helping to produce some of the medications and products that have become household names to us all.

He started dating Eileen at age 16, dated throughout high school and college and were married in the summer of ’69. We all think that the song was written just for them! Frank and Eileen have been married for 55 wonderful years!

Frank served in the Army National Guard from 1970-76 and was proud to not only serve his country but meet some of his best friends as well.

His life changed forever in the 70’s with the birth of his two sons and moving to beautiful Ringwood, NJ. He continued his love for baseball by coaching both of his sons through their childhood and into High School. He also developed a love for playing softball and was instrumental in running, coaching, playing, and pitching in multiple softball leagues in Ringwood, Ramsey, and Mahwah.  Some of the family’s fondest memories are from Frank playing softball with his two adult sons in Ringwood’s men’s softball league. He enjoyed playing ball well into his 60’s and brought so many good friends together.  

Some of Pa-Ba’s other loves were his time in Lake George NY where the family vacationed, boated, skied, camped and enjoyed many years of family, friends, cousins and breathtaking views. These family vacations went on for over 40 years and have been a part of the family culture that continues today.  We all met and vacationed with families that forever will be in our fondest memories. A typical day would include him pulling everyone skiing in Huddle Bay and loving every minute of it. LG misses his boat appropriately named “Makin’ Tracks”.

Frank’s retirement from Schering-Plough ended his science chapter and he began another career with PSE&G. His work there brought him outside and was met with many more friends and some new softball experiences where he enjoyed some very exciting leagues.

We would be remised if we didn’t speak of Pa-Ba’s love for everything Trains. Having grown up a bike ride away from some of the most exciting Erie railroad train hubs, the family came to accept his love and enjoy our local trips to chase engines and snag that ‘perfect picture’ of a passing engine. Erie K5, the license plate of his Ford Raptor is a tribute to an Erie steam engine that only a true enthusiast would appreciate. Train whistles and model trains have been a staple in the Sabatelli family forever.

Pa-Ba and G-ma have been the center of our family and have touched so many that we are thankful for every year of the 55 that we have been able to share with them. Pa-Ba will forever be in our memories, our hearts and our conversations. We love you Pa-Ba, you are missed so much.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Susan Dammassa-Kraus, age 69, of Wyckoff, NJ.  Susan Passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 11, 2025 while receiving the loving care of her friends and family.

She was born and raised in Hoboken, NJ and was the only child to Angelo and Assunta Dammassa.  Susan attended Hoboken High School and graduated with the class of 1973.  Susan always knew she wanted to make a difference in people's lives, so immediately after graduating high school, she decided to pursue her dream of becoming a registered nurse. With determination and a passion for healthcare, she enrolled in St Mary’s Nursing School in Hoboken, NJ.  There she dedicated herself to mastering the skills and knowledge needed to care for others.

Susan dove into her role as a trusted healthcare professional by first accepting a position as an Emergency Room Nurse with St Mary’s Hospital in Hoboken.  She left St Mary’s Hospital to work for the Meadowlands Hospital in Secaucus again as an Emergency Room Nurse.  For a while Susan was employed in the field of Home Healthcare working for a variety of companies over the next several years.  She was a Unit Nurse at Clara Maas Medical center in Belleville, NJ for a time and eventually accepted a position as Case Manager for St Joseph Hospital where she transferred between their Wayne and Paterson locations.  Susan’s career as a Registered Nurse spanned a period of over forty-five years.  During her career, she was truly loved and respected by her peers and colleagues, focusing on smoothing the way for patients being discharged to get the resources they needed as soon as possible. Susan dedicated forty-five years of her life to her career as a compassionate and skilled Registered Nurse, retiring only when her illness made it impossible for her to continue the work she loved.

In 1988 Susan was introduced by a mutual friend to a man by the name of Peter Kraus.  The two went out on a blind date to Bennigan’s in Fairfield, NJ.  As fate would have it, they fell in love and became instant soul mates, later exchanging wedding vows and becoming husband and wife on December 9, 1990.  The couple lived in Wayne for many years together and cherished nearly twenty-two years of loving and loyal marriage until Peter’s sudden passing. They were inseparable and enjoyed traveling together and taking photos wherever they went.  Their trip to Walt Disney World in 2011 was one highlight of their married life that Susan cherished.  Several years after Peter’s passing, Susan moved to the Vista, the independent living community that is part of Christian Health in Wyckoff, New Jersey, where she treasured the many friendships she created with her fellow residents.

Susan was not only devoted to her husband Peter, she was a woman deeply devoted to her Catholic faith, living it out through tireless service to her community. She worked closely with Holy Angels Church in Little Falls and other local churches, offering her time and talents to organize events, support parish activities, and strengthen her fellow parishioners’ spiritual lives. Beyond her parish, Susan was actively involved in Catholic charities, dedicating herself to helping those in need.  Through her unwavering commitment and acts of devotion, Susan was a shining example of living her life with faith.

Susan loved all things Christmas! The first year at The Vista she covered every surface in her new apartment with Christmas memorabilia and covered her tree with many special Disney ornaments. She loved everything related to Disney - artwork, ornaments, movies, photos, and more.  Susan’s hobbies included photography, games like canasta, Peanuts and Snoopy cartoons, and music. Every time a different song came on the radio or came through the speaker system, it was her favorite!  She knew all the lyrics to songs from the popular music groups of her growing up years.

Susan is survived by her stepson, Jeff Kraus, and his wife Maria, her stepdaughter, Denise Jurewicz, and her husband Bill, six grandchildren, Kaitlyn Kraus, Vincent Colley, Justin Colley, Will Jurewicz, Ben Jurewicz, and Kayla Jurewicz, her dear cousin Phyllis Clemente, her grandniece Samara Bruschi, and her dear friend Anita Kromrey.  Susan will be missed by all the residents of The Vista. She will especially be missed by her close group of friends who bonded with her during her time there. She was predeceased by her husband Peter Kraus in November of 2012.

Born on the Fourth of July in 1930, Anne Marie Delevante grew up in Brooklyn, New York. She graduated Public School #9, then the High School of Music and Art in Manhattan and completed one year of Cooper Union with a focus on fine arts. Her parents were Sigrid (Svenson) and Gunnar Nelson.

At age 16, she volunteered for the New York State Farm Corps and worked on a farm in Cooperstown, an area where many men had not returned from fighting in World War II. She had an indelible happy memory of everyone in town participating outdoors in a community square dance, from toddlers who could barely walk to elderly people.

In 1950, Anne Marie married Owen Delevante, a fellow student at Cooper Union, and worked in a variety of settings in New York City and New Jersey: for Commercial Factors and Ames Textile in New York, and for architects in Waldwick, an electrical engineer in HoHoKus, and a survey company in Ridgewood. In 1956, the couple bought a home in Glen Rock, where she lived for 58 years. When Owen opened a sole proprietor architectural office in Ridgewood, she helped in his practice, doing a range of jobs, until Owen's death in 1991. Soon afterwards, her elderly mother moved in with her. Anne Marie cared for Sigrid at home until her mother's death.

She had an active life as a volunteer. She learned Braille and belonged to Literacy Volunteers. At The Depot, a gift shop to benefit Family Counseling Service, she volunteered for several years in sales. And she volunteered at the Glen Rock Public Library.

Anne Marie and Owen traveled widely, taking two trips to Jamaica to visit his family, enjoying three voyages on the Queen Elizabeth II, and visiting all the Scandinavian countries, Canada and several European countries. With her second husband, Ed, annual vacations on Cape Cod were a special source of delight.

Having met Edward Breuer of Glen Rock while working with his wife, Lois, at the library, she began dating him in 2000 after Lois's death. They married in June 2002 and lived on Harding Road, where Anne Marie had been a Harding Road Gang member for years, building floats for Glen Rock's 4th of July parade. In 2014, they moved to Cedar Crest in Pompton Plains, NJ.

In Glen Rock, she was a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church and was active in the women's group. After her marriage to Edward, she attended Community Church of Glen Rock, where her ashes will be laid to rest in the memorial garden, where his ashes were interred three years ago.

Anne Marie completed the New York Times crossword puzzle every day—in ink. She was an avid reader all her life. Her skill at sewing was widely known and appreciated, as she sewed for her parents, brother, friends and their children, even creating a deerskin vest for a friend who had felled a deer and had always wanted the vest. She described the task as like sewing butter. From conversation to gift-giving, she brought an artistic flair to everything she did.

She is survived by her nephew Gustav. Gus and Lucy Nelson live in Lisbon Falls, Maine with their three children, Keenan, Ezra and Mira.

Geraldine Ann Walker (nee Earls) age 79 passed away peacefully on January 9, 2025 while receiving the loving care of her family.

Born in Passaic, NJ in 1945, Gerry was the second daughter of the late Edward and Margaret Earles. She is predeceased by her sister Judith Kovalcik.

Throughout her career, she was employed by the Solar Oil Company, where she met her husband, Anthony. She eventually retired after many years as a classroom paraprofessional from the Wayne Board of Education.

Gerry’s hobbies included knitting and crocheting where she was a member of the Our Lady of Consolation Prayer Shawl Ministry group. She also enjoyed reading, baking, and completing one of her many puzzle books.

Gerry is survived by her husband of almost 51 years Anthony Walker and her daughter Lynn Walker, along with her niece Karen Kovalcik Schiffel and her nephew Kenneth Kovalcik and their families.

Her family would like to thank Dr. Roy and the staff at Wayne Hematology and Oncology, as well as the staff at St. Joseph’s Wayne Medical and Infusion Center for taking care of her for the past several years.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Gerry’s memory to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society by clicking the link below or by donating blood at a location of your choosing.

https://diy.lls.org/fundraiser/6005147

Virginia Tisdale passed away peacefully on January 8, 2025 at a Wayne nursing home at the age of 79.

Born September 11, 1945, Virginia ("Ginny") was raised in Fair Lawn, NJ where she graduated from Fair Lawn High School in 1963. She was married to Richard D. Tisdale, a fellow Fair Lawn graduate, from 1967 to 1987.  She is predeceased by her parents, George and Ortrude Storms, and her older sisters Jane Templin and Carol Shattuck.

She enjoyed playing tennis, a sport that she excelled at, and all kinds of games with her Fair Lawn friends and children, such as bridge, mahjong and cards, and she was actively involved in her children's schools, as a PTA member, and activities, including Brownies and Girl Scout troops.

She is survived by her children, Jennifer Nemeth-Tisdale of Frostproof, Florida, and Richard Tisdale of West Orange, NJ, and grandchildren, Jacquelyn Nemeth, and Oliver, Elliott and Charlie Tisdale.

The family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to The Radburn Association, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the community's National Historic Landmark designation and supporting its ongoing efforts throughout the community. Please click on the link to donate https://radburn.wildapricot.org/Donate

Anthony Avolio, Jr., age 85 of North Haledon, died on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. Born and raised in Paterson, Anthony had lived in North Haledon for over 45 years. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.

Anthony was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army. He worked in the construction industry as a carpenter and was a proud member of Carpenter’s Union Local 253 for nearly sixty years.

Anthony was a loving husband to his wife Janice (nee Decker) for fifty-five years until her passing just a few weeks ago. He is survived by their two children; Anthony and his wife Linda of North Haledon, and Michele Pellegrino and her husband Carmen of Wayne, and three grandchildren; Angela, Christopher, and Anthony. He was predeceased by his sister Rose Marino in 2016.

Frank Louis Tomaselli, age 91 of Wanaque, NJ passed away on Monday, January 6, 2025.

He was born and raised in Hackensack, having graduated from Hackensack High School with the Class of 1952. He had lived in Paramus before moving to Wanaque in 1988.

His work history includes: packaging pharmaceuticals to be shipped out to drug stores for the Bergen Drug Company in Hackensack, a grocery clerk stocking shelves for a store on Main Street in Hackensack for $13.43 per week after school, an envelope machine operator for the Tension Envelope Company in South Hackensack, and a shipping clerk for the James Phillips Furniture company in Paterson where he would ship furniture to area furniture stores.

Frank served in the US Army during the Korean War.  He was stationed in a hospital in Texas and later in Seattle, Washington.  With just six months of service left he was sent by ship to Bremerhaven Germany to serve in a hospital there, however, he got violently seasick and spent eleven days in the hospital himself.  Upon completion of his duty he was sent back to the United States, by ship, and spent nine days recovering from seasickness here.

After his military service Frank enrolled in a Barber School in New York City following in his father’s footsteps. He would be sent to the Bowery to cut the hair of the indigent people.  He quit school five different times and eventually received his certificate and worked for Romano’s Barber Shop in Maywood for thirty years. He bought a Rick’s Luncheonette in Maywood that he ran for two years but was overwhelmed by the operating hours of 4 AM – 11 PM seven days a week. In 1995 he retired and took a part-time position at Saint Mary’s Church in Pompton Lakes where he worked as a maintenance man for six years before completely retiring in 2001.

He had a loving marriage to Arlinda for over forty years and took great pride in the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. After retiring Frank enjoyed traveling with Arlinda to Aruba where he was affectionately known as the “Mayor of Paradise.” He was a great athlete and in his younger years he was active with the South Hackensack Boys Club, played semi-pro football with the Paterson Panthers, semi-pro baseball with the Hackensack “Troasts,” and in his later years he bowled in Hackensack at Bowler City and in Hasbrouck Heights at the Eclipse. He was a dedicated and loyal New York Yankee and New York Giants fan.

Frank was the loving husband of Arlinda (Loschiavo) Tomaselli; devoted father of Mark Anthony and Gary Allan Tomaselli both of Paramus; dear stepfather of Susan Conklin and her husband Philip of West Milford, Dr. Katherine Taylor and her husband Halston of Arlington, MA, and Thomas Dabulis; cherished grandfather of 8 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

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

Marie D. Loria, 81, of Wayne, passed away peacefully, with her loving family by her side, on Sunday, January 5, 2025.

Marie was the second of three children born to Dan Sr. and Antoinette “ Toni” Marie (Cutitieo) DeMarco, flanked by her older brother Dan and her younger brother Joseph. She was raised in West New York, NJ where she attended Memorial High School, graduating with the Class of 1961. She enjoyed reminiscing about her weekly trips to the library with her father as a little girl which undoubtedly marked the beginning of her love of reading. She retold stories of Saturday mornings spent at the movie theater and summer trips to Rockaway Beach.

Life introduced Marie into the work world behind a switchboard as a telephone operator. From there, she took a position as a receptionist for Atlantic Aviation at Teterboro Airport. One day while at work, the angels up above smiled down on Marie in the likeness of a handsome young man named Rudolph Loria who came in for a scheduled interview. Upon reflecting on that moment, Marie recalled that the second their eyes met, she knew it was forever. She was right. Marie and Rudy’s first date took place on Valentine’s Day. Talk about romantic! They went out for dinner at Nico’s Pier 17 on Route 17 in Paramus, NJ. By the time Rudy reached into the back of the car to grab the dozen roses he got for Marie, they were frozen. Their love was warm though and grew quickly. One night, while out together, for some reason Marie got a look at Rudy’s driver’s license which revealed that he was a couple of years younger than he had told her. Taken aback, Rudy, wasting no time, blurted out, “Will you still marry me?” Fifty-four years later, you can rest assured that the answer was “Yes.” They were married at a ranch by the justice of the peace in Milford, PA on Monday, January 4, 1971. The day before Marie’s passing, she and Rudy marked fifty-four years of a love and laughter-filled journey as husband and wife. They celebrated their nuptial with an impromptu honeymoon up at beautiful Lake George in New York State which became their favorite vacation spot for nearly every summer thereafter for decades.

Marie and Rudy started married life together in Ridgefield, NJ.  They found their forever home in Wayne, NJ in 1988.

Marie gave Rudy two precious daughters, Jennifer and Laura. She loved, cared for and blessed them with a great childhood as a homemaker and mother while Rudy provided for his family. The girls shared childhood memories of family trips to Lake George and summer road trips to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The trips to Michigan were long but always entertaining.  Marie made sure the girls had plenty of activity books and snacks .

Once their girls reached an age of relative independence, Marie returned to work outside the home as a receptionist at AAA in Wayne where her warm, friendly disposition earned her Employee of the Month the first month she worked there. Full retirement came in 2001 and Marie set her sites on an activity she truly relished – being a sweet “Nana” caring for her grandchildren and their pets.

Marie was a prolific reader and the most excellent cook. In fact, she was passionate about cooking and even took cooking classes at home and abroad when she joined Rudy on business trips or when they vacationed at different destinations. Her family loved all her offerings but especially her pot roast, roast beef, stuffed artichokes, and the old Italian sauce on Sundays. Not only was she an excellent cook but the family delighted in her baking talents.  As Rudy says, “She put love in her cooking.” She leaves behind her kitchen -  one of her favorite rooms in the house, and her countless hand-written recipes.

She looked forward to her daily dose of General Hospital having been a loyal fan for 45  years.  She enjoyed football; any game on any day and always pizza to go with it.  She loved listening to the Oldies, Il Volo, Edith Piaf, Nana Mouskouri, Elvis and Lee Greenwood. She loved jokes.

Most of all, Marie loved her family and that love was reflected in every kind word and thoughtful gesture.

Marie blessed people in all walks of life with her sincere kindness. Wherever she went, her unintimidating conversational talents emerged. She could talk with total strangers as if they were life-long friends. Her kindness was only equaled by her generous nature.

Marie loved animals.  Once, when the family was having dinner outside together at Spiaggetta Restaurant in Stone Harbor, Marie couldn’t resist sneaking food to the seagulls flying overhead. She did this despite seeing the “Don’t Feed the Seagulls” signs and it prompted one of the cooks to come out and scold her. It was Marie’s kind and generous heart that made her risk the cook’s wrath because she felt so bad for the poor seagulls. Lincoln, the neighbor’s dog, had Marie’s number too. He’d call for her to give him a cookie over the fence and she could never resist. Chipmunks (“chippies”) were another favorite. She fed them corn whenever they visited . She just loved animals.

Marie was loving, loyal, gentle, strong, determined, silly and blessed to be a blessing through her truly generous heart. She was “Boo” to her beloved Rudy because her big, beautiful eyes lit up when surprised, and he was affectionately referred to as “Ru” (for Rudy) to her.  

Marie was the beloved and treasured wife of Rudolph “Rudy” Loria, blessed to be married for fifty-four joy-filled years. She was the most loving mother of Jennifer Marie Krazinski and husband Scott of Hewitt, and Laura Marie Sek and husband Robert of Wayne; adoring grandmother of: Parker James Sek, Hunter Stefan Sek, and Sebastian Krazinski; dearest sister of Dan DeMarco and wife Pat of Ridgefield Park, and Joseph DeMarco and wife Kristine of Bayville, NJ; and dear aunt of the late Theresa, and Donna, Joe, Danny, Michael, Sara, and Kyle. She is also survived by her “grand dogs”  Lola and Spartan, and she was predeceased by her pet calico kitty Cinnamon.

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

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

P.O. Box 5028

Hagerstown, MD 21741-5028

Please make check or money order payable to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

Please indicate that your gift is in memory of Marie Loria.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Lorraine P. Stevens (née Parker) of Port Orange, FL.

Lorraine passed away peacefully in Wayne, NJ, on Thursday, January 2, 2025, while receiving the loving care of her family. She was born in Pedro Miguel, located in the Panama Canal Zone, and was the only child of Sumner and Eleanor Parker.

Lorraine’s life changed profoundly at the age of 12 when she tragically lost her father. He passed away while working as an electrician on the Panama Canal, leaving a void that deeply impacted Lorraine and her mother. Seeking a fresh start, they moved to the United States, eventually settling in Miami, FL. While there, Lorraine attended Miami Jackson High School, graduating with the class of 1960.

While living in Miami, Lorraine worked as a hostess at the Miami Beach Servicemen’s Center, where she was even named “Hostess of the Month.” The center was a lively gathering spot for servicemen stationed nearby, and it was there that Lorraine’s life took a romantic turn. She brought her friend Judy to the center, where they met two U.S. Navy servicemen from the Sonar Base in Key West: Dennis and Lloyd, their future husbands. Sparks flew between Lorraine and Dennis, and the two quickly grew close, falling in love.

In addition to her work at the servicemen’s center, Lorraine worked as a secretary to the claims manager at Conger Life Insurance Company in Miami (Allapattah).

On July 31, 1962, Lorraine and Dennis exchanged vows, beginning their journey as husband and wife. The newlyweds initially settled in Hallandale, FL. However, their joy was tempered as Dennis soon received orders to ship out aboard the USS Johnston, a Navy Fletcher-class destroyer bound for the tumultuous waters near the Bay of Pigs, Cuba. After his service, the couple reunited and briefly lived in Nebraska (where Dennis was from) before returning to Florida, where they welcomed their first child, Ken. They later moved to West Palm Beach, FL, where their daughter Denise was born. Driven by Dennis’ career training needs, the family relocated to California before eventually returning to the East Coast, settling in Clifton, NJ, where they welcomed their third child, Caren. Lorraine and Dennis later purchased their first home in Prospect Park, NJ, where they raised their children.

Throughout the years, Lorraine balanced work and family, taking on roles as a bartender, pharmacy technician, and cashier at Pathmark in Fair Lawn, NJ, later transferring to West Paterson. She dedicated over 30 years to Pathmark before retiring in 2010. Lorraine’s mornings often began with her favorite hot chocolate, always made just the way she liked it—by Dennis. She also loved spoiling her many dogs over the years, including Prissy, Tinker, Pepper, and Pebbles, who were cherished members of the family.

In retirement, Lorraine and Dennis returned to Florida, where they embraced a life of leisure and connection. Lorraine treasured evenings spent with her senior friends playing Mexican Train Dominoes, shopping for bargains, dining out, and sipping mojitos. A devoted fan of Dairy Queen, she loved treating herself to a sweet indulgence. Known for her determination and resilience, Lorraine overcame countless health challenges, including multiple cancers and tumors. She often remarked that if an elderly man with COPD could climb Mount Everest, so could she—her optimism and tenacity never wavered.

Above all, Lorraine’s greatest passion was her family. She cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and, more recently, her great-grandson, fulfilling a lifelong dream of becoming a great-grandmother. Lorraine and Dennis shared an extraordinary 62 years of marriage until his passing in March 2024.

Lorraine’s bold and outspoken personality left a lasting impression. She spoke with fiery confidence and honesty, often surprising those around her. Despite her lack of a filter, her words were always rooted in the best intentions.

Lorraine was a remarkable woman who touched the lives of everyone she met. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Lorraine is survived by her son, Ken Stevens, and his wife Donna of East Stroudsburg, PA; her daughters, Denise Conti and her husband Tony of Binghamton, NY, and Caren Scardilli and her husband Scott of Wayne, NJ; five grandsons, Ryan Stevens and his wife Amanda of Harrisburg, PA, Daniel Stevens of East Stroudsburg, PA, Matthew Conti of Binghamton, NY, Christopher Conti of Binghamton, NY, and Dylan Scardilli of Wayne, NJ; her only granddaughter, Taylor Scardilli of Wayne, NJ; and her first and only great-grandson, Jackson Stevens of Harrisburg, PA. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Dennis Stevens, in March 2024.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Lorraine’s memory are encouraged to consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Kenneth Nicholas Kuiken, 80, of Wayne, NJ, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 2, 2025.

Ken was the eldest of two children born to George and Jeanette (Freeling) Kuiken. He entered the world in Paterson, NJ, and spent his formative years in Fair Lawn before moving to Little Falls. He attended Eastern Christian Elementary and Junior High School before graduating from Passaic Valley Regional High School.

At the age of twenty-one, Ken was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he honorably served his country in Germany from 1965 to 1967. Following his active duty, he continued serving in the U.S. Army Reserve until 1971. Ken’s dedication to his country earned him the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Medal, and recognition as a rifle sharpshooter.

After completing his military service, Ken pursued higher education at the College of Emporia in Kansas. It was there, during a game of Double Deck Pinochle, that he met the love of his life, Kathryn Thompson. Their connection blossomed quickly, leading to their marriage on June 12, 1970, in Emporia. Following a honeymoon in New Orleans, the couple settled in New Jersey, living in Clifton and Little Falls before making Wayne their home in 1975. Together, they built a life centered around family and love.

Ken devoted his professional career to the Social Security Administration, where he served as a manager until retiring in 2004.

In his leisure time, Ken found joy in fishing, particularly at Glen Wild Lake in Bloomingdale, where his parents owned a home. Being on the water brought him a profound sense of peace. He was also an avid sports fan, cheering on the Yankees in baseball, the Giants and Chiefs in professional football, and the Alabama Crimson Tide in college football.

Ken and Kathryn shared a love for travel, embarking on numerous adventures together, including up to six cruises a year. St. Maarten was a particular favorite, and they also cherished family vacations in Duck, North Carolina, on the Outer Banks. These trips, often accompanied by their children and grandchildren, were a source of immense happiness and pride for Ken, who treasured his role as “Grandpa” and attended every one of his grandchildren’s milestone moments.

Ken and Kathryn shared a loving and blessed marriage for 48 years until Kathryn's passing in March 2019. After her loss, Ken sought solace in the places they had cherished together, often spending time near the ocean and in the Outer Banks. He also redefined the concept of the kitchen, favoring breakfast at the Wayne Hills Diner or the Pompton Queen Diner. Ken became a regular, sitting on a barstool seven mornings a week at these spots, which held special meaning as places he and Kathryn had enjoyed together.

Ken leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion, and cherished memories that will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends.

Ken was predeceased by his beloved wife Kathryn (nee Thompson) in 2019, his dear son Ryan in 2002 and his sister Carol Spada. He is survived by his loving daughter Michelle Graffanino and her husband Richard of Oakland; two cherished grandchildren: Emma and Connor Graffanino of Oakland; his brother-in-law John Spada; and his two nephews and one niece: Ken Spada, George Spada and his wife Jen, and Misti Spada.  

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

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Memorial Processing

501 St. Jude Place

Memphis, TN 38105

Emil Moretti, age 91, of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 2, 2025, after a brief illness.

Born in New York City, Emil was raised in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ, from the age of seven. He graduated from Seton Hall Preparatory School in West Orange and later earned bachelor’s degree from Fordham University and his master’s degrees from Rutgers School of Law.

Emil enjoyed a fulfilling career as a purchasing and inventory manager at Riviera Swimwear in Clifton, retiring in 2004. His days were enriched by the camaraderie of coworkers who were both family and friends.

Emil met his beloved wife, Jean Marie (Marino), on a blind date. Their deep connection blossomed into a marriage at Sacred Heart R.C. Church in Lyndhurst on June 22, 1957. After their honeymoon in the Bahamas, the couple settled in Lyndhurst, where they lovingly raised their daughters, Robyn and Susan. They moved to Wayne in 1986 and later to the Brittany Chase community in 1992, where Emil and Jean forged cherished friendships and embraced a close-knit community. They shared a tender marriage of nearly 65 years until Jean’s passing in 2022.

Emil was a lifelong bowler whose accomplishments included numerous 300 games—a perfect score. He bowled in the Monday night league for many years and once had the chance to bowl with professional Mike Limongello. After moving to Wayne, Emil became a regular at T-Bowl, where his frequent presence earned him the nickname “The Mayor of T-Bowl.” Even when he played less often, he still visited daily to share tips and advice with other bowlers. His return after heart surgery was met with a standing ovation, showing the respect and admiration he earned from the bowling community.

An avid golfer, Emil notably shot his age 13 times between ages 75 and 85. His sharp mind found joy in Sudoku puzzles, whether in newspapers or books, and his skill with numbers was so impressive. It was like he was a human calculator. He cherished time with his grandchildren, whether drawing floor plans, practicing putting golf balls into tin cans in the living room, or playing backgammon. Emil’s enduring fondness for carbs, especially pasta and Friday night pizza, was balanced by his dedication to regular exercise, which kept him vibrant and driving as recently as November.

Known for his encyclopedic knowledge of directions, Emil was a pre-Google Maps guide, often asking, “Why are you going that way?” when riding with others. He and Jean shared joyful visits to their dear cousins Angela and Peter at their Jersey Shore home in Mantoloking, creating treasured memories.

A devout parishioner of Our Lady of the Valley Church in Wayne, Emil’s faith was central to his life, shaping him into the honorable, caring, and loving man cherished by all who knew him.

Described by family as classy, protective, fiercely loyal, and unconditionally loving, Emil’s family meant the world to him. He was a good man whose love will be deeply missed.

Rest in peace, Emil. When we hear the thunder, we’ll think of you bowling perfect games in heaven.

Emil was the beloved husband of Jean Marie (Marino) Moretti who passed away in 2022. He was the loving father of Robyn Moretti and fiancé Ron Gagliardi of Pompton Lakes, and the late Susan Fredericks; cherished grandfather of: Gina and husband Joe Amica Terra, Cara and husband Mark Dunn, and Breanna Resciniti; adoring great-grandfather of: Bianca, Roma, Luca, Donovan, and Rocco; dear brother of: the late Salvatore Moretti and the late Jerry Moretti; special cousin of Angelo Marrocco; and dear father-in-law of Al Fredericks.

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

Tunnels to Towers Foundation

2361 Hylan Boulevard

Staten Island, NY 10306

To download a printable donation form, Click Here

Stephen J. Sanchez, age 91 of Wayne, died on January 1, 2025. Born in San Antonio, Texas, raised in Massachusetts, after serving in the Navy, he earned a BA in chemistry and an MBA in marketing. He did market and purchasing research as well as bought for, among others, American Cyanamid and Verizon. “A source before google.”

