Robert Henry Nagel. long-time owner of North Jersey landmark Nagel’s Candy Barn in Wayne and Randolph, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 17, 2016. He was 88.

Born and raised in West New York, Bob had been a resident of Wayne since 1960.

Soon after graduation from Memorial High School in West New York, NJ, Bob joined the family candy business which was started by his father Harry Nagel in 1921. Growing up, Bob always liked to work in the business. While in high school shop class, he even designed and produced a machine that would make the molds for the many candies the store would sell when he came to work alongside his dad, full-time in 1948. At that time, Nagel’s had just this one location in West New York, NJ where they made and sold all the chocolate. Then, in 1960, a second store was opened in the, then, quiet little up-and-coming town of Wayne on Route 23. Later on, in 1973, a new factory and store was started in Randolph.

While concurrently serving as a proud member of the U.S. National Guard Reserve, Bob remained involved in every facet of the business from design and production of the molds that made the chocolate, procurement of other molds from as far away as Germany, maintenance of the machines – sometimes when necessary, fixing them with duct tape and wire – as well as the more artistic work of the business. He always had a great eye for objects and shapes that would make interesting chocolate creations. His kids even said that some of their bath toys gave Dad great ideas.

Bob especially loved chatting with his loyal customers who would return year-after-year to purchase their candy for their favorite valentine, or for their children on Easter and Christmas. During those busy holiday seasons, Bob’s family would typically only see him on Sundays. The stores were always decorated with displays as great as the great taste of the Nagel customers’ favorites like truffles, butter-crunch, almond bark, chocolate covered pretzels, peanut butter cups and caramel sticks, just to name a few. So great was the stores’ following, they never needed a website and customers always knew that all sales were cash only.

Although a nurse by profession, Bob’s beloved wife Emma put a lot of hours in the store and his children worked there in high school and his grandchildren loved to visit and spend time working in the store too. It was a real family affair!

Bob loved his work so much that he never really retired. It was a car accident in March 2015, while on his way to work, that finally ended his career. The stores closed soon after but not until his faithful staff rose to the occasion of insuring that those loyal customers got their Easter candy that last year.

Bob originally met the love of his life Emma Rhodes at the Columbia Skating Rink in West New York, NJ when they were both just thirteen years old. They began dating in High School and their first date was out for a hot dog at Rutt’s Hutt. They married in 1953 on Bob’s birthday because he figured, that way, he would never forget his anniversary. After a honeymoon that took them on a cross-country trip to visit family and many great destinations, the newlyweds moved into the apartment above the candy store in West New York, NJ.

Summers were always the quietest times for Nagel’s Candy Barn so the store was usually closed all of July and sometimes part of August. This typically was the perfect time for Bob and Emma to travel and, especially later in life, they had the privilege of traveling all over the world including to South American, Hawaii, Thailand, China, Australia, Russia, throughout Europe and also to Bermuda.

Bob always considered his family his most treasured blessing. Before his children were even born, he would spend his spare time tinkering with a home he was building in Pennsylvania on Lake Wallenpaupack. His family has fond memories of summers spent there, being together and sailing and water skiing.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 64years, Emma: his son: Robert H. Nagel and partner Eric Chan of Sydney, Australia; two daughters: Nancy Nagel Lee and husband Philip of Potomac, MD, and Janet Scheel and husband Paul of Ellicott City, MD; six grandchildren: Ian, Noah, Zoe, Tess, Paul and Amy; and one brother: Theodore Nagel and wife Judy of Minneapolis, MN. He was predeceased by his brother Harry Nagel in 2016.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Robert’s name are asked to consider Shriners Hospital for Children, 3551 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19140 or at www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org.

Robert Allen DeGraw, age 80, of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 1, 2016 in the comfort of his own home.

From the day he was born and for the rest of his entire life Bob called the town of Wayne his home. Born on Thomas Terrace, he grew up on Mountainview Boulevard right behind the barber shop that, to this day, still remains in business. In 1955, he moved to New Street and lived there for many years before moving to Van Ness Place. When the state bought him out of that house to build a highway, Bob found a home along the shores of the Pompton River on River Road in the Hoffman Grove Section. After putting up with too many floods, he eventually retreated to higher ground and, in 2008, he returned to that house on New Street which was still in his family.

Bob enjoyed a storied childhood full of adventures. Growing up, a typical day in young Bob’s life consisted of doing things like feeding his chickens and riding bareback on his horse named Princess to check his traps to see if he caught any muskrats or foxes. A childhood story about Bob that gave everyone a lot of laughs was when Bob put a penny on the train tracks near his house. Coincidentally, the next day, that train came down the track and ended up derailing from those tracks. Although it wasn’t truly the case, everyone had Bob convinced that his penny on the track caused the train to derail. This sent Bob into his barn to hide. At age twelve his father gave him an engine that he rebuilt and at sixteen, he and his buddy built a dragster race car.

After graduating from Wayne High School with the Class of 1955, Bob had a few odd jobs including working for a local butcher and unloading train rail cars for Wayne Builders Supply. But those childhood experiences, when he would hang out at the local blacksmiths shop, learning about working with metals, and tinkering with rebuilding engines and building race cars, equipped Bob with a skill set that was destined for greater things. As a member of Operating Engineers Local 825, his dad was presently working for Franklin Contractors, and when Bob turned twenty, his dad helped him get his union card too, along with a job as a mechanic for Franklin Builders. For the next 47 years, Bob enjoyed a wonderful career as a union mechanic and long boom crane operator with Franklin Contractors, Braen and Sons, and Vergona Crane, Inc. Some of the more notable projects that Bob was involved with included the construction of Giants Stadium in the Meadowlands and operating the crane that put up tower cranes for the construction of the World Trade Center. During the 1970’s when the economy was choked by runaway inflation and work was scarce, Bob maintained his union card but also started his own business, Bob DeGraw and Sons specializing in paving and masonry projects. He also built and installed redwood pools. Retirement ultimately came in 1996.

If Bob wasn’t at work and he wasn’t home, his three sons always knew there was usually only one other place where he could be…..the firehouse! Bob was a life-member of Wayne Township Community Fire Company Number 1 where he volunteered for 54 years. He was extremely dedicated and his expertise on how to fight a given fire was often sought. In the great floods of 1968, Bob’s rescue boat was renamed “Noah’s Ark” because of all the resident’s animals he helped rescue from the flood-ravaged homes of Wayne. In the firehouse itself, they also relied on his mechanical abilities as Bob did most of the repairs on all the fire apparatus. When they were old enough, Bob encouraged his three sons: Allen, Robert “Mugs” and Tom to join too. Because the four of them frequently made fires together, in an effort to diminish the chance that a whole family of firefighters could be lost in one fire, the department had to instill a new policy that only two family members could be on the same rig.

Led by Bobby and his two buddies Tom Chapman and Dickie Saunders, the members of the Fire Company Number 1 rebuilt a 1899 Christie Steamer. It was a Class A pumper formerly owned by the Los Angeles Fire Department. Originally a horse-drawn fire apparatus, in 1912 it was retro-fitted with a gasoline engine perfected by Mr. Walter Christie, American engineer and inventor. Company 1 purchased it in 1975 and, led by the mechanical expertise of Bobby and his buddies, the whole rig was stripped down to its frame. For the next couple of years, over 5,000 parts were re-nickeled and polished down so that each moving part fit and functioned perfectly. For Bobby, this was a labor of love. The guys proudly showed the Christie Steamer all over the east coast and it trophied a lot! Deep down inside, Bobby really didn’t care about the trophies. It was the challenge and satisfaction from a job well done and the camaraderie of doing the work with his fellow-firemen that gave him the most joy. Bobby was very instrumental in the rebuilding of a 1930 Ahrens Fox Pumper too.

It seemed that there was nothing Bob couldn’t make or fix. He had such a sharp mechanical mind so it’s not surprising that others often turned to Bob when they needed something done. Bob was always ready and willing to pitch in. When the town wanted to build the Wayne PAL, Bob donated the bulldozer and time and expertise to clear all the land for the new construction. While he gladly accepted a little mash (moon shine) and some corn as a thank-you offering, for fixing Mountainview Farmer Bob Brown’s tractor, he never did it to get a reward. Many times his boys and even their friends needed a little help with a car repair and Bob was always happy to help.

Bob adored his eight grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. He really got a kick out of watching them grow and he had a great time cheering them on at their many sporting events including his granddaughter’s competitive soccer league games which took place from Syracuse, NY to Florida. At another granddaughter’s high school games, he was officially named the number one fan.

Bob was a jokester. He could dish it out but his good-natured disposition enabled him to be the brunt of a good joke too. He can rest in peace, knowing that he enjoyed the admiration of those who knew him for his selfless approach to life. Most importantly, he can rest in peace knowing that he was loved by God, not because he was perfect, but because God loved him so much despite his imperfections.

Surviving are Robert’s three sons: Allen and wife Dawn DeGraw of Ogdensburg, Robert DeGraw of Wayne, and Thomas and wife Margaret DeGraw of Lincoln Park; eight grandchildren: Bryan, Christie, Kayla, Robin, Jennie, Steven, Brittany, and Tara; eleven great-grandchildren: Noah, Josie, Landon, Tiffany, Zach, Kayla, Ryan, Skylar, Emma, Christian, and Steven, Jr.; and his aunt: Hilda Van Gieson of PA.

Bob’s family would also like to express their heartfelt special thanks to Raphael, Bob’s caregiver for the last six weeks of his life who treated Bob like he was his own father. God bless you Raphael!

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Robert’s name are asked to consider a donation to Community Volunteer Fire Company One, 97 Parish Drive, Wayne, NJ 07470.

Richard Wujciak, age 88 of Wayne, passed peacefully on Monday, July 4, 2016. Richard had been a resident of Wayne for nearly sixty years.

Richard was an active member at Our Lady of Consolation RC Church in Wayne for many years. He served as an usher and a lector, and he enjoyed socializing with the OLC Seniors. He was a Grand Knight with the Wayne Knights of Columbus, as well as a member of the Wayne Elks where he had served in various officer positions throughout the years.

Richard H. Villee, Jr. “Ricky”, age 69, Wayne, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 22, 2016.

Ricky was born in Newark but had been a life-long resident of the Packanack Lake section of Wayne where his roots were firmly planted. As a student of Wayne Valley High School and member of the Class of 1965, he and his teammates enjoyed the notable distinction of being on Wayne Valley’s first soccer team.

After two years of community college, Ricky pursued the balance of his education from Husson University, a small private school in Bangor, Maine. There, in 1970, he earned his B.S. degree, then promptly joined the U.S. National Guard where he proudly served during the Vietnam era.

After marriage to Diane Peatick, Ricky received the gift of probably the biggest blessing in his life – his newborn baby boy which they named Bryan. As his son grew from year-to-year, so did their bond. It was around this time, in 1978, that Ricky found his true calling in life…..Sales! With his warm, friendly, approachable personality and disposition, Ricky could sell anything but he chose to sell medical equipment. He attained most of his knowledge and experience with a company called Richard’s Medical Equipment, then, in 1986, he started his own company with his business partner Dave McLaughlin called McLaughlin Medical. When Ricky retired in 2008 it was his son Bryan who took over the company’s reigns and, because they were so alike, there could not have been anyone better in Ricky’s judgment to take over.

Ricky loved his sports, especially the Mets, Giants and Rangers. Always enterprising, he’d buy the less expensive tickets, then tip the usher just enough to seat him and his buddies in better seats. At home in Packanack Lake everyone knew Ricky. He loved to play softball in the Packanack league where he was dubbed with the nickname “Captain” because of his enthusiastic, take-charge approach to the game. On weekends three seasons out of the whole year, if you were looking for Ricky, you knew you could always find him playing golf on the Packanack course. He also loved participating and supporting the local fire department fundraisers and the pancake breakfasts to support the Boy Scouts.

If Packanack Lake had its’ own mayor, chances are pretty good, it would have been Ricky. He loved to meet friends at the Waterfront or for a game of darts at Amore of Wayne when it was known at the Greenhouse Café. Those that knew and loved Ricky will miss his easy conversations, big kind smile, good stories and funny jokes.

Ricky is survived by his much-loved son Bryan of Boonton; his sister Valerie and husband Ray Carlin of Frisco, TX; his nephew and niece: Chris and Tracy Carlin; and Rosie - his faithful chocolate lab/beagle mix.

Randall R. Rotella “Randy”, age 27 of Franklin Lakes, passed away too soon, on Wednesday, April 6, 2016.

Born in Ridgewood, his first home was in Hawthorne, but the better part of his childhood was spent in Franklin Lakes where he always approached life with a peddle-to-the-metal kind of exuberance. Even as a little boy, his mom said he would play hard for twelve hours straight before crashing in bed for a well-earned nights’ sleep. In high school, Randy channeled that energy by excelling in football and hockey. He graduated from Indian Hills High School with the Class of 2006, then headed to Iona College in New Rochelle, NY where he graduated in 2010 with a B.A. in criminal justice.

Always into fitness and health, Randy got his first job at Lakeside Fitness Club in Oakland, NJ. Through diligent study he earned his certification as a personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and he really enjoyed encouraging and training his clients in their quests for health and wellness. Lakeside Fitness Club was also special to Randy because it was there that he met a sweet young lady named Samantha Phillip. They made such a great couple and Randy was so excited about their relationship. He recently told his parents, “My future is brighter with Sami!” Randy eventually moved on from employment at the fitness club by taking a position as a sales associate with General Nutrition Centers (GNC). He had worked his way up the ranks and was presently the manager of the GNC store in Ramsey.

That child-like exuberance never left Randy as he grew into adulthood. Of course he loved playing hockey and football and going skiing too, and he loved people and enjoying time spent doing things with family and friends. A day down the shore at his family’s summer home in Wildwood Crest was Randy’s definition of good times and he said he couldn’t wait to bring his girlfriend Sami down to the house for the first time this summer. The Rotella philosophy of gift-giving was that it was usually better to receive an experience as opposed to an item. Being a Rotella himself, Randy embraced this idea completely and one of his favorite experiences was catching a Giants or Army football game or a Devils hockey game, especially when a bunch of his friends or family joined him. When it was time to get away for some quiet relaxation Randy would often take a hike up to Ramapo Reservation in Mahwah with Sami and, no doubt, his two faithful canine companions – Kaya and Gracie would surely be invited to come along. He loved animals so much that after his passing, his family imagined him being greeted in heaven by his late doggy Chelsea, walking up to him at heaven’s gate and dropping a ball in front of his feet. Randy’s love of family was so great that his younger sister Jules said he was like a second father to her, in fact, Randy must have had a God-given fatherly instinct in him because he looked after all his siblings and he was so proud to be “Uncle Randy” to his new little nephew Raine.

Randy was one of the most giving and generous people you would ever meet. It was said that, if you gave him a dollar, he’d give you ninety-nine cents back. Even as he was recovering from the evils of substance addiction, Randy did his best to channel his fight by helping others with the same struggles. One way he did this was by regularly returning to Market Street Mission – a ministry in Morristown which, among other goals, helped those, like Randy himself, who struggled with addiction by living a life centered on Christ. There he would share his own experiences to those going through counseling to help them on their own personal journeys toward recovery. Randy’s disdain for the grip of substance addiction was so great that he and his friends were known to go into empty buildings in urban areas so they could physically bring heroin addicts to the Market Street Mission to be cared for.

Randy was highly devoted to his Thursday night bible study and he was extremely grateful for the group leadership of Ken Barrett. One of Randy’s favorite quotes was one from Groucho Marx who said, “Blessed are the cracked for they shall let the light in.” To Randy, that source of light was the light of God’s truth. Like any Christian parent, Matt and Kris hoped and prayed that their children were walking through life with God. Randy would give them assurance that all was ok by curling his middle finger around his index finger on his right hand, and exclaiming “Don’t worry Mom and Dad, me and Jesus are close like this.”

Everyone knows that all of us face struggles in our lives. In fact, in the bible in Ephesians 6:12, we are told the origin of those struggles when it says “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms”. Thank God that in that same book of the bible, in Ephesians 2:8-9 it also says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast”.

Randy’s family surely grieves, but they find comfort and assurance that Randy has been saved by God’s grace and, because of that, they look forward to being reunited with him in heaven at God’s appointed time.

Randy is survived by his dear parents Matthew and Kristine Rotella of Franklin Lakes; two much-loved brothers and one much-loved sister: Matthew of Marlboro, Nicholas and wife Megan of Glen Allen, VA, and Julianne Rotella of Franklin Lakes; his loving paternal grandparents: Eugene and Joyce Rotella of Franklin Lakes; cherished nephew Raine Rotella; many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins: and his adored girlfriend Samantha Phillip of Pompton Lakes. He was predeceased by his maternal grandparents: Edwin and Virtue Pankow.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Randy’s name are asked to consider Market Street Mission, 9 Market Street, Morristown, NJ 07960, or at www.marketstreet.org. The Market Street Mission assists individuals to overcome homelessness, addiction and poverty through a life centered on Christ.

Raymond McNamee, age 84 of Pompton Lakes, died peacefully on Wednesday, April 13, 2016. “Poppa” was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to many.

Ray grew up in the Greenville section of Jersey City and moved to Ridgefield Park as a young teenager. He graduated from Ridgefield Park High School with the class of 1950 where he had also played football. He joined the Marine Corps and served for three years, something he was very proud of. He remained active with many of his Marine Corps friends, including the Marine Corps League Gooney Bird Installation.

Ray met his wife Wanda (Recascino) in high school. They were introduced by mutual friends and they soon fell in love. After Ray successfully passed the ‘boyfriend interrogation’ by Wanda’s Sicilian family, they dated for a couple of years before getting married on November 7, 1953 at St. Francis RC Church in Ridgefield Park. Their honeymoon was enjoyed on the Marine Corps base at Camp Lejeune and they have enjoyed more than sixty two years together since. They loved to travel together and spent many weeks each year on St. Maarten and in Florida. Wanda will miss him dearly.

After his time in the Marines, Ray took a job with the Bendix Corporation in Teterboro. He worked the night shift at Bendix as a painter and also held two other part-time jobs, just to make ends meet. As his family grew, he realized that there had to be a better way to make a living, so he went to Montclair State University at night, earning his bachelor’s degree. While attending Montclair, a friend found him a job with PSE&G where he learned to be an auditor. He loved his job at PSE&G and all the great places he got to visit. One of the highlights of his career included a visit to an offshore oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico. He retired in 1993 at the age of 62.