Steve was an active Trustee in the Pines Lake Association, president of the Pines Lake Seniors and Commodore of the Pines Lake Sailing Club and an active racing sailor. He permanently changed the Pines Lake community by adding two homes when bringing the original metes and bounds in conformance with changed Wayne tax maps. He managed the installation of the bridge railings in 1985 and uncovered the marble Pines Lake dedication plaque. He was an active Trustee on the board of the Friends of the Kinnelon Library, a regular instructor in the Kinnelon Library’s continuous learning program and an active volunteer and participant. He started and moderated the current events discussion group at the Wayne Library, now on zoom, and belonged to various book groups.

He leaves his beloved wife, Janice Gardner, two sons, Dan and David as well as three grandchildren: Ethan, Max and Leah. His first wife, Peg, and a son, Michael, predeceased him.

Joseph J. Haddad, age 92, of Boonton, passed Tuesday, December 31, 2024.

Joseph was born in Paterson to John and Jamile Haddad.  Joe went to Central High School and participated in the photography club, rifle club and baseball team. He graduated with the Class of 1950 with hopes to become a draftsman.

When Joe was just fourteen years old, he found work as a shoeshine and golf caddy. He often told of his first true job as a soda jerk at Tomkins Ice Cream in Paterson; this began his lifelong streak of continuous earning, never going a week without employment. During high school, he also worked for his father as a weaver on a silk loom. Following high school Joe also worked as an under-presser at a ladies clothing store in Paterson.

As a young adult, Joe had great aspirations and always actively pursued them. After high school Joe completed training to become a draftsman.  From 1951 to 1957, he served in the US Navy.  During his two-year active duty tour, he sailed on the USS Lloyd Thomas.  After completing his Reserve obligation, he was Honorably discharged with the rank of MML3 (Machinist's Mate 3rd Class) on June 5, 1957. Following his naval service, Joe studied engineering at Farleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck.  He then began a career as a draftsman for the Curtis Wright Corporation and Picatinny Arsenal in Wharton. In 1969 Joe’s entrepreneurial spirit moved him into the pet industry.  For years he owned the Pet Pourri store in Willowbrook Mall in Wayne. He would go on to open six pet store locations, The Game Room store in Fairfield, and other business ventures such as ice cream parlors, Tex-Mex restaurant, children’s clothing store, optical stores, solar panels, online pet supply, and a photography kiosk.  He later established the All Creatures Great & Small Animal Hospital in Fairfield with his son Glen who now carries on the family business.  Joe stopped going into his office in 2023, at the age of 91, but he never truly retired.

Joe met the love of his life, Loretta Lopusnak, at the Mushroom Farm Dance Hall in Bergen County, where he asked Loretta for their first dance. Deeply in love and respectful of tradition, Joe asked Loretta's father for her hand in marriage, a moment filled with anticipation and reverence. On August 11, 1962, they were married in a beautiful ceremony at St. Anne’s Church in Paterson, followed by a joyous reception at The Brownstone in Paterson. Joe planned and arranged a month-long honeymoon to Europe, visiting England, Italy, Germany, France, and Switzerland.  This was the start of Joe creating memories that would last a lifetime. In 1964, Joe designed, drafted and built his forever home in Boonton Township where Joe and Loretta’s loving and devoted marriage was blessed with four children and nine grandchildren.

Joe was a devoted man whose unwavering commitment to his Christian faith touched the lives of everyone who knew him. Joe often shared about the pivotal moment that occurred in December 1971, when he committed his life to Christ. For many years, he was a long-standing and active member of Calvary Temple in Wayne, where he served as a deacon and on the board of directors. He was the chairman of the building committee when Calvary Temple expanded to Preakness Ave and played an integral role in the construction of the facility and campus. His dedication to the church extended beyond his leadership roles, as he was always ready to lend a helping hand, offer guidance, and share the love of Christ with others. Joe’s faithfulness and service were a testament to his beliefs, making him a cherished figure within the congregation and a dependable friend to many.

Joe was a man of words, never short on them, always ready with a story or an opinion, whether you asked for it or not. His voice, full of conviction, could fill any room, often sharing advice about life, faith, and family. A man who placed Christ first and his family a close second, Joe's passion for both ran deep. Joe had a love for food; he had a longstanding weekly tradition inviting friends and family to his favorite hot dog eateries for “2 no onions 2”.   For recreation he enjoyed tennis, golf, traveling and truly cherished family vacations. Traveling brought him joy, and he loved exploring new places, but nothing compared to the warmth and laughter of family gatherings, where his stories flowed freely and advice was always given with a hearty dose of humor and care. “Uncle Joe” was always recording family events on video and engaging all. He enjoyed photography, and loved any type of gadget he could get his hands on. One of Joe’s favorite family traditions was having Sunday Dinner at his mother’s home, where she would cook a traditional Lebanese dinner.

Joe is the beloved husband of sixty-two years to Loretta (Lopusnak) Haddad; devoted father of Gary and his wife Susan Haddad of Marietta, GA, Glen and his wife Jodi Haddad of Fairfield, Jill and her husband Rob Murray of Collegeville, PA, and Jane and her husband Tony Stuart of Kintnersville, PA; he is the cherished grandfather of Nickolas, Steven, Mitchell Haddad; Luke, Ruby, Lila Murray; Eden, Daphne, and Coco Stuart; he is the loved brother of Fred Haddad of Lincoln Park and Helen Cubby of Hewitt.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Samaritan’s Purse (samaritanspurse.org)

William “Bill” H. Gierisch, Jr., age 82 of Wayne, passed away on Monday, December 30, 2024.

Bill was born the eldest of three children to William Sr. and Dorothy Gierisch in Queens, NY. His early years in Queens fostered a love for the Brooklyn Dodgers – a team he would loyally follow even after their move to Los Angeles (he still referred to them as the Brooklyn Dodgers regardless of their location). During his high school years, the Gierisch family moved to New Jersey, where Bill became an active member of the Boy Scouts, developing a lifelong passion for camping and outdoor activities.

After graduation, Bill began his working life at the School of Conservation handling general maintenance before moving to WR Grace, a plastic manufacturer. However, his career path took a significant turn when he first received his draft notice and enlisted in the United States Navy. His military career started with boot camp in Michigan and led him to San Diego, where he served as a boilerman aboard the Destroyer Herbert J. Thomas for six years.

Following Bill’s service, he took advantage of his skills as a boilerman with the Navy and worked briefly for Beatty Rugs before finding his professional home at Dye Specialties. He had an unconventional career working nights and having irregular days off. He also worked hard to earn his black seal and blue seal licensures while working full-time. His work at Dye Specialties included contributing to the production of dye used in the U.S. dollar by the United States Treasury Department! He remained with the company until its closure in his 60s, at which point he embraced a well-deserved retirement.

Bill was a man content with the simple life. He enjoyed watching his favorite sports teams like the Brooklyn Dodgers and Navy football team, old country music and old westerns, and traveling to San Diego to see his friends from the Navy. Notably, Bill loved the holidays, especially Christmas. Bill loved Christmas so much he kept a Christmas tree up year-round! He will be deeply missed by his friends and family.

Kathleen Corrao, 93, of Wayne, NJ, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 29th, 2024.

Born in Springfield, Massachusetts, Kathleen was the second of five children to George and Mary (O’Dea) Georgeou. She spent her early childhood in Springfield before her family relocated to Paterson, New Jersey. Kathleen attended Eastside High School. Like many of her generation, Kathleen left school early to support her family, taking on various jobs before marrying the love of her life, Joseph Corrao.

Kathleen and Joseph’s love story began at a birthday party, during a game of spin the bottle. When Joe’s spin landed on Kathleen, he kissed her and declared to his friends, “I’ll be marrying that girl.” After a two-year courtship, they exchanged wedding vows on Sunday, April 27th, 1952, in a joyous ceremony surrounded by God, family and friends. Their 57 years of marriage was filled with love, laughter, and devotion until Joe’s passing in April 2009.

After their wedding, the couple settled in Passaic, later moving to Clifton and Glen Rock, where they purchased their first home. Eventually, they made Wayne their permanent residence, creating a warm and loving household that they cherished for decades.

Kathleen embraced her role as a homemaker, devoting herself to raising her two sons, Joseph Jr., and Robert. She poured all her love into her family, welcoming her boys home each day from school with a smile and memorable treats. Her son Joe fondly recalls her making Fluffernutter sandwiches with peanut butter served up with a glass of Orange Aid for him and his friends.

As her sons grew older and more independent, Kathleen returned to the workforce, finding fulfillment as a book packer for Dell Publishing in Pinebrook. Kathleen also expressed her love through cooking and baking, filling her home with the irresistible aromas of fresh chocolate chip cookies, seven-layer bars, and her beloved Italian Christmas cookies, including anisette and snowballs.

Known for her impeccable sense of style, Kathleen enjoyed shopping trips with her sister Helen. They would have their hair and nails done before venturing out to find the latest fashions. Kathleen and Joseph spent winters in Margate, Florida, where shopping was Kathleen’s preferred activity over beach outings.

Kathleen’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. A devoted parishioner of Our Lady of the Valley Church in Wayne, she attended daily Mass for many years and regularly participated in Saturday Novenas in Paterson.

Family was Kathleen’s greatest joy. Holidays were especially dear to her, as they brought her loved ones together. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she created lasting memories with them through sleepovers, baking cookies, and feeding the horses carrots in her backyard. They remember her delicious chicken cutlets, served in the TV room while watching Judge Judy, Dancing with the Stars, or Wheel of Fortune. Kathleen loved taking them on adventures, whether to get their nails done or to create custom T-shirts at Wessel's Uniform Store in the Wayne Hills Mall, where she once worked part-time.

Kathleen was a gentle, soft-spoken, and fabulously loving woman who exuded kindness and grace. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories for all who knew her.

Kathleen was the beloved wife of Joseph, blessed in marriage for 57 years. She was the most loving mother of Joseph T. Corrao, Jr. and wife Linda of Wayne, and Robert T. Corrao and wife Mila of Pompton Lakes; cherished grandmother of: Kevin T. and wife Pamela, Lauren and husband Antonio, Joseph T., III, Stephanie, and Roma and husband Giovanni; adored great-grandmother of: Enzo, Gino, and Stella; and dear aunt of numerous nieces and nephews. Kathleen was predeceased by her three sisters and one brother: Helen, Mary, George, and Barbara.

Kathleen’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to her caregiver, Winsome “Winnie,” who gave her devoted love and care to Kathleen for over six years, forming a deep and precious bond.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Kathleen’s memory may be made to:

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105-9959

A more complete obituary will be posted here soon, please check back again, Thank You.

Michael James Craig, age 78, of Wayne, NJ passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 28, 2024 while receiving the loving care of his family.

Sherry Bright (nee Ruerup), age 57, of Pequannock, NJ passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 22, 2024 while receiving the loving care of her family.

She was born in Passaic and raised in Paterson, NJ and was the daughter of Barbara Ruerup and the late Wilbur G. Ruerup, Jr.  

During the final months of her life, she resided with her beloved sister, Kimberly Geffinger Schneller, her brother-in-law, John Schneller, and her dear niece, Lauren Geffinger.  Throughout her life, she often reminisced growing up in the city of Paterson with her family.  Sherry, wife of John Bright, was a homemaker and mother of four loving children, David, Kimberly, John, and Richard.  She is also survived by her aunts; Maryanne Montione, and Georgeann Gosnell.  She was always kind and compassionate to anyone in need.  She loved cooking, and baking, and had a flair for making specialty cakes.  She was also an avid thrift store shopper.  

Robert “Bob” Marrone, age 79, of Wayne passed Saturday, December 28, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Wayne Medical Center.

Bob was born to Antonio and Assunta Marrone and graduated from Lodi High School in 1962. While attending Lodi High School he met is beloved wife Anne (Giardina) and the two married in 1968.

After high school Bob joined the Army National Guard in which he served six years. While serving he attended night classes at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree. After several years of working as a Construction Manager, Bob ultimately became an owner of Meridian Construction in Mahwah. He would go on to develop many well-known commercial buildings and residential developments across Northern New Jersey. Bob enjoyed his later years in the construction industry serving as an independent Construction Manager for developers, corporations and municipalities in the area. His final role in the industry was with Durite Construction which concluded in 2008.

Bob was also a talented athlete whose abilities have clearly passed on to his children and grandchildren. In high school he was on the competitive dive team and he was also a very skilled baseball player. His love of playing baseball was passed on to his daughter Jennifer and son Robert who both played in the Wayne PAL programs throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. Bob was also a coach in the PAL system, for well over a decade, for both baseball and girls basketball. In his free time, he enjoyed playing golf with his closest friends and his son. In addition to his love of sports, he also enjoyed playing cards, especially Poker, War and Pinochle.

While known to be serious at work, Bob was always the comedian at every family gathering. His antics always kept everyone entertained, you were sure to leave any get together with a new joke to tell. As entertaining as he was, his generosity was equally as impactful to those around him. If you asked for an inch he would give you a yard if he could. This generosity of course didn’t apply on the putting green or the card table.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents Antonio and Assunta; his brother Anthony; and his sister Celeste (Lovelock). He is survived by his wife of 56 years Anne; his daughter Jennifer and her husband, Sean; his son Robert and his wife, Allyson; and his grandchildren Juliana, Ryan and Colin.

The Marrone family would like to extend our gratitude to the family and friends who have helped to support us throughout Bob’s journey. We would like to specifically extend our deepest thanks to the staff at Preakness Healthcare Center in Wayne who took such great care of Bob since 2018. In lieu of gifts or flowers the family suggests donations to the Preakness Hospital Auxiliary in memory of Bob. Funds will be used to help supplement the costs of entertainment and events for the residents. Checks can be mailed to Preakness Hospital Auxiliary, 305 Oldham Rd. Wayne, NJ 07470. Please be sure to mention in memoriam of Bob Marrone on the check memo.

Robert J. Micek, age 86 of Wayne, died on December 26, 2024. He had also lived in Port Charlotte, Florida and Columbus, New Jersey.

Bob had been a Wayne Township Police officer from 1967 to 1993, serving in the patrol division, and as a detective in the narcotics and antigambling squad..

Bob grew up in Wallington, NJ and graduated from Wallington High School with the class of 1957. He served in the 9th Artillery with the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1959, stationed much of that time in Schweinfurt, Germany. Upon being discharged, he came back to New Jersey and settled in Wayne. He was doing landscape work with a friend before they both decided to join the Wayne Police, and the rest is history, as they say. In 1982, he met Sheila King and their romance led to a wedding on December 23, 1983. They enjoyed thirty-two loving years together, with twenty-two of those years retired in Port Charlotte, FL. Sadly, Sheila passed in 2016, shortly after they had moved back to New Jersey, and Bob has missed her dearly ever since.

Anyone who knew Bob knew how much he loved fishing. During his lengthy retirement years in Florida, he enjoyed more days fishing than anyone could possibly count. He kept a boat in Port Charlotte, in the canal right behind his house, and would frequently fish in the Gulf of Mexico, off Florida’s west coast. His first boat was named “SAM ONE” which was a creative play on his wife Sheila’s initials. When he purchased a second boat, he named that one “SAMTU” in honor, once again, of the wife he loved so much. Any chance he got to go fishing, whether it was on his own boat, or a charter boat, or just off a pier, he loved to have a line in the water. He had other hobbies as well, though. Bob was a good bowler, and he could finish the LA Times and NY Times crossword puzzles with no difficulty at all. He also had a really dry sense of humor and could weave together a story that sounded incredibly believable, but no one was really sure if it was true or not. He also had a soft spot in his heart for animals and he always kept two cats for pets. Among his favorite kitties were Fridgett, Boots, and Sabrina. He was also a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and a dear friend to so many. He will be sorely missed.

Bob is survived by his daughter, Lauren Opolin, a brother; Archpriest Basil Micek, a brother-in-law Frank Felice, Jr, four stepchildren; Niki Lanza (Tom), Lori Ellicott (Jack), Michael Petruska (Helen), and Frank Ricciardi, a granddaughter; Stacey Carney (Chris), and seven step-grandchildren, a great-grandson; Dylan Carney and eight step-grandchildren, and a large, extended family of nieces and nephews. Bob was predeceased by his wife; Sheila Micek, his parents; Joseph and Anna Micek, his sister; Mary Ann Felice, by his two sisters-in-law; Pamela Micek and Arlene Forte, and by his son-in-law; Thomas Opolin.

Linda Catherine Hoski, 69, of Wayne, NJ, passed away on Christmas night, surrounded by the love and comfort of her companion, brother, and sister.

Born in Jersey City to Joseph P. Hoski and Theresa C. Hoski (Wroblewski), Linda moved with her family to Middlesex, NJ, in 1962. Her parents established Hoski Florist and Gift Shop in Middlesex, where Linda began working at a young age. A graduate of Middlesex High School, Linda remained devoted to the family business and pursued her lifelong passion as a florist.

Linda had a remarkable talent for music trivia, winning numerous radio contests in her youth. She often used her winnings to buy 45s and albums, ensuring the house was always filled with new music, much to the delight of her brother and sister. Her love of music was a guiding force in her life and influenced her many pursuits.

An adventurous spirit, Linda enjoyed skiing, hiking, and visiting the family home in the Poconos. She was a lifelong enthusiast of live music and concerts. Linda is survived by her loving companion of 13 years, Jeff Windwer. Together, they attended and worked at countless rock ‘n’ roll shows, dedicating themselves to the music community by supporting both large venues and charitable events. Beyond their love for music, Linda and Jeff found joy in hiking and searching for Native American artifacts and arrowheads.

Linda’s warmth, generosity, and radiant smile left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Whether interacting with customers at the flower shop or friends at a music venue, she made every encounter meaningful.

Linda is survived by her loving companion, Jeff Windwer of Wayne; her sister, Renee Hoski of Readington, NJ; and her brother, Marty Hoski, and his wife Laurie of Dunellen, NJ. She will be dearly missed by her nephews, Dean (wife Alyssa and son Logan), Drew (wife Jamie and their twins Catherine and Rory), and Dylan Hoski. Linda is also mourned by her cherished cat, Blackie, and countless friends who feel the loss of her presence deeply.

Linda’s light will continue to shine in the lives of those she touched. She will be forever remembered for her kindness, passion, and the joy she brought to the world.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Linda’s memory may be made to ROCKNRECOVERY Karl Cochran, a longtime friend and an initiative close to the heart of Linda. Her nephews Drew and Dylan were mentored by Karl in rock guitar and music theory. Her brother, Marty, sat in on occasion with Karl’s local band, Far Cry, as a guest keyboardist.

Antoinette Marie Violante (nee Pompeii), age 93 of Wayne, died peacefully on Wednesday, December 25, 2024.

Toni, as she was affectionately known by many, grew up in Binghamton, New York, the ninth of eleven children born to Nicholas and Henrietta Pompeii. Her parents had emigrated from Italy, and Toni recalled stories of her father keeping an amazing garden and making his own wine, while her mother cooked and canned much of their garden’s harvest herself. Throughout the years, she cherished her relationships with her five brothers and five sisters and remained close with them. Toni was raised in the Catholic faith and carried that with her throughout her life, always trusting in God.

Antoinette was among the sweetest and kindest people you may have ever met. She was a selfless soul who found joy in making sure everyone around her was happy. She was a gracious hostess, a comforting and gentle friend, and a loving and affectionate mother and grandmother. She made sure to celebrate everyone’s birthday, make their favorite food, and made everyone feel special. She personified “love” in everything she did, and her disposition was something to admire. It’s no surprise that Toni loved sweets such as cannolis and ice cream, which may have contributed to her being so sweet herself.

Toni met her husband, Peter, in the summer of 1951. Peter was in the Army with Toni’s brother, Ralph, and Ralph brought Peter home with him to Binghamton on one occasion. The moment Peter laid eyes on Toni, he fell head over heels in love, and it was love at first sight for both of them. With her parent’s blessing, the two were married just three months later. They exchanged vows at St. Mary’s RC Church in Binghamton on November 22, 1951, and moved to New Jersey shortly thereafter. They built a home in Englewood Cliffs and lived there for thirty-five years, raising a family and enjoying their time together. Peter and Toni ran their own milk delivery business, with Toni responsible for the books. Sadly, in 1986, just five months after retiring, Peter passed away suddenly. Toni was heartbroken and moved to Wayne to be closer to her children. Family was a very natural priority for Toni, and she adored and spoiled her grandchildren.

While living in Wayne, Toni worked as the receptionist for various doctors in the area.  Her warm nature and upbeat personality made her a favorite amongst patients and doctors.  She was an active member of the Catholic community.  She attended mass daily and volunteered in various capacities at Our Lady of the Valley RC Church. She also volunteered as a Eucharistic minister at Preakness Healthcare Center and made practicing her faith part of her daily routine.  

Antoinette is survived by her three children; Paul Violante of Maryland, Linda Bleznick (Howard) of Wayne, and Peter Violante of Pennsylvania, nine grandchildren:  Paul Violante II (Stephanie), Bianca Anderson (Tyler), Stacie Principe (Nicholas), Brenton Violante, Amy Violante, Peter Violante, Emily Violante, Tod Street (Salina) and Camaron Street, six great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Peter in 1986, her daughter-in-law Karen in 2020, and her grandson Adam Bleznick (Emmie) in June 2024.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Alzheimer's of New Jersey would be greatly appreciated.

Gerald “Jerry” Buonomo, 79, of Wayne, NJ, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 25, 2024.

Born and raised in Paterson, Jerry was the second child of Gerard and Asunta (Minieri) Buonomo. A true character with a spirited personality, Jerry made life anything but dull. During his time at Eastside High School, he earned a reputation for standing up for himself—perhaps too boldly, as one infamous incident of “hanging a classmate out a window by his ankles” proved. Despite this colorful episode resulting Jerry’s permanent dismissal, he earned his high school diploma and later attended Passaic County Community College.

Between high school and college, Jerry proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1965 to 1966 and in the U.S. Army Reserves for five additional years. His service to his country earned him the National Defense Service Medal, a testament to his patriotism and dedication.

Jerry spent an impressive 45 years as a U.S. Postal Service letter carrier, primarily in Wayne. His daily routes took him to the Willowbrook Mall, where he became a beloved figure among storeowners, often earning heartfelt discounts for his friendliness and consistently excellent work. One can only imagine how many steps he logged over the decades—what a number that would be with a smart watch!

Jerry’s love story with Diane Colyer is the stuff of romantic comedies. After each had experienced first marriages, fate brought them together at Lou Duva’s Club (now a CVS Pharmacy) on Union Boulevard in Totowa during a Coasters concert. Captivated by Diane, Jerry sent her a drink and a rose before serenading her with his smooth tenor voice. Their first night together included a sunrise at the Jersey Shore—an unmistakable sign of the love that would follow. When Jerry proposed to Diane while she was recovering from surgery, her delayed response was later encouraged by her pastor: “Follow your heart.” Two months later, on September 15, 1996, they exchanged vows  before God, family and friends at Packanack Community Church in Wayne and celebrated their union with a reception at the Brownstone in Paterson. Their honeymoon in New England was cut short by a Nor’easter, but their marriage was a storm-proof bond lasting 28 wonderful years.

Outside of work and family, Jerry enjoyed bowling in a Sunday league at T-Bowl in Wayne and never missed a chance to cheer for his beloved Giants, through wins and losses. A passionate NASCAR fan, he took pride whenever he wore his Dale Earnhardt autographed jacket.

Nothing, however, surpassed Jerry’s devotion to his family. After retiring, he launched “Grandpa’s Babysitting Service,” a free-of-charge enterprise dedicated to his grandchildren. He had a special bond with his grandson Brandon but poured his love equally into all his grandchildren. Whether following them on Halloween in a scary mask or indulging in their every request, Jerry was always present and never said “no.”

Known for his humor and antics, Jerry once wore a headband with his name on it to help his mother-in-law remember it and was famous for keeping family and friends laughing with his warmth and lighthearted approach to life. Forever in our hearts, Jerry’s unforgettable spirit, humor, and devotion to his loved ones will be missed but never forgotten.

Jerry was the beloved husband of Diane Colyer-Buonomo; loving father of: Courtnay Buonomo and husband Jason, Dana Salazar and husband Luis, Stacey Maimone and husband Joseph, and Trisha Colyer; and adoring grandfather of: Tyler, Brandon, Monica, Matthew, Michael, and Joey. Jerry was predeceased by his parents Gerard and Asunta (Minieri) Buonomo, and his sister Carmel Buonomo.

Because of his great love for America, in lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Jerry’s name are asked to consider one of the following charitable organizations:

Tunnel to Towers Foundation

2361 Hylan Boulevard

Staten Island, NY 10306

To download a printable donation form, Click Here

Wounded Warrior Project

P.O. Box 758516

Topeka, Kansas

66675-8516

To download a printable donation form, Click Here

Matthew Elia Tavaglione, 77, died on Christmas day, December 25, 2024.

Matthew was born to Anna (nee Fischetti) & Matthew Tavaglione, in Hoboken, New Jersey on November 10, 1947. He graduated from Hoboken High School and later earned a Bachelors Degree from St. Peter’s College in Jersey City.

The majority of Matty’s career was at Maxwell House Coffee in Hoboken and he started in the mailroom at age 19. Over several decades, he held various positions & worked to advance both his education & career in the fields of logistics & purchasing. When the Hoboken plant was closed, he stayed with the company & transferred to the plant in Jacksonville, Florida. He ended his career with the parent company, Kraft, in the Nabisco division and retired in 2008.

Matty was an incredibly friendly guy who never met a stranger. He was a bit mischievious, loved to crack a joke & made others laugh wherever he went. He had a passion for New York sports and Sunday dinners were always scheduled around the Giants game. He was an avid golfer & he did so as much as possible, with friends, his grandson & in a senior league.

Matty met the love of his life, Karen, when he was just 17 & she was 13. They were high school sweethearts, who went on to marry soon after she graduated. They recently celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary in November. Matty was a devoted husband and father to his daughters, Liese & Jen. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for all three of his girls and eventually for his grandchildren, Izzie & Cal too. He loved attending all their games & events in Pompton Lakes & rooting for the Cardinals.

Matthew leaves behind his beloved wife Karen (nee Federico), his daughters, Anneliese & Jennifer, his grandchildren Isabella & Calvin, his sister in law, Anne Federico, his brother in law Mark Federico (Lori), his sister in law Christina Stites (Stephen Brattoli), & many nieces & nephews. He is predeceased by his parents Matthew and Anna Tavaglione, his brother Nicholas, and his sisters Lucille Nisler (Charles) & Flora Amato (Michael).

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Tunnels to Towers Foundation would be greatly appreciated.

Lorraine Theresa Demkow, (nee Makl), age 91 of Pompton Plains, NJ passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 24, 2024 while receiving the loving care of her family.

She was a life long resident of New Jersey born in Passaic and raised in Garfield.  She graduated with honors from Garfield High School with the Class of 1951. Lorraine continued her education at Montclair State College where she received her Bachelor's Degree in Spanish with a double minor in English and Elementary Education.

Her first teaching job was with the Paramus Board of Education. She later worked for the Wayne Board of Education as a substitute teacher and was then offered a job as a Supplemental Education Teacher which she said was her favorite job.  She later taught at the Packanack Elementary School in Wayne before retiring in 1996.

Lorraine met the love of her life, George, through mutual friends. They went on double dates, then George and Lorraine started dating regularly and Lorraine quickly realized that George was a special guy. Lorraine and George were married twice. The first time they eloped to Maryland and were married in a civil ceremony. The second time they had a a church wedding at Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Garfield. They settled into life in Garfield for 9 years and moved to Wayne where they lived for 51 years. They eventually moved to Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains in 2017. Lorraine and George were married for 65 years until George's passing in 2020.

Lorraine was a dedicated wife and mother who enjoyed making her house home-base for family get-togethers where she would love to cook for occasions like Christmas, birthdays, and all kinds of family affairs. As a young girl she played piano and loved to swim at the YMCA. Later on she loved to play tennis and Bridge. She also loved to ski. Lorraine particularly loved skiing with her family and especially with her grandchildren. She skied until she was 78 years old and spent many years as a member of The Ski Club of New Jersey. In her downtime she was an avid reader and enjoyed many different types of books. She also had a great love for dogs.

Lorraine is survived by her children, George Demkow Jr. of Clearwater, FL and his fiancé, Kim Gill, Cindy Bowen and her husband Alan Bowen of Mendham, NJ and Glenn Demkow of Howell, NJ, her grandchildren Kelly Clavin-Newins and her husband Kyle Newins, Michael Bowen, Andrew Demkow and Timothy Demkow. She was also the loved sister of the late Robert Makl.

It is with a bittersweet calmness that the family announces the passing of Ralph Oscar Scott, age 97, of Wayne, NJ.

Ralph was born and raised in Paterson, NJ, the only child to Oscar and Adelaide Scott.  He was a family boy of strong mind and body through those tough Depression years.  

In 1945, at the age of seventeen and a student at Paterson’s Central High School, Ralph made the courageous decision to join the U.S. Navy, where he served, trained and readied for battle, from 1945 to 1946.  To this day, the family believes that the enemy heard “Ralph Scott is in” and promptly surrendered.  

Ralph, a vigorous man of strength and dignity returned to Paterson to complete his education. He became the starting tight end with the Varsity High School Football Team.  He also loved boxing.  He earned his degree.

As it turns out, it might not all have been about earning a high school diploma.  It was at Central that Ralph met the young woman who would become the love of his life.  Ralph and Noemi Galfione exchanged vows on October 25, 1947.  