Ray was fondly known as “Poppa” to just about everyone who knew him. He was the greatest grandfather that his twelve grandchildren could have ever asked for and he taught them important life-lessons, such as how to play cards, and the proper way to bet while playing poker. He was always fun to be with. Ray’s sons recall how much their dad enjoyed golfing. His family all have fond memories of fishing with Ray at their summer home in Mystic Island, NJ. For a number of years they had a place there where they would take the boat out on the bay. Ray loved being out on the water with his family and they all remember those great times. Of course, high on the list of memorable moments is the time they realized that his mother-in-law had made fried calamari out of the squid bait he was keeping in the freezer!

Ray is survived by his beloved wife, Wanda, their five children; Ray of Toluca Lake, CA, Bill of Stanhope, NJ, Tom and his wife Julie of Fairfield, CT, John and his wife Nilda of Justin, TX, and Mary Nicastro and her fiancé Bill Botbyl, twelve grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

For those wishing to make donations in Ray’s memory, please consider the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675, www.WoundedWarriorProject.org

Ralph A. Fragola, age 97 of Wayne, passed peacefully at home on Thursday, May 05, 2016 with the comfort of family by his side.

Beloved Husband, Devoted Father and Loving Grandfather/Great Grandfather.

He was born in the family home at 311 East 109th Street in New York. He completed his education in the Manhattan. Ralph then went on to serve with the 931stSignal Battalion Company B of the United States Army as a Technician Fourth Grade during WWII and received an honorable discharge on December 11, 1945. In 1948 the family moved to Fuller Street in the Bronx. They lived in a four family home with his parents, his brother's family and sister's family. They shared many memorable occasions in an environment that fostered family unity and was the scene of many family memories.

Ralph met Maria in their late teen years hanging out in the neighborhood. Their first date was at a neighborhood dance that Maria's brother orchestrated. Maria caught Ralph’s eye and the love story began to unravel. Ralph adored Maria and enjoyed 73 years of a loving and devoted marriage together.

Before retiring at the age of 58 Ralph was employed with the Atlantic Pacific Tea Company in Queens, New York. For many years Ralph and his family would spend summers in their country home at Lake Peekskill, New York. In 2005 health reasons had Ralph and Maria move from the Bronx to live in Wayne, New Jersey to be close to their daughter Marie.

Ralph will be remembered as a gentle, loving, caring man that was the rock of the family. He learned of the importance of family in that four family home in the Bronx and carried that love of having family close to him for the rest of his life.

He was the loving husband of Maria; devoted father of Michael Fragola and wife Linda of LeGrange, NY, Edyie Grafer and husband Bruce (Deceased) of Garrison, NY, Vito Fragola and wife Virginia of Bergenfield, Ralph Fragola and wife Renee of Closter, and Marie Saracino of Wayne; cherished grandfather of Maria Fragola, Ralphie Fragola and wife Francesca, Michelle Mallett and husband Drew, Brian Grafer and wife Andrea, Donna Dagnino and husband Chris, Kevin Grafer and wife Crystal, Vito, Stephen, Christopher, Kathryn, Anthony, and Rebecca Fragola, John Lando and wife Rebecca; much loved great-grandfather of Ralphie, Zachary, Schuyler, Rayne, Nicholas (Deceased), Brent, Jason, Sarah, Alyssa, Emily, Hunter, Jacklyn, Samantha, Ashley, Jake and Avery; along with extended family grandchildren/great grandchildren John, Addison and Savanna.

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

Raymond Catanzaro, age 92, of Wayne, passed peacefully at home on Monday, November 14, 2016.

He was born To Philip and Theresa Catanzaro at 39 State Street in Passaic. His father owned a tavern called Phil’s Bar and Grill located at 39 State Street where the tavern was on the first floor, his family of seven children raised on the second floor.

Raymond attended Passaic High School with the Class of 1942. As a young man he worked as a Printer’s Apprentice. He was drafted into the US Army during WWII and reported for duty on July 23, 1943. Raymond served as an Infantryman with the 301st Infantry’s 94th Division having served in Europe under General Patton. Raymond didn’t speak much about his service other than relating the one time he was in a fox hole and a Potato Masher Grenade flew in but was thankfully a dud. Raymond received the Combat Infantry Badge, the American Campaign Medal, the European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal for his service and was Honorably Discharged on April 28, 1946.

After his service, Raymond went to upholstery school and learned that trade, but then joined his father in the family-owned tavern business, Phil’s Bar and Grill, until the State of New Jersey exercised its right of Eminent Domain in the mid 1970’s and took over the property to make way for Route 21’s construction. Afterwards, Raymond worked at several liquor stores as the store manager and then retired in 1986.

Raymond met his future wife Josephine “Joy” Viviano on a blind date. Some friends invited her to join them for a night of bowling and she really didn’t want to go, but they persuaded her. When she met Ray that night, it was love at first sight! Joy and Ray would eventually enjoy a love-affair marriage that grew stronger by the day and has lasted nearly sixty years. Joy’s daughter, Maryann, recalls how often she has heard her father say “Joy, I don’t just love you, I adore you.” They shared an uncommon love and set a wonderful example for their children and grandchildren. In recent years, Ray was experiencing dementia to the degree that he thought his daughter Maryann was his wife Joy. Although he was a bit confused, his deep seated love for Joy was a foundation in his heart and had him still saying “I adore you” up until his final days.

Raymond was a founding parishioner of Our Lady of the Valley RC Church in Wayne with his late wife Joy. They shared a deep love for their Catholic faith.

Raymond will be remembered for his easy-going way and patience of a saint. He would always put other’s needs before his own. His children have many fond memories of family trips to the Jersey Shore where they would stay at his brother Phil’s home in Manasquan and later in Wildwood Crest’s hotels. During his retirement, he was always helping with the laundry and cooking. He made the best homemade pizza imaginable, loved to talk about politics, and was a huge fan of Rush Limbaugh. Raymond will forever be remembered for reminding you he was born during leap year “Bet you’ve had more birthday’s than I have” was always on the tip of his tongue.

As Raymond grew older, he would enjoy spending time with his 2 young granddaughters, Nicole and Rachel, making them his famous silver dollar pancakes and just having quality time with them. Nicole and Rachel are now grown and will always cherish those wonderful memories they have of their grandpa and grandma.

He was the loving husband of the late Josephine “Joy” Catanzaro (April 2, 2016); he was the devoted father of Maryann Mahon and her husband Matthew and their 2 children Nicole and Rachel Mahon of Wayne, NJ and also survived by his daughter Terri Moore of Clark, NJ and her 2 children Jennifer and Jonathan Moore; dear brother of the late Anthony Catanzaro and his surviving wife Irene of Little Falls, the late Rev. Fr. Eugene Catanzaro, Robert Catanzaro of Clifton, Rosalie Meade and her husband Raymond of Lakewood, Florence Sullivan and her late husband Louis of Lakewood and Philip Catanzaro of Florida; he was the much loved uncle of many nieces and nephews.

Mary A. Kell (nee Misley) age 93, of Wayne passed away peacefully on Friday September 16, 2016 while receiving the loving care of her family.

Mary was born and raised in Keasbey, New Jersey until the age of about twelve, when her family moved to the city Clifton. She lived in Clifton and graduated from Clifton High School in 1941. Mary did her part for the war effort as did many young adult Americans did. Very soon after she graduated high school she applied for a job as a clerk with the United States Army Air Corps. She worked for the US Army Air Corps and Wright Aeronautical for several years during and after World War II. A short time after the war had ended she met a handsome young man by the name of George Kell Jr. Their very first date was as simple as sharing some ice cream together in Flemington, New Jersey. They enjoyed a very romantic courtship, their relationship blossomed, and at Christmas time in 1948 they were married. They settled in Wayne and raised their family. After George’s retirement from the State Police, they moved to Pennsylvania. It wasn’t until the year 2000 when they moved back to Wayne and bought back their original house they had lived in previously. George and Mary cherished 54 years of loving and loyal marriage until George’s passing in 2002.

Having gotten married, Mary decided that she would devote her life to her family and take on the noble task of being a homemaker. She cherished her husband and her children and always pampered them. Nothing in Mary’s life was more important to her than her family. She loved traveling with her family and was proud to say that she had visited all 50 states of the United States of America. She visited Hawaii three times as it was one of her favorite places on earth. She also traveled through Canada from west coast to East coast with her family. Mary also enjoyed travelling to Europe, Spain and Morocco. Mary was not only dedicated to her family but also to her faith. She was a long time parishioner of Our Lady of Consolation RC Church in Wayne. She was very active in the church and was also a Eucharistic Minister. Mary instilled strong family values in her children and this also made her a great judge of character. Her relationship with her husband was a lovely example of “Marriage.” Mary was a member of the Pompton Lakes Women’s Club as well as the Eastern Star. Mary was extremely blessed to live to the age of 93, she lived a very fulfilling and wonderful life. She touched to lives of many people and she will be sincerely missed by everyone that knew her.

Mary is survived by two sons; Warren and his wife Karen of Oregon, and George III and his wife Patricia of South Carolina, one daughter MaryAnn Kell of South Carolina, four grandchildren; Christine of IL, Daniel of IL, Jessica of MD, and Madeline of MD, two great grandchildren; Madison and Kenzie of IL, two nieces; Cindy Briggs of Bloomindale and Betty Bowen of Highland Lakes, she was predeceased by her husband George Kell in 2002.

Richard W. Smith, age 72, of Pompton Lakes and formerly of Wayne, passed away on Friday, May 20, 2016.

Raised in Rutherford, he was a 1963 graduate of Blair Academy, Blairstown where he played baseball and was an all-state basketball player. He attended Hope College in Holland Michigan earning his B.S. degree in 1967. While there, Rich met Joan Crossman and they married in 1967. Rich proudly served in the U.S. Air Force from 1967 to 1971 and upon returning to civilian life he worked as a service manager for Laird Johnson Chevrolet, Rutherford, and later with Bellavia Chevrolet, E. Rutherford. Rich and Joan were blessed with the birth of their son Brad in 1972. They settled as a family in Wayne where Rich remained a resident until moving to Pompton Lakes in 2001.

Rich really enjoyed attending all of his grandchildren, Anthony and Taylor’s sporting events and watching his son Brad coach soccer for Wayne Hills High School.

Rich is survived by his dear son Brad of Wayne; cherished grandchildren: Anthony and Taylor; one sister: Carolyn Walden-Giatras and husband Nicholas of Pirgos, Greece; and nephews Thomas Walden and Nicholas Giatras, and niece Victoria Giatras. He was predeceased by his dear daughter-in-law Dana Lauren Smith in 2013.

Richard B. Wallin age 86 of Lincoln Park passed away peacefully on Thursday November 24, 2016.

Richard was born and raised in New Rochelle, NY and lived in New York City for a couple of years until he and his wife moved to Lincoln Park in 1957. Following his graduation from High School, Richard attended New York University where he received his Bachelor Degree in Accounting.

After his graduation but before he started his career, Richard served our country in the United States Army from 1953-1955 and was deployed to Korea just as the war ended. When Richard was honorably discharged from the Army, he then in September of 1955, married his wife Sara (nee Reinartz) who he had been dating for a couple years.  It was in Lincoln Park where Sara and Richard would spend the rest of their lives together and raise their four children.

Richard went to work as an accountant for Equitable Life Assurance in New York City. He worked there for thirty years until he was forced into an early retirement in 1985. Richard was not the kind of person to sit around and do nothing, he had a great work ethic and put his skills to use working for several different banks in Northern New Jersey until he finally started to enjoy his full time retirement in his middle sixties.

Aside from being a highly educated and experienced accountant, Richard also was a skilled musician, he played the piano and sang. He was the choir director for the Bloomingdale United Methodist Church. He was a longtime member and very involved at Calvary Temple Church Wayne. He was also one of the founding members of the actor’s club called “Carpenter’s Tools,” which was a ministry of Our Savior's Lutheran Church where his family attended in the 1960's. Richard’s wife Sara was also a gifted musician, she played the organ in church and Richard and Sara would often sing duets together in church.

Richard was a longtime dedicated baseball fan. He and his wife were both Yankee Fans in their later years and Richard was particularly sad to see his favorite team, the New York Giants, move to San Francisco in 1958. He also loved to watch and play tennis as well and enjoyed doing crossword puzzles. Richard even made time to be a Scoutmaster for the local troop of Boy Scouts of America. Aside from his passion of music and his love of sports, Richard’s greatest love and dedication was to his family. He cherished fifty-one years of loving and loyal marriage to his wife Sara and nurtured and loved his four children. He was a devoted Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Great Grandfather. Richard touched the lives of many people and will be sincerely missed by all who knew him.

Richard is survived by three sons; Stephen Wallin of Alexandria, VA, Larry Wallin and his wife Suzanne of Lincoln Park, Ken Wallin and his wife Kelly of Bloomingdale, one daughter; Carolyn Wiser of Baltimore, MD, one brother Spencer Wallin of Somers, NY, four grandchildren; Daniel, Sara, Nathaniel, and Hannah, and one great grandson; Elijah. He was predeceased by his wife Sara (2006) and his brother William (2010).

Peter B. Shultis, age 80, of Manchester, formerly of Bloomingdale, passed Monday, April 11, 2016.

He was born in Teaneck and graduated from Hackensack High School with the Class of 1953. During his high school years Peter was very athletic and excelled at baseball. With encouragement from his family he pursued his baseball career and was a pitcher for the Saint Louis Cardinals minor league team for about five years. He was a skilled south paw pitcher who could throw in the high 90 to 100 mph range. It was during this time just after high school that Peter also served in the United States Naval Reserves.

In 1954 Pete met a German girl name Elfriede Heller. They were married at Saint Anthony’s Church in Hackensack in August of 1955.

After his baseball days he and a partner named Frank Holberg, opened an Amoco Gas Station on Essex Street in Hackensack with money borrowed from Peter’s mom. One of the customers at the gas station saw potential in Peter and recruited him to work in the elevator industry. This career in elevators would span some forty years where he worked for companies like Westinghouse, Kone, and Herk. During his career he worked his way up from repairs, to managing, to being a supervisor before retiring in 2001. After retiring he worked as an elevator inspector with the EIC Inspection Agency in Jersey City. Some will also remember a time when Peter was a partner in the construction and excavating company Shultis & Miller in Bloomingdale.

Peter was a dedicated member of his community. As a young man he was a member of the Jaycee’s (United States Junior Chamber) an organization that helps young men develop personal and leadership skills through community service. He served as a Councilman for the Borough of Bloomingdale for six years and served as Mayor of the Borough in 1973. Peter also served Bloomingdale as a special police officer. He was elected by the Freeholders to serve as Chairman of the Board of Passaic County Community College as well.

Those who know Peter will remember his love of fishing and boating. When first dating Elfriede he brought her to Greenwood Lake to go for a ride in his beautiful wooden boat. This trip led to an argument between them as Pete insisted Elfie remove her shoes before boarding his boat. In the 1980’s Pete got his Merchant Marine Captains License and he would go on to own two sport fishing boats, the Bodacious and the For Pete’s Sake. For many years he hung out a shingle as a Charter Fishing Captain in Point Pleasant, NJ.

Any questions about Pete’s athletic ability were also erased when he took up the game of golf. His homes in southern New Jersey and in Fort Myers, Florida were both situated alongside fairways. Pete was also a woodworker, a skill passed along by his father. He was a good craftsman but this may have been another of his competitive driven skills as his brother was a gifted woodworker.

Pete will be lovingly remembered as being a nice, caring, complimentary, person who had a huge heart of gold. He was proud, the hardest worker ever, energetic, charismatic, fun, and loving kind of person who made you feel comfortable. That being said there was no doubt as to who was in charge. He expected a lot from you and he commanded respect.

Peter was the beloved husband of Elfriede (Heller) Shultis; devoted father of Deborah Rapkin of Manchester, John Shultis and his wife Christine of Manalapan, Sandra Sferruzza and her husband Joseph of Wayne, Thomas Shultis and his wife Stephanie of Pompton Plains, and Jill and Frank Gordon of West Creek; cherished grandfather of Brittney Nix and her husband Andrew, Peter Sferruzza, Samantha Shultis, Stephen Sferruzza, Olivia Rapkin, Frank and Thomas Gordon; dear brother of the late John “Jack” Shultis (Dec. 14, 2015).

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Manchester Volunteer Fire Co., 545 Commonwealth Blvd., Manchester, NJ 08759 or the Manchester Township Volunteer First Aid Squad, 44 Clayton Ave., Manchester, NJ 08759 would be appreciated.

Patricia Anne Garcia (Schulte) age 54 of Pompton Plains passed Sunday, August 14, 2016.

She was born at Saint Mary’s Hospital in Passaic and raised in Wayne having graduated from Wayne Valley High School with the Class of 1979.

From a young age Pat worked at her parents Frank and Paula’s florist shop in Wayne called “Schulte’s Florist.” She would later work for Prudential Insurance Company in Parsippany, for Jerry’s Restaurant in East Rutherford, and finally for New Bridge Services in Boonton. Pat had to stop working several years ago because of health issues.

She will be remembered as a spunky, loud, fun loving, bold, and hilarious person who had no filter. She was a great cook and her special loving touch on cavatelli and broccoli, beef milanese which she would cook all day, chicken noodle soup, and her secret chili recipe will be greatly missed.

Pat met a cute boy named William “Bill” Garcia while visiting her brother who worked as a groomer at the Meadowlands horse track. She tried to strike up a conversation with Bill but he wouldn’t give her the time of day. Finally she got frustrated and asked why he wouldn’t talk to her. Bill replied “because you’re here with that guy.” Well that guy happened to be Pat’s brother. Once this was established, they truly enjoyed each other’s company. On their first date Bill was to go and watch Pat play softball on Valley Road in Wayne. As he drove to Wayne, he came down Route 46 and exited to Valley Road in Clifton by mistake. He drove up and down Valley Road in Clifton but couldn’t find the field. He eventually did what no other man would do, and stopped at the gas station for directions. The station attendant immediately knew the mistake and directed Bill to Valley Road in Wayne. Bill proposed to Pat while having dinner at the Town Tavern in Little Falls. She said yes and the entire restaurant erupted in applause for them. Bill and Pat married on August 23, 1985 and honeymooned on the island of Saint Lucia. They have enjoyed a loving, adventurous, and caring marriage of over thirty years.