A worker, Ralph found employment quickly in the newspaper industry.  He worked as a Stereotyper.  A union man, he worked for The Wall Street Journal, The Daily News, and the New York Times.  While at the Daily News, Ralph skillfully worked his way to the corporate position of Production Manager.  Respected by both corporate types and union men, Ralph served as a Union Negotiator for the Daily News while a member of the Stereotyper’s Union.  Ralph was known to work patiently and calmly 24 hours plus to fix problems, whether it was a huge machine that broke down or the resolution of corporate/labor issues.  

Ralph’s career in the newspaper industry spanned nearly fifty-two years until his retirement, in 1999.  

Back to the newlyweds.  Ralph and Amy settled into Noemi’s parents’ house in Paterson.  There, Ralph and Noemi and family would welcome the births of Gregory, Karen, and Nina.  

Always moving forward, Ralph and Noemi built their first home, brick-by-brick, up on a beautiful hill in Totowa, NJ.  Later on during this time, alas, their son Gregory would die suddenly and tragically at the age of 18.  The family prevailed, later to welcome their fourth child, Kristen.  

The family remained in their hand-built house on the hill in Totowa for the next sixty years before Ralph and Amy moved in 2019 to a different residence, in Wayne, NJ.  

All his life, Ralph was an exceptional athlete.  He loved racket ball, squash, golf, and especially tennis.  (Not one of his three sons-in-law ever beat Ralph at racquetball.)  

Earlier, Ralph was an avid dirt bike rider.  He belonged to Cycle Alley Riders, a New Jersey Motorcycle Club.  Later, Ralph taught himself and then his entire family how to ski.  Ralph embraced challenges and the satisfaction of meeting them.  

Ralph’s greatest and growing passion in life was for his family.  These past years, nothing meant more to Ralph than spending time with his children and grandchildren and his great grandchild.  

Ralph and Noemi cherished an amazing seventy-seven years of loyal and loving marriage together.  When Noemi recently asked Ralph, “Do you know how long we’ve been married?”  Ralph answered, “Not long enough.”

Ralph touched the lives of everyone around him with his strength, love, loyalty, and life-learned wisdom.  

Ralph is survived by his wife, Noemi Scott (nee Galfione) of Wayne; three daughters Karen Boates and her husband Reid of Pittstown, NJ;  Nina Kramer and her husband Philip of Chatham, NJ;  Kristen Pisa and her husband Joseph of Franklin Lakes, NJ;  his five grandchildren Joseph Boates, Alexander Boates, Jonathan Kramer, Jessica Kramer, and Gracyn Pisa;  his great grandchild Michael Boates.  Ralph was predeceased by his son Gregory Scott in 1966.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in Ralph’s name are asked to consider The Salvation Army  or Oasis 59 Mill St., Paterson, NJ 07501

Barbara Bukowski, age 85, passed away surrounded by her loving family on Monday, December 23, 2024.

Born and raised in Jersey City as an only child to Dominick and Florence Rendenna, Barbara discovered her artistic passion during her high school years. She explored various mediums such as pencil drawings and acrylic painting, but she ultimately found her favorite medium to be oil painting. She loved to express her art through her oil paintings of scenic landscapes, capturing the beauty of the world around her.

As a young woman in the late 1950s and early 1960s, Barbara embarked on an exploration across Europe, traveling solo at a time when few women did so. Her travels across the continent came at a time when the Cold War was at its peak. As a result, she has many incredible stories she enjoyed sharing of her adventures. One included a memorable train ride through the Swiss Alps alongside a company of soldiers in full uniform.

Life blessed Barbara with her beloved son John Bukowski. She raised John as a single mother while she forged her career path working full time as an executive secretary. She worked for several companies before finding her professional home at Bayer Pharmaceuticals. Despite the challenges of single parenthood, Barbara created countless memories with John. They took summer adventures along the Jersey Shore to the boardwalks of Keansburg and Seaside Heights, enjoying the salty sea air and amusement park rides the Jersey Shore was famous for.

Throughout her life, Barbara maintained her passion for art. She found the simple pleasure of painting to be one of life’s greatest joys. Her ability to see and express the beauty of the world she loved to explore through her art will be enjoyed by her family for years to come. Her life was characterized by her resilience, creativity, and dedication to her family. She will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to get to know her.

Barbara is survived by her son John Bukowski and his wife Linda Bukowski, and her grandkids Jon Bukowski and Jenna Bukowski.

Ray passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on December 21, 2024.

Ray was born to Nancy (Callegari) and Raymond Wright in 1960. He was born and raised in Woodland Park. He graduated from Passaic Valley High School in Little Falls in 1978 where he was a member of the baseball team and lettered all 4 years as a pitcher. He then went on and graduated with a BA in Business and Economics from William Paterson University, that lead him into his career for over 41 years in beverage distribution.

While in college, Ray worked for Pepsi-Cola and after graduating started his long career with Coca-Cola as a route supervisor. It didn't take long for Ray to figure out that he was not an office guy, and he made the decision to become an owner-operator for over 35 years with Coca-Cola, Canada Dry, Snapple, and most recently Arizona under the name JJC distributors after his 3 daughters, his greatest pride and joy.

Ray married Cindy (Zuaro) in 1987. Together they raised 3 beautiful daughters Jaimie, Jenna, and Casey. Ray had many accomplishments over the years but always referred to the girls as his best accomplishment in life. After his divorce from Cindy, they remained good friends and continued to support and love the girls in every part of their lives. On top of being an amazing father, he was a fantastic uncle to his nieces Chloe and Samantha, nephew and godson Alex, and nephews Michael, and Nicholas.

There was no one Ray was closer to than his brother Bill. They would share stories of all their adventures together from childhood to the present. Whether stopping to have a beer with Mom and Dad, out on the water or a round of golf, they would be in the woods of NY State where Ray said time didn't matter.

Ray is survived by his parents, Nancy (Callegari) and Raymond Wright, his daughters, Jaimie, Jenna, and Casey, their mother, Cindy (Zuaro) Wright, his brother Bill and sister-in-law Kristi (Latrecchia) Wright, nephew, and niece Alex and Chloe Wright, his partner Jennifer Baird, and many loving cousins and close friends who Ray would refer to as family.

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In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to American Cancer Society Skin Cancer Research https://donate.cancer.org

Emil Peter Lobosco, adored husband, son, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, and friend passed on Friday, December 20, 2024. By the age of 58, Emil lived such a vibrant life full of love and generosity. This was evident by the roar of laughter, music, and booming conversation radiating from his home, affectionately referred to as Club Lobosco, in Pompton Lakes on any given Sunday after mass.

Emil was born to Josephine and Peter Lobosco, who raised him on a foundation of faith and family that Emil embodied every day. He lived these simple values with resolute integrity and co-constructed a legacy of them with his wife, Lisa.

To know Emil was to experience joy – always with a Dean Martin or country song being belted out in his backyard as he mowed the lawn or getting a spontaneous visit with his big smile just because he was thinking of you. He loved life and never missed an opportunity to share his love with those around him. To some, it looked like his reliability, knowing that Emil would always lend his time, talents and wisdom whenever someone called him up. To others, it looked like a morning walk, hand in hand, where he’d share deeply from his heart. And to others, it was simply sharing his happy place with him, feeling the sun on his face by the ocean in his beach chair on the sand. Any way Emil expressed his love, everyone felt how genuine and sincere their bond was with him.

An avid athlete and competitor to his core, Emil had an incredible passion for sport – excelling in football and basketball his entire life, supporting his family on the sidelines of any sport they played, and willingly enduring the emotional rollercoaster of being a lifelong New York Jets fan. Whether at a massive tailgate welcoming everyone to his tent or sitting around a card table with his closest buddies, Emil found community and brotherhood in these spaces.

Emil met the love of his life, Lisa, in high school at Passaic County Technical High School. Building from this high school friendship, the two began their journey as a couple just after graduation when they went on their first movie date to see Purple Rain. Emil and Lisa were blessed with 40 years together, and as Emil would jokingly say, without ever having a fight. While they enjoyed so many exciting experiences like traveling across Europe, their love was in the quiet, steady rhythm of life that flowed through the regular days. It was in their morning coffees, the revolving door of family and friends buzzing through their home, tearing up a dance floor whenever given the chance, and hosting family gatherings and traditions. There was never a day Emil and Lisa did not know their unforgettable love for one another.

From that love grew a tremendous legacy of family. Emil and Lisa have 4 daughters, Samara and her husband Jordan Avanzato, Sydney and her partner Francesca Piccone, Alexa and her husband Richard Grofsick, and Danika. Emil was beyond proud of his daughters and supported all the journeys to happiness his girls explored. His Sammy Girl, Sydney Bear, Half Pint, and Doodlebop will always remember that Emil “loved them most.” It was Emil’s greatest joy and honor to be a grandfather to Jace Avanzato, Troy Avanzato and Nolan Grofsick. Poppop filled his grandsons’ lives with endless laughter and memories that will always be cherished. Emil is also survived by his Mother, Josephine Lobosco, sister, Marilyn Colella, brother, Peter Lobosco, and sister Lorianne McGrory and her husband George McGrory. Emil will be held closely in each of their hearts.

Emil was devoutly generous – volunteering with Our Lady of Consolation’s community service efforts by spending every Wednesday morning volunteering at soup kitchens and building homes with to those in need with other parishioners. To honor Emil’s legacy of giving, memorial donations to Our Lady of Consolation would be greatly appreciated in place of flowers to continue these efforts.

With deep sorrow, we announce the unexpected passing of Jodie M. Powell, age 40, of Wayne, on Thursday, December 19, 2024. Jodie spent most of her life in Wayne, with a few years in Philadelphia.

Jodie graduated from Wayne Hills High School in 2002, where she shined as a field hockey player and a proud member of the National Honor Society. Her high school friendships were lifelong treasures, and she remained close with many of her classmates through the years. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Montclair State University and later a master’s degree from The New School in New York City.

Jodie was an adventurous traveler, studied abroad in London and enjoyed extended visits to Brazil and Chile, where she embraced new cultures and experiences. While pursuing her education, she took an interest in unions. Jodie found immense joy in helping others and carried that passion into her career as a union representative with the American Federation of Teachers in the Philadelphia area. Her work with AFT brought her purpose and pride, and she always spoke fondly of those she served. Although health challenges and life led her to leave that role, Jodie faced her illness with a bright attitude, inspiring everyone around her with her resilience. Through these difficult times, she formed lasting adult friendships that became a source of strength and joy in her life. She also had beautiful friendships with her two cousins, Tom and Jess.

Jodie was a vibrant soul with a deep love for books, music, food, and her furry companions. She was an avid concertgoer, often seeing her favorite bands like The Red Hot Chili Peppers (her all-time favorite), The Bouncing Souls, The Offspring, and many others. Her love of music was deeply influenced by her brother Matthew, with whom she attended countless concerts over the years, creating cherished memories that fueled her passion for live performances. Some of her happiest teenage moments were sneaking into shows with her older sister, Jaye, creating unforgettable memories. Jodie was also a talented cook and baker, always eager to share her culinary creations. By her own admission, she was becoming a “cat lady,” doting on her beloved cats, Church, Kitty, and Roxy. Though she has now reunited with Church and Kitty, her treasured cat Roxy remains lovingly cared for by her mother.

Jodie’s warmth, kindness, and spirited nature will be deeply missed by her family and friends. She is survived by her devoted mother; Darcy Powell of Wayne, her two siblings; Jaye Barbanti (Amie) and Matthew Powell (Jess), her loving boyfriend; Michael Riter, her four loving aunts; Cheryl Monaco (Eric), Faith Moskal (Ted), Carol Newman (Steve) and Bobbi Kolment (Ron), as well as many cousins, extended family members, and dear friends. She was predeceased by her grandmother, her Uncle George, and cousin Nicole.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider making a donation to your local animal shelter, or to the Cooper Foundation at Cooper University Hospital, where Jodie underwent her surgeries. Your generosity will honor her love for animals and her resilience during her health journey.

Wolfgang Crone, age 81, of Denver, North Carolina passed away peacefully Wednesday, December 18, 2024 in Charlotte, North Carolina.  

Wolfgang was born to Hans and Irmgard (née Huesker) Crone on April 19, 1943 in Munster, Germany.   Wolfgang served in the German army with NATO forces before attending university. He graduated from the University of Reutlingen in Germany with degrees in Chemical and Industrial Engineering.    His work as a textile consultant took him all over the world.    He lived in Germany, Belgium, South Africa, and France before moving to the United States and becoming a naturalized U.S. Citizen in 2015.

Wolfgang met his wife Jeanie of 24 years while working on a consulting project together in Belgium and Germany.   They lived 10 years together in France before moving to the U.S. in 2009.

Wolfgang was a lifelong Mason.    At the time of his death, he was a member of a Masonic Lodge in Germany and the Scottish Rite of Tulsa, Oklahoma.   Masonry was his passion, rising to the highest ranks of the order.

Survivors include his wife Jeanie (née Muzik), his brother-in-law Douglas Muzik of Salem, South Carolina, a sister, Helga Dragert and his nephews Christian Dragert and Jorg Dragert, all of Germany, and many Huesker cousins.  

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the

National Canine Cancer Foundation

13835 N Tatum BLVD

Suite 9-448

Phoenix, AZ 85032

Norma Joan Kath Babjak, age 92, of Pompton Plains, previously of Pines Lake in Wayne, N.J. passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 18, 2024.

Norma was born to Francis and Harriet Kath on July 12, 1932 in Perth Amboy, New Jersey. Her parents and younger sister Marcia, lived in Woodbridge, N.J. for many years, eventually settling in Westfield, N.J. when Norma was in the 10th grade. They lived in a beautiful house with a large yard, a giant willow tree and a beautiful fragrant rose garden planted by her father. She graduated from Westfield High School in 1950 and first attended Montclair College and then attended William Paterson College (now University).

Norma’s childhood life was very good and full of many adventures near and far as her parents liked to travel around the United States. Her parents moved to Woodbridge, N.J. where they owned a grocery store, which they eventually sold. Norma’s family then moved to Westfield. Her father went to work for S&W Foods and her mother went to work as the secretary to the mayor of Westfield. In Westfield, Norma and her friends like to swim in the Tuscan Farms swimming hole and sleigh ride there in the winter. Her sister said she also liked to help the boy next door do his math homework through their open windows. She told her parents it was strictly platonic. Her parents took her and her sister to many beaches, mountains and to Niagara Falls. They also went on long train rides across the United States to Pasadena, California to visit her father’s brothers. Norma really did not enjoy the train trips as it made her “train sick”. Another time they took Norma and her sister to see the Grand Canyon but getting there proved difficult as they had to take a bus from the train station when a blizzard struck. The bus could not follow the road and ended up driving through a snow-covered field filled with cows. When the bus got stuck the driver told the passengers to get off and carry their luggage, following the bus tire tracks, until they found a road.

Norma met her beloved husband Walter Babjak on a blind date set up by mutual friends. On that first night out together, a nervous Norma spilled her drink on Walter. Despite the mishap, they fortunately continued to date and eventually married on December 6, 1952 at the Westfield Presbyterian Church. Norma’s parents were married twenty-five years earlier on this same date.

While Norma started out as a basic cook, like most of us, she worked diligently to expand her variety and gained excellent skills in the kitchen. One of her biggest challenges was to adjust to the cultural food differences between her and Walter. He loved Ukrainian food such as liver, chicken gizzards and perogy, while she ate Swiss/German food such as yogurt, cottage cheese, fresh vegetables, fish oil and sardines. Fortunately, especially for their children, they both loved fresh fruit.

Norma’s specialties were soups such as clam chowder and fancy wonderful deserts. She also made delicious lasagna (especially the spaghetti sauce), fancy appetizers, and a large variety of delicious cookies every holiday season.

After the wedding, Walter’s job transferred him to Utica, New York, where their first child Kathie was born in 1954, before moving back to New Jersey. Norma and Walter decided to take a risk, be adventurous and move to the country rather than remain in the city life of central N.J. In 1956, they had the foresight to purchase their first home in Pines Lake in Wayne, N.J., in a beautiful log cabin resort lake community, where their second child Kevin and third child Tim were born in 1956 and 1964 respectively.

After her first 2 children were born Norma went back to William Patterson College to finish her undergraduate degree and eventually went on to complete her master’s degree in education. No small feat when you have 3 children. During this time, they also moved across the lake to a larger home for their growing family. Norma worked for the Oakland school system for 25 years. She was a much-loved and very hard-working elementary school teacher who taught in a regular classroom for many years and eventually became the schools math specialist teacher, before retiring.

After raising their children and finishing her teaching career, Norma moved to the Stoneybrook section of Sarasota, Florida in 1998 with Walter. Norma loved living in Florida. She also followed in the footsteps of her parents who also moved to Florida after they retired. Norma loved meeting new people and volunteering to help others. She volunteered at Shelby Botanical Gardens, Women’s Exchange, and tutored non-English speaking children at their Church. She loved doing water aerobics and going to the beach at Sarasota. They remained in Florida for the next fifteen years before moving back to New Jersey and settling at the Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains, where they joined many old friends from Pines Lake.

Norma and Walter had a very active social life and many friends. They enjoyed time with many families with young children like themselves. Walter and Norma’s children will also always look back and remember the social gatherings at their house. There were many parties, Bridge games/groups throughout her life, tennis games, swimming, boating, ice skating, and so much more. For the 4th of July parades, Norma made the costumes for her children, while Walter built the parade floats. Norma was also an active member of the Pines Lake Garden Club. It was really a wonderful place to live and grow a family. Norma loved being busy, keeping active and playing games. The family had so much fun playing games together both cards, board games and tennis, among others.

When her children were young, Norma and Walter took the family on wonderful camping vacation adventures with other families and friends. They went down to the Jersey shore camping in Cape May, Stone Harbor, Sea Isle City, as well as up north to East Orleans and Wellfleet in Cape Cod Massachusetts and on down to Washington, DC, camping by the side of the Potomac River. Norma and Walter also loved to go antiquing especially at the Jersey shore, much to the dismay of her children who did not like waiting in the car and wished they were at the beach (but who now appreciate the antiques). They also loved to take their children to craft shows up and down the east coast. Later in life Norma and Walter traveled to Europe and to the Panama Canal.

Besides cooking Norma loved to sew, quilt, knit, crochet make crafts and garden. She perfected everything she taught herself. When Walter started doing craft shows up and down the east coast from Massachusetts to Virginia to sell his hand carved decoys, Norma decided she needed to also sell something she made. So, she learned to quilt and then sold the beautiful detailed handmade quilted blankets and pillows that she made, as well as stuffed toys. She also sewed many wonderful pieces of clothing for her children. Norma loved all the antiques Walter restored and the furniture that he built, and which she displayed proudly throughout their house. Norma also developed a love and appreciation for local artists and their artwork. The first artist she loved was Ruth Nielssen from Pines Lake. Later in life she collected paintings by local Sarasota artists and Cape Cod artists, displaying their beautiful watercolor paintings in her home.

Norma loved being with her family, going with us to visit her parents and Walters parents, every other weekend, for wonderful family gatherings and dinners. When we went to Norma’s parent’s house, the family had picnics on a blanket under the weeping willow tree and also played croquet. There were many fun times. When the blessings of grandchildren came into their lives, Walter and Norma looked forward to their visits at their home in Florida and she helped care for her grandchildren when needed. Norma and Walter were very active members of the St. Michaels Church in Wayne for more than 16 years, where Norma taught Sunday School. They also attended Preakness Reformed Church for over 20 years, and when they moved to Florida, they were members of and regularly attended and served at the Church of the Palms.

Norma was the beloved wife of Walter; loving mother of 3 children: Kathie Babjak Genge of Fairfax, VA (husband George Genge, daughter Nicole McConnell, her husband Ian Mc Connell and children Charlotte, Coleman and Caroline) of Fairfax, VA and son Jason (and his daughter Freya) of Fairfax, VA; Kevin Babjak of Topeka, KS (and his son Sean, Sean’s wife Heather and their children Connor, Cooper and Collin) of Wichita Kansas, and Tim Babjak (wife Dena, and their children Austin and Ashley) of Wayne; Norma, was the dear sister of Marcia Prevost of Hobe Sound, FL and dear Aunt of Bruce, Mark, Gary and Danny Prevost. Norma dearly loved her husband, sister, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren;

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Norma’s name are asked to consider a gift to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America , American Heart Association and  American Cancer Society.

Barbara J. Nolan, age 92, of Lincoln Park passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 while receiving the loving care of her family.

She was born in Paterson and raised in Hawthorne, NJ. Barbara graduated from Hawthorne High School with the Class of 1950.

Her first job was working at Kresge’s in Paterson where she was hired as a cashier during the holidays. Soon after high school Barbara entered Nursing School at the Englewood Hospital’s Nursing program. In 1953 she worked at that hospital’s newborn nursery, then at a pediatrician practice in Englewood, and later a newborn nursery at Valley Hospital in Ridgewood. Barbara went on to have three children, James, Thomas, and Nancy, and made a career choice to care for her own family. When her youngest, Nancy, was about thirteen years old Barbara got tired of watching soap operas and began working as a substitute school nurse with the Wayne Board of Education. She found school nursing very rewarding and became a part-time nurse for Wayne Valley High School. Soon she transitioned to full-time school nurse at George Washington Middle School in Wayne. After twenty years there she retired in 1996.

Barbara sang swing era music with the Roy Meyer Swingers, a modern harmony choral group based in Oakland. This was a big part of her life for about 40 years and blessed her with many friends. She also enjoyed dancing with the Best Foot Forward Dance Troupe who would tap dance for veteran groups, seniors, and at area nursing homes. Her life partner for 24 years, Charlie Nunzio, asked her to join the troupe. Already into ballroom dance, she wanted to learn tap dancing since she was a little girl. Charlie would prove to be a worthy ballroom dance partner and a much-loved companion.

Barbara was an active parishioner of Saint Mary’s RC Church in Pompton Lakes. She volunteered at the church’s Food Pantry, knit for the Shawl Ministry, and was active with the Christian care-giving Stephen Ministry of the church. Barbara also applied her listening and nursing skills by volunteering with a hospice program. In her spare time, she took a flower arranging course at a community college and enjoyed working with and arranging plants and flowers. One of her greatest joys was food, and Barbara was a fabulous cook and even better baker. Her special touch on Kilkenny Corned Beef, raspberry bars, and all types of desserts will be greatly missed. She also ministered with her baking, bringing her kitchen creations to church functions and the hospice patients she visited.

Barbara is survived by her two sons; Thomas Nolan and his wife Stacey of Wayne, NJ, and James Nolan of Boca Raton, FL, one daughter Nancy Nolan of Pompton Lakes, NJ, three grandchildren; Ceara Nolan of Wayne, NJ, Shayla Nolan of Wayne, NJ, and Haley Nolan of Ft Lauderdale, FL, one niece Susan Gilpin, and one nephew Robert Gilpin. She was predeceased by her brother Robert Gilpin, and her parents Francis and Edith Gilpin.

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In lieu of flowers, those wishing to donate in Barbara’s name are asked to consider St Mary’s RC Church in Pompton Lakes

Martin Dekker, Jr., age 87, of Fairfield, NJ, died peacefully at home on Wednesday, December 18, 2024. He was in the comforting presence of his loving family at the time of his passing.

Martin was born in Paterson, NJ and grew up in Clifton, graduating from Clifton High School in 1955.

Martin was predeceased by his loving parents, Martin and Catherine (Hoogmoed) Dekker, his stepmother Nellie Hook and his two dear sisters: Mrs. Nellie Baum and Mrs. Johanna Vander Weile.

Martin served his country in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1959. He was employed in the savings and loan business as a mortgage executive for many years. More recently he was actively engaged in the courier business until retiring in 2015.

Martin was a life-long member of the Netherlands Reformed Congregation in Clifton where he served on the consistory for 32 years, taught Bible Class for 52 years and also served as a catechism teacher.

Martin was the beloved husband of Carol (Post) Dekker, blessed by God in marriage for 63 years. He was the loving father of Edward M. Dekker and his wife Terri, and Caryn R. and husband Richard Van Sweden, and he was the cherished grandfather of Jessica Van Sweden, Kyle Van Sweden, Ryan E. Dekker, and Abigail L. Dekker.

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

Netherlands Reformed Christian School

164 Jacksonville Road

Pompton Plains, NJ 07444

Operation Kindness, NJ

23 Quaker Church Road

Andover, NJ 07821

Please indicate that your gift is in memory of Martin Dekker, Jr.

Eugene “Gene” Ingrassia, age 88 of Wayne, NJ passed away on Tuesday, December 17, 2024.

Born in Newark, NJ on October 23, 1936, to the late Anthony and Mary (nee LaVecchia) Ingrassia, Gene was raised in Irvington, NJ. He graduated from Irvington High School with the class of 1954 and attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1958. In 1963, after attending evening classes at the Newark College of Engineering (now NJIT), he received a Masters of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering and obtained his Professional Engineering License in NJ. In 1978, after attending the weekend program at Fairleigh Dickenson University in Rutherford, he received his Masters Degree in Business Administration.

Gene started his career at Kearfott in Clifton and Little Falls, NJ, where he met the love of his life, Patricia Grale. They married on June 7, 1964, and moved to Wayne, NJ, living there for over fifty years at four different locations. Their son, Jeffrey, was born in 1966 and daughter, Christie, in 1969, both in Wayne. Gene and Pat celebrated sixty years of marriage together this past June.

Gene and Pat had made a decision early in their marriage to place family ties first. This greatly influenced his work life in that despite many opportunities, they never relocated outside of New Jersey.

Besides Kearfott, he held positions of ever-increasing responsibility at Litton Industries/Monroe/Litton Business Systems in Orange and Pine Brook, NJ; Pyrotronics, Div. of Borg-Warner in Cedar Knolls, NJ; and at Cerberus/Siemens Building Technologies in Florham Park, NJ, retiring in 2001. These companies were involved in manufacturing products in a wide variety of markets, including guidance systems for aircraft and missiles, computer accounting systems, and fire protection systems for hi-rise buildings. He was promoted from Project Engineer to Project Manager to Director of Engineering to Vice President of Product Development, all in various high technology operations, but remained in New Jersey, living in only two towns his entire life; Irvington and Wayne. Gene never lived more than thirty miles from where he was born.

Gene enjoyed regular exercise, including long walks and working out at the Wayne WMCA, where he was a member since 1980. He also served for many years as a member of the Wayne Planning Board and Wayne Environmental Committee. For over ten years, he was a Board member of his townhouse community; Manitou Homeowners Association, and six years as the President.

Besides being the loving husband to Patricia, he was a devoted father to Jeffrey Ingrassia and his wife Regina of Red Bank, NJ and Christie Vanaria and her husband Matthew of Pompton Plains, NJ.  He was a cherished grandfather to Sierra Schwartz – Benedetto and her husband James, Michelle Vanaria, John Vanaria and step grandchildren Elizabeth Barham, Robert Barham and his wife Caitlyn. He was also a loving uncle to 7 nieces and nephews. He predeceased by his brothers; Archie and Anthony Ingrassia, his sister Frances Iezzi, and his nephew Christopher Noble Ingrassia.  

In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to make a donation to your favorite charity.

John R. Redinger

September 21, 1962 – December 16, 2024

John R. Redinger, a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend to many, passed away on December 16, 2024. Born on September 21, 1962, he was the son of the late Dorothy and Ruel Redinger of Avon Lake, Ohio.  He was preceded in death by his sister, Lynne Harmon, and his father-in-law, Roger Swajger.

John graduated from Avon Lake High School in 1981, where he played football. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Business from Ohio University and was a proud member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity. After graduation, John began his career with DialAmerica’s management program, which took him to Greenville, South Carolina, and Northern New Jersey, where he met his wife, Nancy (née Swajger). Together, they built a life in Ramsey, NJ, raising their two sons, Jack and Colin.

A successful businessman, John rose to the position of Chief Marketing Officer at DialAmerica and later served as Chief Revenue Officer for another company. Known for his outgoing nature, quick wit, and sharp sense of humor, John had a gift for making people feel at ease. He surrounded himself with an eclectic group of friends, each drawn to his warmth and engaging personality.

John loved connecting with people, often forming his strongest relationships on the golf course. For him, golf was less about the score and more about the conversations, stories, and camaraderie it inspired. His ability to listen, ask thoughtful questions, and tell captivating stories made him truly one of a kind.

John was incredibly generous, often going out of his way to offer guidance and support to family and friends. As a father, he was deeply devoted to his sons, Jack and Colin, instilling in them his values, endless drive, and love.

John lived life to the fullest, though it was far too short. He had a passion for good food, fine wine, golf, and rock and roll—especially the Rolling Stones. Above all, John cherished his family, who were the center of his world.

He is survived by his wife Nancy, sons Jack and Colin, mother-in-law Alice Swajger, siblings Christopher and Tammy Redinger, Nancy Geagea, Mark and Sharon Swajger, Keith and Judy Swajger, Glenn and Jennifer Swajger, and many beloved nieces and nephews, including Emeline, Elias, Mary, Anthony, Bradley, Amanda, Leanne, Kate, Julia, Erin, Ben, Matt, Alex, Gabriel, and Ryleigh.

John’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Suzanna Buriani-DeSantis, a beloved resident of Wayne, NJ. Suzanna was born on August 7, 1946, and left us with cherished memories and a legacy of compassion and dedication. She was the beloved daughter of Arnold and Anna Burian.

Suzanna dedicated her career to serving the community, most notably as the County Representative for the State of New Jersey Division of Pensions and Benefits. Her passion for social work and her commitment to helping others were evident in her many years of service at the Passaic County Board of Social Services, where she tirelessly worked to assist individuals in accessing social programs provided by the city and state.

A devout Catholic, Suzanna found solace and strength in attending services at Our Lady of Consolation Church. Her faith was a guiding force throughout her life.