Pat is the loving and devoted mother of William Garcia III and his wife Jessica of West Milford, Frank Garcia of Pompton Plains, and Justine Marie Garcia of Pompton Plains; cherished grandmother of Cole Garcia; and much loved sister of John Schulte and his wife Sue of Maryland, Fran Schulte, Betty Schulte, and William Schulte all of Wayne.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to BASS (Bloomingdale Animal Shelter Society), PO Box 24, Bloomingdale, NJ 07403 would be appreciated.

Ralene R. Mulvihill-Smith, age 41 of Wharton and formerly of Wayne, died suddenly on Friday, January 8, 2016.

Since early childhood, Ralene had a child-like eagerness to explore the world and her young soul desired to experience as much as possible. Her sense of adventure drove her to see and do more in her forty one years than most people could dream of doing in three lifetimes. She was enthusiastic and made friends wherever she went, wearing her heart on her sleeve. Ralene overflowed with kindness that simply couldn’t be contained and she was generous with her love, often times to a fault. Babies and young children had a special tendency to melt her heart, and she could never pass up a kitten! She was also a great story teller and could make you laugh so hard you would cry. Ralene met her best friend; Paul Smith in 2008 and the two of them fell in love. They were married on St. Patrick’s Day; March 17, 2011.

Tragically, Ralene lost her mother when she was just ten years old. Her father found himself suddenly raising six children on his own. Ralene always loved and adored her father, Joseph. She looked to him for help and direction her entire life. Her brothers and sisters were also a great source of support and love for Ralene. Her grandparents, Robert and Leona Mulvihill, stepped in to help Ralene and all the children when their mother passed. As a result, Ralene became very close with her “Grandma Lee” and the two formed a very loving bond. Grandma Lee passed away in 2009 and it brings comfort to think that Ralene is reunited once again, sharing her love with her mother and Grandma Lee in heaven. Grandma Lee wrote this poem in 1953 and may it remind us of the reward Ralene has received:

“Many hours have been spent reading my Bible, lest I forget why I was born and why I must die to the things of this world in order to be reborn with my beloved Christ Jesus, son of my Lord and Creator.”             Leona Mulvihill, 1953.

Ralene is survived by her husband; Paul Smith of Wharton, NJ, her five children; Almonte, Rianna, Al Xavier, Cierra, and Logan Mulvihill of Washington, her stepson; Paul Smith, Jr. and his wife Tanya of PA, her father; Joseph Mulvihill of Wayne, her brothers; Keith Mulvihill and his wife Jennifer of Freehold, NJ, and Jason Mulvihill and his wife Leah of Bloomingdale, NJ, sisters; Rosalee D’Aiuto and her husband Scott of Little Falls, NJ, Kelliann Mulvihill of Willowbrook, IL and Nicole Mulvihill of Palm Springs, CA, her loving grandfather; Robert Mulvihill of Wayne, and seven grandchildren.

Peter Southway, age 82, of Wyckoff, on Tuesday, December 27, 2016.

Born in Prospect Park, NJ, he was a resident of Wyckoff since 1991.

Peter was a graduate of the American Institute of Banking and former president of Valley National Bank of Wayne, retiring in 2001 following a fifty-year career. He also served in numerous roles with local civic, philanthropic, and religious organizations during the span of his lifetime. He was a long-time member of the Ebenezer Netherlands Reformed Church of Franklin Lakes.

Peter was the beloved husband of Lena (nee Hoogmoed) to whom he was blessed with 58 years of marriage; loving father of Arlene den Hollander of Lincoln Park, and Peter J. and wife Marilyn Southway of Fredon Township; and beloved grandfather of Matthew and wife Patricia Southway, Leah and husband Samuel Moerdyk, Sarah den Hollander, Hannah Southway, Sadie Southway, Laina Southway, Jonathan den Hollander, Cornelius Southway, and Mark Southway. He is also survived by four cherished great-grandchildren; and two brothers: Cornelius and wife Jean Southway of Warwick, NY, and Howard and wife Eleanor Southway of Rockaway.

Peter was predeceased by his brother Robert and wife Beatrice Southway, and his son-in-law Jon den Hollander.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Peter’s name are asked to consider the Netherlands Reformed Christian School Endowment Fund, 164 Jacksonville Road, Pompton Plains, NJ 07444.

Peter A. MacDonald, Jr., age 77 of Wayne, died on Friday, August 26, 2016.

He was born in Paterson and was a lifelong Wayne resident, having grown up on a farm on Valley Road. He was among the very first class to graduate from Wayne High School in 1956 and went on to serve in the U.S. Army.

Peter met his wife of forty-seven years, the late Marion Vivino MacDonald (2005), in high school. They began dating during his senior year in high school and eloped in 1958. They never had a honeymoon, as he was just out of the service and essentially had no money.

Peter was a truck driver for Henoch Oil, and later Keller Depken Oil of Passaic where he worked over forty years, retiring in 2003. He sought employment in the oil industry so he could work summers at MacDonald’s Beach on Route 23 in Pequannock, where he was a co-owner. Until just recently, he was working for his son David at Blue Mist Irrigation of Wayne.

Peter was the loving father of three children; Peter, III and his wife Susan of Hoboken, Debbie Akerly and her husband Lonnie of Erie, PA, and David and his wife Patricia of West Milford, grandfather to seven; Jessica, Samantha, Courtney, Kaylin, Carly, Peter, and Collin. He was predeceased by his wife Marion in 2005, by his brother Warren MacDonald in 1995, and by his sister Elva Echenwald just this past month.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Pete's memory would be appreciated to the Michael J. Fox Foundation.  Donations can be mailed to: Donation Processing, The Michael J. Fox Foundation, P.O. Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5014

Paula Christine Bayley, age 42 of Wayne, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, Jan. 17, 2016, with her loving family by her side.

Paula is survived by her beautiful twin daughters, Ella Vivian and Emme Hope Bayley; by her beloved parents, Richard and Vivian (nee Golten) Bayley of Wayne; her adored sister, Ellen Bayley of Wayne; her cherished brother, David Bayley and his wife Erika of Wayne and Paula’s two nephews Gavin Richard and Preston David.

She was a graduate of DePaul Catholic High School in 1991 and Berkley College in 1994. She went on to work for many years at Accountants on Call in Saddle Brook, NJ and lived in Upper Montclair for 13 years with her sister. Her love of animals was expressed in her caring of her three Golden Retrievers, Brittany, Savanah and Sophie, and they were completely devoted to her. Her hobbies included yoga, swimming, gardening, arts & crafts, and power walking around Brookdale Park. Everyone who met her was touched by her kindness, radiant smile, and her ability to give love to others.

Paula is also survived by many other loving family members, several aunts and uncles, Alfred Bayley of North Carolina, Patricia Bayley of upstate, New York, Edward Bayley and his wife Charlotte of Oak Ridge, NJ, James Bayley and his wife Joan of Emerson, NJ, Robert Bayley and his wife Carol of Wayne, Carol Kasper and her husband Henry of Wayne, Norman Golten of Florida, and Sylvia Strand and her husband Eivind of Massachusetts and many adoring cousins. She was pre-deceased by her grandparents, Alfred and Loretta Bayley, Sigurd and Aagot Golten, and cousin Kevin James Bayley.

Friends wishing to make a donation in Paula’s memory are asked to please consider “Daniel’s Dream,” a Dog Rescue Foundation, set out to save every loving canine and place them with a caring family. (www.danielsdream.org) - PO Box 55, Nutley, NJ

Norman J. Rolleri, age 86, of Wayne, passed peacefully at home on Sunday, July 24, 2016.

He was born in Paterson to Louis and Cora Rolleri and graduated from Central High School in Paterson with the Class of 1947. He began his undergraduate studies at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana and because of costs he had to transfer to New York University where he graduated with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering with the Class of 1951.

Like so many o fhis generation, he was a brilliant engineer who quietly accomplished so much over his career that spanned nearly 40 years. He spent the majority of his career with the Curtiss Wright Corporation in Woodbridge, New Jersey. Norman worked on early jet engine technology testing ramjet engines in White Sands, New Mexico; building a power plant in Kuwait, and working on overhauling of the J57 Engines for the Air Force’s KC-135 military tankers. When the doors of Curtis Wright closed in Woodbridge, Norman worked for Lear Siegler in Florham Park, New Jersey as a program manager of the avionics package of McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet. He was honored for his work on this program by the Royal Australian Air Force.

Norman and his wife Rose were founding parishioners of Holy Cross RC Church in Wayne. Norman served as a Trustee of the church for many years. He was an avid flower gardener right up until the days before his passing. One of Norman’s loves was golfing. For many years he played on the Curtis Wright Golf Team and more recently at the Passaic County Golf Course in Wayne. When his ability to play golf waned he started to re-grip and repair clubs just to keep his mind active in the game. Norman was also active in the model airplane community having been a member of the Wayne Modelers Club for many years. He has flown model airplanes in Wayne, Lincoln Park, Branchburg, and many years ago he flew them along the unfinished corridor designated for Route 80’s construction.

Norman’s future wife Rose’s brother Michael was looking for someone to go on vacation with. Her dear friend Dorothy Rolleri offered to ask her brother Norman if he would be willing to go with Michael. Norman obliged and when he arrived at Michael’s house to leave for that vacation, there was Michael’s sister Rose. As Norm put it, Rose was wearing a beautiful white blouse and for him, love at first sight was the understatement of the century. Norman couldn’t wait to get back from vacation so he could ask Rose out! She accepted and their first date was to the Windbeam Club off of Route 23. They spent the night dancing to live music and soon their love was mutual. Future dates included trips to New York City to see Broadway shows like Guys and Dolls and The King and I. One day, Norm and Rose were out for a drive. He suddenly pulled over and asked Rose for her hand in marriage. She gladly accepted and with the approval of Rose’s parents, they became engaged on Valentine’s Day and married the following Halloween, October 31, 1953. The wedding was celebrated at Our Lady of Pompeii Church in Paterson. Following a romantic honeymoon to Florida, the newlyweds settled into an upstairs apartment with her parents in the house Rose grew up in. She continued working at First National Bank until God blessed them with their first child, a beautiful daughter which they named Patricia. Upon the arrival of their second-born, another dear girl which they named Norma Jean, the family moved out of that apartment in Paterson, into their brand new home in Wayne, NJ. By now Rose was a full-time super homemaker and she quickly made that new house a home where everyone wanted to come home to. Soon after the move the family grew to five when they welcomed that son they had been waiting for. They named him Robert.

Many fond family memories were made with an annual week-long vacations to Long Beach Island. Each year, during Norman’s birthday week in July, they would rent a different house on Long Beach Island from 1963 through 1984. Norman will be remembered as the kind of man that could fix anything. He was meticulous, very intelligent, had the patience of a saint, and understood how things worked. Many will also remember him as a confidant who would listen for hours and do his best to help you and give you perspective on your situation. He also cared and was concerned for others more than himself. Most of all Norman was dedicated to his family and loved to see the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. He also loved his son-in-laws Robert and Matthew, and daughter-in-law Gail as if they were his own children.

Norman was the beloved husband of the late Rose Grace Rolleri (2013); devoted father of Patty Dox and her husband Matthew of Wayne, Norma Falcone and her husband Robert of Warren Township, Robert and his wife Gail of Cary, North Carolina; cherished grandfather of Matthew James, Meghan, Stephanie, Michelle, Melissa, Lucas, and Rachel; much loved uncle of Fred and Ernest Sesso, and Susan Bracco. He was predeceased by his sister Dorothy Rolleri in 2015.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Passaic Valley Hospice, PO Box 1007, Totowa, NJ 07511-1007 would be appreciated.

Norma Anita Theting (nee Granger), age 93 of Pompton Plains and formerly of Towaco and Haskell, died on Sunday, August 28, 2016 at the Lakeland Health Care Center in Haskell.

Norma spent her formative years in Belleville, NJ with her siblings Violet, George and Gladys. As a child, she and Gladys were a tap dancing team that made the rounds to entertain at area events. At sixteen years old she left school for a job to help her family. These were lean years, but not short on makeshift parties and fun, as this was ‘The Greatest Generation’, after all. She was invited to the home of a co-worker, where she met Arnold Theting, who was home on leave from the Marine Corps. They married soon after and eventually moved to Haskell, where they raised their family.

Norma was a shy and giving person, who enjoyed being surrounded by family. She always put her children first, and found creative ways to make each of them feel special and loved. The grandchildren were treated to a ‘Mary Poppins’ Nana, who pulled out all the stops to make their time together magical and fun. This included learning how to properly set a tray for endless tea parties, countless thoughtful surprises, and many unforgettable New Years’ Eve celebrations. In Nana’s house the rule was “Life is uncertain – eat dessert first”.

Norma was a life-long devoted NY Yankees fan. Mel Allen’s voice was heard giving the play-by-play in her kitchen for many years, and later on, she still preferred to listen to the games on the radio, even while watching on TV. She was a true student of the game of baseball, passionate about the individual players, trades, and game strategy. During football season, she was a staunch Dallas Cowboys fan, following Roger Staubach from his early days at Annapolis and throughout his career with Dallas. She was also an avid reader who particularly enjoyed mysteries, knew the words to every old song, and thought the cure for everything was taking a nice long walk.

As the years became more challenging, help was hired to lighten Mom’s burden—the amazing thing is that Mom also made them cherished friends…. Teresa, Yvette, Connie, Katrina.

Norma’s faith was a powerful guiding force in her life. She was a member of the Pompton Plains United Reformed Church for many years. After she could no longer attend services, she often enjoyed visits and lively discussions with Pastor Kuiken. Norma was also blessed to have enjoyed a very loyal and close relationship with her brother, George. The two of them were the best of friends throughout their entire lives until his passing. She was also predeceased by her two sisters; Violet and Gladys.

Norma is survived by her three children; Cheryl Lyons and her husband Russ of Doylestown, PA, David Theting and his wife Pam of Canton, GA, and Bonnie Postma and her husband Paul of Lincoln Park, four grandchildren; Bethany Lyons and her husband John Murray of New York, NY, Allison Williamson and her husband John of Somerset, Michael Postma of Clifton, and Eric Postma of Clifton, as well as her sister-in-law, Janet Granger of Wanaque.

She remains with us, each in our own way, and in her way as well.

Nora Degasero, age 87 of Wayne, peacefully passed away on Friday, January 29, 2016.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, she married at the tender age of nineteen and moved to Long Island where she quickly settled into the role of homemaker. Over the course of the next few years Nora also took on the role of mother of her three little girls: Ginny, Linda and Janis.

Nora found great joy in being a mommy and a homemaker. As years ticked off the calendar, she eventually became a single mom but one day while working at the grand Gertz Department Store on the south side of Jamaica Avenue in Queens, Nora found love again. His name was Felix Degasero and he was one of Nora’s coworkers at the store. They married in the summer of 1972 and moved to Valley Stream, NY. There Nora continued to do the things she loved the most – being a mom and a homemaker. She loved to keep her house clean. Her kids would say she had the cleanest windows and mirrors in all of Valley Stream. Often while cleaning she would have some of her preferred Italian music playing in the house including music by one of her favorite Italian-American pop artists of that era – Jimmy Roselli. The dogs – mostly Chihuahuas and Yorkies – would keep her company during the day while Felix was at work and the girls were off to school. A great cook, she was always whipping up a delicious dish to serve her family and, like any good restaurant, her husband, kids and grandkids kept coming for more! Her family’s favorite recipes included anything Italian and even her satisfying tuna fish salad. She loved to bake too so it was nothing unusual for the house to be filled with the delicious smell of fresh baking bread or cookies.

Nora’s faith in God was important to her. For the thirty-one years that she lived in Valley Stream, NY, she was a parishioner of Church of the Blessed Sacrament on Central Ave. In addition to regularly attending, one of her favorite traditions was taking the whole family to midnight mass on Christmas Eve, then they would come home to wait for what Santa would bring.

For many years, Nora padded her pocketbook with some extra spending money she earned by opening her home to provide daycare for some of the community’s children. Many of the children she cared for were from her church.

Nora’s own children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren were everything to her. Nothing made her smile more than when they would come to visit. They said she didn’t like to talk on the phone. No wonder! It was probably her clever little way to get them to come over in person.

After a blessed marriage of twenty-nine years, Nora’s beloved Felix passed away in 2001. A couple of years later, she closed the Valley Stream chapter of her life and moved to Wayne so that she could be closer to her family.

There will be much to be missed now that Nora is gone from this life. Her daughters will miss her “Mommy Hugs” and gallivanting with her, whether it just be going shopping (Nora loved to shop!) or going out to lunch. Nora especially loved to go out for Sicilian pizza and her favorite slice was the one in the center because it always had a little extra sauce. She would make it taste perfect by adding a little crushed red pepper on it. Mmmm! That was a treat fit for a queen. Nora, in fact loved red pepper so much, she seasoned many dishes with it and always carried her own supply when planning to dine out. Her family will also miss the simple act of gathering around her kitchen table for an afternoon cocktail and snack and some great conversation. Of course, never being ones to imbibe in the morning, one of the famous lines uttered in her house was “Is it twelve-o'clock yet?”

Nora was predeceased by her beloved husband Felix in 2001, her dear grandson Salvatore DiSimone, and her two brothers: Vincent and John Carnaval.

Surviving are her three dear daughters: Virginia Acar of Wayne, Linda DiSimone of Henryville, PA, and Janis and husband John Curran of Staten Island, NY; four cherished grandchildren: Theresa and husband Robert Castaldo, Stacy and husband Tony Bosco, Janine and husband Peter Koutros, and John M. Curran; one dear granddaughter-in-law: Deborah DiSimone; eight adored great-grandchildren: Rob Castaldo, Anthony and wife Kat Castaldo, Jada Kelly, Salvatore DiSimone, Joey Bosco, Stevie Bosco, PJ Koutros, and Joseph Koutros; nine great-great-grandchildren: Erika, Vincent, Dominick, Tony, Emily and Marilyn Castaldo, and Jada, Rickee, and Bella Balanda; and her dear sister: Phyllis Latella of Florida.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Nora’s name are asked to consider American Cancer Society, NJ Chapter, 20 Mercer Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601.