Suzanna had a deep love for rescue dogs and always had one by her side. She cherished the companionship and unconditional love they brought to her life.

Suzanna was married to Edmond Angelo DeSantis for many years, who passed away in 2012. Their union was a source of joy and strength for her.

Outside of her professional achievements, Suzanna found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved spending time in the green mountains of Vermont and the warm, sandy beaches of St. Croix. Seaside Heights was another favorite destination, where she enjoyed the oceanfront and the beauty of the shore.

Even after her retirement, Suzanna remained passionate about teaching and learning. She continued to attend conferences and maintain her credentials, demonstrating her lifelong commitment to education and personal growth. Suzanna was always fiercely competitive, constantly pushing herself to do more and achieve greater heights.

Suzanna is survived by her brother, Arnold Burian, who mourns her loss and celebrates the remarkable life she led.

Her compassion, dedication, and love for others will be remembered by all who knew her. Suzanna's legacy of service and kindness will continue to inspire us.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a local animal shelter.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gary Miller, age 67, of West Milford, NJ.  Gary passed away peacefully on Friday, December 13, 2024, while receiving the loving care of his family.

Gary was born in Paterson, NJ and grew up in West Milford.  He was one of eight children to Russell and Mary Miller.  Gary attended West Milford High School where he graduated with the class of 1975.  Following his high school graduation, Gary decided to take a different path than most of his peers. Instead of pursuing a traditional job or further education, he ventured into self-employment, starting his own cleaning business. With determination and a strong work ethic, Gary began offering cleaning services to local banks in his community.

Several years later, Gary received an opportunity to become a welder.  He worked for a few different companies including Titanium Industries located in the Northern New Jersey area.  While employed there as a skilled welder, Gary worked on a project that played a crucial role in a collaborative project with NASA, contributing his expertise to the precision manufacturing of components for space exploration.

Although Gary remained a skilled welder the rest of his life, he left his welding position behind and became a Union Mechanic working for Mid-Atlantic Forklift in Edison, NJ.  Gary’s career with Mid-Atlantic Forklift spanned a period of more than twenty years until his retirement on October 28, 2001.  Although retiring at an early age, Gary took on countless odd jobs for the rest of his life.

While living in West Milford, Gary welcomed the births of his two sons, Brian, and David.  Gary enjoyed taking his sons fishing, watching Nascar, Indy racing, and professional football.  His greatest passion, however, was for his family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Gary than spending time with his children and grandchildren.  Gary was not only devoted to his children, but also to his Catholic Faith.  He was a parishioner of St Joseph Roman Catholic Church in West Milford for many years. In 2015, tragedy struck Gary’s life when his son David passed away suddenly and unexpectedly.  

Gary was a kind-hearted man who was always able to “see the good in people.”  He was truly trusting of people, some would say almost to a fault.  Gary touched the lives of many people and will be sincerely missed by his family and friends.

Gary is survived by his son Brian Miller and his wife Valerie of Scotch Plains, NJ, five grandchildren; Zoey Miller of Scotch Plains, NJ, Aurora Miller of Scotch Plains, NJ, Tyler Miller of West Milford, NJ, Jacob Miller of West Milford, NJ, and Adam Miller of West Milford, NJ, five brothers; Russell Miller and his wife Jackie of South Carolina, Bob Miller of South Carolina, Jim Miller of South Carolina, Mark Miller of Virginia, and Richard Miller of West Milford, NJ, two sisters; Chris Majcen and her husband Gus of Virginia, and Nancy Lowe and her husband Gene of Wayne, NJ.  He is also survived by his mother Mary Miller of Wayne, NJ.  Gary was predeceased by his son David in 2015.

Dorothy (Dot) Elsie Powley, 87, of The Villages, FL, passed away peacefully at home on December 11, 2024, surrounded by her family.  She was born on November 16, 1937, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Joseph and Gertrude A. (Schuster) Schultheis.  She married Dr. Kenneth A. Powley in 1959, with whom she shared an incredible 65 years and raised two sons.

Dot graduated from Temple University in 1957 with a Certificate in Dental Hygiene Education. She worked in several dental offices before helping her husband, Ken, set up his dental practice in their home at Packanack Lake in Wayne, New Jersey.  While her focus was a stay-at-home mom, she filled in at the dental practice when needed.  

Dot was amazing at crafts, especially flower arranging.  She was a gifted painter and wreath maker as well.  She always made it look so easy!  Dot was very active in clubs at Packanack Lake, including the Welcome Wagon, Hospital Auxiliary, and the Garden Club.  After spending many winters in The Villages, Ken and Dot made The Villages their permanent home in 2016.  They thoroughly enjoyed their time in Florida by joining clubs, attending concerts, dining out, playing golf, and getting together with their many good friends.

Dot is survived by her brother, Edward W. Schultheis of Fort Walton Beach, FL; her son John Powley and wife Melanie of Frisco, TX; her daughter-in-law Ellen Powley of Wayne, NJ; and six grandchildren: Mary, Ken, Troy (and wife Courtney), Sharon, Nathan, and Jennifer.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Kenneth A. Powley, her brother Franz Schultheis, and her son Kenneth A. Powley, Jr.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in memory of Dot to Packanack Community Church, 120 Lake Drive East, Wayne, NJ 07470 or to the United Church of Christ at The Villages, P.O. Box 194, Oxford, FL 34484.

Jerry Di Santo, age 77, of Hewitt, passed Tuesday, December 10, 2024, with the comfort of family by his side.

Jerry was born and raised in Paterson, NJ. He attended Central High School and worked locally in maintenance and management services for many years, most recently maintaining plants at a local nursery. Jerry spent most of his adult life at his home in Hewitt, where he moved 35 years ago with his then wife Debbie Smith.

Jerry served in the United States Air Force as a sergeant, having toured overseas in Japan during The Vietnam War. Jerry was a true patriot and always took tremendous pride in his time serving in The Air Force.

Jerry was known for his sense of humor and quick wit, often a source of laughter for his friends and family. He lived a peaceful lifestyle, enjoying the nature surrounding him at home in his backyard and taking advantage of his proximity to Wawayanda State Park, often walking his dogs through the trails. Jerry was a devout animal lover, always attentive and kindhearted towards his numerous dogs and birds.

Jerry was predeceased by his wife Debbie, who passed in 2018, his brother-in-law Peter Geanoules and his parents Bertha Shupin and Nicholas Di Santo. Jerry was a devoted brother to Paul Di Santo and Joann Geanoules, as well as a cherished brother-in-law to Sandy Di Santo. He was a beloved Uncle to his nieces Nicole Iacolina-Alta and Angela Cleveland, and his nephews Marc and Peter Geanoules.

Donations to Ramapo Bergen Animal Refuge Inc. at rbari.org in honor of Jerry would be greatly appreciated.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Bettina Migliore (nee Donati), age 86, of Wayne, NJ.

Bettina passed away on Monday, December 9, 2024 while in the loving care of her family. She was born in Mount Vernon, NY to Mario and Florence Donati, then spent most of her childhood in Paterson, NJ after the family relocated.

Immediately following her graduation from Central High School, Bettina attended Montclair Teachers' College in Montclair, NJ, now known as Montclair State University.  She earned her degree in 1959 as well as her teacher’s certification.  Bettina found employment quickly with Eastside High School in Paterson as an English Teacher.  She later left Eastside High School and accepted a position with Little Falls Board of Education.  Bettina remained with the Little Falls Board of Education employed as a fourth-grade teacher, which was her "favorite grade to teach."  She was truly well-respected and loved by her peers and her students. Bettina remained a dedicated schoolteacher until her retirement in 1998.

While a student in high school, Bettina met a handsome young man by the name of Jim Migliore.  The two attended the senior prom together and afterwards, Jim asked her to “go steady.”  As fate would have it, they fell in love, and on June 25, 1960 Jim and Bettina exchanged wedding vows at St. Michael’s Church in Paterson becoming husband and wife.

Not long after getting married, Jim and Bettina moved to Little Falls where they welcomed the birth of their only daughter, Beth on December 9, 1964.  Shortly after the birth of their daughter, Bettina decided to put her career on hold and take on the role of a full-time homemaker.  She spent the next decade caring for and raising her daughter.  After her daughter Beth had grown up, Bettina returned to the workforce as a full-time teacher again.  In 1984, the family moved to West Paterson, now known as Woodland Park. They resided there for the next fifteen years until moving to Four Seasons in Wayne in 1999, where they were one of the original owners in the development.

Being a teacher, it came to no one’s surprise that Bettina was an avid reader.  Over her lifetime, Bettina read over two thousand books, mostly fiction.  She was a woman who found solace in the pages of books, a passion she carried with her until the very end of her life.  Those who knew Bettina best knew that her true passion in life was for her family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Bettina than spending time with her husband, daughter, and especially her granddaughter Kara.  Bettina was a warm and loving individual.  She treasured spending time with her family, helping with her granddaughter, and playing board games with her friends and neighbors.  She and her husband Jim cherished fifty-five years of loving and loyal marriage together until Jim's passing in 2015.

Bettina was a truly special person who touched the lives of everyone around her, including the thousands of students she taught over her career.  She will be truly missed by everyone that knew her.

Bettina is survived by her daughter Beth Silvestri and her husband Al of Wayne, NJ, her brother Joseph Donati and his wife Ellen of Madison, NJ, and one granddaughter Kara Silvestri.  She was predeceased by her husband Jim Migliore in 2015.

For those who prefer a charitable contribution to flowers, please consider Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Donation Processing Center, PO Box 5041, Boone, IA 50950-0041.

Elias Anthony Harraka, age 79, passed away on Saturday, December 7, 2024.

Elias, also known as Lou, grew up with his sister Carol in Paterson as the children of Anthony and Antoinette Harraka. After graduating high school, Lou enrolled at Rutgers University and around the same time started what would become a lifelong career at Dorfman Abrams Music. Beginning in a modest position, his loyalty, dedication and talent would eventually earn him a partnership at the firm.

Elias met his future wife, Antoinette, one fateful night and knew right away that she was the girl for him. Shortly after meeting Antoinette, his education at Rutgers was unexpectedly interrupted when he was drafted by the United States Army for the Vietnam War. Lou’s accounting knowledge proved valuable to the Army, leading to a stateside assignment at Fort Bliss, Texas, where he also served in the Military Police Division. After completing his military service, Lou went back to Rutgers University to complete his degree in accounting.

After graduating with his bachelor’s degree in accounting and earning his CPA certification, Antoinette and Elias were married in July 1968. The newlyweds celebrated their marriage with a honeymoon in Paradise Island, Bahamas, before returning home to Paterson. Their family started to grow with the birth of their first son, Louis. As their family grew, Lou and Antoinette moved to Wayne, NJ where they were soon blessed with two more children: Renee and Brian.

Elias will be remembered for his kind and loyal heart. His selfless nature extended beyond his family to strangers in need, a true testament to his generous spirit. While he loved to support his favorite sports teams (the New York Jets and Yankees), his greatest passion was supporting his family. He never missed an opportunity to attend his children’s and his grandchildren’s sporting events with his proud presence a constant on the sidelines. His love for travel was another constant in his life. He loved to share in that joy with his family which led to 40 years of family Aruba vacations. There he enjoyed the salty sea air, warm beaches and of course the restaurants and casinos the island had to offer.

Elias is survived by his wife Antoinette, his sister Carol Kalkan and her spouse Robert, his 3 children: Louis Harraka and his spouse Anju, Renee Kates and her spouse Joseph, and Brian Harraka and his spouse Allison; his 3 nieces: Donna, Dora, and Jennifer; and his 5 grandkids: Anjeli, Brandon, Matthew, Nicole, and Nicholas.

Elias is predeceased by his parents Anthony and Antoinette Harraka.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Tunnel to Tower’s Foundation would be greatly appreciated.

Sadie Beck, age 90, of Galloway. NJ, formerly of Wayne, passed Friday, December 6, 2024.

She was born in Paterson to Charles and Rose Seminerio and raised in the City of Paterson.  Sadie attended High School in Paterson.  

During her young working years Sadie held several jobs: one where she helped manufacture television sets as well as working at the Marcal Paper Plant in Paterson.  Having married just after high school Sadie followed her husband Al, who had joined the United States Navy, and was stationed in Massachusetts where she found work at the Welsh’s Chocolate Factory in Boston.

Sadie and Al met at the Paterson Rec Center’s roller rink.  Al fell in love with Sadie the moment he laid eyes on her.  In his high school yearbook, he even captioned his photo by saying someday he would marry Sadie. Sadie Seminerio and Al Beck were married on April 12, 1953, at St Michael Church in Paterson, NJ. Sadie and Al had a marriage that was blessed with three children: Vincent, Regina, and Angela.  They were together for sixty-two years before Al’s passing in 2014.

Sadie was a woman who held family close to her heart, coming from a large and loving family herself.  Her passion for cooking and baking made her an exceptional homemaker, known for her delicious carrot cake, meatballs, and sauce that were unrivaled. Her signature sauce, cooked in a pot lovingly named Big Ben, was a staple at family gatherings. She always made sure that her door was open to family, friends and neighbors where she would cook for each and every one of them.

In addition to her culinary talents, Sadie was meticulous with her financial management skills as she could balance her checkbook to the penny without the need for a calculator.  Sadie found joy in crocheting, often creating beautiful blankets for family members’ newborns with care and love. She also indulged in painting and ceramics, showcasing her artistic flair.  Known for her considerate nature, Sadie always put others first, showing genuine concern for their well-being. She always wanted to make sure that everyone was safe and happy.

Sadie’s love for animals knew no bounds, particularly her fondness for dogs that had been a constant source of joy to her and her family throughout the years.  Among her cherished pets is a doubly yellow Amazon parrot, now 40 years old, whose vibrant presence added a unique charm to her home.  This wise parrot can talk and picked up amusing sayings like “what the hell” from Sadie.

Sadie’s bond with her feathered companion was a testament to her nurturing spirit and deep connection with all creatures, big and small.  The parrot’s quirky phrases and endearing antics brought laughter and warmth to Sadie’s home, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere filled with love and companionship.

Sadie was the loving and devoted wife of the late Al Beck (d.2014); devoted mother of Vincent Beck and his wife Karen of Manalapan, Regina Beck of Galloway, and Angela Duva and her husband John of Stockholm, NJ; she was the cherished grandmother of Melissa Duva, Lisa Sweeny, and Lindsay Donnelly; she as the dearly loved great-grandmother of Brooke Hough, Gabby Sweeny, Danny Sweeny, McKenzie Sweeny, Trevor Donnelly and Julie Donnelly.  Sadie was predeceased by her siblings: Joe Seminerio, Frank Seminerio, and Ida LaGatta.

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

Paul Simonetti, age 94, of Haledon, passed peacefully at home on Friday, December 6, 2024.

He was born in Paterson to Anthony and Mary Simonetti. Paul was raised in Paterson and attended Paterson Vocational and Technical High School.

Paul worked at A&P grocery stores in Paterson, in the dye house industry for a few years, and then joined the United States Air Force. For the last fifteen years of his working life, he worked for the North Jersey District Water Supply Commission at the Wanaque Reservoir as a Maintenance and Construction Foreman. He officially retired in 1992.

In 1951, Paul joined the United States Air Force and was a Drill Instructor at Sampson Air Force Base in Geneva, New York. Paul was involved with sports of all kinds, including baseball, basketball, and softball, winning many base championships. He was Honorably Discharged from the Air Force on May 14, 1955, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. For his service he was awarded the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal.

Paul exemplified honor and integrity. He embodied kindness in every action, displaying a gentle demeanor alongside a remarkable strength and resilience. Paul’s capacity for forgiveness and generosity was boundless, often giving selflessly. His unwavering bravery and courage shone through even in the face of adversity, making him a true symbol of resilience. Despite a challenging medical history, Paul never uttered a word of complaint, facing his struggles with grace and determination.

Paul’s devout Catholic faith was the cornerstone of his life. His heart resonated with the teachings and values of the Catholic Church, guiding his actions and decisions. Paul found solace and strength in his devotion to the Sacred Heart, drawing comfort from its symbolism of love and compassion. Saint Anthony held a special place in his prayers, as he sought intercession and guidance in times of need. Paul’s spiritual connection to these revered figures shaped his character and inspired him to live a life guided by faith and compassion. Furthermore, Paul was a man of unparalleled fairness, common sense, and wisdom, and he was always there to guide and assist anyone who sought his help.

Paul’s life took a beautiful turn when he met the love of his life Anna Marie Farina. Ann saw Paul while he was working at the A&P on 21st Avenue in Paterson, and she thought he was the most handsome man she had ever seen. After a first date to a Paterson Crescents basketball game at the Paterson Armory, they soon fell in love. Ann would often go to the Sandy Hill Soccer Field in Paterson and watch Paul play soccer. Ann and Paul’s relationship stood the test of his being called to serve in the Air Force, and Paul proposed marriage to Ann while he was still in the service. Ann and Paul were married at St Anthony’s Church in Paterson on November 14, 1953. Paul was a devoted husband who stood by Ann unwaveringly, always ready to protect and support her. He had a natural instinct to be her shield and to help her stay focused and calm in challenging moments. Paul enjoyed the art of cooking and baking many things from scratch, including pasta and sauces. Paul and Ann have had a loving and devoted relationship of over seventy-one years.

Paul was a man who found joy in the simplicity of life’s pleasures, particularly his love for movies and television, travel, sports, and keeping up on the latest news to keep his mind sharp and engaged. Trips to the casinos and restaurants of Atlantic City were cherished moments for Paul and Ann. His quest for the perfect pizza and discovering charming Italian restaurants brought him joy, as did the simple pleasure of going out for breakfast.

In addition to being survived by Ann, Paul was the youngest of five children and was predeceased by his beloved brothers Emil Simonetti and Rudolph Simonetti and his beloved sisters Delma Cuccinello and Lena Martinelli. He loved and was loved by his very large extended family. Indeed, Paul dearly loved his many nieces and nephews, and he had a special place in his heart for his nephew Patrick Zaretski, niece Kathy Zaretski, and his great-niece Nicole Zaretski. Paul’s impact on everyone’s lives, friends and family, was profound, leaving a lasting legacy of love and fond memories that will be eternally remembered.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Wounded Warrior Project would be greatly appreciated.

Donald D. Dunn, age 90, of Passaic, NJ and formerly of Clifton, passed away on Thursday, December 5, 2024.

Born in Paterson, NJ, Donald was one of James and Marie (Belsser) Dunn’s four sons.  He was a machinist for many years with Curtis-Wright Corporation.

Donald was predeceased by his first wife Katherine, his daughter Linda Pavlick, his son Donald M. Dunn, and his brother John “Jean” Dunn. He is survived by his second wife Antoinette Dunn, his son Charles Dunn and wife Dawn; six grandchildren: Michael and wife Kiersten, Christopher and husband Garry, Cynthia and husband James, Catherine, Charles, Jr. and Steven and wife Denise; seven great-grandchildren: Steven, Johnathan, Aenoxie, Michael, Sophia, Kyle, and David; his two brothers: August James Dunn and Eugene Dunn: his three step-children: John, Michael, and Isabella “Donna”; and ten step-grandchildren: Claryssa, Justin, Ashleigh, Kassidy, Anthony, Jonathan, Maddalena, Lucia, Meilo, and Antoinette.

April 24, 1932 - December 5, 2024  

Polo Mihali passed away peacefully on December 5, 2024, in Wayne, New Jersey, surrounded by his loving family. He was 92 years old.

Born on April 24, 1932, in the village of Krinë, Albania, Polo carried a deep love for his hometown throughout his life. During his childhood, he, his mother, Amalia, and sister Marina, went through difficult times together due to the Second World War, as their home was burned down by Occupation forces and the three were left with little to eat. Their grit and tight bond as a family got them through these times, instilling the values of family and hard work in Polo that he would honor and emulate for the rest of his life.  

He served as the Commissioner of Animal Husbandry for the government of Albania for 30 years, dedicating his career to the development and improvement of the nation's agricultural sector. Polo loved traveling, gardening, and writing. A man of few words, Polo expressed his devotion for his homeland, family and friends by writing poetry.

At the age of 21, he met his wife, Katerina, with whom he would spend the next 70 years. Their enduring partnership was an inspiration to all who knew them. Together, they filled their home with laughter and music, performing original duets at family gatherings and participating in fierce dominos tournaments.  

In 1992, following his father’s footsteps, Polo immigrated with his family to the United States, where he continued to work until he retired at the age of 78.

Always a man of action, Polo could rarely be found sitting still. His curious mind and handy nature led him to constantly tinker with gadgets and machinery, from rewiring the toaster when an indicator light went out, taping headsets back together, and keeping meticulous notebooks of instructions from his grandchildren on how to use the latest computer programming.

Polo's legacy lives on through his wife, Katerina, three children, Aida, Aneta, and George, eight grandchildren, Mariela, Blerta, Valbona, Stela, Gent, Apostolos, Katerina, and Efthymia, and three great-grandchildren, Stevie, Marlow, and Jack Jr., who brought him immense happiness in his later years.

A beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, Polo will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His warmth, love, and dedication to both family and country will continue through the generations he leaves behind.

Martha Ann Plowman, aged 77, a woman of immense strength and kindness, left us on December 3, 2024 at the PAM Hospital in Sarasota, Florida with her loving family by her side after a courageous battle.

Born to Ann and Kenneth Smith of Wayne, NJ, Martha graduated from Wayne Valley High School in 1965. She became a devoted nurse, specializing in geriatric care, who dedicated her life to providing compassionate care to countless patients. She was known for her warm smile and remembered for her unwavering dedication and ability to bring comfort during difficult times.

Martha married the love of her life, Craig, fifty-three years ago on November 27, 1971. Growing by three children and many different pets, our family enjoyed Life on the Lake in Pompton Lakes, NJ for thirty years, spending summers “down the shore” at our condo in Seaside Heights, NJ. Martha loved the beach and water of all kinds and found great peace when she was near it. Naturally, when it was time to retire, she and Craig would find themselves in Venice, Florida where she lived happily with her husband and pets near the waters of the Gulf; palm trees in the yard.

Martha loved animals and she was known to rescue random strays that became pets quite frequently. Animals of all kinds were drawn to her, as if they knew they would be safe around her. Her compassion extended to people as well. She always had enough room for another seat and we often had strangers at our table on Thanksgiving. She was also an avid photographer and our homes are filled with pictures she took herself. The impact she has made on our lives is immense and her presence will be missed immensely. We learned strength from her.

Martha is survived by her husband Craig Plowman of Venice, FL, two daughters: Sandra Small and her husband Stephan of Martinsburg, WV, and Gail DeSantis and her husband Peter of Rivervale, NJ, one son Eric C. Plowman and his wife Kelly of Delanco, NJ, four grandchildren; Sam, Brooke, Kinsley, and Madison, and one sister Karen Rodriguez and her husband Edward of Inverness, FL, her cousin Gail Cahill of Pompton Plains, NJ and her adoring pets, her pup Toby and her bird Maggie.

Andrew "Andy" Sisco, age 82, passed away unexpectedly yet peacefully at home on Monday, December 2, 2024.

Andy was born in Paterson to his father Andrew, a Paterson Police Officer, and his mother Regina, a nurse. Andy was the eldest child and had four younger sisters, Pat, Noreen, Clair and Joann, all of whom he loved and cherished deeply. Andy graduated from St. Mary's High School in 1959, having played on the school's baseball and basketball teams and captained their cross country team.

Andy and his wife, Roberta Reid, met as teenagers, having grown up only two blocks apart in Paterson. They were married at Saint Bonaventure's Church on October 6, 1961 and remained devoted to one another up until the time of Andy's passing. Andy and Roberta were blessed with two sons, Kevin and Kenneth.

Andy dedicated his professional career to the supermarket industry. He started working at the ACME on Union Boulevard in Paterson as a teenager before eventually working his way up to managing a number of supermarkets throughout northern New Jersey. During that time he owned and operated the Royal Economy in Bloomingdale and the Food Barn in Randolph. Andy capped off his career as the owner and operator of an Arnold Bread Route.

Andy was a man of simple pleasures and love for his family. He was a great dad and even better grandfather. Nothing gave him greater joy than spending time with his grandchildren, Maclaine, Brindley, Holly, Drew and Jack. Earlier this year, Andy was blessed with a great-grandson, Kieran, who he would Facetime with on a daily basis.

Simply put, anyone who ever had the pleasure of meeting Andy would all tell you the same thing, he was the best. And they were correct.

Please omit flowers.

Zdenka Genc Pavlovich, age 93, passed peacefully on Sunday, December 1, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She is survived by her two sons, Robert and Davor Pavlovich, nine grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Zdenka was born in Zagreb, Yugoslavia (now Croatia) on March 12, 1931 to Mihael and Dragica Genc. She was the second oldest of six children and is survived by her older sister Mira Martinovich.

Zdenka was born in Zagreb to a poor family from the surrounding mountains. During World War II food and work were not available in the cities. The family suffered greatly, but they all survived. Baka often said that they would split up the little that they had without complaint, and they remained a very close family throughout their lives. According to Mira, Zdenka was a quiet and well-behaved child. She had some ambition to become a nun, but that was discouraged when the communists won the war. She completed school through the eighth grade and then apprenticed as a knitting machine operator. She went to work at the Tresnjaka factory in Zagreb, where she met her best friend, Maria Zidarevic, who was later her maid-of-honor and Davor's godmother.

Zdenka met her husband, Ivan (Ivo) Pavlovich, at dancing school. She had had several proposals for marriage that she rejected. She accepted Ivo's proposal, because they were in love, and because she saw Ivo’s work ethic and ambition. She was already twenty-five, which was considered old for marriage. After they married they lived with her family, but Zdenka dreamed of one day having a home of her own. Their first son, Robert, was born two years later, in September, 1959.

Zdenka and Ivo worked hard in the early years of their marriage. Due to the poor economic situation in Yugoslavia, Ivo went to find work in West Germany as a plumber/sheet metal worker. Zdenka followed soon afterwards, entrusting Robert to his grandparents and aunts in Zagreb. Their goal was to work hard, save money, and build a house in Zagreb. Around 1965 they purchased land in Zagreb and started building a house while still working in West Germany. The couple visited Robert and the rest of the family on holidays. Zdenka moved back to Yugoslavia in 1966 when she was expecting her second son, Davor, who was born in January, 1967. After a few months she returned to West Germany to work and left Davor with caretakers. At the time her sister Mira lived in the U.S. and offered to sponsor the family's immigration. Mira wanted to be close to her sister and for the family to be together. Zdenka was reluctant to leave the country she had always known, especially now that the house in Zagreb was completed, but she was persuaded by her husband and by Mira. Mira continues to remind Baka's daughters-in-law, Laura and Kim, that they should be grateful, because she brought them husbands from Europe.

Zdenka's life in America began when they arrived in New York by steamship on December 5, 1969. The family of four lived with Aunt Mira and Uncle Rudy for several months, along with Rudy's niece, Dragica Francetic, before finding an apartment in Astoria, Queens. Zdenka got a job at a German Lutheran Church in Manhattan, where she cleaned and opened/closed the church for services. She kept that job for twenty years. She was a diligent and dedicated employee, and the Pastor came to rely upon her. The Pastor appreciated that Zdenka spoke German, as well as Croatian and now English. Just four years after immigrating, Zdenka and Ivo had saved enough to purchase a house in Ridgewood, Queens, largely due to Zdenka's economic prudence. Zdenka and Ivo’s sons were raised in this house that they kept through their lives.

Ivo and Zdenka embodied a Horatio Alger story. Ivo used his training in Germany to get a job in the sheet metal industry in New York, and then he bought out his boss and started AWL Industries in 1979, just a decade after arriving in this U.S. The family went months without a paycheck in the early stage to assure that the business would survive. Although Zdenka was not a risk taker, she supported her husband in his plans. Her support behind the scenes was key to Ivo's success. Robert and Davor both went into the family business, and the business is still in the family.

Zdenka valued education and social propriety. She always encouraged her boys to work hard, be respectful, kind, and polite, and to take care of their appearance and reputation. A woman of few words, her care and generosity showed her love. Zdenka became a grandmother ("Baka" in Croatian) in 1985, and from then on she was known by everyone as Baka, a loving grandmother. As her granddaughter Liz wrote, "Baka's love was fierce and unwavering, with lipstick marks all over your cheeks. She paced her days slowly and rhythmically while caring for me when I was a young child. When she hugged, she squeezed too hard, and when she laughed, she scrunched her eyes and looked like she would cry from amusement. As I reached adulthood and faced life’s struggles, she made it known that she only ever wanted was for me and others to be treated well. I felt unconditionally loved in her presence — a precious and comforting connection that one can easily take for granted." Baka and Deda loved all their grandchildren and were the happiest when they were all together.

When Ivo ("Deda" in Croatian) semi-retired, Baka and Deda spent more time in Croatia. Each summer they would invite and sponsor their family for a vacation on one of the Croatian islands. Robert and Davor took advantage of this to reconnect with them. Baka never liked the sun, and she would sit under the trees and play with the grandchildren while Deda would be lying in the blazing sun reading the political newspaper, sleeping or tossing the ball with the kids. In the evening, the three generations would all wash up, have dinner, and listen to a local band. At times Deda would show off his dancing skills by getting his wife out on the dance floor. It was beautiful to watch them together in their element.