Norman J. Dollbaum, “Dobby,” as he was affectionately known by all, died peacefully in Wayne at the age of 84 on Wednesday, June 1, 2016.

He was born and raised in Garfield, having graduated from Garfield High School with the Class of 1949.

Norman’s work history was extremely diverse. His first job was working as a field laborer at a celery farm in Paramus. He lived on the farm Monday through Friday, with the farmer picking him up at his home on Sunday evening, and then delivering him back home again on Friday night. He later worked as a newspaper carrier and carpenter before being drafted into the US Army during the Korean War. For much of his service he was stationed in Germany as a cook. When his enlistment was over, he again worked as a carpenter and as a bartender at his parent’s tavern, the Anchor Inn, located at the corner of Kipp Ave and River Drive in East Paterson, which is now Elmwood Park. He later found work as a Plant Manager for Empire Overall Dry Cleaning in Elmwood Park, then he worked for Consolidated Laundry in Jersey City, again as a plant manager. He then opened his own butcher shop called “Country Butcher” on Mabie Street in Franklin, which he eventually moved to Hamburg. He later moved to Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, where he was the night shift custodian for the Upper Dublin Schools before retiring in 2009. Four years ago he moved to Wayne to be closer to family.

Norman was devoted to his Catholic faith and he was a loving and loyal man. With his large build and loud voice, he could seem brusk at times, but always spoke from his heart with love. He was non-materialistic, and keeping his car clean was never high on his list of priorities. He had a strong, old fashioned work ethic and never offered or accepted excuses. As a boy, he was his grandmother’s favorite out of eight grandchildren. He loved Yuengling beer, scotch whiskey, fishing, reading, and was always the loudest fan cheering at his grandson’s Bobby and Anthony’s baseball games. Norman was a great cook and made the best gravy in the world. His special touch on Sauerbraten, dumplings, rice cakes, and babka will be greatly missed.

He was a parishioner of Our Lady of the Valley RC Church in Wayne and a member of the church’s Nocturnal Adoration Society, a member and past commander of the VFW Post 1931, and a member of the American Legion of Wayne.

He was the devoted husband of Frances (Tarnacki) Dollbaum (2015); loved father of Edvie Canavan of Little Falls, Norman David Dollbaum and his wife Marilyn of Lutz, FL, Karen Rapole and her companion Rick Snyder of Port Jervis, NY, Cynthia Ann Dollbaum of Clifton, Christine Calafiore and her husband Robert of Wayne, and Michelle Cullen and her husband Christopher of South Salem, NY; cherished grandfather of Edvie Marie Castro, Peter Canavan, Joseph Rapole, Stephen Rapole, Robert Calafiore, Jr., Anthony Calafiore, Jessica Cullen, Thomas Dollbaum, Jordan Dollbaum, and David Dollbaum; much loved great-grandfather of Colyn Rapole; dear brother of Madeline Janzer of Denver, CO., and Carol Pierochorowicz of St. Louis, MO. Norman was predeceased by his five brothers: Charles, Edward, Joseph, Francis, and Walter.

Dobby was a proud patriot and veteran. Donations in his memory would be greatly appreciate to your local VFW.

Patsy Ruth (Roden) Seremi, a 60 year resident of Wayne, NJ passed away March 9, 2016, two weeks after celebrating her 90th birthday on February 22nd. Patsy was the daughter of Harry R. Roden and Ruth Felter Roden and step-daughter of Marjorie Powers Roden and was born and lived her entire life in New Jersey.

Patsy’s joy in life centered on her family and her home and her strong faith. She and her husband, the late Ernest Seremi, built their home in Wayne sixty years ago from the ground up and Patsy even tiled the kitchen floor while pregnant. It was there that Patsy found the comfort she had always sought after moving so many times in her formative years. She and Ernie took up square dancing which drew in the entire family and many friends. Patsy was also a voracious reader and had an excellent vocabulary which she used to write poems and to play word games of all types. Her favorites were Scrabble, both the English and French versions, and crossword puzzles; it was all about the words.

Patsy had many interests and doted on her five daughters, making their clothing and holiday costumes, entertaining them and their friends and instilling in them a love of reading. She loved hosting family gatherings, birthday parties and picnics which always included friendly competitive games of croquet played among the gardens she enjoyed creating. She cared for many relatives and friends throughout her lifetime and volunteered for several years at the North Jersey Developmental Center in Totowa as a foster grandmother. She worked for a while at Bergenfield Lighting and went from salesperson to consultant, starting and running the gift shop where she used her artistic side to help people make selections of lighting and accessories. Patsy was a lifelong member of the Preakness Bible Church.

She loved the Jersey shore and spent numerous years at Pt. Pleasant Beach where she would don her favorite big brimmed hat which was her trademark. She would relax, visiting with the many shore friends she made over the decades. Patsy also loved to sing and had perfect pitch. She would break into song when thinking about an event in her life. And in her later years, as she spent more time at home, Patsy enjoyed the companionship of Polly the Sheltie and the cheery chirps of the resident bird.

Patsy faced the joys in life with grace and humility and the sorrows with grace and fortitude. She always chose to look to the sunshine rather than dwell in the shadows. It was her innate kindness and humanity that enabled her to seek out the best in everyone. That is why, all her life, people were drawn to her sparkling blue eyes and her smile that would light up a room. She was a woman of integrity who lived a good life and enriched the lives of all who knew her.

Patsy is survived by three daughters, Karen Francois, Linda De Young, Patsy Seremi and a brother Harry Robert (Bob) Roden. She was predeceased by the love of her life, the late Ernest Seremi, two daughters; Deborah Graham and Wendy Vesque and two sisters; Susie Page and Jacquie Roden. She also leaves grandsons Tommy Francois, John Francois and granddaughters Wendy Bianchini, Jenny Francois, Beth Ross and Juliette Panzitta and great-grandchildren, Shea and Kylee Bianchini, Nemo and Owen Francois, and Annabelle Francois, nieces and nephews as well as several loving cousins; all of whom will greatly miss her.

Memorial donations may be made to the Preakness Bible Church, 1108 Preakness Ave, Wayne, NJ, 07470.

Nancy M. Vennard age 73 of Wantage passed away peacefully on Sunday September 4, 2016 after a battle with a long illness.

Nancy was born in Passaic, was raised in Paterson and Wayne before moving to Wantage over forty years ago. She was a registered nurse for most of her career and worked for Newark and Wayne hospitals. She also held a position as a Nursing Supervisor for Atrium at Wayne Nursing Home in Wayne. Nancy worked until her illness forced her into retirement.

She spent her childhood at her father’s summer home at Lake Gerard in Sussex where she still has many friends. Nancy was a dog lover and raised Basset Hounds all of her life and was affiliated for many years with the Basset Hound Club of America. She was a lover of nature and took a special interest and affection toward frogs. Nancy was also an avid NY Giants and Mets fan. She cherished many long lasting friendships and will be sincerely missed by her family and friends alike.

Nancy is survived by one sister; Joan La Duke and her husband Allan of Ringwood, one nephew; Darby La Duke and his wife Diane, one niece; Nicole La Duke, and her brother-in-law Ron Angus of Montville, she was pre-deceased by her sister Betty Angus (2015).

Donations in Nancy’s name may be made to First Baptist Church, 4 East Main St. Sussex, NJ 07461, Wantage Dog Pound, 888 Route 23, Sussex, NJ 07461.

Minnie C. Amato “Nonnie”, age 91 of Wayne and formerly of Paterson, passed away on Monday, February 1, 2016.

Minnie was born and raised in Livorno, Italy. Her country was not exempt from the ravages of World War II, but for Nonnie – the name she was eventually given by her grandson Billy, it was during that war that she met a fine soldier of the Italian armed forces named Angelo Amato who, one day, came through her hometown of Livorno. After the war was over, Nonnie and Angelo were united in holy matrimony. It was March of 1952 and after marriage, they settled in Comiso, Italy.

Eventually, Nonnie and Angelo were blessed with a beautiful baby girl which they named Daniela. Nonnie gratefully embraced the increased responsibility born by this God-given gift of Daniela to her and Angelo.

In search of the American dream, Angelo came to the U.S. first to get established. Nonnie and Daniela followed shortly and they all settled in the city of Paterson. Their living was made as owners of Fischer’s Luncheonette in Hasbrouck Heights. Nonnie worked hard with Angelo and was happy in her role and for this great opportunity that living in America afforded them.

In her discretionary time Nonnie did what seemingly every woman of her generation loved to do – more cooking and cleaning! Her family, now including her grandson Billy, had a nice family tradition of simply gathering every Sunday at her house for her deliciously prepared homemade meatballs and sauce. She also enjoyed helping Daniela take care of Billy and, of course, also like almost every woman, she loved to go shopping. While you could set your clock to the fact that every Tuesday was grocery shopping day, shopping for some of the latest fashions was also a great pastime. Nonnie enjoyed the various dogs that gave her much love throughout the years but, while she hated the fur they left all over her house, it gave her justification for doing all that cleaning she loved to do. No doubt, house cleaning was much more fun when you had some good music playing in the background and Nonnie’s favorites included great Italian singers and entertainers like Andre Bocelli and Dean Martin. She also loved a good Italian opera.

In 1986, after many years living in Paterson, Nonnie and Angelo joined their now grown daughter at her home in Wayne. There, Nonnie began attending Our Lady of Consolation Church. It was with sadness in her heart that she said “Goodbye for now” to her faithful husband Angelo when he passed away in 1992.

Although Nonnie was generationally somewhat stern and the unofficial matriarch of the family – she made that rules that everyone followed – she was a very loving, nurturing and caring person who adored her family and friends and she will be sorely missed.

Nonnie is survived by her adored grandson Billy and wife Deborah Thomas of Pompton Lake; cherished granddaughter Alexandria Hassett; and dear brother-in-law Alfred Amato of Woodridge. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Angelo in 1992; and her dearest daughter Daniela Amato-Thomas in 2014.

Melvin Kramer, age 76, an over thirty-five year resident of Wayne, passed Thursday, December 22, 2016.

He was born in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York and raised at the family home on Piaget Avenue in Clifton. Melvin graduated from Clifton High School with the Class of 1958. He continued his education at the Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken where he graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering with the Class of 1962.

After college Melvin enlisted in the US Army, where he served for 3 years. After his service in the Army he worked as an electrical engineer, mostly in the Defense Communications Division at ITT in Nutley before retiring in 2002.

Mel met his future wife, Gail Kuzsma, on a blind date while attending Stevens Tech. They were married at Westfield Presbyterian Church on June 30, 1962.

Melvin was the loving husband of 54 years to Gail (Kuzsma) Kramer; father of Brian Kramer and his wife Denise of New York City, Mark Kramer of West Milford, James Kramer and his wife Georgiana of Houston, TX, and Eric Kramer and his wife Julie of Honolulu, HI; he was the grandfather of Benjamin Kramer and Lili Kramer; Melvin was the loved brother of Francis Nossen and her husband Robert of Naples, FL.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Michael J. Fox Foundation (click on blue text to make an online donation) would be greatly appreciated. Mail to: The Michael J. Fox Foundation, Donation Processing, PO Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5014 and be sure to notate that your donation is in memory of Melvin Kramer.

Michael Szewczyk, age 72 of Wayne, died peacefully on Saturday, February 6, 2016 with his family gathered at his bedside. He had been a Wayne resident since 1978.

Michael was born in Florynka, Poland, one of seven boys. He grew up in Trzebnice from the age of four. He was among one of the smartest kids in his school and he would often teach the classes when their teacher was absent. He later became the first kid from his village to go to college. He earned a degree as a Mining Engineer and then shortly thereafter he emigrated to the United States in 1966. He settled to the Singac section of Little Falls and after a few odd jobs, he took a position with GAF Corporation which eventually led to Bendix Corp, Allied, and then Honeywell. He was always a ‘bookworm’ and in 1988 he successfully completed his MBA while also working full time and raising a family! He was smart, motivated, enthusiastic and dedicated in every way.

Michael loved computers and he worked with them at home perhaps more than he did at work. Long before we had computer ‘networking’ as we all know it, he connected two computers together at home and programmed them to communicate with each other – and it worked! He was so excited by his accomplishment that he hurried his family into the room to see it working!

Michael always wanted the best for his family and he looked out for them all. He was very protective, especially towards his two wonderful daughters. He cautioned them frequently when they were younger; “don’t date any bums!” He set the bar high as the most loving, caring, protective father they could have ever hoped for. Michael was also a wonderful husband to his Anna. They met in Poland, passing each other almost every day on their commute to different schools. When Anna’s sister married Michael’s brother, they were in the wedding party together and their own marriage followed soon after. They married ‘legally’ in Poland and then once they arrived in America, they were married in St. Stephen’s Church in Paterson on December 11, 1966. Embarking on their new life here in America, they settled to the Singac section of Little Falls and then eventually moved to Wayne in 1978. Michael and Anna have enjoyed fifty years together during which time they were able to travel extensively. They visited Argentina, Brazil, Italy, Poland, England, Ireland, and many other parts of Europe, as well as many road trips throughout the U.S. They were well-traveled and made many great memories as a family. Family vacations to the Jersey Shore were an annual event including Wildwood, Cape May and Point Pleasant. He loved spending time with his family and he was generous to a fault. A selfless man, he would do anything for you if you needed – and he did all he could for his wife and children. He was a great dad and a wonderful husband.

Michael is survived by his beloved wife Anna of Wayne, by his two daughters; Christine Fitzpatrick and her husband Brian of W. Nyack, NY, Kathy Szewczyk-Johnson and her husband Robert of Doylestown, PA, five grandchildren; Kyle and Evan Johnson, Jack, Sean and Colin Fitzpatrick, four brothers; Eugene and his wife Eva of Princeton, Andrzej, Wladek, Slawek all of Poland. He was predeceased by two brothers; Alexander and Janik of Poland.

Mary Tropona, age 86 of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 4, 2016.

Mary was born in Hackensack, the youngest of Pasquale and Concetta Terranova’s three children. She was raised in Clifton, then Passaic, graduating from Passaic High School with the Class of 1948.

After high school, Mary went to work for Household Finance Mortgage Company in Passaic. One day while working there, she was held up by a robber. The assailant approached Mary, telling her to give him all the money. She tried to cooperate but was so scared, she could hardly move. Ultimately, the robber got what he wanted but, happily, Mary lived to tell the story.

Mary met her husband to be, Peter Tropona on a blind date. Mary and Peter had their first date at a dance which was an activity that Mary really enjoyed. They fell in love and got engaged before Peter was called to serve as a soldier in the U.S. Army in Korea.

While Peter was overseas, Mary continued in her job at Household Finance, getting rides to and from work from her good friend Emil Maggio. When Peter came home, he and Mary exchanged their marital vows before family and friends at St. Anthony’s Church in Passaic on April 19, 1953. Their wedding was followed by a grand reception – the first formal reception anyone in Mary’s family ever had! They honeymooned in Florida then continued their lives in Passaic. Mary soon gave birth to her daughter Patricia and later to her son Peter. She settled into her role as homemaker and mother, taking a very active role in their school’s PTA before returning to work as a part-time bookkeeper for Prospect Toy Store in Passaic when her son Peter was old enough. She ultimately went to work full-time as office manager for that good friend Emil Maggio who was now “Dr. Emil Maggio” and his partners Dr. Richard Stefanacci and Dr. Paul DeMuro in their practice in Passaic. Mary enjoyed a career there that spanned over 20 years.

One of Mary’s greatest passions of life was playing cards. A fierce competitor, Mary was always up for a game of rummy, pinochle or poker. In fact, so great was her passion for cards, for almost 30 years, she’d get together every Friday night with girlfriends from high school to play poker over each other’s houses. She and Peter also frequently got together with mutual friends, holding marathon card game tournaments that went on all weekend, especially if the weekend fell on a holiday. Of course, Mary took her share of bus trips to gamble with friends in Atlantic City, and flights to Las Vegas to gamble with Peter too.

Mary’s love of cards was only matched by the adoration she had for her family. She cherished time spent with her grandchildren teaching them card games, going to their sporting events and dance recitals, and spoiling them with gifts at Christmas and for their birthdays.

She was devoted in her faith to God and was an almost life-long parishioner of St. Anthony’s Parish in Passaic.

Mary was a fanatic about most aspects of her life. Her motto was “do it right or don’t do it at all.” That’s how she lived – loving fiercely, speaking her mind, often time peppering what she had to say with a great sense of humor.

Mary is survived by her loving daughter Patricia and husband John Ferrarella of Wayne, her loving son Peter and wife Judy Tropona of Pompton Plains; her six cherished grandchildren: John, Matthew, Peter, Jude, Justin, and Vanessa; her dear brother Michael Terranova of Silver Beach, NJ; numerous nieces and nephews; and her dear friends Judy and Albert Gioia. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 31 years - Peter G. and her brother Vincent.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Mary’s name are asked to consider St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38148-0142, www.stjude.org

Michael Donato, age 84 of Wayne, died on Monday, June 6, 2016 with his family at his bedside. A resident of Wayne since 1958, Mike had worked for Kearfott and Hydrotherm, eventually retiring from CGI in 2000.

A graduate of Passaic Valley HS 1950 and a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy.

Mike was a dedicated husband to his beloved Fay for more than sixty-two years, and a devoted father and grandfather. He coached Wayne PAL for years and was a passionate NY GIANTS fan, avid hunter and enjoyed working in his yard.

Mike is survived by his loving wife; Fay (Giannino) of Wayne, two sons; Dr. Michael Donato and his wife Donna of Roanoke, VA, and Christopher Donato and his wife Stephanie of Madison, NJ, and five grandchildren; Alison, Michael, Daria, Christopher, and Grace. He was predeceased by all four of his siblings.

Mary R. Young (McGuirk) age 99, Speech Therapist in Glen Rock and Teaneck, passed Thursday, September 22, 2016 just two months shy of her 100th birthday.