Baka was a wonderful cook. She knew many Croatian recipes, but her cooking was also influenced by the years in Germany when she was first married. When granddaughter Liz was little she told her that she should open a restaurant, but Baka was strictly a family cook — every day and especially on the holidays. In her modest kitchen in the house in Queens she turned out amazing three course holiday feasts featuring lasagna, spaetzle, Wiener schnitzel (now Davor's specialty), fried shrimp and calamari, and stuffed cabbage ("sarma," now Hannah's specialty). For dessert there might be almond moon cookies ("kifli," now Kim's specialty) or strudel. She made the yeasty Croatian strudel dough from scratch. She would roll the dough out to cover the whole kitchen table, fill it with walnuts, apples, or poppyseeds, then roll it up and bake it. She made enough strudel in one day to be able to give it away generously. Christmas will never be the same without Baka's strudel.

As much as Baka was an old-school cook — she cracked whole walnuts to make her walnut strudel — she also embraced American convenience foods. She served corn flakes in the morning and rice-a-roni with dinner. When she babysat the grandkids, she gave them packaged ramen noodle soup for lunch so often that the kids started calling it Baka Soup.

After Ivo/Deda passed in December, 2012, Baka became more independent. She took care of the house in Zagreb, spent time with friends, and planned for the future. She continued to be involved with her sons and grandchildren, splitting her time between New York and Zagreb. She moved in with Robert's family for a few months during the Covid shutdowns and isolation. Then she went back to Zagreb under the care of her good friend Mira Falica and granddaughter Hannah. When Mira Falica became too ill herself, it was decided that Baka should return to the U.S. and have more help. Davor and his family offered to take her in, and she had been living with them since January, 2022. She was happy with all the activity at Davor's house and to be part of his family. Kim found caregivers, Yelena and Stephanie, to take care of Baka's daily needs so that her sons could just be sons. Six months ago, Baka broke a hip and then had a stroke. Davor and his family provided comfortable and loving care right to the end when she died at home surrounded by family.

Robert “Bob” Anthony Szal, age 81, of Wayne, passed Sunday, December 1, 2024.

He was the son of Anthony and Jane Szal, of Passaic, and raised in Garfield before the family moved to Elmwood Park.  Bob attended St. Leo’s Elementary School in Elmwood Park before graduating from St. Joseph’s High School in Paterson, with the Class of 1961. He continued his education at Fordham University’s School of Pharmacy in the Bronx, NY, with the Class of 1966.

Bob initially worked for his uncle Anthony, who owned the Steigner Pharmacy on Main Street, in Paterson. He was drafted into the US Army in 1969 and served during the Vietnam War.  While in the Army, a pharmacist assignment was not available, so he volunteered for Graves Registration Duty, where he was tasked with helping to identify human remains.  After he was Honorably discharged from the Army in 1971, he worked as a pharmacist in Englewood, NJ, and then at Plains Pharmacy in Pompton Plains, and at CVS Pharmacy in Wayne, before retiring in 2010.

He was a dedicated man who served as an assistant scoutmaster for Troop 108 at Our Lady of the Valley Church in Wayne.  His passion for learning is evident, as he would frequent the Wayne Public Library on almost a daily basis.   Apart from his commitment to scouting and reading, Bob was an avid angler who enjoyed fishing in lakes, ponds, and even some deep-sea fishing at the Jersey shore in Pt. Pleasant and Lavallette.  Bob passed on his love of fishing to his beloved son Bryan, creating a special bond between them through their shared passion for the sport and fishing gear.  Despite his busy schedule, Bob managed to prioritize his family, especially his two granddaughters Juliana and Elena, whom he has lovingly cared for since the day they were born.

Bob was very proud of his Polish heritage, and kept it alive by maintaining his family's many holiday traditions.

Bob, a man of remarkable intelligence and creativity, had a deep passion for gardening that extended to vegetables, flowers, and even trees.  His love for nature was evident in the way he tended to those trees and plants, finding solace in the soil as he nurtured his garden and shared his tomato harvest with many. There was nothing like the taste of tomatoes from the abundance of the Szal Farm crop that Bob lovingly shared with great joy.  Bob’s commitment to sustainability was reflected in his daily composting routine, a practice he diligently followed.  Beyond his green thumb, Bob possessed exceptional crafting skills, especially with his granddaughters, and was known as a proficient fixer of all things broken. He was always ready to lend a hand and help solve any problem that came his way.  His legacy lives on through the beauty he cultivated and the skills he shared with those around him. He was also a devoted dog lover, and recently experienced the heartbreaking loss of his beloved yellow lab, Lacie. Their bond was one of unconditional love and companionship, as Lacie was not just a pet but a cherished member of the family. Despite the grief of losing Lacie, Bob found solace in the joy and love they shared, forever grateful for the special bond they had. Those who knew Bob also knew he had a passion for collecting flashlights, pocketknives, tools, and was one of the biggest lovers of anything LL Bean.

Bob and Marian initially met as children, when Marian was a pianist and soloist at concerts, and he was working as a coat check.  While Bob was in the Army stationed in Virginia, he was re-introduced to Marian by his dear cousin Eleanor Brangan on one of his trips home.  From this point on, Bob would return to New Jersey on weekends to spend time with Marian, gaining many speeding tickets while driving his bright yellow Corvette. There's nothing like speeding home to see the love of his life of 52 years.  Marian and Bob maintained their relationship even after he was sent to Vietnam.  Marian would send him letters and he would correspond back.  Upon his discharge from the military their relationship flourished, and they fell in love.  Bob and Marian married on July 15, 1972, at Saint Joseph’s Church in Passaic, and they honeymooned in Barbados.  After they were married, they lived in Garfield for one year before moving to Wayne over fifty years ago.

Bob was the loving husband of Marian (Halka) Szal; devoted father of Janine (Szal) Paavola and her husband Tommi of Oakland, and Bryan Szal of Ventura, CA; he was the cherished grandfather of Juliana and Elena Paavola.

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In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Our Lady of the Valley Church, 630 Valley Road, Wayne, NJ 07470 would be greatly appreciated (we will have donations cards at the funeral home).

Maria T. Herbst (nee Melz), age 90 of Wayne, died peacefully on Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024.

Maria grew up in Gottschee, a region of Austria. Her formative years were generally pleasant, living on the family farm with her parents, Louis and Theresa, and older brothers Louis Jr. and Joseph. However, the events of World War II changed things, to say the least. They lost their home and became displaced persons, and in the late 1940s, her family made the bold move from Austria to Queens, New York, where other family members had already settled. Her new neighborhood in the Ridgewood section of Queens was largely made up of Austrian immigrants from the Gottschee region. It was here, in Queens, that Maria met Walter Herbst, also from Gottschee. After a brief courtship, they were married in 1956 and began to raise a family together. Walter’s career soon required a move, and they settled in Wayne, New Jersey, in 1965. Maria and Walter were able to travel throughout their 67 years of marriage and returned to visit Austria on several occasions.

Maria was an extremely devoted wife and mother. She cooked fantastic meals every day, drove her sons to all their sporting events and activities, and enjoyed bowling and playing volleyball. She was a lunch-mother at DePaul High School for more than a decade. Maria also had a natural aura that kids gravitated to. Many of her children’s friends adored her and loved spending time at the Herbst house where she made everyone feel like part of the family.  Maria was an extremely selfless person as she always put the needs of her sons and family ahead of her own.

Maria was an exceptional cook and especially enjoyed holiday and weekend family gatherings.    It brought her great pleasure to have her family and friends gather at her home.  She was very close with her brothers and their families as well as her husband’s brother’s family.  

Maria’s grandchildren and great grandchildren brought her to a new level of joy, and she would do anything for each of them. They will never forget the special bond they shared with her, and they will carry those memories throughout their lifetime.

Maria was the glue that lovingly pulled her family together and kept everyone close. She will be dearly missed by all of them.

Maria is survived by her three sons; Walter Herbst and his wife Margaret, James Herbst and his wife Debra, and Robert Herbst; six grandchildren, Michael, Diana, Andrew, Eric, Jackson, Tessa, and eight great-grandchildren, Julia, Emily, Ryan, Norah, Colin, Jonah, Eva, and Noah.  She was predeceased by her husband Walter in 2023, and by both of her brothers.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the CTC Academy, 125 Bauer Drive, Oakland, NJ, 07436, would be appreciated.

Luz Marina, age 61 of Wayne, NJ passed away Saturday, November 30th after a long battle with cancer.

Luz Marina met her life partner, Ruben Dario at the age of 15. She had her first-born son, Juan at the age of 22.

She migrated from Medellin, Colombia with her son in 1987. Her dream was to build a future here for her family. Shortly after, her life partner also migrated and they settled in Union City, NJ where they lived for many years.

In 1989 Luz Marina gave birth to her daughter Catherine. Together, the family worked tirelessly to have a better future.  The family later moved to Wayne, NJ where they finally felt at home.

Luz Marina loved her grandchildren and lived for her children. They meant the world to her. They brought her so much joy in her hardest moments. No matter how she was feeling, when they came to visit her, she had life in her eyes again. She was the strongest person we have ever known. She loved her family and was the glue that kept them all together.

She was a kind soul, a silent giver, and a devoted sister. Her faith was unwavering until the very end. She loved God and turned to prayer to help her through her hardest moments.

She was blessed to be comforted and accompanied by all the people she loved before her soul departed.

We will remember her as she always was: a fierce woman, a loving mother and grandmother, and a loyal partner.

We would like to thank all of our friends and family for your prayers and support during this difficult time.

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Luz Marina, de 61 años, de Wayne, Nueva Jersey, falleció el Sábado 30 de Noviembre después de una larga batalla contra el cáncer.

Luz Marina conoció a su compañero de vida, Rubén Darío, a la edad de 15 años. Tuvo a su primer hijo, Juan Esteban, a la edad de 22 años.

Emigró de Medellín, Colombia con su hijo en 1987. Su sueño era construir un futuro aquí para su familia. Poco después, su compañero de vida también emigró y se establecieron en Union City, Nueva Jersey, donde vivieron durante muchos años.

En 1989 Luz Marina dio a luz a su hija Catherine. Juntos, la familia trabajó incansablemente para tener un futuro mejor. Más tarde, la familia se mudó a Wayne, Nueva Jersey, donde finalmente se sintieron como en casa.

Luz Marina amaba a sus nietos y vivía para sus hijos. Significaban el mundo para ella. Le trajeron mucha alegría en sus momentos más difíciles. No importaba cómo se sintiera, cuando venian a visitarla, volvia a tener vida en sus ojos. Era la persona más fuerte que hemos conocido. Amaba a su familia y siempre la mantuvo unida.

Era un alma bondadosa, una persona que siempre daba en silencio, y una hermana devota. Su fe fue inquebrantable hasta el final. Amaba a Dios y recurrió a la oración para ayudarla en sus momentos más difíciles.

Fue bendecida al ser consolada y acompañada por todas las personas que amaba antes de que su alma partiera.

La recordaremos como siempre fue: una mujer feroz, una madre y abuela amorosa y una compañera leal.

Gracias a todos sus amigos y familiares por el apoyo y oraciones que le brindaron durante todos estos anos.

Joseph “Joe” Colavita, age 85, a fifty-eight-year resident of Wayne, passed Tuesday, November 26, 2024.

He was born to Benjamin and Anna Colavita (nee Mikucka) in the Sandy Hill section of Paterson where the family eventually settled in the Riverside section of the city.  Joe attended Eastside High School showing an interest in art and music.  After high school Joseph briefly served in the US Army Reserves before being discharged on February 28, 1965.  Joe loved to dance and even appeared on the television show American Bandstand a couple of times.

Joe worked as a photo engraver in Paterson. Through the years he has worked at the Nabisco Factory in Fair Lawn, as a truck driver for Interstate Systems and Maislan Trucking both in Carlstadt and was a member of the Teamsters Union Local 560 before retiring in 2000.  Joe and his truck even made a cameo in the 1978 film, An Unmarried Woman.  

Joe met the love of his life Angela DeVito when both were at the wedding of mutual friends in 1961.  They fell in love and married on October 1, 1966 at Saint Andrew’s Church in Clifton.  Joe and Angela honeymooned at Montego Bay, Jamaica and in San Juan, Puerto Rico.  They had a loving and caring marriage that was blessed with three children, five grandchildren and nine cats.

Joe is a man with a heart as big as his love for his family.  Generous and family-oriented, he cherished every moment spent with his loved ones, especially the kids who brought endless joy to his life.  Joe’s sociable nature mirrors the vibrant spirit of the New York Giants, and he could engage effortlessly with others spreading positivity wherever he went.  In his downtime, Joe found solace in nature, and often would watch the National Geographic channel on television.  He loved cars and also enjoyed being an animal shelter volunteer as he always had a deep love for animals. His humorous personality lit up any room, and he was always ready to bring a smile to people’s faces and brighten their day with his laughter.  Joe’s commitment to making others happy is a testament to his kind and compassionate soul.  

Joe was the loving husband of fifty-eight years to Angela (DeVito) Colavita; he was the devoted father of Michael (Stephanie) Colavita of Caldwell, NJ, Christine Hawn (Thomas) of Falls Church, VA, and Melissa (Michael) Escudero of Tega Cay, SC; he was the cherished grandfather of Ethan Hawn, Peter Escudero, Sophia Escudero, Marie Colavita and Caitlyn Colavita. He was the brother of Barbara Donohue of Doylestown, PA, and Marlene DeGennaro of AZ and was an uncle to a host of nieces and nephews.  Joe was predeceased by his parents Benjamin and Anna and brothers-in-laws Henry DeVito, Jr. and Thomas Donohue.

In lieu of flowers please honor Joe’s dedication to animals at https://njshelter.org/donate-form-new/ Mt Pleasant Animal Shelter, 194 NJ-10, East Hanover, NJ 07937. When donating please look for the “Additional Information - Acknowledgment Details” and put “In Memory of Joe Colavita” in the Acknowledgement Details box so the family can be properly notified of your gift.

Barbara Price Rudiger was born on January 12, 1933 to William and Mildred Campbell in Passaic, New Jersey. At the age of 91, Barbara passed from this life and entered to be in the presence of Our Lord on Tuesday, November 26, 2024 while in the loving care of her family.

Barbara is formerly of Wayne, New Jersey and has resided in Englewood, New Jersey for the past two years.

Following graduation from Nutley High School, Barbara attended Katherine Gibbs secretarial school. On February 16, 1951, Barbara and Harry were married. She then moved to Great Lakes, Illinois while Harry served his country in the US Navy. In 1954 the couple returned to Nutley with their first born, Lorraine. A year later Karl was born. The young family moved to East Rutherford, New Jersey and welcomed the births of their next three children, Carol, Karen, and Mark. As the family grew, they moved to Wayne in 1960 where their sixth child, David, was born. The family remained in Wayne for more than twenty years after.

While raising the family in Wayne, Barbara was a Den Mother while her sons were in the Cub Scouts. She also spent several years as a school crossing guard. She enjoyed attending any event her children were participating in.  Barbara also worked at Fette Ford in Sales; she was ranked #1 in sales for the Tri-State area in the late 1970’s paving the path for other women to break through in sales.  In later years, Barbara was the finance manager at the dealership. Yearly family camping trips across the country, visiting forty-two states and many of the country’s national parks were enjoyed over the years.

Following retirement, Harry and Barbara moved to Myrtle Beach where they enjoyed the next twenty years together. The couple eventually moved back to New Jersey to be closer to family. They are members of the Englewood Baptist Church.

Barbara’s greatest passions in life were for her family and for serving the Lord. Barbara was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. They enjoyed 73 years of marriage.

She is preceded in death by her parents, William and Mildred, her loving husband, Harry Rudiger and her brother, Larry G.Hills, Jr.

Barbara is survived by her three daughters; Lorraine Marquez and her husband Mario of Ronda, North Carolina, Carol Rudiger of Montville, New Jersey, and Karen Rudiger of Fort Lee, New Jersey, three sons; Karl Rudiger and his wife Susanne of Charleston, South Carolina, Mark Rudiger and his wife Jamileth of Hackettstown, New Jersey, and David Rudiger and his wife Debby of Clemmons, North Carolina, nine grandchildren; Cynthia Rudiger, Bill Rudiger, Delia Caruso, Julia Hirt, Joseph Caruso, Kristen Rudiger, Kaitlin Rudiger, Nicole Rudiger, and David Rudiger, Jr., and ten great grandchildren; McKenna, Kalleb, Jaxon, Alice, Ashton, Jordon, Madeline, Emily, Brooklyn, and Mason.

The family would like to thank the staff at The Bristal of Englewood where Barbara has resided for the last two years. We also want to thank Englewood Baptist Church for their ministry and extra support to Barbara, especially over the last six months since Harry had passed away.

Janice L. Avolio (nee Decker), age 81 of North Haledon died on Tuesday, November 26, 2024. Born and raised in Wayne, Janice had lived in North Haledon for over forty-five years. She was a beloved wife, mom, grandma, sister, aunt and friend.

Janice had been an elementary school teacher throughout her career, beginning in the public school system before moving on to teach at St. Paul’s Catholic School in Haledon and later at St. George’s Catholic School in Paterson.

Janice was the loving wife of Anthony, loving mother to Michele Pellegrino and her husband Carmen of Wayne, and Anthony and his wife Linda of N. Haledon, and proud grandmother to Angela, Christopher, and Anthony. Janice was predeceased by her sister, Carol Vreeland, in 2020.

Helen Bogucz

March 12, 1928-November 24, 2024

Helen Bogucz, age 96, formerly of Wayne, New Jersey, passed peacefully in her sleep early in the morning of Sunday, November 24, 2024.

Helen was born on March 12, 1928 in Paterson, New Jersey, the sixth of eight children of parents Robert and Mary Baisch. Helen grew up on McBride Avenue and enjoyed playing in Pennington Park along the Passaic River. At age 14, Helen started playing the organ at Westside Methodist Church, starting a career that continued for more than 70 years, including serving as the organist (and often the choir director too) at Westside Methodist (Paterson), Mountain View Methodist (Wayne), First Baptist (Paterson), and Preakness Baptist (Wayne), and substitute organist at St. Peter’s At the Light (Barnegat Light) and Holy Trinity (Brant Beach).

Helen graduated from Central High School (Paterson). After graduation, Helen worked as the office manager for her brother Albert’s print shop. In September 1951, Helen’s brother-in-law introduced her to one of his first employees of his new company, saying he “is the man you will marry.” He was right: Helen married Edward Bogucz in November 1953. Helen and Ed started their lives together in Paterson in an apartment on Glover Ave. Helen served as the organist at Westside Methodist Church, and Helen and Ed were active in the Couples’ Club. And they started their life-long passion for playing a game they bought on their honeymoon, Scrabble.

In June 1956, Helen and Ed had their first child. Three months later, they moved into a new home on Heights Road, in Wayne, NJ. Helen and Ed had four children. At home, Helen and Ed enjoyed playing games of all kinds, and they passed their competitive spirits along to their children. In the mid-1960s, the Bogucz family enjoyed spending two summers at their log cabin at Lake Tamarack in Hardyston, New Jersey. Later, the family enjoyed camping throughout the Northeast, and especially at Tobyhanna State Park in the Poconos.  

Helen loved to read and learn. Over the years, she took college courses part-time. She earned her undergraduate degree from William Paterson College in 1986. Her favorite book was “A Gift from the Sea,” by Anne Morrow Lindbergh, which she read every year.

In the 1980s, Helen became office manager for a doctor in Medical Park on Ratzer Road in Wayne. Subsequently, she became the manager for the whole park. Thanks to Helen’s earnings from her positions at Medical Park, Helen and Ed were able to buy a seasonal cottage at Lake Gerard, in Hardyston, New Jersey, in 1987. Helen and Ed and their children and grandchildren enjoyed many years at Lake Gerard.

Following her husband’s passing, Helen moved to Manahawkin, New Jersey in September 2003. She loved hosting her children and grandchildren at her home and taking day trips to Long Beach Island to the beach at 29th Street in Barnegat Light and to see Ol’ Barney (the lighthouse at the northern tip of the island). In Manahawkin, Helen enjoyed going to the Senior Center once a week to play poker, and taking a bus trip with friends once a month to Atlantic City. Also, Helen loved playing Words With Friends (Scrabble) online with all four of children and many others across the country at least twice a day for many years.

In June 2023, Helen moved to Victoria Mews in Boonton, New Jersey “to be close to Dad.” Mom enjoyed making many new friends at Victoria Mews.

Helen is survived by her four children and their spouses, Edward (Susan) Bogucz of Fayetteville, NY, John (Nancy) Bogucz of Boonton, NJ, Helen (John) Materazzi of Manahawkin, NJ, and Karen (Eric) Spina of Dayton, Ohio; her grandchildren Ryan Bogucz, Kelly (Michael DuBose) Bogucz, Lyca Bogucz, Will Bogucz, Kaitlyn Spina, Emery Spina, and Danny Materazzi; and many nieces and nephews.

Charles W. “Chuck” Vreeland, Jr., age 91, of Kinnelon, NJ, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 23, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Chuck had been a proud resident of Kinnelon since the 1960s, a community he genuinely enjoyed.

Born at home in Pompton Lakes, NJ, Chuck was the first of two children of Charles and Christina (Noonburg) Vreeland. His arrival was uniquely special, as he was delivered by his Grandpa Vreeland, a skilled physician. Chuck spent his childhood in Pompton Lakes, enjoying life in the community and excelling academically, graduating from Pompton Lakes High School in 1950.

Chuck pursued a degree in engineering at Davis and Elkins College in West Virginia. After graduating, he worked briefly as a surveyor before being drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served stateside from 1956 to 1958, primarily stationed at Fort Knox, Kentucky.

Returning home, Chuck began a career in engineering that spanned decades. He first built airplane engines at Curtiss-Wright Aviation Company before joining Picatinny Arsenal, where he made significant contributions as an engineer until his retirement in 1997.

Shortly after his Army service, Chuck met Carol Mae, the love of his life, through mutual friends. Their connection was instant, and they were married on March 3, 1962, at Christ Episcopal Church in Pompton Lakes. After honeymooning in Lake Placid, NY, they settled in Pompton Lakes before building their family home in Kinnelon, where they raised their daughters, Christine and Carin.

When Chuck was just five years old, his father introduced him to chess. When he was nine, young Chuck found a worthy opponent in his Grandmother Vreeland, a skilled chess player herself. She even began calling the house regularly to invite Chuck over for games. It was clear to his parents that Chuck was becoming a remarkably talented player. Eventually, he started winning every game against his grandmother, too. Unsure exactly why he was so successful, Chuck later explained, “I bought a book and learned why.” At summer camp, Chuck’s abilities were undeniable as he defeated everyone he played, from campers to counselors—even men with college-level championship experience. His chess prowess reached new heights at the age of 15 when he beat an international champion named I.A. Horowitz. Chuck was the only one among 31 competitors to defeat Horowitz during the event. The match began at 10:15 a.m., and Chuck didn’t leave the YMCA in Paterson until 1:15 a.m. the next day. When he finally returned home, his parents, upset by his lateness, were skeptical of his explanation. However, their doubts disappeared the next day when a newspaper article featured Chuck’s incredible victory, validating his remarkable achievement.

Chuck’s love for chess was matched by his passion for outdoors. He enjoyed fly fishing in Flat Brook, NY, and spending summer days at the Jersey Shore fishing for bluefish with his father in a boat they co-owned. Tennis was another favorite pastime, with Chuck playing in Saturday morning singles tournaments at Lake Rickabear and often partnering with Carol for doubles matches.

A natural handyman, Chuck built a backyard shed, a swing set for his grandchildren, and countless other projects around the house. He took pride in tending his lawn, cultivating beautiful gardens, and growing fresh vegetables in his home garden. He found great peace and joy in these simple, fulfilling tasks.

In their early years of retirement, Chuck and Carol took to the open road in their RV, exploring America’s beauty. They visited the Grand Canyon, Mt. Rushmore, the Badlands, Las Vegas and the Hoover Dam, Acadia National Park in Maine, Cape Cod in Massachusetts, and Assateague Island in Maryland and Virgina where wild horses roam freely, creating lasting memories for the couple.

After nearly 60 years of love, laughter, and partnership, Carol passed away in 2020, leaving a void in Chuck’s life that he filled with the love of his family, particularly his grandchildren. To them, he was the ultimate “Grandpa,” known for his hilarious humor, wit, and wisdom, and boundless patience. He helped with math homework, taught chess, played card games, and taught them how to fish. Whether attending birthdays, school events, or graduations, Chuck and Carol never missed a moment to support and celebrate his grandchildren.

Chuck was a man of contrasts: he could light up a room with his humor and charm but was equally content in quiet solitude, reflecting on his latest pursuit. His absence leaves a profound void, but his family and friends will treasure the countless memories and lessons he left behind.

Charles was predeceased by his beloved wife Carol (nee Decker) in 2020. He is survived by his two loving daughters: Carin Vreeland of Waldwick, NJ and Christine Schneider and her husband Mike of Westbrook, CT; four grandchildren; Michael and Charlie Schneider of Westbrook, CT, Anna Schneider of Boston, Massachusetts, and Nicole Sulikowski of Waldwick, NJ; his dear sister Mary Jane Vreeland-Owens and her late husband Ronald of Wayne; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In honor of Charles and Carol’s love of nature, in lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Charles’ name are asked to consider:

The Land Conservancy of New Jersey

19 Boonton Avenue

Boonton, NJ 07005

If you prefer to donate by phone, please call 973-541-1010.

Please indicate that your gift is in memory of Charles Vreeland.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gloria V. Schmidt (nee VanVolkom), age 86, of Riverdale, NJ.  Gloria passed away peacefully in her home on November 20, 2024 while receiving the loving care of her family.

Gloria was born in Newark NJ, and lived briefly in Kearny before her family moved to Lyndhurst NJ.  She was the youngest of three children to Francis and Helen VanVolkom. Gloria attended Washington Elementary School in Lyndhurst, NJ and graduated from Lyndhurst High School. Gloria was predeceased by her parents Francis and Helen VanVolkom, her sister Phyllis Rieves, and her brother Frank VanVolkom.  

Gloria’s first job after high school was with Bell Telephone, which was a great job for her because she loved talking on the phone.  Gloria left the workforce to become a superstar mother and homemaker to her five children.  Once Gloria’s children were in school she returned to the workforce, first as a cafeteria worker at West Essex High School in North Caldwell, NJ, where a smile, a friendly greeting or manners would always get you an extra helping of the daily special.  Gloria left West Essex High School and went to Adlai E. Stevenson Elementary School in Fairfield, NJ  as a Kindergarten assistant where she spent many fulfilling years and touched the lives of hundreds of children fortunate enough to be in class with her.  Gloria enjoyed creating memorable crafts with the students often completing the crafts at home adding her beautiful penmanship to the craft.  After retiring, Gloria spent a few more years as a substitute assistant at Stevenson Elementary School, continuing to provide the love and support the children flourished from.

Gloria’s heart was as pure and loving as the Hallmark Movies that she loved to watch on a daily basis, and she always had a kind word for everyone she met.  In her younger years, Gloria was an avid bowler and spent many years in bowling leagues with her girlfriends.  Gloria loved the many summers that she, Don and their children spent in Fort Myers, FL with her parents, sister, nieces and nephews.  The beach and waters of the Gulf of Mexico were home to her.  In their later years, Don and Gloria vacationed in Myrtle Beach SC, in a Villa they shared with Kathy and Rich.  Gloria loved spending hours sitting at the water's edge talking or reading the many books that she was always known to have in her purse.  Sundays at noon were always reserved for her phone calls with her mother in Florida, with Gloria sitting at the kitchen table with her ear to the rotary phone and the long cord attached.  Gloria and Don have been blessed with amazing lifelong friends who they vacationed in the Poconos with, played cards with, went out to dinner with, and partied with, that filled their lives with priceless memories.  Gloria embraced the times when her children and their families got together for holidays, special celebrations and vacations.  

Gloria met the love of her life, Don when she was only 10 years old and he was 12, and they’ve been together for the last 76 years.  Gloria and Don were married on September 20, 1958, at Sacred Heart Parish in Lyndhurst and Honeymooned in the Poconos.  The newlyweds settled in Lyndhurst, NJ for several years and started a family, before moving to Fairfied, NJ as their family grew. Gloria and Don were blessed with five children, Karen Meador and her husband Glen, Kathy Poshkus and her husband Rich, Karolyn Adams and her husband Warren (Nippy), Kristine Muller and her husband Keith, and Donald Charles Jr. (DJ).  Gloria and Don continued to be blessed with twelve grandchildren, Michael Meador, Paul Meador, Shawn Meador and his fiance Mariah Sayger, Jeffrey Poshkus, Jaclyn Poshkus and her partner Corey Bailey, Kyle Adams and his wife Kaitlin, Jennilyn Adams, Tyler Adams and his fiance Zoiee Baumgartel, Eric McMullen, Thomas Muller and his wife Nicole, Brian Muller and his fiance Jessica Cronin, and Zachary Muller.  Gloria and Don were overjoyed to welcome their first great grandchild, Mason Adams.  Gloria is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends who were more like family to her.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in Gloria’s name are asked to consider a donation to The Alzheimer's Association or The Atlantic Visiting Nurse Hospice Organization

Cynthia “Cindy” Lou Worell, age 52 of Wayne, passed away on Sunday, November 17, 2024.

Born and raised in Ogallala, Nebraska as the only child of Gerald and Mary Jo Rolenc, Cindy pursued her passion at cosmetology school, which first brought her to Destin, Florida. She spent a decade there cutting hair and bartending before landing a position in NYC with Redken, a professional hair care and styling company in 2001. When the world changed that year, she instead established herself at a central New Jersey Salon. Cindy’s clients all considered her a friend and her success working at that salon inspired her to open her own salon, The Artistry 2020 out of Woodbridge, NJ with Michelle and she continued to be her own boss for several years.