She was born in Paterson to John and Sarah McGuirk having been raised in the family home at 248 Liberty Street. Mary graduated from Benedictine Academy High School with the Class of 1935. She continued her education at Paterson State Teacher’s College in Wayne where she received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education with the Class of 1935. She went on to receive her Master’s Degree in Speech Pathology from Columbia University in New York City with the Class of 1942. Mary was extremely smart, determined, and could be considered somewhat revolutionary for her era regarding her extensive education. During her work towards her Master’s Degree she taught at the Willard School in Ridgewood from 1939 through 1944 and for the HoHoKus Board of Education in 1945. Once she attained her Master’s Degree she taught Speech Therapy from 1946 through 1967 for the Teaneck Board of Education and from 1967 through 1979 for the Glen Rock Board of Education. Mary loved teaching, and especially loved working individually with children who had speech difficulties. Using her extensive education, as well as her calm, loving demeanor, she positively impacted the lives of hundreds of children with speech problems over her forty year tenure. She was always looking to improve herself and provide her students with the latest strategies, so she took advanced courses at Montclair Teacher’s College, Upsala College, Newark Teacher’s College, Seton Hall University, and Hunter College. Over the years, countless individuals have credited their speech therapist, Mary Young, with transforming and significantly influencing their lives.

Mary’s speech therapy career, although officially forty years long, continued her entire life. After she formally retired, she continued to voluntarily assist anyone who crossed her path and needed help. Whenever there was an opportunity to help someone, Mary was there.

Mary married Herbert D. Young on August 20, 1944, while Herbert was on leave from the US Army, at Saint Mary’s RC Church in Paterson. They had a two day honeymoon at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City. Mary and Herb would spend a month each summer hiking somewhere in North America. They drove to every state and even traversed the bumpy dirt Alaska Highway…twice! They were true adventurers! Mary and Herb also loved golf, gardening, photography and the company of family, often inviting nieces and nephews to join them on summer adventures. They enjoyed a loving and devoted marriage of 54 years before Herbert’s passing in 1998.

Mary and Herbert initially lived in an apartment in Paterson, but soon bought a home in Glen Rock where they lived for many years. After retirement, they moved to Augusta, New Jersey where Mary lived for 22 years. When she needed more care Mary moved to Van Dyke Park Place in Hawthorne where she lived for nine years before moving to the Lakeland Health Care Center in Haskell where she lived for the past two years. The family will forever be grateful for the home-like atmosphere and welcoming arms of the staff at Lakeland Health Care Center where she was known as “Aunt Mary.”

Mary was a very independent girl from a young age. Her earliest memories were of following her mother in the garden, on her knees. Her mother Sarah kept a beautiful garden with many roses. Perhaps this led to Mary’s master gardening skills! She also spoke with great love for her father who worked for the Paterson Post Office. He was remembered as a bright, generous, kind and gentle man, always insisting the girls go to college. Certainly this influenced her love and dedication to education and higher learning. When Mary was little, she was gifted a hat to wear. Mary didn’t like the hat. One day when she returned home from being out, her mother asked her where her hat was. Mary responded, “I threw it in the sewer!” Mary also wasn’t happy with her father’s leather sharpening strap, so she disposed of that as well! At the age of three or four, independent little Mary followed her brother to school across Paterson. She stayed far enough back that he didn’t see her and carried a Bible in her arm so she looked like a student. When she got to the school, Mary stood out front yelling “Johnny!” John heard her outside, but didn’t want to admit it was his little sister calling for him. As soon as the teacher realized Mary was outside alone, Johnny was summoned to escort her home. Mary and John, her older brother, would perform musical accompaniments for the family, with Mary on piano and Johnny on violin. Mary adored her older brother Johnny. Mary also had an extremely close relationship with her two sisters, Alice and Ruth. The three sisters were inseparable. They have a bond which knows no limits. Mary and Alice were just two years apart and were very close. After marriage, they settled just blocks from one another in Glen Rock. Alice’s husband Paul, and Mary’s husband Herb, became fast friends. The two couples remained very close throughout their lives. The baby, Ruth, was the “First Communion Wish” Mary had prayed for. When Mary was thirteen years old, and Alice was ten, Ruth was born. Often Mary would say God didn’t give her children, but He gave her Ruthie. Both Mary and Alice cared for Ruthie like little mothers, leading to a lifetime of daily phone calls, trips to Flemington, The Pink Sleigh, and Peddlers Village, to name a few. Often cousin Claire would locate new and wonderful places as she explored with Aunt Annie, and then bring the three sisters to share the delight! Beef burgundy and Apricot Roosters at The Cock “n Bull Restaurant were a favorite! Each and every celebration and holiday was a family event. Certainly Mary never missed an opportunity to attend a graduation, recital, wedding, or any other event which concerned a family member. She was a devoted daughter to Sarah and John, and a dedicated, loyal sister to John, Alice and Ruth, and a wonderful wife to Herb. She always emphasized the need for schooling and education. She was ready with advice, support, unyielding generosity, but most of all a devotion to her family.

Mary was an all-around fun and funny person. She was always ready with a compliment and loved to be dressed in high heels, jewelry, and furs. She will be remembered as a determined lady who would let nothing stand in her way. She was giving to a fault and even recently called to be an organ donor but was rejected because of her age. One of the toughest aspects of her life was that she was never able to have children. She loved children, and considered herself to be blessed with hundreds of them. She dedicated her career to helping children, and had nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great nieces, and great-great nephews and all of her students over the years, whom she treated like her own. When it comes to her age, she wasn’t very forthcoming. For years she convinced her nieces and nephews that her siblings (their parents) were much older than she. Aunt Mary and Uncle Herb loved to have the nieces and nephews over. Everyone loved being with Aunt Mary and Uncle Herb because it was so much fun. A shining example of this is when Aunt Mary and Uncle Herb would annually take as many of the nieces and nephews as they could pack into their two cars to New York City to see the decorated store windows. The kids would look forward to seeing the windows and being given money to spend for lunch at the automat, then return home to make ornaments and eat Spanish Rice. They also hosted an annual Easter Egg Hunt with a “Golden Egg” hidden among many eggs! Mary taught her nieces and nephews all about geology as well. Although she loved her high heels, she could quickly shift gears and had no qualms about getting dirty. Her fun loving, adventurous, open-arm style deeply endeared her to all the nieces and nephews.

Mary was the loving wife of fifty-four years to the late Maj. Herbert D. Young (1998); devoted sister of the late John McGuirk, Alice Schneider of Granby, CT, and Ruth Knapp of Wayne; cherished aunt to many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great nieces, and great-great nephews.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Catholic Relief Services, PO Box 17090, Baltimore, MD 21297-0303 would be greatly appreciated.

Michael Ducate, age 73 of Wayne passed away on July 5, 2016.

He was born in Jersey City, NJ and grew up in Cliffside Park. He lived most of his life in Wayne.

Mike graduated from Cliffside Park High School where he played football. He continued to play football at Iowa Wesleyan College where he graduated in 1965.

Mike met the love of his life, Judy (nee Arricale) in 1964. They married on July 3, 1965 and enjoyed fifty one years together. Mike, Judy and their son Marc have been operating a family steel business, Heritage Steel and Slitting Co. in Newark, since 1987. His son Marc carries on the family business as D&M Steel Corp. Mike retired in 2010 to enjoy the activities he loved.

Mike was a member of the Pacquenac Tennis Club in Pompton Plains and was an avid tennis player and enthusiast. He also loved to exercise daily, enjoyed cross country and downhill skiing, and hiking.

Mike is survived by his devoted and loving wife Judy, his son Marc and his partner Dale De Stefano. He was predeceased by his son Michael in 1988. He is also survived by his sister Karen Enrico and her husband Tom, and many friends and relatives who loved him dearly.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mike’s memory would be appreciated to Compassionate Care Hospice, 1373 Broad St., Suite 309, Clifton, NJ 07013, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38148-0142, www.stjude.org.

Mildred T. Rolls (nee Tierney), age 88 of Wayne died on January 9, 2016, joining her husband of 47 years, Michael Rolls who passed away in 2006.

Mildred (“Millie”) formerly of Staten Island was born in Bayonne. In 1969, she and Michael moved to Wayne where they raised their family. Later in life they moved “to the shore” and settled in Toms River where they enjoyed countless hours on the boardwalk in Lavallette. Millie moved back to Wayne recently to be closer to the loving care of her family and cherished caregivers. Millie also considered herself to be an adopted daughter of Michael’s home town of St. John’s Newfoundland, Canada.

Millie was academically accomplished having graduated from Notre Dame Academy and College and earning a Master’s degree in Education from Hunter College while working full time to pay her own tuition. Millie was a passionate teacher in both the public and catholic school systems, bed-side tutor and licensed real estate agent with Century 21 Gemini Realty in Wayne, New Jersey.

She was an enthusiastic driver and happily took to the open road whenever an opportunity (or excuse) to get behind the wheel might arise. She shared her time and talents with numerous charities as a board member of the Little Sisters of the Poor, past president of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Little Sisters of the Poor, the St. Catherine of Siena Fraternity of the Secular Franciscans, and the American Association of University Women. Millie became active in parish life at St Joseph’s Church in Toms River where she was a Eucharistic Minister, lector and CCD teacher. She was a hospice volunteer for the Van Dyke Hospice Care Center at Toms River Community Hospital where faith strengthened her and she provided companionship to the terminally ill.

Millie lived a kind, vivacious and spiritual life. She will live on in the hearts and good deeds of those who were touched by her kindness.

Millie is survived by her two daughters; Mary Lucy DeTizio and her husband Ken of New Providence, Marie Faber and Jim of Wayne; son Michael of Montclair; brother James Tierney; sister Jane (and Eddie) Milza both of Staten Island; sister-in-laws Mary Zimmermann and Dorothy Tierney. Millie found joy in her family, especially her five grandchildren; Peter, Katherine, Jake, Mackenzie and Megan.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Millie’s memory are asked to consider St Joseph’s Home for the Elderly, 140 Shepherds Lane #1, Totowa, NJ 07512.

Mary C. Seminerio, age 84 of Wayne, died peacefully at home and went home to her Lord and Savior on Sunday, August 14, 2016. She was a resident of Wayne since 1964.

Mary grew up in Garfield and took her first job at Oneida Packaging in Clifton. She was a very hard worker throughout the years and while raising her family she also managed to keep full-time hours as a waitress at the Westmount Country Club, as well as a variety of other part-time waitressing positions. Despite being so busy, she kept their home immaculately clean and had dinner on the table every night. Even her car was spotlessly clean. She was amazing. An incredible cook, Mary’s family recalls her homemade sauce being better than anything they had every eaten, and her pasta dinners every Wednesday were always memorable.

Mary met her husband Frank when the two of them worked at Oneida Packaging in Clifton. They were each selling tickets to a ‘mixer’ at the local dance hall and after some teasing, she agreed to buy a ticket from him, and he bought one from her. They hit it off that night and were married on September 17, 1950. They lived in Paterson for a few years before moving to Wayne in 1964. They enjoyed a loving marriage for twenty six years before Frank’s passing in 1976.

Mary is survived by her three children; Sandie Seminerio of Lincoln Park, Frank and his wife Debbie of Wayne, and Michael and his wife Dawn of Lincoln Park. Mary was the loving and devoted grandmother to her six grandchildren; Jonathan of Wayne, Christy Lafferty and her husband Joel of Plainsboro, NJ, Timothy of Wayne, Jennifer of Little Falls, Kaitlyn of Lafayette, LA, and Allison and her fiancé Vincent Sanfilippo of Ogdensburg, NJ, and two brothers; Tony Cangialosi and his wife Angie of Garfield, and Salvatore Cangialosi of Clifton. She was predeceased by her husband Frank in 1976, and by four of her siblings.

Mary Kudla, a longtime resident of Wayne and formerly of Clifton, passed peacefully on the morning of Monday, February 15, 2016. She was 89.

Born in Wallkill, NY, Mary was the seventh child born to Joseph and Eva Malik. She grew up in Wawayanda, NY with her four brothers and three sisters. When she turned eighteen, she was all grown up and ready to experience life in the city. Mary took the train and moved to Passaic, NJ and began working in the textile mills. She probably picked up some sewing, knitting and crocheting skills which would pay off in the future, but more about that later.

One day in 1945, while standing in front of an ice cream parlor near Fourth Street in Passaic with some of her friends, Mary laid her eyes on a real dreamboat! He was tall and sculpted – a stunningly handsome looking man in his U.S. Marine uniform, home on leave while serving in World War II and the recipient of two purple hearts which were awarded to him for valor and bravery in defending his country’s freedoms and liberty. Mary somehow made sure to make his acquaintance. His name was William “Bill” Kudla and meeting him that day would forever change the course of her life and his too. They fell in love and the following year were married on April 28, 1946 at St. Joseph’s R.C. Church in Passaic.

After the wedding, Mary and Bill initially settled on Lisbon Street in Clifton with Bill’s parents in a two-family house. A year later the stork made their first delivery. Mary and Bill were blessed with Marion, their firstborn. Three years later Patricia was delivered. This growing family moved, this time to Kulick Street, still in Clifton. Soon after, in 1956, they bought land in Wayne and, with the help of Bill’s step-dad Frank Szwed who was a mason by trade, Frank, Bill and Mary began building their new home at Alps Road, brick by brick by brick. In 1959 the stork visited their new home bringing Barbara #3. Next arrivals were Kenneth #4, Kim #5 and Darlene #6. Mary and Bill raised all their children in that home on Alps Road and it’s still the Kudla residence to this day.

The grass never had a chance to grow under Mary’s feet. One would think that raising six children would be enough, but Mary always had gas left in the tank for more. Her children have great childhood memories of the adventures that Mary would take them on – adventures like trips to the Land of Make Believe, Wild West City, Great Adventure and Seaside Heights. She always made time for them and it was always out of love and never out of obligation. What’s amazing is that Mary was also an integral part the family business that her beloved Bill and his brother Emil started. If you ever wondered who supplies the florists with frames you can stop wondering now. The business was called Kudla Florist Supply and while Bill and Emil were working their primary jobs, Mary was the biggest gear in that machine. She made most of the deliveries to the various florists out of their warehouse location in Passaic. A picture of Mary with one of her children under one arm and easels under the other arm would be a pretty accurate description. The children grew up in the business and have fond memories of those deliveries in the old Chevy box truck. Mary was also the primary bookkeeper and she never really retired.

So if you thought raising six children and running a florist supply business would be enough for Mary, you would still be wrong. In her “spare time” she put those skills she learned back in the Passaic textile mills to work. Mary was an expert at sewing, knitting and crocheting. Mary always spoke about learning to knit and crochet when she was very young and continued into her senior years. She had her own business cards – Mary’s Needle Crafts. She was so skillful, she built up quite a following and people would come to her with custom orders. Mary loved gardening and she had a really funny perspective on planting flowers. She would plant the flower pot with flowers. She figured, this way, if she didn’t like how they looked when she planted them, she could easily rearrange them. She also had a great love for animals – a real animal attraction as they just seemed to gravitate toward her. Over the years she took in many under her already full wings in addition to all the pets the family already had.

Mary and Bill enjoyed a wonderful, blessed life together. When they were younger, they enjoyed great times down at Seaside Heights with Mary’s brother Eddy and his wife Rose. The ladies would sun themselves on the beach and their men would bring them afternoon whiskey sours. For their twenty-fifth wedding anniversary, Mary and Bill took a trip of a lifetime to Hawaii. They marked their fiftieth anniversary with a huge dinner celebration at the Brownstone House and their sixtieth on a Circle Line Cruise in New York City. Family was so very important and Mary loved setting aside Sunday as a rest day by hosting extended family. There was always Sunday swimming at the house and games of lawn darts, horseshoes and Mary’s favorite – badminton.

In between all of that, Mary still found time for more! A long-time dancer with the Spinning Wheels Square Dance Club, she loved it and the countless friends she made through her participation. She also was a very giving person who always had time for those in need. Even as a senior citizen herself she would say things like “I have to go help the seniors” and help them she did! She’d take them shopping or to doctor appointments or do whatever they needed.

Mary was a loving, kind, warm and sharing soul. Her children described her as the best hugger in the world who was there in a heartbeat for them when they called – sometimes even in her pajamas. She was a great family lady who always said, “Don’t get old” and “Promise when I’m gone that you will always stay together.” Since she and Bill were such wonderful examples of family love, odds are pretty good that she’ll get her wish.

Mary (Malik) Kudla will be remembered by her amiable disposition and charm of personality and surly be missed by those who she has touched over the years.

Surviving to mourn her loss but celebrate her life are her beloved husband William “Bill”, her six dear children: Marion Velechko of Hamden, NY, Patricia Kudla of Tuxedo, NY, Barbara Rissman of Tionesta, CA, Kenneth Kudla of Wayne, Kim Kudla-Nieves of Warwick, NY and Darlene Kudla of Highland Lakes NJ; cherished grandmother of seven grandchildren: Kelly Garry (predeceased), Stacy Toner of Harpswell, ME, Bryson Nieves of Warwick, NY, Erin Addison of St. John, WA, Jessica Peabody of Orangevale, CA, Joshua Rissman of New Orleans. LA, and Michael Rissman of Klamath Falls, OR; adored great-grandmother of seven great-grandchildren: Caitlyn Rohmert of Boonton, Alyssa Addison of St. John, WA, Brandon Valencia of Orangevale, CA, Jesse Addison of St. John WA, Jayson Peabody of Orangevale, CA, Aiden Odle of Klamath Falls, OR, and Rusty Addison of St. John, WA.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Mary’s name are asked to consider the St. Vincent’s Nursing Home, 315 East Lindsley Road, Cedar Grove, NJ 07009.

Mary Papastrat, age 86, of Wayne, passed peacefully on Monday, December 26, 2016.

She was born and raised in Xirokambi, Greece (a small village near Sparta). After World War II, Greece was in ruins and Mary's Aunt Patricia (Pipitsa) brought her to Woodstock, Ontario, Canada to live with her hoping to give her opportunities that she didn't have in Greece. She worked as a seamstress making about $.12 per piece of clothing she made. She left behind her two sisters, father, and paralyzed mother. Her family had land with orange and olive trees. Her father ran a coffee shop/tavern in Xirokambi which had entertainment like movies in the winter and small bands or one man acts outside during the nice weather. In 1934, her father presented the first movie, without sound, in that part of Greece. After just over a year in Canada, her Aunt Georgia brought her to Brooklyn, NY where she stayed as a visitor for one year. She worked as a seamstress. Her salary was about $.80 per piece. She sent her wages to her family to help support them. She then met a handsome young man named Harry Papastrat at a dance in New York. They fell in love and married twice. The first time they were married in the eyes of the law and the second time they were married on May 24, 1959 at Assumption Hellenic Orthodox Church in Poughkeepsie, New York. They honeymooned in Greece. Mary and Harry considered their church wedding their true anniversary and had a loving and devoted marriage of forty-one years until Harry’s passing in March of 2000.