Cindy also had a passion for tattoos and in 2015 her artist suggested she go on a blind date with another one of his clients, Brian Worell. They were both getting a similar Japanese style tattoo and Cindy’s artist saw a connection just waiting to be made. He could not have been more right because Cindy and Brian instantly hit it off and started dating before officially tying the knot on December 11, 2022. The two were in love and they complemented one another perfectly. The couple loved to travel making frequent trips out to Cabo San Lucas including one last trip to visit their close friends just a few weeks before Cindy’s passing.

Cindy always had a smile on her face no matter what life threw at her. She loved punk rock / hard rock concerts and colorful outfits. She enjoyed long walks in the woods with Brian, her yellow lab Daisy and her black cat Gary, but also fast rides on the back of Brian’s motorcycle for brunch and beers in the country. She was filled with life and everyone who was blessed to get to meet her instantly considered her a friend. She was the group organizer who threw fun themed parties like her famed Tiki parties with their accompanying themed drinks – her favorite of course being her famous Mai Tai.

Cindy was and will always be an inspiration to all who knew her. When she was first diagnosed with breast cancer, she never let her diagnosis bring her down. She never complained and never missed a day of work even while undergoing chemo. Her attitude through cancer was so remarkable that her oncologist asked her to be a public speaker to inspire other woman battling breast cancer. She was empowering, inspirational, and a comfort beyond words to her “breast friends” as she liked to refer to them.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation to Guardians of the Ribbon in Cindy’s honor.

Kathryn Elizabeth Newell, age 95, of Green Pond, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 20th, 2024, in the comfort of her home, after getting to spend one last night with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Kathryn was born to John and Margaret Green in Closter, NJ, and she had a younger brother, Bob. Kathryn was raised in Closter, but her family spent their summer vacations in Green Pond, where she would ultimately end up living full time. Kathryn attended Closter High School, and after graduating she became a medical assistant with the Closter Medical Group until 1957. Kathryn left her job at the Closter Medical Center to start a family, but her passion for helping others did not end there. She joined the Green Pond First Aid Squad and she was an active member for 40 plus years. Kathryn was also one of the founders of Green Pond Security, where she was a force to be reckoned with until she retired at the age of 86.

Kathryn enjoyed crocheting, knitting, and playing bridge and mahjong. She was a fixture of Green Pond, as she was kind, sociable, and always up to date on the local gossip. Kathryn would often be found sitting on the front lawn, talking with anybody that walked by. But above all else, Kathryn was devoted to her family. She took great pride and joy in hosting family dinners every Sunday without fail, with attendance often nearing 30 people. She also loved attending her children’s sporting events, concerts, and plays, and she later continued doing the same for her grandchildren.

Kathryn rode the Red & Tan bus line to school, and she became friendly with the bus driver, Harry Newell. One fateful day, Harry set Kathryn up on a blind date with his brother, Clayton. Kathryn, being the cautious type, wouldn’t go anywhere with him, so they simply went back to her house in Closter and talked. They started dating shortly after, and Clayton rented an apartment in Fair Lawn, as it was much easier to visit Kathryn in Closter. The two married on June 23, 1956, and they built a home in Paramus, where they lived from 1956 through 1981. They spent their summers in Green Pond, staying at Kathryn’s parents’ house on Shadyside Lane. Then in 1972 they received a surprise gift from Kathryn’s father: her own summer home in Green Pond with Clayton. It was nothing glamorous, but they enjoyed every minute they spent there together. When describing the house, Kathryn would say “well you could see the outside from inside, and I’m not talking about looking out the windows.” The two eventually built a new house in its stead, and they called it home for the rest of their lives. Kathryn and Clayton had a real-life fairytale love story, the kind we should all emulate. They were inseparable until Clayton’s passing in 2015.

Kathryn is predeceased by her parents, John and Margaret Green, her brother, Bob Green, and her loving husband, Clayton Newell. Kathryn is survived by her three children, Scott Newell, Donna MacQuesten, and Deborah Knorr, her 9 grandchildren, her 7 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to

Green Pond First Aid Squad

PO Box 251

Green Pond NJ 07535

Donna Dowling, age 62 of Pompton Lakes, NJ, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 alongside her loving family.

Donna was born in Passaic, NJ in 1962 to John and Rosemary Maddocks, and she was raised in Oakland, NJ where she attended Indian Hills High School. She continued her education at West Virginia University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Family Resources, cum laude.

Following college, Donna worked for PSE&G in their energy conservation division and married Rory Dowling. They moved to Pompton Lakes in 1994 and were blessed with their first set of twins, Christopher and Patrick. While raising her first set of twins, Donna continued working at PSE&G and held several different positions in sales and marketing until 2000, when she and Rory were blessed with their second set of twins, Sara and Sean.

Her focus and passion was raising her four children. She worked at St Mary’s school, where her children attended, in the lunchroom, playground, and aftercare. She volunteered at snack stands for sporting events, brought the kids to sports practices and games, and taught them at home outside of school. She also helped family and friends file taxes and took care of family members in need.

Donna cherished spending time with family and friends. She found joy in cooking meals for them especially during different seasons. Whether it was shish kebabs, pot roast, chili, garlic bread with steak, chicken cacciatore, taco salad, or something plainer like fried chicken cutlets or pasta, she always ensured her company were well-fed and happy. She enjoyed watching movies and tv shows with her family, often over a bowl of Häagen-Dazs coffee ice cream.

Donna loved taking her family on vacations. They routinely traveled to Disney World, and Donna specifically liked the Hollywood Studios park which had her favorite ride, the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, which represented her love of music. Some of her favorite trips included an Alaskan Cruise in 2007 where she got to see the northern lights, a road trip out west with family and friends in 2013, attending the Twinsburg Ohio Twins Day Festival in 2006, and of course regular trips down to the Jersey Shore.

Donna had a strong connection with nature. She often found peace in her backyard while looking at the sky and stars or relaxing in a steaming hot tub outside listening to nature. She gardened, landscaped, and pointed out aspects of the environment that she found beautiful. She liked being around a fire pit and family and friends with a perfectly toasted s’mores sandwich and hot chocolate in her hand.

Donna was a quiet, thoughtful person who valued her close relationships. She enjoyed attending local events such as tricky trays and concerts. She was often lucky, winning prizes at tricky trays and hitting the jackpot on slot machines.

Donna was an incredibly caring person who always helped those in need. She had a brilliant mind that could solve things effectively. She would offer anyone help with anything even if she had to figure it out on her own.

Donna touched the souls of everyone who encountered her and will be remembered for her caring, gentle, kind, and loving demeanor. She always maintained a calm temperament and patience that were second to none. Her care for her pets, including Rusty, Angel, Tommy, Oreo, and many others, revealed her loving, motherly character. Donna’s smart, hardworking, and patient temperament will be deeply missed by those who were lucky enough to know her.

Donna is survived by her husband Rory Dowling, four children, Christopher, Patrick, Sara, and Sean, her mother Rosemary Maddocks, her siblings John Maddocks and Beth Helmke, and many other family members who remember her with much heartfelt admiration. She was predeceased by her father John Maddocks.

If you are interested in making a donation, the LUNGevity Foundation provides various services for patients with lung cancer. You can find donation information on their website: Lungevity Foundation

Audrey A. Hampson (nee McPeek), age 90, of Wayne passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 17, 2024 with the comfort of her family by her side.

Audrey was born and raised in Paterson, NJ and was the cherished daughter of Leonard and Ann McPeek.  She graduated from Eastside High School in Paterson having performed in many dance recitals and shows with the class of 1952.

Audrey’s first job was as a cosmetician in the Meyers Brothers Department store in Paterson, NJ for several years until she had children.  Once the children were older, Audrey began working at Preakness Pharmacy and then Meyer Brothers Department store, in Wayne, where she resumed her cosmetology career.  She had this role for 15 years until they closed.  She then worked as a cosmetician as an Estee Lauder representative in the Macy’s Preakness branch for 5 years until retirement.

Audrey was loving and caring, devoted to her family and always would speak her mind.  She was an excellent cook and planned many meals during her lunch breaks from work to ensure her family always had a sit-down family meal.  Audrey loved having the holidays at her home in Wayne for family and friends.  The St. Patrick’s Day celebration was spent with many pounds of corned beef, cabbage and potatoes.  There were always friends stopping by for her famous apple and pumpkin pies on Thanksgiving and they were always welcome.  She always made special meals for her boys and daughter-in-law’s birthdays too.  While still working, she would spend her one weekday off from work taking her grandchildren to the Environmental Center or Abma’s Farm in Wyckoff and/or many playground parks like Barber Pond in Wayne. At one time, Audrey was an antique collector, and her favorites were character spoons.

Audrey was an active member of Wayne Little League working the snack stand and with her family witnessed their World Series winning game in 1970.  She was also a volunteer at Preakness School library and was frequently the class mother for her two boys classes at Preakness School.  Audrey was also an active member of the Calvary Gospel Church in Wayne for over 70 years.  Her faith was a big part of her life and she and her husband William raised their boys in an active Christian home.

After retirement, Audrey shopped for many homebound people in Wayne and the neighboring communities.  She was very involved with the Golden Age Club of Wayne and was the VP for several years arranging the many exciting trips for that group.

Audrey was the beloved wife of William Hampson Sr.  She met the love of her life, William, at a sweet sixteen party in Fairlawn, NJ.  They were married in 1953 and were married over 71 wonderful years; married on March 11, 1953, in St. Paul’s Church in Paterson and they had their reception at the Brownstone in Paterson.  The couple honeymooned in Virginia Beach, Virginia.  Audrey and William were blessed with two boys.  Audrey was the cherished mother of William Hampson Jr. and his wife Dana, and Richard and his wife Erica.  Audrey was also the loving grandmother of six grandchildren: Elizabeth, Alexandra, Richard Jr (R.J.), Danielle, Benjamin and Jacquelyn.

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In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Calvary Gospel Church, 1559 Hamburg Turnpike, Wayne, NJ 07470 would be greatly appreciated.  https://www.calvarygospelwayne.com

Antonio “Tony” DeCandia, age 90, of Secaucus, passed peacefully on Saturday, November 16, 2024.

Antonio was born in Molfetta, Italy to Giovanni and Nicoletta DeCandia. From the age of 19 to 24 he lived and worked in Venezuela before emigrating to the United States in 1966 with his wife Maria and two sons John and Sergio on the SS Raffaello.

Antonio met his wife Maria (nee Ciccolella) when he returned to Italy from Venezuela. They married on January 24, 1959 at the San Guiseppe church in Molfetta and honeymooned in Napoli. They have had a loving and devoted marriage of sixty-five years that was blessed with four children and seven grandchildren.

The family lived in Hoboken, NJ for twelve years until they moved to Secaucus in 1978 where he lived for the past forty-six years.

Antonio worked as a cabinetmaker for the Cocheo Brothers, Inc. in Weehawken, NJ for almost thirty years before retiring in 1996. While there he made custom furniture, cabinets, and all types of woodworking for everything from high-end homes to casinos.  Once retired he enjoyed making homemade mozzarella and torrone as well as roasting chestnuts. He enjoyed playing the Italian card game Scopa, watching boxing, soccer and bus trips to Atlantic City with Maria and their friends.  He also enjoyed going to the beach at Sandy Hook, NJ, and numerous trips to his home in Molfetta, Italy. The family would often spend summers at their home in Molfetta and at the Lido Algamarina resort.  

Antonio was the beloved husband to Maria DeCandia; devoted father of the late John DeCandia (d.2020), Sergio DeCandia and his wife Mary (nee Travers) of Verona, NJ, Nicoletta Minervini and her husband Julius of Wayne, NJ, and Enza Crespo and her husband Daniel of East Rutherford, NJ; he was the cherished Nonno (grandfather) of Anthony, Dylan, and Sean DeCandia, Giovanna and Olivia Minervini, Daniel and Matthew Crespo.  Antonio was predeceased by his siblings Mauro DeCandia, Susetta Calo, Pasquale DeCandia, and Giuseppe DeCandia.

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In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the American Cancer Society.

Clifford John Garrigan, 83, of Wayne, New Jersey passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on November 17, 2024.

Cliff, known as “Jim” by family and friends, was born on April 5, 1941, in New Jersey at Paterson General Hospital. He grew up in Wayne and graduated from Wayne Valley High School in 1959. Cliff served in the US National Guard from 1963 through 1969 and then pursued a career in commercial and industrial real estate. He started his own company, CJ Garrigan Real Estate Agency and later partnered with Alice Sheckfee to create Garrigan and Sheckfee Real Estate Agency. Cliff was a member of the National Association of Realtors and the Industrial Real Estate Brokers Association of the NY Metro Area. He served as the President of the Passaic County Board of Realtors in 1982. In the 1970’s, he was Secretary of the Wayne Jaycees and shared his time among the active leadership for the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 131.

Cliff enjoyed years of memorable outdoor activities: down the shore to Island Beach State Park, Sunday trips to New York City, ski trips to Pennsylvania, skating on Packanack Lake and visiting local parks with his family. In his later years, he enjoyed walks with his wife near Packanack Lake.

Cliff is survived by his wife of 58 years, Carol, and his four children, James, Kathy, Steven, and David, three grandchildren and his sister, Janet Grimal.

The Garrigan family requests that donations in Cliff’s name be directed to Valley Hospice c/o The Valley Hospital Foundation, 4, Valley Health Plaza Paramus NJ 07652, and/or Wayne Memorial First Aid Squad, PO Box 291 Wayne, NJ, 07474.

Keith Steven Krehel, 21, of Wayne, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Saturday, November 16, 2024.

Keith Steven was born to Karen (Kretowski) and Keith Krehel of Wayne, formerly of Dumont, Maywood, and Clifton. He joined a loving family with his sisters, Lauren and Katie.

He graduated from Wayne Valley High School in 2021. He continued his education at Passaic County Community College, where he was currently studying Business Administration. He also worked part-time with his father at Krehel Automotive Repair in Clifton.

Keith Steven was a loving and devoted brother to Lauren Kirt and her husband Mac, of Wayne, and Kathryn Shaikh and her husband Sohail, of Boca Raton, Florida. He was an incredible uncle to Madeline, Abigail, Nora, Ayaan, and Zayn, nephew to Stephanie McLaughlin and her husband Bob, Walter Krehel, and Donna Tropiano, and cousin to Bobby, Patrick, Maria, and Lisa. He is also survived by countless other cousins and friends he considered family, including Grandma, Maria, and Lenny Gioia.

Keith Steven was a friend to everyone. He was kind, compassionate, generous, funny, smart, and polite. Keith loved everyone, and everyone loved Keith. His favorite activities included being on his boat (or any boat), clamming, and anything by the water. He enjoyed racing go-karts and going to the boardwalk, especially the arcade. He looked forward to family game night, and recently added poker to his repertoire. He was passionate and knowledgeable about technology, motors, stocks, and politics, and could talk your ear off for hours about any. His pastimes included fixing anything with a motor that was broken, and reviving seemingly irreparable technology.

For Keith Steven, as he was called by most, his life was his family, including his dog, Charlie. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, whether to help out Uncle Walt with his boat, help a friend fix their computer, help family members rake leaves, or help shovel snow. He was also a wonderful and energetic stand-in flower boy/ring bearer at Lauren and Mac’s wedding. He was always up for anything, and always with a smile on his face.

Despite facing many medical adversities in his short life, he never complained and accepted these challenges with a positive attitude that was contagious. He deserved better. He was truly the most wonderful son, brother, nephew, uncle, and friend. He will be missed and loved forever.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Epilepsy Foundation

It is with tender hearts that the family of Irene Helen DelBalso (nee Stecina), age 91 of Wayne, NJ announced her crossing into heaven on Thursday, November 14, 2024, while receiving the loving care of her family. The family is comforted in knowing that Irene left this life to be reunited with her beloved husband Ron who passed four months prior.

Irene was born in McAdoo, Pennsylvania to George and Suzanne Stecina. She graduated from McAdoo High School with the Class of 1951.  

During her high school years Irene worked at the local 5 and 10 store for 25 cents an hour. She later worked for the Department of Defense in Harrisburg, PA as a secretary for a US Army Colonel.  During her time at the Department of Defense she was part of the Civil Defense having to identify and document planes as they flew overhead.  Over the years she worked as a secretary for Dell Publishing, Hoffman La-Roche Corporation, and the Prudential Corporation. She was employed as the clerk for the Board of Elections with Passaic County. For several years she worked at the family business, Dell Disposal and one of the trucks was named Irene in her honor. Irene and Ron later started and co-owned another family business, Wayne Dinettes which was established for close to 50 years.

Irene met the love of her life, Ron DelBalso, in the 10th grade at the McAdoo High School in McAdoo, PA.  They officially began dating when Ron spied Irene at a party. Irene had been taken to the party as another man’s date, but Ron stepped in and told the gentleman: “I’m taking her home.” Ron’s proposal consisted of him saying they were going to marry.  Irene agreed and Ron then approached her father asking for his daughter’s hand in marriage.  Her father agreed and they married on July 21, 1951, at St. Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church in McAdoo, PA.  Their honeymoon got off to a rocky start as they tried to book a room at a hotel in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania but were not allowed to book the room as they didn’t have their Wedding License to validate that they were a couple.  Ron’s brother Joe “Dody” came to the rescue and drove the Marriage License out to the Pocono’s for them.  After one night in Pennsylvania, they went on their honeymoon to Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Their 73 years of marriage was blessed with eight children and the continuous loving tradition of holding each-other’s hands.

Aside from working and raising eight children she was involved as a Class Mother at Our Lady of the Valley Church’s School in Wayne, was a Den Mother for the Cub Scouts, Pack 108 in Wayne.  She was also very involved with the Ladies Auxiliary of the Wayne Elks Lodge 2181. Irene was unwavering in her support for Ron doing whatever she could to ensure his success in his many community endeavors:  building Elk floats, decorating for dances, sewing costumes, and critiquing his speeches.

Irene was a last minute class cupcake maker, an up all night homework typer for reports due the next day, a costume and cheerleading uniform sewer, a snow igloo builder, a skier, a class instructor for Slovakian dance, a sleigh rider, a project maker, a spoiler of her grandchildren & great grandchildren, and the best Mom in the world. Irene loved to host company in her home: friends, neighbors, relatives and especially her children’s friends were always welcome. She could whip up a feast at the last moment and never let anyone leave hungry. Irene was the architect of countless beloved traditions that will continue to serve as cherished memories and the foundation of our family’s identity.

Irene was a woman of incredibly strong Catholic faith, and a longstanding member of Our Lady of the Valley Church in Wayne.  She had a deep devotion to the Blessed Mother and was head of the Rosary Society. For many years she helped organize Bingo, the New Year’s Eve, and costume dances at the church.  She and her husband Ron helped organize the first several church Bazar’s which eventually became the church carnival.

Irene enjoyed going to the casinos, she was the queen of the slot machines. She was a card shark who loved to play cards everyday with whomever stopped by. Irene loved to do all sorts of word games and puzzles. She often had a puzzle started on the dining room table where everyone who passed by could put in a piece or two.

Irene had a nurturing spirit. With her amazing green thumb, she would often take anyone’s dying plants and revive them. She would tenderly care for injured and sick animals. Of the countless pets and grand-pets in her life, each of her furry companions held a special place in her heart, and she treated them as family, spoiling them with affection and care.

Throughout her life Irene showed us through her words and actions that “Family always comes first.” There aren't words to describe the gratitude we have for all she was in our lives. Irene will be remembered for her compassion, warmth, generosity, kindness, and her unwavering love for her family. She created a sense of peace wherever she went. Irene’s spirit will live on in the heart of all that were fortunate enough to know her. Irene’s legacy is love, generosity, strength and joy.

Irene was predeceased by her husband Ron DelBalso. They were blessed with 8 children: Ronald Del Balso Jr. & wife Jill, Beverly Jerger & husband Richie, Lois Van Lenten & husband Jack, Michael Del Balso & wife Mary, George Del Balso, Danny Del Balso & wife Nancy, Jan Lewinsohn & husband Larry, Alison Del Balso.

Irene was the cherished grandmother of: David Van Lenten & wife Kathryn, Michael Van Lenten & wife Gabriela, Matthew Lewinsohn & Kaitlyn, Shawn Van Lenten, Michelle Lewinsohn, Devyn Del Balso & Erich, Connor Del Balso & Brianna, Kyle Del Balso, Tyler Andreas, Ryan Tighe, Jake Andreas, Robbie Tighe, Shannon Tighe, Arthur Newcombe & wife Carla, Joey Newcombe, Dustin Newcombe & wife Naizsha, Rick Jerger (deceased) & wife Terri, Tammy Fabela & husband Jammie, Eddie Horn & wife Heather, Arron Poole, Athan Santa Cruz, Andreas Santa Cruz.

She was the devoted great grandmother to: Madison Van Lenten, Mae Van Lenten, Kristian Van Lenten, Lily Van Lenten, Declan Van Lenten, Penelope Newcombe, Lucianna Newcombe, August Newcombe, Rick Jerger & Gabby, Scottie Bosma & wife Jackie, Shane Bosma & wife Caitlyn, Trever Fabela, Jammie Fabela & wife Brianne, Noah Olm, Ethan Horn, Alexander Cengi.

And the adored Great Great Grandmother of: Holten Bosma, Trent Bosma, Dayton Reilly, Paisley Fabela, Zayne Fabela.

Predeceased by her siblings Mary Wasko, John Stecina, Susan Prokopovich, Anne Zachok, and Margaret Mattie.

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

Marlene Hoogerhyde, 93, of North Haledon, was called home to heaven on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, to be with her Lord and Savior.

Born in Paterson, Marlene was the cherished daughter of Charles and Mary (Scott) Kara. She grew up in Hawthorne and graduated from Hawthorne High School with the Class of 1948.

After school, she began her career as a legal secretary with Freeman, Buttermore, and Freeman of Paterson.

Marlene was the devoted wife of Garret “Garry” Hoogerhyde, Sr. Their love story began with a blind date arranged by one of Garry’s friends while he was on leave as a U.S. Army lieutenant range officer. Determined to make a good impression, Garry arrived at Marlene’s house in his full Army uniform. Though neither could recall the details of that first date, it clearly left an impression. The two were married on May 8, 1954, at the Hawthorne United Methodist Church. The reception followed downstairs in the church fellowship hall, and the couple honeymooned through New England, culminating in a visit to Niagara Falls.

After their honeymoon, the newlyweds settled into an apartment on Virginia Avenue in Paterson, conveniently located above Garry’s office—leaving him no excuse to be late! They moved several times over the years, prompted once by the planned construction of Route 80, which would have inconveniently passed straight through their living room. Ultimately, they made their home in North Haledon, most recently at the Windmere, formerly the Holland Christian Home.

Marlene embraced her calling as a homemaker and mother to eight children, a role she carried out with grace, humor, and military-like precision. With Garry’s Army background perhaps rubbing off on her, she ensured that her household ran like a well-oiled machine. The house was always immaculate, and everyone had a job. Dinnertime was a coordinated effort, with

tasks like setting the table, clearing dishes, washing, drying, and putting everything away shared among the kids. Marlene’s culinary skills were legendary within the family—she was a master cook and preferred savory meals over baking, much to everyone’s delight.

For a brief period, Marlene decided to step outside her home and took a job as a waitress at the Brick House Restaurant in Wyckoff. It only took three weeks for her to realize that her role at home was far more fulfilling, and she quickly retired from the restaurant business.

Marlene had an interesting sense of humor and a practical outlook on life. She loved sewing clothes for her family, doing needlework, and solving word search puzzles. A loyal fan of Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune, she declined to join family game nights but could always be heard shouting out answers from across the room.

Her home was always open to others. Whether hosting friends, family, or church guests, she famously said, “I’m already cooking for ten—what’s two more?” Marlene had a heart for service, writing cards or notes of encouragement, making phone calls, and offering prayers. Her mile-long prayer list was a testament to her faith and love for those in her life.

Marlene’s faith was the foundation of her life. She and Garry raised their children in a Christian home, attending churches such as Fair Lawn Orthodox Presbyterian Church, Living Hope Church in Nutley, and most recently, Church of the Covenant in Hackettstown, NJ. Marlene was also Garry’s most trusted assistant during his many years of service on the OPC hospitalization committee, embodying the spirit of partnership and devotion.

Her love extended beyond her children to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who could always count on a birthday card from Grammy. Marlene and Garry made it a tradition to take annual trips to visit their family, no matter how far away they lived.

Marlene was known for her strong convictions, which were grounded in her daily readings of the Bible, and for her unwavering love for her family. While she was opinionated and tough when needed, her warmth, humor, and faith left an indelible mark on everyone she met.

Marlene was the beloved wife of Garret, Sr., blessed by God in marriage for 70 years. She was the loving mother of eight children: Stephen Hoogerhyde of Hackensack, Susan and husband George Lindemulder of Wanaque, Roy and wife Juanita of Nazareth, PA, Kathleen and husband Timothy Kline of Fair Lawn, Glenn and wife Jill Hoogerhyde of Lynnwood, Washington, Stuart and wife Karen Hoogerhyde of Lynden, Washington, Garret, Jr. and wife Anita of Bothell, Washington, and Douglas and wife Leah Hoogerhyde of Franklin Lakes; cherished grandmother of 20 grandchildren, adored great-grandmother of 21 great grandchildren, and dear aunt of numerous nieces and nephews. Marlene was also predeceased by her brother Charles Kara, Jr. and her sister Elaine Catello.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Marlene’s memory to one of the following charities that were close to her heart:

The Orthodox Presbyterian Church

Worldwide Outreach

607 North Easton Road, Bldg. E

Willow Grove, PA 19090-2539

Mid-America Reformed Seminary

229 Seminary Dr.

Dyer, IN 46311

Elizabeth Rost Gaston, beloved mother, grandmother, aunt and friend passed peacefully on November 12th, 2024 at the age of 90.  Her last moments were in the company of her loving daughter, son in law, and long term nursing assistants. A woman of faith, she received the final sacraments of the Roman Catholic Church.

Elizabeth was born on her father’s birthday, February 7, 1934. She was a gift, not only to her father, Alan Rost, but to all who her knew her throughout her long life. Her early years were spent in Minnesota. In high school, she moved with her family to Memphis, then on to Little Rock, Arkansas where she attended Mount St. Mary’s Academy. She later graduated from Webster College in St. Louis with a degree in Education and became a teacher.

She married Michael Linton Smith in June of 1958 and started her family in Georgia, giving birth to Matthew Linton, Catherine Louise and Patrick Battle. After her divorce, she moved her young family to Little Rock, Arkansas in a VW Beetle. There, her challenges continued when, after fourteen months, her youngest son died of the measles. Fortunately, she had support from her parents, but for a single mother raising children in the 60s there were plenty of life's challenges.

Even for women with a college degree, the work world in the sixties provided few sustainable job opportunities. Elizabeth worked in the offices of several organizations, including the March of Dimes and Blue Cross Blue Shield. In the late 60s she was hired at Philander Smith College as the Assistant Director of the Upward Bound program. In that position she had administrative duties that were more suited to her education, creativity and temperament. She gave that position her all. Beyond routine administrative duties, she advocated for her her students fearlessly. She stood down the Little Rock police who wanted to search the boys dormitories without a warrant. She faced off with the owner of a swimming hole who didn’t want any Philander Smith students swimming in his water.

Her next job allowed her to more fully realize her professional and social justice goals. She was hired by the Arkansas Department of Education to supervise Follow Through, a Federal Title 1 program - a position that required a Masters Degree, which she avidly pursued and achieved.

Her supervisor at the Arkansas D.O.E was Sara Alderman Murphy, who founded the Arkansas chapter of The Panel of American Woman in 1963. Elizabeth became an active member shortly afterwards. It provided, for her, an opportunity to learn more about women’s experiences and to share her own as a professional, single mother in the South.

Elizabeth remained at the Arkansas D.O.E. until her retirement. Later in life, she married Alton Gaston and remained with him until his death in 2011. Not long afterwards she moved to Montclair, NJ to live closer to her daughter. As she became older and her health declined, Catherine worked selflessly to manage her needs until her eventual passing.

If a sign of character is the list of friends a person brings with them through the years, Elizabeth’s list was long. Throughout her life she was a a bold voice for those who, through no fault of their own, had been treated unfairly. This quality earned her the love and respect of all who knew her.

Throughout her life, Elizabeth’s commitment to her family was unshakable. She prioritized her children’s needs. She took them on vacations, funded school trips, sent them to college and committed a thousand other selfless acts. She demonstrated the same fidelity to her children and the grandchildren. She is survived by: Matthew Smith, Catherine Smith Halbert (Douglas),  her grandchildren Dylan Edeal-Smith (Chloe), Juliet Smith, Declan Halbert and Louise Halbert. Stepchildren David Gaston, Andy Gaston, Richard Gaston and their families. She also leaves behind countless nieces and nephews who will forever cherish the memories of their wonderful “Aunt Liz”; A woman whose smile lit up every room she entered.

Elizabeth Rost Gaston, beloved mother, grandmother, aunt and friend passed peacefully on November 12th, 2024 at the age of 90.  Her last moments were in the company of her loving daughter, son in law, and long term nursing assistants. A woman of faith, she received the final sacraments of the Roman Catholic Church.

Elizabeth was born on her father’s birthday, February 7, 1934. She was a gift, not only to her father, Alan Rost, but to all who her knew her throughout her long life. Her early years were spent in Minnesota. In high school, she moved with her family to Memphis, then on to Little Rock, Arkansas where she attended Mount St. Mary’s Academy. She later graduated from Webster College in St. Louis with a degree in Education and became a teacher.