Mary became a United States citizen in 1962. She recalled that in order to get her citizenship, she had to answer several questions including “Who was President?” She also had to spell and write 5 words such as bread and milk. She was proud to become a US citizen and went to school at night to learn English. She got her driver’s license and worked in the Wayne area at Ohrbachs Department Store at the Willowbrook Mall, Fortunoff’s in Wayne, and finally took a part time job at Macys in the Preakness Mall before retiring in 2012 when she was well into her 80’s.

Mary and Harry were founding parishioners of Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Wyckoff. Mary sang in the church choir, taught Sunday School and Greek School, was a member of the Ladies Philoptochos Society, and was always baking Greek specialties for the church’s annual festival.

She will be remembered as a strong, courageous woman who was selfless, altruistic, generous, supportive, sensitive, and quick to smile. The Greek adjective philotimo, from the word philos-friend and timi- honor, perfectly described her as she did things for others without expecting anything in return. She was gracious, hospitable and compassionate. She was a great cook and the special ingredient of love found in her Greek specialties like koulourakia, diples, kourambiethes, stuffed grape leaves, stuffed tomatoes and peppers, and pastitsio will forever be remembered by family and friends. She taught Greek at the Wayne Adult School and on Saturday mornings taught children Greek Culture and dance at the Wayne Enrichment Program. Mary will be remembered for annually knitting fifty to sixty hats for local pediatric cancer patients which she donated to area hospitals such as: St Joseph’s Medical Center, Hackensack Medical Center, The Valley Hospital, and Morristown Memorial Hospital. She enjoyed the many good friends she made while bowling with the Breakfast Club League at 9 AM on Wednesday mornings at T-Bowl in Wayne.

Mary wrote poetry that was published in her hometown paper in Xirokambi, Greece and was an avid reader of biographies and any kind of history as it related to World War II. She enjoyed sewing and made her own drapery and clothing for her children. She loved to travel and was always seeking a new destination to visit. She enjoyed traveling all across the United States with her family and visits to continental Europe, the Caribbean and the Holy Land.

Her three grandchildren called Mary "Yiayia" and "Grammy". She picked them up after school and they spent the afternoon at her home where she would spoil them with mint chocolate chip ice cream and other snacks. Her youngest grandchild, Ryan, will always remember her for her avgolemono (lemon chicken orzo) soup.

Mary was the beloved wife of the late Harry Papastrat (2000); loving mother of Sophia Chmura and husband Walter of Wayne, John Papastrat and wife Ingela of Nutley, NJ and Deanna Papastrat of Wayne; and three dear grandchildren: Michael Chmura, Matthew Chmura, and Ryan Colangelo; she was the loved sister of Voula Antipa of Athens, Greece and Matina Grigoriou also of Athens, Greece..

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 467 Grandview Avenue, Wyckoff,NJ 07481 or the Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation,(click on blue text to donate) 1004-A Reilly Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94129 would be appreciated.

Martin G. Nelles “Marty”, age 53, of Wayne, passed away suddenly on Friday, April 8, 2016.

Born and raised in New York City, Marty’s childhood was marked by frequent stickball games with his buddies on the streets in his neighborhood. This didn’t make the folks whose cars were parked in proximity to these games very happy, but it kept the windshield repair guy in business. And hey, a kid has to play somewhere, right? Raised in his Catholic faith, Marty served as an alter boy at Church of the Ascension in New York City. He graduated from Cardinal Hayes High School in the Bronx with the Class of 1980.

One of the most important people in Marty’s life was his best friend and brother-in-law Benjamin “Benny” Ybera. A little bit older than Marty, Benny showed Marty the ropes growing up. It was Benny that introduced Marty to his first beer - when he was fourteen - and dressed him up with a fake beard so he could get Marty into the movies he was really too young to see. The two of them were also known to sneak into the gymnasium at Columbia University. Of course they would get kicked out, but that didn’t stop them from sneaking in again. Ironically, many years later in 1985, they both started careers as public safety officers at that very same Columbia University. Marty always worked the midnight to eight-in-the-morning shift. He was very conscientious about his work responsibilities, enjoyed the love and respect of his many co-workers, and recently received his thirty-year badge for a job well-done.

As a young man in high school, Marty would frequently watch TV at his family’s apartment while his sisters Petra and Karin would hang with their friend Rebecca. Marty soon found out that Rebecca had an older sister named Jeanette. Marty was anxious to figure out how he could meet her, so when he found out that Jeanette liked to play tennis, he came up with an idea of sending her a Snoopy greeting card which said, “Terrific backhand!” It turned out to be the perfect way to get her to go out with him and, although Marty had never been interested in tennis before, soon he and Jeanette had their first tennis match. Now, in the game of tennis, when scoring, the term “love” is used instead of zero to mean that the player has no points. Since Marty didn’t have any tennis experience he had a lot of love in more ways than one – his lack of points scored but, more importantly, his growing love for Jeanette. Their love and affection was mutual and, after dating seven years, Marty proposed to Jeanette in Riverside Park. They exchanged marriage vows on Saturday, August 30, 1986 at Corpus Christi Church at the intersection of Broadway and Amsterdam Ave. in Manhattan. A great reception with over two-hundred guests followed at the Astoria Manor in Queens, then a honeymoon in Cancun, Mexico.

After marriage, Marty and Jeanette initially moved to Hackensack. In 1988, they welcomed their first son Christopher who just happened to be born on Marty’s birthday. Talk about a great birthday present! Then in 1990, this little family of three moved to Wayne and, two years later, grew to a family of four when they welcomed another baby son and brother, Spenser. Marty was very proud of his sons and found great satisfaction in seeing their accomplishments. Whether it was lacrosse, football, wrestling, marching band, jazz band or any other of their functions, he always tried his best to be there for them. Sadly, after twenty-four years of marriage, Jeanette passed away in 2011 at the young age of 49, after a one-year battle with leukemia.

Marty found his greatest pleasure in the simple things of life – a delicious meal, a good scotch, and a cigar. It was Marty who cooked dinner for the family every night, and family favorites included an Indonesian noodle dish called Bami and seafood gumbo. Following dinner by sipping a nice smooth glass of Johnnie Walker and a smoking a fine Cuban cigar was Marty’s definition of a great night. Marty also enjoyed taking in an episode of Star Trek or a good horror movie, and when it came to sports he rooted for the Mets, Knicks, Giants, and Miami Dolphins. Over the years, he also loved vacationing with his and Jeanette’s families. And when he wasn’t working, or cooking, or watching TV, he was probably down the street hanging with his neighbor, and friend, George.

Marty’s family described him as grumpy on the outside, but all love on the inside. He was very sarcastic, but that sarcasm was all a front. For instance, if you asked Marty for a favor, he would say no. Problem is, Marty was good at saying no, but he was bad at acting no. He would do anything to help you if you had a need. Even after working all night, he’d come home in the morning and happily take Jeanette’s elderly aunt and uncle, Moises and Ernestina, who lived just a few houses down the street, on all their errands – shopping, doctor visits, hair appointments – you name it! Marty wasn’t verbally demonstrative, and instead let his character and devotion define who he was. Above all else, he loved his family and friends, and there’s no doubt he will be sorely missed.

Martin was predeceased by his beloved wife Jeanette in 2011. He is survived by his much-loved sons: Christopher and Spenser, both of Wayne; his two dear sisters: Petra and husband Benjamin Ybera of New York City, and Karin Nelles-Rodriguez and husband Jose of Queens, NY; his nieces and nephew: Alina, Marijke, Brianna, Ursula, and Alejandro; and his cousin Amber.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Martin’s name are asked to consider The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, 14 Commerce Drive, Suite 301, Cranford, NJ 07016 (www.lls.org).

Mary Rose Schlereth (Pillar), age 83 of Wayne and formerly of Toms River, NJ, died peacefully on Tuesday, April 26, 2016.

She was born in Paterson and raised on Summer Street. When she married in 1952 she lived in Prospect Park and the young couple soon bought a home at 99 Maryland Avenue in Paterson. They raised their family in Wayne where they lived for twenty-two years having lived in Lincoln Park before moving to Toms River.

Mary graduated with the class of 1950 from Eastside High School in Paterson and had fond memories of being a majorette there. After high school she worked as a bookkeeper at the Meyer Brothers Department Store in Paterson. She married and dedicated herself to raising her family for several years. Once the kids became a little older she worked for the Prospect Park Bank and later for several other area banks before retiring and moving to Toms River. While in Toms River she got bored and soon found a job as a greeter at the Toms River Branch of Commerce Bank. She truly loved this job.

Mary will be remembered for her strong will – things were always on her terms! She was a great mom and the best grandma ever. She was a lot of fun, loved bingo, could spend hours in front of a slot machine in Atlantic City, and loved going on cruises. Her special Thanksgiving Dinners and especially her stuffing will be greatly missed by her family. Her grandchildren will miss spending time at her Toms River home and day trips to Seaside and the beach at the Jersey Shore.

Back in 1948 Mary met a cute boy named John A. Schlereth while roller-skating in Paterson. They married on April 10, 1952 when John was home on leave from the military. John adored Mary and “spoiled her rotten” for twenty-eight years before his passing in 1980.

Mary was the loving mother of John Schlereth and daughters-in-law Barbara and Jean Marie of Chicago, Ill., Lori Seylaz of Wayne, and Donna Lowe and her husband Robert of Wayne; cherished grandmother of Robert Lowe and his wife Dana, Kristin Seylaz, and Danielle Lowe; dear sister of Joseph Pillar and his wife Ann of Wayne, and Dolores Smith of Phoenix, AZ.

Those wishing to make a donation in lieu of flowers are asked to consider The Alzheimer Association, 400 Morris Ave., Suite #251, Denville, NJ 07834.

Mary’s family would also like to publicly offer their sincere and heartfelt gratitude to the entire staff of Passaic Valley Hospice. They provided such exceptional care and comfort throughout this arduous ordeal, that words alone cannot convey how appreciative the family is. To all the staff at Passaic Valley Hospice; “thank you.”

Maria G. Posa, age 70 of Wayne died suddenly on Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2016. She had lived in Brooklyn for many years before.

Maria was born in Larderia Superiore, Messina, Sicily. In 1956, at the age of eleven, she boarded a ship called the “Greek Line” with her family, and they sailed to America. They settled in Brooklyn and began their new life here as Americans, yet always held tightly to their traditional Sicilian family values. Family was always a priority and she raised her children to embrace those same values. Of course, Maria knew how to cook too and everything that came out of her kitchen was flawless. She was a perfectionist not only in the kitchen, but also kept a beautifully clean home. She was a wonderful talent with needle and thread who did everything by hand; she didn’t use a sewing machine. She made many of her children’s Halloween costumes throughout the years, starting the projects during the summer months because sewing them all by hand, of course, took a lot of time. She was particularly good at embroidery, again; all done by hand. Her embroidery work was a passion of hers and she was particularly proud that her embroidery looked as good on the back side as it did on the front. She was truly meticulous in her craft.

Maria met her husband Carmine while living in Brooklyn. The two of them had grown up in the same Brooklyn neighborhood but didn’t know each other until they were set up years later on a date by a mutual friend. They married in July of 1974 and enjoyed nineteen years together before Carmine passed away in 1993.

Maria is survived by her three children; daughter Cesaria “Rina” Posa and her husband Terence Hogan of Wayne, daughter Paula Posa and one grandson Anthony C. Posa-Napolitano of Wayne, and son Vincent Posa, her sister; Belmarina Todisco and husband Giovanni of Nutley, a brother Anthony Scirone and his wife Trisha of Carbondale, PA, many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Carmine January 1993, and by her sister Joann Montesi.

Maria Theresa Di Marco (nee Piccone), age 69 of Wayne passed away peacefully on Saturday September 3, 2016 surrounded by her family.

She was born and raised in Queens, New York to James and Theresa Piccone. While living in Queens, Maria met Crescenzo “Joe” DiMarco. They first met at a wedding where Joe asked Maria to dance with him. Nothing much came of their first encounter, however as fate would have it, Joe later moved in right next door to Maria and they started dating. Marriage followed in August of 1965 at St. Monica’s Church and they honeymooned throughout Europe for three weeks, visiting London, Paris, Rome, Madrid and many other destinations. Maria and Joe cherished over 50 years of a very loving and loyal marriage together.

Maria was dedicated to her family and gladly took on the role of full-time wife and mother. She dedicated herself to her husband and four children throughout the years. It wasn’t until the year 2000 that Maria decided to go to work. After having been out of the workforce nearly thirty five years, she landed a job as an Insurance Clerk for Valley National Bank and was still currently employed there.

In 2013 Maria was confronted with the frightening diagnosis of cancer. She endured surgery and fought courageously for the past three years. Throughout all of her treatments and therapy, her family never heard her complain once about anything. She set a wonderful example as a strong wife, mother and grandmother.

Over the years, Maria devoted herself to her children, grandchildren, and her husband. She pampered all of them, especially her husband Joe. Maria’s children remember their father not knowing which drawer or closet any of his clothes were kept – because every day, Maria put his clothes out for him. She also loved to cook and anyone who’s ever entered her home knows that she doesn’t lack for skill in the kitchen. Her food was always fantastic and plentiful, and she enjoyed entertaining her friends and family at her home with dinner, coffee and cake. If you were to come into Maria’s house, you wouldn’t leave without having something to eat or drink, or both! She also loved to shop, perhaps a little too much so. Her closets are overflowing with things she hadn’t had a chance to wear just yet! Maria was adored by her grandchildren and was affectionately called “Mimi” by all of them. She also had a special love for her son Jimmy’s dog, “Moe” and her daughter Rosanna’s dog, “Mason”. She was a very spiritual person as well, and was a parishioner of Our Lady of Consolation RC Church in Wayne. She was simply a very special person who shared her kind spirit and lovingly touched the lives of many people. She will be sincerely missed by all who were blessed by her presence.

Maria was the devoted wife of fifty years to the late Joe Di Marco (November 2015); loving mother of Anthony and his significant-other Marylou of Clifton, Rosanna Perini and her husband David of Mahwah, Joseph and his wife Antonia of Wood-Ridge, NJ, and Jimmy and his wife Mitzi of Pennsylvania, one sister Louise Kaiser and her significant other Richard of Long Island, NY, and five grandchildren; Tiana Maria, Nikko, Serena, Vincent, and Erica.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Maria’s name to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, PO Box 27106 New York, NY 10087-7106.

Marie A. Novak (nee Dunn) age 94 of Wayne passed peacefully on Tuesday, January 26, 2016.

Marie was born in South River and lived in Newark, Bloomfield and Holiday City in Toms River before moving to Wayne eighteen years ago.

During her working years Marie was a crossing guard in Bloomfield, worked at the Hahnes and Bamburgers Department stores in Newark.

Marie met her husband to be Ernest Novak through her cousin Jimmy Farley. They married on February 29, 1944 in Fort Picket, Virginia just before Ernest was to ship out to Arizona, and then the Philippines, during WWII. They enjoyed over fifty years of a loving and devoted marriage.

She was a parishioner of Immaculate Heart of Mary RC Church, Wayne.

Marie was the loving wife of over fifty years to the late Ernest Novak (1996); devoted mother of Alan Novak and his wife Elizabeth of Piscataway, and Kim Rom and her husband Domenic of Wayne; cherished grandmother of Alexander Rom and his wife Megan, Gregory Rom, and Christopher Novak; much loved great-grandmother of Wyatt Rom; dear sister of Evelyn Bocchino of Montville; she was predeceased by her siblings: Ellen Murphy (John), Peter Dunn, James Dunn (surviving wife Dina), Muriel Black, and Rita Kirby; endeared sister-in-law of Rose Holdsworth of Lamoine, ME.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Passaic County Para Transit, 1310 Route 23 North, Wayne, NJ 07470 would be appreciated.

Martin D. Brennan, 81 of Wayne, died peacefully at home with his family gathered at his bedside. He had been a teacher in Wayne since 1960.

Martin grew up in Paterson and graduated from Central High with the class of 1952. After serving two years in the military, he graduated from the Paterson State Teacher’s College and began his career as a reading specialist in Wayne. He became principal of the Mountain View School and then retiring as the principal of John F. Kennedy elementary school in 1989, serving his entire career in Wayne. Martin was an avid reader and he simply loved books. He was honored, and very proud, when the Wayne Township Board of Education named the John F. Kennedy Elementary School library after him. He coauthored a book titled “Reading in a Nutshell,” which was published in 1965. Books were always a large part of his life. Martin was a very bright man, no doubt the result of all the reading he so enjoyed.

Martin is survived by his beloved wife Deborah (nee Simon) of Wayne, his two sons; Martin of Wayne, and David of Sparta, a brother; David of Little Falls, two stepchildren, Jack Solomon of Princeton, his sister Margot Lillis of Manhattan and her son Benjamin, six granddaughters: Ashley, Casey, Shannon, Shea, Emma and Riley.

Memorial donations to a charity of your choosing would be greatly appreciated.

Mark Parno, retired Fire Captain of Passaic Fire Department and long time resident of Passaic NJ and Wayne NJ, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 27, 2016, surrounded by the comfort of his loving family. He was 79 years old.

Mark was the beloved husband of his high school sweetheart, Islay "Scotty" (nee Raeburn) for 59 years; loving father to their four children, Kim and husband Patrick Russo of Wayne, Mark and wife Barbara Parno, of Hackettstown, Cheryl and husband Bill Annicaro of Wayne, and Scott Parno of Wanaque. Mark and Scotty adored their five grandchildren, Jesse Sapanaro, Cne' Russo, Kim-Ashley Sapanaro, Patrick Russo and Alexandra Annicaro.

Mark was born on November 3, 1937, son of the late Nicholas Parnofiello and Corinne (nee Van Hoven). Mark was the beloved brother of Marjorie and husband John Miskovsky; and dear uncle of John Miskovsky. Mark grew up in Passaic and graduated from Passaic High School in 1955.

Mark enjoyed the Meadowlands Racetrack and trips to Atlantic City, and was also an avid pool player. As Fire Captain, he supervised safety at the Capitol Theatre of Passaic for several years. He formed unlikely friendships with many of the great artists of that time. Mark's compassionate nature shined through while caring for and training the Parno Family's Great Danes and Collies, some of his favorite friends and companions.

In his spare time, at the Firehouse, while waiting for an alarm to sound or at home with his kids, Mark enjoyed playing cards, especially Black Jack and Poker. He taught the children by showing them how to place penny bets on the family's dining room table, Mark cherished these memories of his children and would often tell stories of these very special games of their childhood.

Mark joined the Passaic Fire Department in 1965. He rose to the rank of Captain on March 31, 1977 and had served with distinction. Mark graciously dedicated 30-years of entrusted service to the city of Passaic before his retirement. He had a true heart for the people of Passaic, especially those whose lives and homes were devastated by fire.

Martha Julewicz (nee Lusciak) age 96 of Wayne passed peacefully on Sunday, April 10, 2016.

She was born at Margaret Hague Hospital in Jersey City on June 30, 1919 to John and Anna Lusciak (nee Bulka).

At the age of 16 she met Joseph, while relaxing on her home’s front stoop with one of her sisters. His U.S. Army uniform, which he wore with pride, caught her eye.

Martha worked as a Switchboard Operator for NJ Bell Telephone taking incoming calls and routing them to the appropriate receivers as well as documenting their times. She also worked for Consolidated Laundry in Jersey City.

On October 4, 1944 at the age of 25, she enlisted in the Women’s Army Corps of the U.S. Army. She served as a clerk typist during WWII at Camp Shanks NY in the Admitting and Disposition Office. Here she worked on addressograph and graphotype machines. She was also assigned to Camp Kilmer, NJ during her enlistment.

She was Honorably Discharged on July 19, 1946 and had received an American Service Medal, World War II Victory Medal and Good Conduct Medal.

On January 29, 1949, Martha and Joseph were married and had 53 years of a loving marriage before his passing in July 2002. They resided in Jersey City, Union City and Clifton before settling down in Wayne over 20 years ago.

The year 2002 was a very difficult one for Martha as her beloved daughter Janina and husband Joseph died within 6 months of each other. Although she lived for another 14 years, losing both of them “took the wind from her sails”.

Martha (affectionately known as Marcy to her friends and family) was very personable and upbeat. She took pride in her home and was a meticulous homemaker. Family and holiday dinners would overflow with traditional Ukrainian and Polish treats made from scratch, often by recipes known only to her.

She loved playing cards, reading James Patterson books as well as dancing when she was young. Always a smart and thrifty shopper, she along with her friend Helen Jaz and sometimes her sister Eva, would take the subway from Jersey City to Macys in Times Square NY, seeking out the best bargains.

She aged chronologically but not mentally. She was quick witted and could recall many facts and fond memories. She had a wealth of information regarding the years that had gone by. Her stories, songs and sayings of her 96 years of life were fascinating. She would often say “I still have my faculties”! Charming and friendly, Martha made many friends wherever she went.

Martha was the loving wife of the late Joseph Victor Julewicz; devoted Mother of Robert Julewicz and his wife Karen of Totowa, the late Janina Vasquez of Marlton and Gary Julewicz and his wife Maria of Wayne.

She was the cherished Grandmother of Kristen Kruczowy of Wayne, Lauren Rokoszak and her husband Bryan of Morristown and Marc Vasquez and his wife Krystal of Mantua.

Martha was the adoring Great Grandmother of Grant and Nathaniel Kruczowy of Wayne.

Martha was the last surviving child of eleven children born to the late John and Anna Lusciak.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Wayne Memorial First Aid Squad, Attn: Memorial Bequest, PO Box 291, Wayne, NJ 07470.

Marilyn J. (Klimko) Niethe, age 73, of Wayne, passed Monday, May 30, 2016, at home with the comfort of family by her side.

She was born and raised in Newark having lived on Lyons Avenue near Schley Street throughout her youth. Marilyn attended Weequahic High School in Newark with the Class of 1960.

One day Marilyn was outside her home and a boy named Karl Niethe, whose brother she knew, waved to her as he drove by in a black 1957 Ford Continental with yellow seats. Karl was driving family to Wyckoff and waved as he left. Upon returning he saw Marilyn again and waved. She returned his wave, he hung a u-turn, and the rest is history. Their first date was to see a movie at the Bergen Street Theatre in Newark. Karl entered the US Army and was stationed in Germany. Karl called Marilyn from Germany and asked for her hand in marriage. She said yes and her mom drove her to Newark Airport and put her on an airplane to Germany to get married. Marilyn and Karl married at the Kelly Barracks Chapel in Stuttgart-Mohringen, Germany on Sunday, August 7, 1960. The newlyweds lived in an apartment just off the base. Marilyn would do all her shopping at the base commissary as she only spoke English and that was the primary language spoken on base.

Marilyn and Karl returned to the United States and lived with Karl’s parents in Newark before finding an apartment on Nayden Avenue in Irvington. They eventually moved to the rural farm town know as Wayne in 1964.

Marilyn was a dedicated homemaker and once her children became old enough she took on volunteering and helping as a teacher’s aid at the JFK Elementary School in Wayne. Her children attended the A.P. Terhune Middle School and on one occasion when Marilyn and a few other aides found out the principal’s wife had a baby daughter, they ran a set of bloomers up the school’s flagpole to announce the birth. The Wayne Police were summoned and the bloomers were taken down. She eventually found a position working at the American Cyanamid Corporation, just down the street, in their logistics department. Marilyn would work in logistics for the TSK Corporation in Oakland, and retired from the Advantage Cheese Distributors in Fairfield in 2003.

Marilyn will be remembered as one of the toughest women you will ever know; she was a true warrior. She was tough as nails, never complained, and always put the needs of others before her own. This tough personality was forged when her daughter Robin passed away at just eighteen months old. Living through the loss of a child steeled both Marilyn and Karl against most anything life could throw at them. Knowing this you can understand how after having Kevin break his leg for the second time, in the same spot, she put him on a flexible flyer sled and dragged him about 2 miles to Dr. Gortych’s house to have the fracture set.

Marilyn truly loved children. Annually she would go to Karl’s company Christmas party where she would dress as Santa Claus and distribute gifts to literally 100’s of kids at the party. She is also rumored to have shown up at her children’s Halloween Parade at A.P. Terhune School dressed in a huge Big Bird costume she made. As you can imagine the kids were embarrassed as can be, but as time went by they became very proud of the loving mom they had. The lengths she would go to were legendary. When her daughter Donna won a Z100 Radio contest for a flight to London to see the group Duran Duran, Marilyn was right by her side and they had a great time.

She also had a place in her heart for animals. She loved them all. As a young girl, she had a pet squirrel that would scurry up her sleeve. She was always picking up stray dogs and cats and trying to put them back together with their owners. She adopted a Schnauzer named Frisky, had a Yellow Labrador Retriever named Mysha, and rescued a dog from Paterson named Taylor.

Marilyn was an awesome cook. She could make just about anything. The one thing she made the best was whatever someone else desired. From cakes, deserts, cabbage & noodles, pierogies, deviled eggs, potato salad, meatballs, baked ziti, stuffed cabbage, beef stroganoff, just to name a few – she delighted in feeding the stomachs and hearts of others. The only problem is Marilyn didn’t know how to cook for just a few. She would make enough food to feed an army.

She was the beloved wife of fifty-six years to Karl Niethe; devoted mother of the late Robin Niethe(1961), Donna Niethe of Clifton, Kevin Niethe and his wife Karen of Wayne, and Glenn Niethe of Wayne; cherished grandmother of Zachary, Aaron, and Corey Niethe; and much loved sister of Joseph Klimko and his wife Grace of Clark, and Monica Schimpff and her husband Steve of Lee, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Friends of Laurelwood Arboretum, 725 Pines Lake Drive West, Wayne, NJ 07470, www.laurelwoodarboretum.org, would be appreciated.

Maria C. Mercandino of Wayne, passed away peacefully, on Monday evening, May 30, 2016. She had recently celebrated her 100th birthday.

Born Maria C. Scala in 1915 in Paterson, she was the oldest of four including her three younger brothers. Maria was raised in Paterson, later moving to Clifton, then to Wayne where she lived for over twenty-five years – much of those years at Wayne’s Sisco Village, and at the Atrium in Wayne since 2014.

Maria was always a hard worker. Her father passed away when he was only thirty-six. Consequently, to help her mom put food on the table and pay the bills, Maria started working as a seamstress in one of the many Paterson mills when she was only fourteen years old. She also spent a lot of time watching after her three younger brothers.

Maria met and fell in love with Alexander “Al” Mercandino. They married on Sunday, June 21, 1936 at St. Agnes Church in Paterson. Maria was just twenty years old at the time. She and Al started their married life together in an apartment in Paterson, soon after moving into their own home on Warren street in Clifton. There she raised her and Al’s two daughters – Ann Maria and Diane. She was a great mom who always did her best to help Al provide a good life for all the family. For many years during the 1950, when Al would get home from a day’s work, Maria would head off to the North Jersey Country Club where she served as Head Waitress.

While waitressing, an executive from a company in Clifton called Shulton – maker of Old Spice and creator and producer of many other personal care products including shampoos and hair dyes, noticed what a good worker Maria was. He offered Maria a job at Shulton as a lab technician. She only had an eighth grade education but this executive could see that she was a smart woman and Maria succeeded by learning on the job. She really enjoyed going to work as well as the benefits of free shampoo and hair dye. As a result, she came home with a different hair color on occasions. The company was later bought out by American Cyanamid, after Maria’s retirement in 1965.

Despite all the responsibilities of managing a home and working full-time, Maria always found time for other pursuits that she enjoyed. She was a very good cook and she loved entertaining for the holidays. It was important to her that her family be together and her house was the place for all to gather for a holiday spread. During her days working as a young lady in the Paterson mill, she learned a lot about sewing. That was a great experience for her and it sparked a great love for her that she utilized throughout the rest of her life. She could make anything with a needle and some thread and she always sewed, knitted or crocheted a little bit of love into everything she made. When her daughters were young, she made almost all of their clothes. When she was blessed with grandchildren and great-grandchildren she made them beautiful soft blankets to keep them warm and protected. Even until she was well into her eighties, if you needed something hemmed or repaired the saying always was “Give it to Grandma!” Maria was very creative with her sewing skills. Her children will always remember with great affection what she would do for them for Easter. Most kids would get a basket but not Maria’s children and grandchildren! Instead, she fashioned a round table that she had into a giant Easter basket. She sewed a beautiful border around the table and gave it a big arching handle. The “basket” was then filled with all the Easter favorites including jelly beans and marshmallow chicks.

Throughout her life but especially following retirement, Maria became the queen of community activity. While living in Wayne she volunteered for numerous township-based associations and organizations. She served as President for the Golden Age Circle (1984-1988), Our Lady of the Valley RC Church Seniors, The Golden Key of Wayne and Willowbrook Ministries (1983).

She received awards for her volunteer service in Passaic County with the American Red Cross and even received the President’s Volunteer Service Award from President George H. W. Bush for her service and civic participation with the President’s Council. She was also presented an award in 2004 for exemplary volunteer service and commitment to the RSVP of Passaic County Program. This award was presented at the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program of Passaic County Eighth Annual Volunteer Recognition Program, held at the Brownstone House in Paterson, and Maria received this award for over 250 hours of volunteer service.

It’s no wonder that Maria was recognized for so much volunteer service. She had a strong work ethic, she felt a moral duty to serve others, and she was blessed with endless energy. She was even driving her car to church and club activities until begrudgingly giving up her car when she turned 95! While living at Sisco Village, she loved going with her friends every week to the Passaic County Nutrition Club. There she received a delicious lunch followed by a round of bingo or a card game with friends and acquaintances. While living at the Atrium the last couple of years, she was always looking to get involved in the activities they offered and was even a little upset if nothing was scheduled.

Maria had a sincere faith in God and, in many ways, it defined who she was as a person. She prayed every day and was recently leading the other residents in praying the rosary at the Atrium. For many years she attended Our Lady of the Valley Church in Wayne and at times before living at the Atrium enjoyed mass at St. Paul’s Church in Prospect Park with Father Ed.

Maria’s family gathered this past September to celebrate a great milestone for anyone – her 100th birthday! While she was honored with a letter from the mayor of Wayne and even a letter from President and Mrs. Obama, it was the fact that her family was gathered together and the love they expressed that was most pleasing to Maria. At the gathering, her grandson brought a memory jar. Everyone was given an opportunity to write some great memories on a paper and slip the paper in the memory jar. This was presented to Maria so she could reminisce and celebrate the impact she had on each loved one’s life. The main theme that was sewn into each person’s memories was of a mother, mother-in-law, grandmother and great-grandmother who was generous despite great riches, and who always found time despite it being in short supply. Maria’s grandchildren recall Nana’s cookies, butter-covered tea biscuits and sweetened, milk-colored warm tea, watching Nana swim laps in the pool in the morning, seeing her being “Ms. President” at her OLV Seniors meetings, sponsoring them for their confirmations, hanging up their hand-drawn pictures on her refrigerator, no matter how ugly, and letting them stay up on New Year’s Eve to play cards and watch the apple drop. Her daughters recall how Mom always seemed to know when they didn’t have enough money for diapers or even groceries or when they were up at night with a sleepless crying baby, and how she managed to make this white silk graduation dress that was gorgeous and how money was tight but Mom always did without, so her kids could have the best. Her son-in-laws remember the time she almost knocked down one of their houses with her car and the day there was a flood in their house in Little Falls. That day the basement was full of water and the house looked like an island in the sea. When the fire men came with a boat to take them out, Maria told the firemen to go down the street and help the neighbors first.

Maria was generous to her children and grandchildren and even a person like the attendant who filled her tank at the gas station. She always said, “If you give of yourself to others, God will always bless you in your life and see to it that all your needs are met.”

Maria was a gracious, respectful woman whose last words as the nurses and aids at the Atrium were putting her to bed were “Thank You. Thank you Maria for being such a wonder wife, mom, grandma, great-grandma, sister, and friend, and for teaching and being such a wonderful example of what it means to love others!

Surviving are her two dear daughters: Ann Maria and husband Robert Stanczak of Stem, NC, and Diane and husband Henry Stanczak of North Haledon; four cherished grandchildren: Michael and wife Leanne Stanczak, Christine and husband Darrin Schmid, Thomas and wife Melissa Stanczak, and Debra Ann Stanczak; and five adored great-grandchildren: Danielle, Christopher, Megan, Jonathan, and Jennifer. Maria was predeceased by her beloved husband Alex “Al” in 1993, and her four brothers: Salvatore, Phillip, Leo, and Thomas.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Maria’s name are asked to consider St. Paul’s RC Church, 286 Haledon Ave., Prospect Park, NJ 07508.

Marek Jakub Pluta, age 43 of Wayne passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Thursday October 13, 2016 while receiving the loving care of his family.

Marek was born to Jakub and Maria Pluta in 1973 in Bronx, NY. He was raised in Clifton for most of his childhood until his family moved to Wayne in 1984. Marek graduated from Wayne Valley High School with the class of 1991. Immediately following his graduation he attended Passaic County Community College. He studied there for three years when he decided to put his education to work. For more than ten years he worked as a computer programmer for Big M Corporate Office in Totowa.

Following his employment at Big M, he took a job as an Energy Auditor with North East Energy Conservation, a company that was founded and owned by his friend. This position relocated him to a suburb outside of Fort Worth, TX called Euless. After a few years in Texas, Marek followed North East Energy Conservation back to New Jersey and kept this position until his passing.

Marek enjoyed going fishing and was an avid skier. He also enjoyed cooking, and he could make just about anything, and it all tasted delicious. His favorite place to travel to was the island of Bermuda, which he cruised to with his family on a few occasions. Marek had a huge heart and would help anyone at the drop of a hat. He would go out of his way for everybody and was a wonderful uncle to his nieces and nephews. Although Marek didn’t have children of his own, he dedicated himself to his nieces and nephews and his entire family. He was an extraordinary person who touched the lives of many people and will be sincerely missed by all who knew him.

Marek is survived by his parents Jakub and Maria Pluta of Wayne, two sisters; Donna O’Reilly and her husband Thomas of Rocky Point, NY, and Maria “Mimi” Pluta of Kearny, one brother; Jakub Pluta and his wife Veronica of Wayne, three nieces; Corinne O’Reilly, Isabella Pluta, and Keeley Peterson, four nephews; Zachary DiPatria, Connor O’Reilly, Jakub Pluta Jr., and Eric Peterson, four aunts; Margaret Pluta, Anna Fuhrman, Julia Nierakda, and Maria Gronka, he is also survived by many cousins.

Those planning a donation in Marek’s name are asked to consider St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38148-0142www.stjude.org

Margaret A. Krell, age 91, a long-time resident of Wayne and recently of Wyckoff, died peacefully on Monday, July 4, 2016.

Margaret was born and raised in Benson, NC. After graduation from high school, she pursued further education in business school in Charlotte, NC. Her first job out of school was in Washington, DC and it was there that she met a tall handsome U.S. Army soldier named Joseph Krell. They fell in love and, at the tender age of eighteen, Margaret married Joseph on June 20, 1942 in the St. John the Baptist Russian Orthodox Church in Singac. They settled into their first home together, a house which they had built in Wayne. A few years later, the blessing of children arrived – first a son, Jacob and then three girls in a row, Carolyn, Joanne, and Peggy.

Margaret took a leave from work so that she could dedicate herself to the care of her children. She was a loving mother and wife as well as a wonderful cook. Her family recalls great times enjoying summer swimming and barbecues when many of their church families would get together at the Hinchman’s pool. The kids were also treated to many memorable vacations camping all the way from Canada down the eastern seaboard in places like Cape Cod Massachusetts, Lake George, NY, and the West Virginia mountains, The Dunes of Delaware, Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and The Smoky Mountains of Tennessee.

Once the kids were older, Margaret returned to the workplace – first with State Farm Insurance and then with American Cyanamid where she served as a secretary for seventeen years.