She married Michael Linton Smith in June of 1958 and started her family in Georgia, giving birth to Matthew Linton, Catherine Louise and Patrick Battle. After her divorce, she moved her young family to Little Rock, Arkansas in a VW Beetle. There, her challenges continued when, after fourteen months, her youngest son died of the measles. Fortunately, she had support from her parents, but for a single mother raising children in the 60s there were plenty of life's challenges.

Even for women with a college degree, the work world in the sixties provided few sustainable job opportunities. Elizabeth worked in the offices of several organizations, including the March of Dimes and Blue Cross Blue Shield. In the late 60s she was hired at Philander Smith College as the Assistant Director of the Upward Bound program. In that position she had administrative duties that were more suited to her education, creativity and temperament. She gave that position her all. Beyond routine administrative duties, she advocated for her her students fearlessly. She stood down the Little Rock police who wanted to search the boys dormitories without a warrant. She faced off with the owner of a swimming hole who didn’t want any Philander Smith students swimming in his water.

Her next job allowed her to more fully realize her professional and social justice goals. She was hired by the Arkansas Department of Education to supervise Follow Through, a Federal Title 1 program - a position that required a Masters Degree, which she avidly pursued and achieved.

Her supervisor at the Arkansas D.O.E was Sara Alderman Murphy, who founded the Arkansas chapter of The Panel of American Woman in 1963. Elizabeth became an active member shortly afterwards. It provided, for her, an opportunity to learn more about women’s experiences and to share her own as a professional, single mother in the South.

Elizabeth remained at the Arkansas D.O.E. until her retirement. Later in life, she married Alton Gaston and remained with him until his death in 2011. Not long afterwards she moved to Montclair, NJ to live closer to her daughter. As she became older and her health declined, Catherine worked selflessly to manage her needs until her eventual passing.

If a sign of character is the list of friends a person brings with them through the years, Elizabeth’s list was long. Throughout her life she was a a bold voice for those who, through no fault of their own, had been treated unfairly. This quality earned her the love and respect of all who knew her.

Throughout her life, Elizabeth’s commitment to her family was unshakable. She prioritized her children’s needs. She took them on vacations, funded school trips, sent them to college and committed a thousand other selfless acts. She demonstrated the same fidelity to her children and the grandchildren. She is survived by: Matthew Smith, Catherine Smith Halbert (Douglas),  her grandchildren Dylan Edeal-Smith (Chloe), Juliet Smith, Declan Halbert and Louise Halbert. Stepchildren David Gaston, Andy Gaston, Richard Gaston and their families. She also leaves behind countless nieces and nephews who will forever cherish the memories of their wonderful “Aunt Liz”; A woman whose smile lit up every room she entered.

In lieu of flowers the family requests any memorials be made to Saint Jude’s Children's Hospital.

Philomena Ann Giannini, age 92 of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 10, 2024.

Ann was born and raised in Newark, New Jersey to Lillian and Joseph Cifelli, growing up as one of four children. After graduating from West Side High School, Newark, she attended the Washington School for Secretaries, which led to her first job in a doctors’ office in Essex County.

Later, she caught the eye of Anthony Giannini, a returning army soldier from military service in Korea, who happened to live across the street from her, while waiting at a bus stop. Anthony asked Ann on a first date to see Johnny Ray at the Paramount Theater in New York City. Persistence paid off and Ann and Anthony fell in love . They got married on November 14, 1954 at St. Rocco’s RC Church in Newark and honeymooned in Miami Beach, Florida.

Upon marriage Ann and Anthony lived in the Ivy Hill Section of Newark. They later purchased and moved into their three family house in Irvington where they started a family and were blessed with three boys. As the family grew they were looking to move to a larger home outside of the area. Anthony was looking for homes in Wayne however, Ann wasn’t ready to leave their tight-knit community in Irvington for what was then considered “the country”. In 1966, she finally agreed to the move and never looked back. They became parishioners at Holy Cross Church where they were involved in the church community and formed many long standing friendships. They were members of the Wayne Elks and the Golden Age Circle. They made Wayne their home and lived there for 58 years. During that time they saw Wayne grow from the “country” to the town it is today. Once her boys were in school, Ann began working at the Wayne Public Library in 1975 where she remained for 23 years before retiring in January 1999.

Ann and her family spent many summers enjoying the salty sea air of the Jersey shore together. She and Anthony shared a love of travel, venturing to Hawaii for their twenty-fifth anniversary and traveling to Italy with family and friends. They also enjoyed regular trips to California to visit Ann’s sister Louise. Despite the thousands of miles between them, the two sisters stayed as close as the day they moved apart, talking nearly every day with one another.

Ann leaves behind a legacy of boundless love and devotion to her family and friends. A natural hostess, she loved to entertain friends and family at their home in Wayne, preparing countless meals for celebrations and holidays all while maintaining a full-time job. She was always well dressed and glamorous, and her grandkids affectionately referred to her as “Glam-ma”. Her friends and family will miss her incredible cooking, baking, and most of all her loving presence in each of their lives.

Ann is survived by her sister Louise Wolfe: her children Michael and wife Virginia (Federico) of Wayne, NJ, Anthony and wife Sharon (Leins) of Blandon, Pa and Daughter-in-Law Jane (Kunis) of Bethlehem, Pa; and cherished grandmother of six grandchildren: Anthony, Deanna, Michael, Christina, Stephanie and Ava and her two great grandchildren: Kinsey and Liam. She is predeceased by her husband Anthony (2017), her son Robert (2004), her parents: Joseph and Lillian Cifelli; and her siblings Anthony Cifelli and Joseph Cifelli.

Petronila 'Pet' Darang Paulino, age 75, of Passaic, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at 9:19 p.m., with the comfort of family by her side.

Petronila was born to Jose and Pelagia Darang and graduated from Jones Rural School in Jones, Isabela, Philippines, where she was a member of the cheerleading team. She continued her education at Arellano University in Manila, Philippines, earning a Bachelor of Science in Home Economics.

A retired healthcare professional, Petronila worked alongside her husband to care for others with warmth and kindness. She touched the lives of her patients and coworkers with her gentle spirit and ready smile. Petronila’s compassion will be deeply missed, but her memory lives on in all who knew her.

She was warmhearted, caring, and devoted to her family, always willing to be of service. An amazing cook and master of fried lemon chicken, Petronila loved spending time with her grandchildren. Known for her sense of humor, she was the heart and soul of every family gathering. She visited her children and grandchildren every week, always ready to help in any way she could.

Petronila is survived by her beloved husband, Freshly; her four children—Donna, Freshly Jr., Fritzie, and Glenda; her ten grandchildren: Ivana, Kurt, Joshua, Brianna, Trixie, Iana, Jordan, Jared, Aubrey, and Xia; and her adopted daughter and grandson: Madeline and Mitchell.

Kathleen Burklow, age 95 of Pompton Plains, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, November 7, 2024. At the time of her passing, she was surrounded by her incredibly loving family. Kathleen was a faithful and trusting servant of Jesus Christ, always placing the needs of others above her own, benevolently sharing the Gospel.

Kathleen was one of four children born in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, to Homer and Elizabeth (Schnell) Smith, spending her early years surrounded by the beauty of Idaho's lakes and forests. Her father's work in the lumber industry initially kept the family rooted in Idaho, but the challenges of the Great Depression brought changes. When Kathleen was in middle school, her family relocated to Nutley, New Jersey, after her father secured employment at Port Newark through the support of his lumber industry connections. Kathleen's journey across the country reflected the resilience and adaptability that would become hallmarks of her life.

She graduated from Nutley High School in 1947 and worked for Hoffmann La Roche as well as Mutual Benefit Insurance Company. Prior to marriage, she moved with her family to Oxford, NJ where her father was able to secure work in the coal industry.

Kathleen and her husband Miles “Tom” Burklow, were high school sweethearts, having met in the 10th grade. She was a drum majorette, and Tom was star of the football team. They both attended the Brookdale Baptist Church in Bloomfield and were married there on October 7, 1950. They enjoyed a ‘road trip’ style honeymoon, traveling through New England and all the way up to Canada before returning home to live in Clifton. In 1959, they settled in Pompton Plains to raise their family. Throughout the years, they’ve enjoyed family vacations to Long Beach Island, the Caribbean, and untold visits to various historic sites. Tom and Kathleen’s marriage and family life was rooted in Christ’s love - a firm foundation, which enabled them to spend seventy loving and blessed years together until God called Tom home in March of 2021. They had been active members of The Chapel in Lincoln Park since 1971, and Kathleen lived out her faith each and every day.

Kathleen’s life was marked by countless selfless endeavors. She volunteered as a Pink Lady at Chilton Hospital in Pompton Plains. Through the years, when various friends of their own sons struggled with painful or difficult life circumstances, they could always find Kathleen and Tom offering an open door to their home. There they were able to experience Kathleen and Tom’s living example of love, warmth and support, prompting many to embrace them as second parents. Many of their son’s friends will recall Mrs. Burklow showing up at school in her blue, two-door Morris Mini Minor (the predecessor of today’s Mini Cooper). It was the tiniest of cars but, never refusing a kid a ride, she’d gladly pack scads of youngsters into that car. Kathleen and Tom were loyal fans of Pequannock Township High School football and wrestling, where they practically wore out their seats in the bleachers at Panther Stadium and the Pequannock Gymnasium. They had been enthusiastically cheering on generations of aspiring athletes in town, and their presence in the stands will be dearly missed.

When Kathleen and Tom moved to Pompton Plains in 1959, they embraced their new community and they created the "Burklow's Gym" - building a literal addition onto their house, creating an over-sized garage to accommodate a Universal, two Olympic free-weight sets, a wrestling mat, and other exercise equipment.  The "gym" was open to anyone who was willing to keep the rules (no cursing; no drugs, cigarettes or alcohol brought on the property; leave the gym as clean, or cleaner, than you found it). The "gym" was self-policed by those who trained out of their respect for Mr. and Mrs. Burklow. It drew young athletes and weight trainers from multiple municipalities. Plus, you could walk into the "gym" on a summer day and find an Olympic athlete, an NFL player, and a young student getting ready for his freshman year in high school sharing gym space. Being a pro at cooking for the masses, it was perfectly common practice for Kathleen to invite anyone working out in the gym around dinnertime, to grab a plate and join the family for a home-cooked meal. In the summertime, Kathleen was happiest when her boys, her grandchildren, and anyone’s friends….even the whole neighborhood were enjoying themselves in her and Tom’s pool. It was acts of generosity like that which inspired some to name their home and property “Burklow Land” and others to name their children after them.

Kathleen was the loving and devoted wife of Miles “Tom” Burklow, blessed in marriage for 70 years until Tom’s passing in 2021. She was the most loving mother of Tom (Miles, Jr.) Burklow and his wife Debbie, Todd Burklow, and Tim Burklow and his wife Linda, all of Pompton Plains; adored grandmother of seven grandchildren; Benjamin and his wife Diana, Morgan and his wife Jacqueline, both of Boonton Township, Timmy and his wife Sara, Lauren, Jason, Merrissa and her husband John Pires, all of Pompton Plains, and Kaila and Donnie Roberson of Middletown, Delaware; (Kathleen had a pillow with the words “My favorite people call me Nanna” on it.); cherished great-grandmother of eleven great-grandchildren; and dear sister of: Rich Smith and his wife Christine of San Clemente, California, the late Carol Montagno, and the late Morgan Smith.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Kathleen’s memory would be appreciated to The Chapel, 264 Jacksonville Rd., Lincoln Park, NJ 07035. You can also donate online at TheChapel.org

Frances Marie Vitale, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at the age of 101, with her devoted family by her side.

Born in 1923, in Paterson, NJ, Frances was the cherished youngest of James and Pauline LaPuzz’s eight children – four girls and four boys. She grew up spending countless good times with her cousins, who were instrumental in her encounter with a handsome young man, Alexander “Alex” Vitale. After Alex’s service overseas in the U.S. Army during World War II, the two married and made their first home together at 402 East 25th Street in Paterson.

Frances supported her husband, Alex, in their family business, "Al and Marie's Dry Cleaning," in Paterson, where she worked occasionally while primarily dedicating herself to her role of loving mother and homemaker. In 1968, Frances and Alex moved to 7 North Road in Wayne, NJ, where they continued to build a life filled with love, laughter, and hospitality. They made this house their home and Frances even remained there after Alex’s passing in 1995. In total, she lived there for more than five decades until she moved to Sunrise Assisted Living in Wayne just six months ago. Frances embraced her time at Sunrise, where she relished the company of fellow residents and participating in numerous enjoyable activities.

Frances’s life was marked by a legacy of caring for others, beginning at an early age when her parents passed away. She lovingly looked after her older brothers and sisters, later becoming the heart of her own family. Frances also endured the profound loss of her young son, Alex, who passed away at just seven years old—a sorrow she carried with quiet strength and resilience.

The quintessential homemaker, Frances created a welcoming home filled with laughter, the smell of good food, and an ever-brewing coffee pot. Her door was always open to family, friends, and neighbors alike. Known for her delicious Italian cooking, Frances had a knack for sharing her treasured recipes—though she’d always leave out a secret ingredient or two, ensuring hers was always the best! Her Christmas Italian “Stuffolis” cookies were a family favorite, and she delighted in seeing her loved ones enjoy the treats she made with love.

Frances hosted unforgettable gatherings. Every New Year's Eve, her basement would transform into a lively celebration, complete with gag gifts and a midnight game of charades that would signal to guests it was time to head home. Her backyard barbeques were legendary, bringing together family, friends, and neighbors who were all touched by her kindness and infectious spirit.

Known for her natural approach to life, Frances seldom wore makeup and had a wealth of home remedies to keep everyone well. She relied on “hot toddies” with whiskey, Tylenol, and rest instead of prescriptions and credited her long life to daily shots of apple cider vinegar, garlic, and onions. She loved a good Rolling Rock beer mixed with birch beer, adding her own twist to every tradition. With her skilled hands, she could sew anything—from clothes to household essentials made from old sheets and towels.

Frances loved simple pleasures: a walk with friends, reminiscing about “the good old days,” and quiet moments of prayer each day. She was the family’s Florence Nightingale, caring for others with an unwavering heart, ever faithful and devoted.

A remarkable woman, Frances remained active and sharp up until her last moments, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, resilience, and love.

Frances was the beloved wife of Alex Vitale, blessed in a loving and tender marriage until Alex’ passing in 1995. She was the loving mother of Marie Hess who predeceased her in 2023, Alexander Vitale who predeceased her in 1958, and Linda Romanyschyn and husband John of Bloomingdale, cherished grandmother of Carly Hess and Kristen Allemand and husband Scott; adored great-grandmother of Olivia and Maddison Allemand, dear sister of four brothers and four sisters who all predeceased her, and dear aunt of numerous nieces and nephews.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Steven Spence Travers, age 73, of Pompton Plains, NJ.

Steven passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 6, 2024 while receiving the loving care of his family.  He was born in the Bronx, NY and was raised in Fort Lee, NJ.  Steven was the younger of two children to Joseph and Helen Travers.  As a young man he attended Fort Lee High School where he played basketball.  Following his graduation from Fort Lee High School with the class of 1969, Steven worked in motorcycle sales and management.  

In 1975, Steven accepted a sales position at Camrod Motorsports.  Steven spent an impressive thirty-seven years at Camrod MotorSports, one of New York City's most prestigious and largest motorcycle dealerships.  His dedication and sales expertise led him from an entry-level position to the role of general manager. Steven was always quick to qualify a sale and approached every customer with his unique style that combined his expertise with his quick wit. He made the process of purchasing a motorcycle fun, humorous, and exciting for his customers, as well as his co-workers.

Steven was an exceptional salesman, earning numerous national sales awards throughout his career for his ability to read customers and close them.  He was truly well respected and deeply loved by everyone who worked with him. Steven's reputation was built on a foundation of humor, fun, love, and his work ethic.  Steven’s forty-five career ended in 2020 when he retired.

In 1974, Steven’s mother introduced him to a young attractive lady named Pamela Michaels.  Steven’s mother was a buyer at the jewelry distributor, Cartier, Pamela worked for.  The two hit it off wonderfully and started dating.  As fate would have it, they fell in love and on September 12, 1976 Steven and Pam became husband and wife.  The newlyweds settled in Fort Lee for a short time and while residing there, they welcomed the births of their two sons, Michael and Justin.  As their family grew, Pam and Steven decided to move to Fair Lawn where they bought their first home.  They called Fair Lawn their home for the next thirty-four years, raising their family there until 2021 when they moved to Pompton Plains.

Steven was a true New Yorker at heart, with an unwavering passion for his hometown teams: the New York Yankees, the NY Giants, and the NY Knicks. He could often be found cheering them on, whether at the stadiums or in front of the TV.  Outside of sports, Steven had a love for movies, particularly the classics, which he’d watch time and time again. His musical taste was as varied as his interests; he was a lifelong fan of The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. He also treasured his weekly wagers with the New York and New Jersey Lottery.

Those who knew Steven best knew that his greatest passion in life was his family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Steven than providing for and spending time with his children and grandchildren.  He treasured the countless vacations he spent with his family to various destinations such as Disney, Bermuda, and other exotic places throughout the Caribbean.  His greatest passion was watching his children participate in activities like sports & theatre. Steven was also quite the animal lover, often showing his softer side to his cats, which he loved dearly. Steven and his wife Pamela have cherished over forty-eight years of loving and loyal marriage together.

Steven was a generous, thoughtful man who had a way of finding the funny side of any situation.  He enjoyed teasing those close to him and often found great joy in surprising his friends and family with unexpected gifts.  

Steven was truly a special person who touched the lives of everyone he knew.  He will be sincerely missed by his family and friends.

Steven is survived by his wife Pamela Travers (nee Michaels), two sons; Michael Travers and his wife Samantha of Wayne, NJ, and Justin Travers and his wife Daniela of Rutherford, NJ, four grandchildren; Colton Travers, Navy Travers, Daniel Travers, and Quinn Travers, and one niece Coleen Garabedian.  He was predeceased by his brother Floyd Travers.

Charles Downing Ferry II, age 91, passed away on Tuesday, November 5, 2024.

He was born in Orange, NJ and grew up on Walker Road, West Orange where he spent his youth. After a long stint in the Air Force and living in many places in the United States, he returned to Glen Ridge before moving to Pompton Plains in 2007.

Charles received his formal education at West Orange High School, graduating with the Class of 1951. He then went to Upsala University in East Orange where he was enrolled in the Air Force Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program, graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration. Upon graduation, he married Belinda (nee Beach) Ferry in June of 1955 and then began his military career.

He joined the United States Air Force in 1956 and graduated from pilot training in May of 1957. Charles acted as both an instructor and a command pilot, flying C130 cargo aircraft in tactical and evac missions in and out of Vietnam, and KC-135 refueling tanker aircrafts where he flew as aircraft commander in SAC (Strategic Air Command). This was at a time when that plane was brand new and played an important role in the early years of the Cold War. Upon returning to the States, Charles continued flying the KC-135 and was promoted to Major while flying his final leg as an Air Force Pilot in the EC-135. That aircraft was a highly specialized version equipped to handle the tracking and telemetry between the Apollo-Soyuz spacecraft and mission control; a highlight in his 20-year military flying career since it was part of the historic joint US-Russia space missions which led to the launch of the International Space Station!

After retirement, Charles settled down in Glen Ridge, NJ where he found a new calling in public service. He was part of the volunteer fire department for Glen Ridge and the Volunteer Ambulance Unit. He eventually became the first paid member of the Montclair Ambulance Unit and helped pave the way for future paramedics out of Mountainside Hospital.

After the untimely passing of Charles’ son-in-law John Acampora in 2003, Charles stepped in to be a father figure for his grandkids when they needed him most. It was not uncommon to see paramedic trucks parked outside his home and he would explain every component of that truck for his grandkids to learn. They truly loved him and valued the incredible insight he could teach from his first-hand experience. The mark he left behind on their lives can’t be overstated and they will miss him dearly.

Beyond his time spent in the skies and helping those in need, Charles enjoyed his hobby of gardening and growing delicious vegetables at his home. He also loved snow skiing, making many excursions to Vermont and Pennsylvania slopes during the cold winter months.

Charles was a member of the Air Force Association, Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion and the Disabled American Veterans.

Surviving Charles are his two daughters: Lisa Acampora and her husband Robert Barbara of Wayne and Alison Psota and her husband Michael Psota of Wanaque; his two sons: Robert Ferry and his wife Tara Ferry of Riverview, Florida and Charles Ferry and his wife Margaret Ferry of Deerfield, Michigan; his sister Nancy Grove of Michigan; his six grandchildren Michael Acampora and his wife Rihana, Christopher Acampora and his wife Karley Acampora, Maxwell Ferry, Ava Ferry, Hannah Balla and her husband Abdul Balla, and Charles Ferry and his wife Taylor Ferry; and his three great-grandchildren: Levi Balla, Mariah Balla, and Madison Acampora. Charles was predeceased by his wife of 53 years Belinda (nee Beach) Ferry (D. 2008).

If you’re looking to send flowers, the family requests that you instead make memorial donations to your local volunteer ambulance or VFW in Charles' memory.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jane F. Boyle (nee Cooper), age 98, of Lincoln Park, NJ.  Jane passed away peacefully in her home on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 while receiving the loving care of her family.

Jane was born and raised in the city of Paterson, NJ and was the oldest of three children to Cornelius and Loretta Cooper.  As a young girl, Jane excelled in academics and was able to skip a grade level during her elementary education.  She attended Eastside High School while living in Paterson and graduated with the class of 1943 a year early.

Jane found employment quickly after her high school graduation as a secretary with the Erie Lackawana Railroad in Paterson NJ.  She worked there for several years.  As a young girl just out of high school, Jane went roller skating with a few friends at a local roller skating rink.  She caught the eye of a handsome young man by the name of Joseph Boyle that skated past her as she was sitting on a bench putting on her roller skates.  Joe struck up a conversation and the two hit it off wonderfully and started dating.  Shortly after they started dating, the Second World War broke out.  Joseph enlisted in the United States Merchant Marines and was sent overseas to Europe.

As fate would have it, Joseph returned safely to the United States and the two exchanged wedding vows and became husband and wife.  Shortly after getting married, the newlyweds settled in a small apartment in Paterson.  While residing there, they welcomed the birth of their first child, James.  Joseph and Jane moved to Hawthorne shortly following the birth of their first child.  While in Hawthorne, they welcomed the births of their next four children, Thomas, Susan, Joseph and Kathy.  Jane and Joe cherished forty-three years of loving and loyal marriage until Joseph’s passing in 1991.  Jane moved to Lincoln Park after Joseph’s passing and has been there ever since.

Jane made the decision to become a homemaker after getting married, devoting her life to caring for and nurturing her family.  This was truly Jane’s calling and where she flourished.  She enjoyed playing golf with her husband, her sister, and her brother-in-law.  Throughout the years she also treasured boating with her family in up-state New York and vacationing in Florida to visit with family.

It was clear to everyone that knew Jane, her greatest passion in life was for her family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Jane than spending time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She was not only devoted to her family, but also to her Catholic Faith.  Jane was a parishioner of St Joseph’s RC Church in Lincoln Park for many years.  Jane also did Catholic Scouting for other Roman Catholic Churches over the years and was awarded the St George Award for her efforts and dedication.

Jane was the epitome of kindness and humility. She lived her life with a quiet grace, always putting others before herself. Her sweetness was easily recognized through her gentle nature whether she was offering a comforting word to a friend or lending a helping hand to a neighbor. Despite her modest means, Jane found joy in giving, regularly donating to a variety of charities close to her heart.

Jane was a truly devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.  She touched the lives of everyone around her and will be sincerely missed by her family and friends.

Jane is survived by her four children; James Boyle of Fort Worth, TX, Thomas Boyle and his wife Ruth of Valrico, FL, Susan Van Riper of Richfield Spring, NY, and Kathy Curtin and her husband Tim of Wayne, NJ, one sister Laurette Sierens and her husband Robert of Wayne, NJ, nine grandchildren, Richard Boyle, Chris Boyle, Kelly DeLallo, Jacquelyn Boyle, Lucas Van Riper, Derek Van Riper, Joseph Boyle, Jenna McNicholas, and Travis Curtin, nine great grandchildren and sister-in-law, Bernadette Boyle.  Jane was predeceased by her husband Joseph Boyle in 1991, by her son Joseph Boyle, her sister Norma Kaune, son-in-law, James Van Riper and daughter-in-law, Brenda Boyle.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in Jane’s name are asked to consider St Jude Children’s Research Hospital

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Marty M. Monsees “Marty”, age 68, of Bloomingdale, NJ.  Marty passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 while receiving the loving care of her family.

She was born in Pequannock, NJ, raised in Wayne and was the youngest of three children to William and Lucille Monsees.  As a young girl, Marty attended Wayne Valley High School where she was a member of the Theatre Group and the Senior Chorus.  After graduating from Wayne Valley High School with the class of 1974, Marty enrolled at The Somerset Massage Therapy School.  She earned her certification in Massage Therapy after three years.  Marty owned and operated her own massage therapy office in Pompton Lakes called the Trinity Center for over 25 years.  Concurrent with operating her office in the evenings, she worked as a bookkeeper for Becton Dickenson in Franklin Lakes for more that fifteen years as well as for American Sons Locksmith in Riverdale, NJ for ten years.

For most of her adult life, Marty resided in Little Falls. NJ.  She enjoyed vacationing at Lake George, and the Jersey Shore where her father would often take her out on his fishing boat.  Clearly the most important aspect of Marty’s life was spending time with family and friends.  She had a vast network of close friends that she always made time for.  She was also a truly devoted aunt and cherished visiting and spoiling her nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

Marty was a bubbly, good natured woman who treasured spending time with family and friends.  She often took the time to wholeheartedly listen to those who needed someone to talk to.  She loved listening to country music and adored her cats that she had as companions throughout her life.  Marty was a truly special person who touched the lives of everyone around her.  She will be truly missed by her family and friends.

Marty had a wonderful team of special friends, which we called the "A Team". Jane Boudjouck, Janice Amodio and Lorna Alberti. They each visited daily and made sure her every need was taking care of, whether it be with her medical care, spiritual care, special foods she loved and even her laundry. They attended to her every need and deserve our special thanks.

A special shout-out to The Health Center at Bloomingdale, The ALS Foundation and Valley Hospice. Those nurses and aides grew to love Marty and became her "family".

Marty is survived by her sister Sue Lacomis “Suzie” and her husband Bill of West Wyoming, PA, three nephews; Billy Vigorito and his wife Jenny of Pennsylvania, Rocky Vigorito and his wife Nicole of Pennsylvania, and Travis Petrowski and his wife Julie of Toms River, NJ, six grandnieces and grandnephews; Mia Vigorito, Domenic Vigorito, Jake Vigorito, Caiti Vigorito, Travis Petrowski, Jr., and Victoria Brennan and her husband Billy.  Marty was predeceased by her sister Catherine Strauss and her nephew Richard Petrowski.

Those planning to make a donation in Martha’s name are asked to consider, ALS Greater New York or Valley Hospice

William "Bill" P. Fox, Sr., age 92, of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 4, 2024.

Born in Paterson, NJ as the third of eight children to Christopher and Anna Fox, Bill's journey began in Hawthorne, NJ, where he became the first in his family to attend and graduate college. His life was marked by significant milestones, deep love, and an unwavering dedication to his family and passions.

When Bill was 18, he met the love of his life, Pat, after friends persuaded him to take her on a date. Before he would go out on that date, he decided to see her for himself so he walked over to her house. After one glance of Pat mowing the lawn in red shorts and a white top he was smitten. Not long after that date he was called to serve in the army. Before leaving, he asked Pat to wait for him. She said she wouldn’t, but true to her heart, she did and they reunited as soon as Bill returned home.

In 1952, Bill proposed to Pat in his 1952 Kaiser-Frazer Henry J parked outside her home in East Paterson. They were married on May 26, 1956, at Saint Leo’s Church in East Paterson and honeymooned in Bermuda. Together, they were blessed with six beautiful children who became the center of their world. Bill worked tirelessly to support his growing family while also continuing his education, ultimately earning a master's degree in Finance from Seton Hall University. In the early 1970s Bill was given an opportunity to work at the legendary Fender-Rogers company in Fullerton California and so he and Pat packed up the kids and moved across country where the family would live for the next 5 years.

As Bill's career advanced, he was offered the opportunity to work at Fender’s parent company, CBS, in New York City and so in 1975 the family moved back to the east coast, settling in Wayne, New Jersey where he would live for the rest of his life. His work at CBS Records, and eventually Polygram Records, brought incredible opportunities for his family, including trips for he and Pat to the Grammy Awards and access to exclusive music and Broadway events for his family.

Bill retired at 58 but found he couldn’t stay idle. When Pat needed help at the DePaul High School kitchen, he was more than willing to lend a hand, eventually making it a regular part of his life. Their shared time in the kitchen brought them closer, combining love and teamwork.

Family was everything to Bill and Pat. They hosted large family picnics in the summer and large holiday gatherings at Thanksgiving and Christmas where Bill's humble nature, good sense of humor and straightforward honesty were always on full display.

Bill also had a great love for music, especially Barbershop. He had a great singing voice and was a decades long member of the Dapper Dans of Harmony Chorus and always loved to perform. For a number of years he also sang with Big Apple Barbershop Chorus at Christmas-time under the Christmas tree at South Street Sea Port. He especially loved singing with his grandchildren.

Bill also had a quirky Mr. Fix-it side which led to some very unconventional DIY solutions. like the screwdriver that hung from an AC vent in the ceiling in the Wayne house for over 40 years. Bill cherished the New York Mets, the Oakland Raiders, and a good VO and soda with a twist and his church. His culinary preferences included pea soup, deviled eggs, fried hamburgers, and, notably, veal parmesan—a dish he believed could judge a restaurant's quality.

Bill's legacy is one of love, dedication, and a life well-lived. He will be remembered for his stoicism, humility, and the deep love he had for his family. His unique fixes, love for music, and veal parmesan orders at restaurants will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Bill is predeceased by his parents Christopher and Anna Fox; his siblings: Christopher, Ed, and Ann; his wife Patricia; and his son-in-law Michael and grandson Derek.

Bill is survived by his siblings: Peter and his wife Linda of Hawthorne, Rita of Ohio, Marie and her husband Fred of Michigan, and Claire of Florida; his children: Bill and Sandra of Pickens, South Carolina, Andrew and Candice of Fort Meyers, Florida, Tom and Lynn of Monmouth Junction, Nancy and Bob of Oakland, Mary of Kinnelon, and Tim and Elizabeth of Coplay, Pennsylvania; and his grandchildren: Matthew and his wife Elise of Massapequa, Long Island and their son Tyler, Michelle of Jersey City, Dana of Garfield, Drew of Kinnelon, Michael of Kinnelon, John and his fiancé Rikki of North Brunswick, Danny of Oakland, and Christoffer of Rohrerstown, Pennsylvania.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Barbershop Harmony Association, https://www.harmonyfoundation.org/memorial-giving, would be appreciated.

Nancy M. Rogers, age 89, of Wayne, NJ, passed away on Sunday, November 3, 2024.

Born in Hawthorne, NJ, she lived briefly in a house formerly located at 608 Lafayette Ave before her family settled in Wayne, where she spent most of her life. A student of the historic Preakness Elementary School, she later graduated from Pompton Lakes High School.

Shortly after graduation, Nancy found the love of her life at a roller skating rink in Paramus. It was there she met the strikingly handsome Navy sailor, Gerald “Jerry” Rogers. Not long after, Jerry proposed, but Nancy agreed to marry him only if he left the Navy. She didn’t want to wait or be a lonely military wife. Jerry made the right decision! They married on Saturday, August 21, 1954, at St. Clement’s Episcopal Church in Hawthorne. A reception followed at her family’s Wayne home, and for their honeymoon, the two headed to the Adirondacks—an adventure that foreshadowed a lifetime of shared road trips and camping.

The daughter of Walter Derbyshire, who, along with Nancy’s brother, opened the still-in-business Derbyshire’s Solid Wood Furniture Store in Wayne in 1949, Nancy grew up working at the store, learning the finer points of furniture. She and Jerry later managed the store for many years until retiring in their fifties, kicking off their golden years with cross-country travel in their beloved Airstream trailer. Montana and New York’s Adirondacks remained favorite destinations. Never short on adventure, they even embarked on international adventures, touring Europe by RV caravan with groups of fellow travelers. When they managed to sit still, they enjoyed snowbirding between Florida’s Travelers Rest Airstream Park in Dade City and summer months at their home in NJ.

An avid artist from the age of 12, Nancy painted throughout her life. Specializing in Plein-Air paintings, she regularly carried her painting supplies while hiking or paused a road trip to set up her easel roadside to capture a beautiful scene on the spot. She produced hundreds of paintings in oil, acrylic, and pastel, many of which she generously gifted to friends and family. One of her favorite local places was Laurelwood Arboretum in Wayne, where she could be found walking the trails and painting scenes in the gardens she loved so much. For many years, Nancy taught painting in Florida, where she was a member of the Zephyrhills Art Association, and in New Jersey, where she was a member of the Ringwood Art Association. Nancy also loved exhibiting her work at public and private shows and competitions, where she earned numerous ribbons and awards.

In addition to her art, Nancy had a deep love for the outdoors—from hiking to canoeing—and she thought nothing of taking her three young sons camping solo for weeks on end. She led her boys on adventures in the woods of High Point State Park, teaching them how to catch bullfrogs and salamanders and sparking a love for nature that they will carry forever. She even crossed the country with her husband, three small children, and mother-in-law in a VW bus, fearless and full of life.

Nancy loved music almost as much as she loved her family and art. She enjoyed everything from classical to Christian hymns to rock. A vibrant, fun-loving spirit, you could often find her dancing to the Grateful Dead in her favorite tie-dye shirt! Her homes were always filled with music.

Nancy was the beloved wife of the late Jerry Rogers, blessed in marriage for 49 wonderful years until his passing in 2004. She was a devoted mother to Robert Rogers and his wife, Mary, of Wayne; Richard Rogers and his wife, Nancy, of Hopatcong; and Brian Rogers of Federal Heights, Colorado. She was a proud grandmother to Kelsey, Maggie, Martina, Kelly, and Max, and was predeceased by her cherished great-grandson Milo.

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

Friends of Laurelwood Arboretum

PO Box 2433

Wayne, NJ 07474-2433

To download a mailable form to donate via mail, CLICK HERE

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American Cancer Society

PO Box 6704

Hagerstown, MD 21741

To download a mailable form to donate via mail, CLICK HERE

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Please indicate that your gift is in memory of Nancy Rogers

Ruth Ann Landis (nee Voorhis), age 82 of Boynton Beach, Florida, died peacefully on Sunday, November 3, 2024. Raised in Clifton, NJ, Ruth had lived in Wayne, Short Hills, and Green Pond, NJ, before retiring to Boynton Beach nearly thirty years ago.

Ruth was born on Valentine’s Day, 1942, to J. Chester Voorhis and Violet (nee Stewart), and her ancestry traces back to Mary, Queen of Scots. In 1961, Ruth married Ralph Vander May, with whom she had three children: Pam, Cliff, and Ken. After their divorce in 1969, Ruth married John J. Baum, with whom she had a daughter, Brenda. After John Baum died in 1979, she married Robert Landis in 1981. Ruth and Bob enjoyed a very loving marriage of forty years that included world travel, and countless benevolent hours serving with the Shriners of Salaam Temple in Livingston, NJ. During the 1990’s and 2000’s, Ruth and Bob summered at their beloved Green Pond, NJ, where they socialized at the Green Pond Yacht Club, played lots of tennis, cards, Mahjong, and hosted more than a few cocktail parties with their many friends. Their years at Green Pond were ranked highly among their most memorable and favorite. More recently, they retired to southern Florida, living in Boynton Beach. There, they continued to play tennis, golf, cards and Mahjong, and they socialized daily with their many friends in the Snug Harbor community. Sadly, Bob passed away in 2022, and Ruth has missed him dearly ever since.

Ruth is survived by her four children; Pamela Savage (nee Vander May) and her husband Donald of Denver, North Carolina, Brenda Paddock (nee Baum) of Massachusetts, Cliff Vander May and his wife Tammy of Wayne, NJ, and Ken Vander May and his wife Natalie Lacatena of Wayne, NJ, ten grandchildren, and a large, extended family of loved ones and countless dear friends. She was predeceased by her husband, Robert Landis (2022), by her second husband, John J. Baum (1979), and by her brother, J. Stuart Voorhis (1972).

Elaine Mary Corcoran (nee Rubiski), age 83 of Pompton Lakes, NJ died on Friday, November 1, 2024 after a brief illness. She has lived in Pompton Lakes for fifty-six years.

Elaine grew up in Clifton, graduating from Clifton High School in 1958. It was here that she met William Corcoran and they were married in October of 1960. They first lived in Paterson before moving to Pompton Lakes in 1968. Together they enjoyed visiting the Jersey Shore, and playing the slots in Atlantic City. Bill was an easy-going, calm and mellow type of guy, who put up with Elaine’s shenanigans rather well for the thirty-seven years they were together. Sadly, he passed away in 1998 and Elaine has missed him ever since.

Elaine was always very proud to take care of her yard and landscaping. She loved tending to her flower garden, bushes, and lawn, keeping them all immaculate. She was also an excellent cook and loved to prepare big meals like Thanksgiving. Christmas was her favorite holiday, and she was notorious for spoiling everyone with an abundance of thoughtful gifts. Her grandchildren were often overwhelmed by the gifts they received on Christmas. Elaine was a doting grandmother and simply loved to spoil each of them as often as possible. Although she could be a bit stern and strict at times, they will fondly remember her as the Grandma who played video games into her eighties and had a never-ending supply of peanut M&M’s and potato chips.  A few of them would tease her by calling her “Ellen” (which made her blood boil!), or simply “G-ma.”

Elaine had a huge heart, and she was particularly grateful to her stepfather, Barney Birch, for the care and love he brought into her life at a very critical time. Elaine had sadly lost her own father when she was just two years old, and Barney, who was her father’s best friend, married her mother. He was a wonderful father to her and Elaine often spoke about how grateful she was for him. Later in her adult life, Elaine was presented with an opportunity to do much the same for someone else. When her nephew, Michael Ward, lost his parents at twelve years old, and was living in foster care, Elaine and Bill chose to welcome him into their family. They raised him with love and care through some of the most challenging circumstances that a teenage boy could have faced. Michael didn’t make it easy for Elaine and Bill. He knows now that he would not be the man he is today without the compassion and grace that the Corcoran family showed him, and he is ever so grateful to Elaine for the sacrifices she made for his benefit.

Elaine is survived by her children, Donna Corcoran and her husband Rich DeBonte, their children, Matthew and Alexandra DeBonte; Kathleen Beatty and her husband Mark and their daughter Allison Beatty; William Corcoran and his wife Katie, and their children Kelly and Sarah Corcoran; and Michael Ward and his wife Loretta Houlis Ward, and their children, Michael Ward and his wife Lesley, Amanda Houlis, AnaMarie Houlis, Victoria Houlis and Theodore Houlis.  Elaine had one great-grandson; Michael. She was predeceased by her husband William in 1998.

George Conklin, beloved father, grandfather, and uncle, passed away on October 30, 2024 at the age of 80. He was born on June 24, 1944 in Paterson, NJ.

George dedicated his life to his wife, children, and grandchildren. He would attend any game, sporting event, no matter the distance or time. He had a profound impact on the lives of those around him, always offering support and love to his family and friends. He was beloved by all that knew him. He was a kind gentleman.

George and his three brothers were raised in Paterson by their single mother, Marie. He was a devoted son that met his working mom at the bus stop to carry her groceries home, ensuring her safety daily.

George made a career change midlife to pursue his real estate passion. While working on finding people their dream homes, he made many friends that respected and enjoyed his knowledge of properties. He referred to himself as George “Service” Conklin as he catered to his clients.

From the Jersey shore to the KOA campsites, George was the fun uncle that could be counted on by his many nieces and nephews. He was a pyrotechnic lover, a thrill chaser, and a vivid story teller especially about Jesse James and their adventures. George was known as a jokester and enjoyed making people laugh with his quick wit and humor.

He is survived by his three children, his son, Russell Bleeker and his wife, Lilla; his daughters, Dawn Di Brino and fiance Daniel Perry; and Heather Rotolo, his seven grandchildren, Kevin, Matthew, Ellie, Rachel, Carly, Michael, and Lauren. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.  He is predeceased by the love of his life, his wife, Carolee Conklin, (nee Carafella), his mother and 3 brothers (Thomas, Robert, and Scott).

Rest in peace, Dad. Your love, kindness and legacy will live on in our hearts.

Basil J. Savron, 82, of Wayne, New Jersey, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on October 28, 2024.  Born on January 14, 1942, to Sophie and Charles Savron in Bayonne, New Jersey, Basil was a loving and devoted husband, son, brother and uncle.

Basil was the older of two sons born to Charles and Sophie.  While growing up in Bayonne, Basil attended Bayonne High School where he was a member of the varsity Basketball Team.  Following his 1959 graduation from Bayonne High School, he began his career as a clerk on the New York Stock Exchange.  He eventually became a stockbroker and purchased his own seat on the American Stock Exchange.  Over the next nine years, he attended Fairleigh Dickinson University at night earning his Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration.

In 1964, Basil enlisted in the United States Army alongside his brother Eugene Savron.  While serving in the US Army, Basil was stationed at Fort Dix and later Fort Knox in Kentucky.  He was assigned to LT Vehicle convoy as well as LT Truck assignments.  Basil served honorably and proudly in the US Army from 1964 to 1969 during the Vietnam era.

Basil worked on Wall Street as a broker until 1980 when he decided to change the trajectory of his career and enter the real estate business.  He earned his Real Estate License and as a member of Schlott Realty, he sold commercial and residential real estate. In 1985, Basil became a Real Estate Appraiser.  His eye for detail helped him hone his skills and navigate the complexities of property valuation; doing so well that, in 1990, he launched his own company:

ABS Real Estate Appraisal Services, in Wayne, N.J.  With a commitment to excellence and personalized service, Basil built a successful reputation, earning the trust of both his clients and real estate professionals. He was known for his insightful assessments and dedication to helping clients make informed decisions.  The Vice President of Fannie Mae called him the best appraiser in the Northeast.  

During this time, early in his appraisal career, Basil met his wife, Marianne Tabeek who was working at Metrobank together in Palisades Park.  Basil, with his warm smile and thoughtful nature, often brightened Marianne's day by sharing conversation and bringing a snack to her desk. After months of friendship, Basil and Marianne began dating. Marrying on October 28, 1995, they would be inseparable for the rest of their lives. Together, they successfully owned and operated his appraisal business until 2009 when he retired.

Basil was a truly devoted husband, spending every moment with his wife Marianne.  The couple cherished nearly thirty years of loving and loyal marriage together.  Basil and Marianne did everything together; traveling to various destinations to ski and visiting amusement parks which was one of Basil's favorite pastimes.  They frequented locations such as New Orleans, Disney, Atlantic City, and a variety of islands in the Caribbean including Bermuda.

Basil's hobbies included a passion for model trains.  Alongside his wife Marianne, he attended model train shows where they connected with fellow collectors. Basil designed a dedicated 25-foot by 25-foot room in their house, meticulously crafted to showcase his collection. Basil also enjoyed boating and fishing as a young man at Mountain Spring Lake with his mother, brother, sister-in-law and nieces, as well as taking countless day trips to Point Pleasant, NJ and Palisades Amusement Park.  He was a film buff and enjoyed watching various genres of classic movies.  He also treasured reading magazines that spoke to his interests and listening to the music of Elvis, Dion and the Belmonts, 1950s music and both opera and ballet.

Basil was not only truly devoted to his wife, he was also devoted to his Catholic faith.  As a young man, he was a parishioner of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church Byzantine Rite; the church that his father Charles helped to build. There, with his brother, Eugene, he served as an altar boy and volunteered at many church events. He was also president of the Holy Name Society and played for the Ukrainian Catholic Boys Basketball team (the Ukes) and, as a senior in high school, became the team's manager.

Basil's kindness and gentle spirit touched everyone he met. With a deep-rooted spirituality, he approached life with a peaceful demeanor and was always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.  His selflessness was evident in the thoughtful gestures and words of encouragement he displayed. A true gentleman, Basil treated everyone with respect and compassion, touching the lives of everyone around him. He was not only a dedicated husband but also a devoted and loving uncle.  Basil was a truly special person who will be sincerely missed by everyone who knew him.

Basil is survived by his wife, Marianne Tabeek of Wayne, NJ; two nieces, Lana Savron-Abbott and her husband Bill of Piscataway, NJ, and Lori Savron-Glynn and her husband Chris of Griggstown, NJ; four grandnieces and grandnephews: Emily Abbott, Grace Glynn, Ryan Abbott and Jack Glynn and his sister-in-law, Jean Savron of Piscataway, NJ.  He was predeceased by his brother, Eugene Savron and his parents, Charles and Sophie Savron.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Basil's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959.

John J. Pajenski, Sr., of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 26, 2014, at the remarkable age of 101. Born in Passaic to Joseph and Mary (Furtak) Pajenski, John was the second-born child in his family, growing up with a strong sense of responsibility and resilience.

John graduated from Passaic High School and embarked on a lifelong career as an auto mechanic, working first at Vernards Esso on Broadway in Passaic. He later took his skills to York Trailers in Butler, NJ, where he continued to demonstrate his dedication and expertise. Even in his later years, John's spirit remained as vibrant as ever. Evan at the age of 101, he was known for driving daily to CVS in his 2008 Chevy Impala to pick up The Herald News—his favorite newspaper, which he read from cover to cover. And nothing would keep John from fetching his newspaper. His tenacity was legendary. Even at the age of 100, if necessary, he would get out early in the morning to shovel snow off his car so he could go for his morning paper run. His love for cars extended to his family life—he had lots of fun taking his son, John, Jr., to Raceway Park dragstrip to watch him race a 1968 Chevy Chevelle Super Sport.

A lover of life's simple pleasures, John cherished the companionship of his loyal dogs, Sandy and Tippy. His zest for life shone through even at the age of 99 when he was still mowing his lawn. Known for his kind heart and generosity - though admittedly a bit cranky at times - John would gladly give the shirt off his back to anyone in need.

John is survived by his three children: John Pajenski, Jr., and his companion Tina of Wayne; Linda Estremera and her husband Felix of Colonia; and Raymond Pajenski of Brick. He was also the grandfather of five grandchildren: Brian and his wife Jennifer, Daniel, Steven, Raymond and his wife Jada, and Randi and her husband Kyle. His legacy lives on in five great-grandchildren: Jayden, Maverick, Isabella, Lucas, and Grayson. John is also survived by his sister, Sophie Sikora, and her husband Frederick of Forked River, as well as his dear companion Loretta Clarkson, along with Loretta’s children, Jimmy and Kathy, and their families.

John was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Mary Pajenski, his brother Stanley Pajenski, his sister Stella Novobilski and his beloved dogs Sandy and Tippy.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in John’s name are asked to consider:

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Place

Memphis, TN 38105-9959

Please indicate that your gift is in memory of John Pajenski, Sr.

It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Frederick “Fred” De Martino on Thursday, October 24, 2024. Born and raised in Yonkers, NY, Fred graduated from Roosevelt High School in Yonkers with the Class of 1962. He was a man who was truly devoted to his country, wife, family, and friends.

Fred served honorably in the U.S. Army as a combat infantryman and rifle marksman during the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1968. In recognition of his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Combat Infantryman Badge. 

After his military service, Fred pursued higher education, earning an associate’s degree in drafting. For over 30 years, he worked as a draftsman in physics research at Columbia University's Nevis Laboratories in Irvington, NY, where his precision and dedication were greatly valued until retiring in 2009.

In the winter of 1975, Fred’s life changed forever when he met the woman who would become the love of his life, Madeleine Szemansco, on a snow skiing trip at Vernon Valley in New Jersey. Enchanted by her beauty and spirit he was drawn to initiate an encounter which was the beginning of a beautiful relationship. Their love for each other grew, leading to a mutual desire for marriage. Fred cleverly proposed by concealing an engagement ring in a popcorn bowl at a local club - a reflection of his playful sense of humor. They were married on Sunday, July 18, 1976, at Our Lady of Consolation Church in Wayne, NJ, followed by a honeymoon on the sunlit shores of St. Martin Island in the Caribbean. Their early years of marriage were spent in Wallington and Elmwood Park, NJ, before settling in Oakland, NJ, where Fred and Madeleine built a life together for over the past 48 years.

Fred had a lifelong passion for skiing and continued hitting the slopes, in Vermont and New Jersey, well into his 70s. His most cherished ski adventure, aside from the one where he met Madeleine, was a trip to Alta Ski Area in Utah with his brother-in-law Michael. Even in retirement, Fred remained active and found joy in traveling with Madeleine, exploring almost all the states along the U.S. eastern coast as well as Bermuda. For over 40 years, the couple also shared a love of antiquing, often embarking on weekend treasure hunts for their side business.

Fred had a lot of pride for his property which he cared for meticulously and maintained to perfection. A devoted family man, Fred was never far from those he loved and was actively assisting Madeleine in caring for her remarkable 106-year-old mother at the time of his passing.

Fred will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, his humor that brightened your day, and his kind and personable nature. He was always ready to lend a hand, greet others with warmth, or share a laugh.

Fred leaves behind his beloved wife Madeleine to whom he was blessed in marriage for 48 years; his many adored nieces and nephews including: Ethan, Jack, Fallon, Chris, Braden, Savanah, Jonathan and wife Sherri, and Kristin and husband Mark; his three fantastic great-nieces: Hadley, Reagan, and Petra, and many friends and neighbors who were touched by his kindness and generosity. He was predeceased by his loving parents, Michael and Lucy (De Rosa) De Martino and his dear brother Michael De Martino.

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In lieu of flowers and plants, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Fred’s memory to one of the following charitable organizations:

American Heart Association

PO Box 840692

Dallas TX 75284-0692

Click here for Printable Tribute Donation Form

Alzheimer’s New Jersey

Attn: Development Dept.

425 Eagle Rock Avenue, Suite 203

Roseland, NJ 07068

American Diabetes Association

P.O. Box 7023 

Merrifield, VA 22116-7023

Our Lady of Consolation RC  Church

1799 Hamburg Turnpike

Wayne, NJ 07470

William J. Vivino, age 91, of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 23, 2024.

William was born and raised in Paterson, NJ. He was one of 6 children to Frank and Mary Vivino. While living in Paterson, he attended Eastside High School where he served as his class treasurer and first developed his affinity for science from the influence of one of his physics teachers. He went on to graduate from Eastside High School with the class of 1950 before continuing his education as a TV broadcast technician at the RCA Institutes in New York City.  Upon completing his training in RCA institutes, he was then employed by General Electric in Utica NY as an electronics technician.   William then joined the US Army at the end of the Korean War, serving his country honorably from 1953-1957.

After the army, William continued work as an electronics technician with Air Associates before advancing to Bendix Aviation out of Teterboro, NJ. While working for Bendix Aviation, he visited a local cleaner and stumbled across a beautiful woman named Marie Galletta. Suddenly his clothes started to get dirty more often and he found himself visiting the cleaners more frequently as an excuse to visit Marie. His persistence paid off and the couple started dating. He and Marie were married on June 6, 1959, at his dad Frank’s Plaza Ball Room in Paterson.  The following year, they were blessed with their son Bill.

Bill’s career took another turn when he landed a job at Bell Labs – a research and development subsidiary for AT&T, where he worked on the first Electronic Switching System for phones across the country.  While working at Bell Labs in NJ, he continued his education in engineering at Fairleigh Dickenson University.   During this time, as the ESS project continued to grow, the base of operations shifted to Naperville, Illinois. The decision to move to Illinois or stay in New Jersey with Marie came naturally and he decided to leave his position at Bell Labs in 1967. William decided at this point to shift professions entirely and pursue his passion for teaching the sciences, by completing his bachelor’s degree in Fairleigh.

William began his teaching career as a science teacher at Elmwood Park Memorial High School, primarily teaching physics before expanding his expertise to other sciences, mathematics, and electronics. While teaching, he completed his Master’s degree at Montclair State University.  His exceptional dedication to education earned him the prestigious NJ Science Teacher of the Year award, presented to him by the NASA astronauts Sally Ride and Terry Hart. Though he retired from full-time teaching in 2003, William’s commitment to education continued well into his 80’s as he served as a substitute teacher in the Wayne School System.

William will be remembered as a man who always put his family first. He truly loved every moment spent with them and he was well known for going to all his grandkid’s games, events, and dances. He and Marie even purchased a vacation home down in Sea Isle, NJ to have a place for his family to gather and spend time together at the beach.

Parallel to his devotion to his family was his close relationship to God. He was an active parishioner at Our Lady of the Valley Church where he participated in the church choir. He was also a member of the Knights of Colombus, a fraternal organization centered around the Catholic faith.

Another passion William will be remembered for was his lifelong love for music that started from the age of just 9 years old when he first learned to play the piano. He practiced and improved his skills as a pianist for the rest of his life, and his piano performances will be dearly missed by his family and the community.

William is survived by his wife Marie; his son Bill and his wife Karen; his grandkids: Bill, Christina and her husband Joe, Steven and his wife, Allie, Joey and his wife, Kate, and Danielle and Jon; and his great-grandkids: Brielle, Joey, Daniella, Dominic, Valentina, Jacob, Peyton, and Jace. He is also survived by his siblings Jack and Raymond and their wives, Carmen and Angie.

William is predeceased by his parents Frank and Mary Vivino and his siblings: Ida, Connie, and Frank.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Salvation Army would be greatly appreciated.

Carmen “Nooch” DeLuccia, age 80, of Wayne, passed peacefully at home on Wednesday, October 23, 2024.

Born and raised in Paterson, he graduated from Central High School in the Class of 1962 and attended Passaic County Technical Trade School for drafting, graduating in 1965.

Soon after, Carmen was drafted into the United States Army, serving with Company C, 1st Battalion (M) of the 58th Infantry, and later with the 197th Infantry Brigade 3D. During his service, Carmen earned numerous honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 1 Bronze Service Star, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device 1960, Combat Infantryman Badge (1st Award), Purple Heart, 1 O/S Bar, and Sharpshooter (Rifle M-14). He was honorably discharged from the Army Reserves on November 18, 1971.

Carmen met Beverly through her sister Diane and they went to the movies on their first date. He proposed at the Fountain Blue Restaurant on Route 46, hiding the engagement ring in a glass of champagne. Shortly after, Carmen was drafted into the Army. He and Beverly stayed in touch during his service and continued their relationship after his discharge. They married on September 24, 1967, at St. Mary’s Church in Paterson, sharing 57 years of devoted marriage, blessed with a son, Dean, and a daughter, Nicole (Nikki).

Carmen was a man of unwavering loyalty, deeply devoted to his family. His love for his wife, children, grandchildren, and even his grand-dogs was evident in every aspect of his life. 

He found joy in simple pleasures, like cheering for his favorite teams, the New York Giants and New York Yankees. He loved fishing, especially while out on his boat in Beach Haven and taking photos on film, starting in Vietnam, and following the hobby throughout his life.

Family was central to Carmen’s life, and he made it a point to attend his grandchildren Jake and Brianna’s sporting events, whether it was football or soccer, always showing his support.

Carmen was also active in his community, dedicating many years to the Wayne Hills Patriots Booster Club, where he served as President, and was a proud member of the Pompton Lakes Elks Lodge. His musical talents shone in the Paterson drum corps, where he played the snare drum.

In his free time, Carmen tended to his beloved fig trees and visited local car shows. He was an accomplished carpenter, crafting everything from birdhouses, to custom gardens, to full-scale home additions. He was known for his ability to fix anything.

Carmen is survived by his beloved wife, Beverly (Montanya) DeLuccia; his son, Dean, and wife Tracy of Wayne; his daughter, Nicole “Nikki” DeLuccia of Wayne; cherished grandchildren Brianna and Jake DeLuccia; and his brother, John DeLuccia of Parsippany. He was predeceased by his siblings Neabla, Anthony, Ernesto, Alfonso, and his sister-in-laws Alice and Jean. He was also the much-loved grandfather of his granddog, Harley.

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

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Lois Bender, age 76, of Wayne, NJ.  Lois passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 22, 2024. 

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William Allan Monsees, age 97, of Pompton Plains and a former longtime resident of Totowa, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, October 21, 2024. His loving family was present at the time of his passing. 

The son of William Charles and Christine (Baumann) Monsees, Bill was born in Hoboken and raised in Union City, NJ where he was a 1944 graduate of Union Hill High School. 

After high school, Bill enlisted into the United States Navy at 17 where he proudly served his country during World War II aboard the destroyer, USS Gyatt. After his Navy service, Bill returned to his hometown of Union City and enrolled in the Newark College of Engineering where he earned his bachelor’s degree. He later earned his master’s degree in electrical engineering, taking evening classes at Stevens Institute of Technology. 

Bill launched his engineering career with Sperry Gyroscope in Long Island. He then enjoyed a fulfilling thirty-eight-year career as an Electronic Systems Engineer with ITT Avionics in Nutley until retiring in 1989. His work included design of complex defensive electronics for submarines and military helicopters.

Bill enjoyed a loving and tender marriage of 74 years with his beloved wife Dolores (Smith) Monsees. Having attended high school and St. John’s Lutheran Church in Union City together, Bill and Dolores met and started dating in their mid-teens. They married on July 16, 1950, at St. John’s Lutheran Church and, following their honeymoon, they settled into their first home on Stewart Terrace in Totowa. They raised their two sons and one daughter there and remained in that house for nearly 70 years before moving to Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains in 2019.

Following retirement, Bill and Dolores enjoyed extensive travel time together and with friends. In addition to adventures throughout most of the USA, including Alaska and Hawaii, and numerous cruises, they enjoyed trips to Israel, Germany, Jamaica, and England and a two-week vacation in 2007 with all their children and their families to Ireland, England and Scotland. During football season, Bill was all in on his beloved Giants. A season ticket holder since the team started playing home games in NJ in 1976, Bill and Dolores attended the first Giants Super Bowl win with friends in the Rose Bowl in 1987.  Staying true in later years, whether with exciting wins or crushing losses, through good times and tough times, Big Blue could always count on Bill’s loyal following which he shared with his children and grandchildren. The season tickets are still in the family.

Since 1966, Bill and Dolores have been members of St. Timothy Lutheran Church in Wayne. Bill served as head usher for many years and he and Dolores were active volunteers in many aspects of life at St. Timothy.

Bill was the beloved husband of Dolores; loving father of William D. Monsees and wife Kelli of Ft. Myers, Florida, Paul R. Monsees and wife Cathy of Chevy Chase, Maryland, and Catherine D. Davidson and husband Robert of Towaco; cherished grandfather of Christopher who predeceased him in 2002, Lori, Kassie and husband James, Dana, Clayton, Kyle and wife Avery, and Devan and husband Gavin; and great-grandfather of Daniel and Emery.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in William’s name are asked to consider St. Timothy Lutheran Church.