After retiring in 1980, Margaret and Joe moved to Pinellas Park, FL. For a few years, they lived there year-round but, as the saying goes, “When the queen is happy there is peace in the kingdom” and since Margaret was missing quality time with her children and grandchildren, she and Joe bought a home in Tuckerton, NJ. They spent the warmer seasons in Tuckerton and continued to winter as snowbirds down in Florida. This arrangement afforded more peace in the kingdom and the enjoyment of sun and surf a little closer to her family. Shortly after Joe’s passing in 1990, Margaret sold both homes and returned to her roots in Wayne.

Back in familiar territory, Margaret had great fun with her friends Nor and Bob going line dancing and playing cards. She also derived enjoyment knitting and crocheting – mostly little sweaters and afghans for her grandchildren. And if you wanted the best tomatoes in all of New Jersey, Margaret’s garden was the place to go.

Margaret was a dear and loyal member of the Preakness Reformed Church in Wayne. She loved to attend worship on Sundays and also the church sponsored Brown Bags & Bibles bible studies complete with brown bag lunch.

Independent and self-motivated, Margaret was blessed to have many good friends. She had a heart of gold and would do anything for anybody or anything. Even when she had to go to the hospital, she was so concerned about making sure that the feral cat she fed every day was attended to. She will be greatly missed but her family gives thanks that her pain is over and she is safe in the arms of her Lord and Savior.

Margaret is survived by her dear son: Jacob and wife Joyce Krell of Butler: three dear daughters: Carolyn K. and husband Dennis Welch of Seekonk, MA, Joanne and husband Tim Braen of Pompton Lakes, and Margaret (Peggy) Krell of Hollywood, Florida; four cherished grandchildren: Cristin, David, Christina, and Jaclyn; and three adored great-grandchildren: Declan, Leighton, and Callum. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Joseph in 1990 and her brother Bernard Ransom Allen.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Margaret’s name are asked to consider donations to the Preakness Reformed Church, 131 Church Lane, Wayne, NJ.

Maria M. Fragola (Tortorella) age 92 of Bronx, New York for 82 years, and the last 10 years relocated to Wayne, NJ to be closer to her family, passed peacefully at home on Saturday, December 17, 2016 with her children by her side.

Maria met the love of her life, Ralph Fragola, while in her late teen years hanging out in their Bronx neighborhood. Their first date was at a neighborhood dance that Maria’s brother orchestrated. Maria caught Ralph’s eye and the love story began to unravel. Ralph adored Maria and enjoyed 73 years of a loving and devoted marriage together before Ralph’s passing in May of 2016. After his passing Maria’s heart yearned to be with her beloved husband again!

The family story of Maria began with the birth of 5 children within 8 years (3 boys and 2 girls. She was a devoted, doting mother who made rearing her children and caring for her beloved husband a heartfelt gift of unconditional love. She so enjoyed being a homemaker when preparing endless breakfasts, lunches for school and meals for dinner as the family congregated nightly around the dinner table. Some remembered favorites were Sunday morning gravy cooking while prepping 250 homemade ravioli’s with the special ravoli board that her loving husband made to conserve the prep time. Baking was another joy of Maria’s life which became a family tradition as everyone joined in to prepare struffoli, many different kinds of cookies, pies and cakes for all the occasions/holidays.

Maria lived a fulfilling life and paved a clear road of heartfelt love and devotion for her children and their children to follow; a true family Matriarch. She loved all whom she held dear, a special mother, with a special touch, never selfish, always kind and these are the memories Maria left behind.

She was the loving wife of the late Ralph A. Fragola (May 2016); devoted mother of Michael Fragola and wife Linda of LeGrange, NY; Edyie Grafer and husband Bruce (deceased) of Garrison, NY; Vito Fragola and wife Virginia of Bergenfield; Ralph Fragola and wife Renee of Closter, and Marie Saracino of Wayne; cherished Grandmother of Maria Fragola, Ralphie Fragola and wife Francesca, Michelle Mallett and husband Drew, Brian Grafer and wife Andrea, Donna Dagnino and husband Chris, Kevin Grafer and wife Crystal, Vito, Stephen, Christopher and wife Jessica, Kathryn, Anthony and Rebecca Fragola, and John Lando and wife Rebecca: much loved Great Grandmother of Ralphie, Zachary, Schuyler, Rayne, Nicholas (deceased), Brent, Jason, Sarah, Alyssa, Emily, Hunter, Jacklyn, Samantha, Ashley, Jake and Avery; along with extended family grandchildren/great grandchildren John, Addison and Savanna.

In lieu of flowers donations will be accepted. Please make checks payable to the Wayne First Aid Squad - mailed to: c/o M. Saracino, 1126 Valley Road, Wayne, NJ 07470.

Manuel “Manny” Avedissian, age 57, of Wayne passed peacefully at home on Tuesday, April 12, 2016.

He was born in Paris, France and moved to the United States at the age of three. Manny’s father’s dream was to live in the United States and he brought his family to America. They lived in Newark, New Jersey where Manny graduated from Barringer High School with the Class of 1976. Shortly after high school Manny was often seen on the tennis courts in Branch Brook Park where he competed and often won tournaments. He was also blessed to have family that lived in the South of France and he and his sisters would visit during the summer. Here too he was renowned for his skills on the tennis courts. Just out of high school Manny decided he didn’t want to go to college. His father got him a job at the sheet metal factory where he worked to teach Manny a lesson. Well it worked and soon he was enrolled at Montclair State College where he would graduate with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with the Class of 1982.

After finishing college Manny worked for the Mutual Benefit Life Insurance Company in Newark. He played softball on the company team and noticed a coworker named Patricia Pyryt. Their first date was at the Jersey Shore where Manny rode his motorcycle to visit her. They would fall in love, with Manny proposing marriage at the Iberia Restaurant in Newark on New-Years Eve of 1984. They married at Saint Stanislaus Kostka Church in Garfield on June 8, 1986 and honeymooned in Cancun, Mexico. They have had a loving, devoted marriage for the past thirty years.

Manny was a police officer in Bloomfield for several years prior to serving as a Government Contractor for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms.

If you could look into Manny’s heart you would find that he was all about his family. He was so proud of his three sons and looked on with pride at all their accomplishments. He was especially proud of their achievements in football, baseball, and golf as he never missed his sons' games. Manny was a baseball coach for the Wayne PAL as well as a basketball coach for the Boys and Girls Club. He also had a special place in his heart for France. He enjoyed trips to France and to Canada. Besides loving everything French he was an avid Indianapolis Colts and New York Yankee fan.

Manny was the loving husband of Patricia Avedissian; devoted father of Christian, Jason, and Justin Avedissian; dear brother of Anna Sutton and her husband Paul and Katia Damato and her husband Vincent all of Livingston; he was also the cherished uncle of several loving nieces, nephews and grand-nieces.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital, PO Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38148-0142.

Maria Jordan, age 88 of Pompton Lakes, died suddenly on Sunday, Nov. 27, 2016. She was the family matriarch and adoringly known as “Mamama” to all who knew her.  

Maria grew up in Apurimac, Peru, far out in the countryside. She was one of eleven children; eight girls and three boys. Her home was located adjacent to a bus stop and she became acquainted with the bus driver, Julio. They married in 1948 and lived in Lima where they started a family. Maria raised her six children in Lima, five survived and as they each grew up, they moved north, some to Canada and some to the United States America. At the young age of 60, Maria, along with her husband, decided to move to the U.S. so they could be with their children again. She joined her daughter, Hilda in Paterson, NJ in 1986. She then moved in with her daughter Ines residing in Paterson, Wayne and lastly Pompton Lakes. In 2007 she moved out to live independently remaining in Pompton Lakes until her passing.

“Mamama” was happiest when surrounded by her family. She loved nothing more than to be cooking for everyone, feeding them all they could eat – and then feeding them some more! No one ever left her home hungry, that’s for certain. She made some incredible dishes, all of them traditional Peruvian recipes. Her Arepas, or corn pies, were legendary, and Ceviche was her own favorite, which she enjoyed once a week. She also loved Peruvian folk music, word search puzzles, Coca-Cola, and writing letters to her loved ones. She was very traditional in her ways, and writing letters to family was something she cherished. Even with a telephone at her disposal, she preferred to sit and pen a letter, put a stamp on it, and mail it away. She always enjoyed the reply letters that came back to her from family far and wide. She also had a great sense of humor and was constantly joking around. She had nicknames for everyone she met, and multiple endearing nicknames for many of her own relatives! She could be rather blunt at times, but always funny. She loved to socialize, enjoyed a good time, and was very proud of her large, loving family. They will all miss her dearly.

Maria was devoted to the Catholic Church. She has a stack of well-read bibles at home, and she has always been very faithful.

Maria is survived by her five children; Ines Cavero and her husband Bladimir of Pompton Lakes, Eulalia “Hilda” Diaz of Parsippany, Julio Pinto of Montreal, Arturo Pinto and his wife Rosa of Montreal, and Gustavo Pinto of Montreal, 16 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren, and four of her siblings still survive her. She was predeceased by her husband in 1987, and by six of her siblings.

Margaret Parisi (nee Pepe) age 102 of Wayne, formerly of Haledon, passed Monday, March 21, 2016.

The year was 1913 and the US Post Office began parcel post deliveries, the federal income tax was ratified at 1%, the 1st prize was inserted into a Cracker Jack box, stainless steel was invented, the 1st modern elastic brassiere was invented, the 1st drive-up gasoline station opened, the 1st crossword puzzle was published, and Margaret Pepe was born. Her mother gave birth to her in the family home in Paterson. The family lived in apartments throughout the City of Paterson and when Margaret married Angelo Parisi they moved to 232 Haledon Avenue in Prospect Park. After their daughter Mary Ann was born Margaret and Angelo returned to Paterson to live in a three family home at 137 Alabama Avenue. They lived on the third floor, Mary Ann’s grandparents, Filomena and Frank Pepe lived on the middle floor, and Aunt Theresa lived on the first floor. Eventually Margaret and Angelo bought a home at 30 Coolidge Place in Haledon and this would be the family home for over fifty-five years. Margaret moved to Wayne to live with her daughter Mary Ann in 2011.

Margaret grew up during the depression years and had to leave grammar school to find work and help support the family. She found work sewing in the Paterson textile mills and for a while hers was the only income supporting the family.

Margaret met a young man named Angelo Parisi at work. She was a seamstress and he was a pocket-maker at the Jersey Coat Factory in Paterson. Angelo, a very sharp dresser, was smitten at first sight. He would pester the shop foreman for Margaret’s home address and eventually his persistence paid off. Now that he had her home address he would write her letters until she agreed to go on a date. For several of their first dates Angelo would bring Margaret a pack of cigarettes, a box of chocolates, and a pack of gum. When Margaret found out he had no money she told him to stop bringing those things. They dated often going to the movies or out for ice cream sundaes and eventually fell in love. They married at Saint Anthonys RC Church in Paterson on September 14, 1941 and honeymooned in Virginia Beach, Virginia and Washington, DC. At the time they married they were earning $11.00 per week between the two of them. They both worked in the sewing trade for many years until their daughter Mary Ann had her first daughter, Jessica. Once Jessica was born Angelo left work and they dedicated themselves to caring for Jessica as Mary Ann had to work. Five years later Margaret and Angelo welcomed their second grandchild Rachel.

Having never gotten her driver’s license Margaret was beholden to Angelo to get most everywhere. Whether it was sitting for their grandchildren, clothes shopping, and even food shopping they were always together. Margaret was famous for saying “you know what I forgot?” and Angelo would be right back in the car going for that forgotten thing. Margaret was an awesome gourmet cook and the special ingredient known as love she cooked into her lasagna, manicotti, and the best eggplant parmesan in the whole world will be greatly missed. Margaret cooked every day well into her 90’s. She was fastidious about housekeeping and did the dishes and folded laundry even at 102. If anyone tried to do those dishes or fold that laundry she would get very upset.

Margaret was the loving wife of the late Angelo Parisi (2007); devoted mother of Mary Ann Deputato and her husband John of Wayne; cherished grandmother of Jessica McGrady and her husband Daniel of Wayne, and Rachel Deputato of Hoboken; and proud great-grandmother of Lucy McGrady.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, PO Box 1000, Dept. 152, Memphis, TN 38148-0142, www.stjude.org, the Michael J. Fox Foundation, or the Lupus Foundation would be appreciated.

Margaret J. Bance, age 95 died peacefully on Wednesday, August 3, 2016. She had been a resident of Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains since 2001.

Margaret grew up in Belleville, NJ and graduated as valedictorian of the Class of 1938. She took a job with Prudential Insurance immediately after graduation. A very bright woman, she became a computer programmer analyst with Prudential and enjoyed a career spanning nearly thirty five years. She was very active with the Fewsmith Memorial Presbyterian Church in Belleville, where she served as an elder and sang in the choir.

Margaret was an adventurous woman. She loved hiking and belonged to a variety of hiking clubs over the years; the Appalachian Mountain Club and the Woodland Trail Walkers, to name just two. She often recited a story of one particular hike where she managed to break her ankle and her fellow hikers had to carry her out of the woods! That didn’t slow her down though, and she was back hiking as soon as the injury had healed. She had also traveled extensively, visiting England, Scotland, Scandinavia, China, Japan, Greece, Turkey, Bermuda, Israel, Alaska, and many other destinations in Canada and the United States. She had even sailed across the Atlantic to visit relatives in England.

An independent woman, she didn’t marry until she was fifty years old. The story of how she met Mr. Edlow S. Bance is charming. Their families were acquainted and the two had known each other when they were young children. Their mutual love of classical music and the opera was what eventually brought them together again. Edlow had never married either and thus began an endearing courtship. They frequented the opera, the NY Philharmonic, and attended many chamber music concerts. They adored one another greatly and they made each other very happy, eventually exchanging vows in 1971. Margaret retired and the two of them moved to Garden City, Long Island. She became active in the Cathedral of the Incarnation, serving as president of the Cathedral Women and on the Altar Guild. Sadly, Edlow passed away in 1995 and Margaret decided to move back to New Jersey, settling in at Cedar Crest Village in 2001. She was involved in a variety of volunteer activities there in earlier years, but had been less active recently.

Margaret is survived by two nieces; Karen Heald of Wayne and Nancy Walker of New York, NY, sister-in-law Ruth Walker, Edlow’s niece and nephew; Jo-Anne Tempest and Peter Goodwin, Edlow’s brother-in-law; Ian Goodwin, and many more members of their ‘woodpile kin.’

Luann DePalma, age 62, of Wanaque, passed peacefully at her home, with her family lovingly and supportively by her side, on Tuesday, March 1, 2016.

Born in Ridgewood, she grew up in her childhood home on Oldham Road in Wayne. She was a graduate of Wayne Valley High School, Class of 1971.

Following graduation, Luann attended the Roman Academy of Beauty in Paterson. She married James H. Hughes, Jr. on May 28, 1972 and soon after happily took on her role as a loving mother for her son, Jeremy.

Luann’s career path has taken on many roles. She most recently worked as a material control clerk for the Haydon Corporation in Wayne supporting the manufacturing of metal framing and baseboard heating components.

Luann was a free spirit, a tough lady with a heart of gold. One of her many signature features was her long manicured nails. She enjoyed listening to the sounds of Stevie Nicks, Fleetwood Mack, Guns N’ Roses and Jersey’s own Bon Jovi. She had a wonderful gift of gab, in fact the caption under her high school picture said “Loves to Talk”. She also loved to roller skate and could often be found letting the good times roll at Wayne on Wheels roller rink. Her favorite holiday was Christmas. She would decorate the Christmas tree with handmade family ornaments while White Christmas was playing on TV. Every year she had family over for her Christmas dinner of lasagna.

It was at Wayne on Wheels that her second husband – Scott Moser rolled into her life. They married on Saturday, April 5, 1986 in Haledon and enjoyed seven and a half years of wedded bliss until Scott’s passing in 1993.

Luann found love one more time when she met Bill Nichols. They enjoyed a wonderful companionship for over 10 years. They shared their love of motorcycles especially Harley Davidsons. Luann was happiest as a passenger, she never actually drove the bike. Her love of riding could probably be best summed up by a quote from an unknown fellow biker who once described traveling on a motorcycle as “The sun on your back. Two fists in the wind. And the horizon teasing you farther down a great road”. Some of their favorite places to ride included down the shore in Wildwood and in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Although Luann did not drink wine, she supported Bill’s love of amateur wine making by providing food for the group.

Besides her family, Luann loved time spent in a sunny place. The sounds and smell of the ocean, the sand sifting between her toes while feeling the warmth of the sun and having a bronze-like tan complexion was Luann’s definition of happy! While she had some great times taking trips to St. Martin Island in the Caribbean, she knew that it was the same sun that shined on the beaches of the Jersey Shore and she was equally happy there.

Luann loved to garden, butterflies and the color purple. She combined these three loves by planting a butterfly friendly garden full of purple flowers in her yard. Imagine the horror she felt when her landscapers started yanking the butterfly bushes out of the ground because they thought they were weeds. She almost strangled them for that mistake. Her second favorite flower was a hydrangea, of course especially the ones with purple flowers.

Above all, Luann’s greatest love was for her family and friends. One of her favorites was her awesome grandson Sean. Her and Sean enjoyed vacations in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. She loved taking him to the beach or to the park and she had lots of fun watching him make chalk art creations on the sidewalks and parking lot outside of her Wanaque townhouse. Again, Luann was a very sociable person who loved to talk, so when her family was trying to explain to Sean that Nonnie was not always going to be with us and that her soul was going to a better place, Sean came to a rather wise conclusion and declared that he saw Nonnie as a talking soul.

Luann is survived by her dear son Jeremy, and his wife Tina and her adored grandson Sean Hughes of Wayne; loving companion Bill Nichols of Wanaque; cherished father Louis Maturo and his wife Sally of West Milford; dear niece Stacy Zayas of Wayne; step siblings: Johnny Aleman, Debbie Kerr, and Vicky Mirsik; and many loving cousins, aunts and uncles.

Luann was predeceased by her cherished mother Doris Maturo (nee Thissen), her husband, Scott Moser, step-brother, Billy Aleman, and her loving friend Alice Anastos who was like a surrogate mom to her.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Luann’s memory are asked to consider St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38148-0142 (www.stjude.org), or The National Shrines of St. Anthony and St. Jude - The Franciscan Friars of Holy Name Province, 144 West 32nd Street, New York, NY 10001-3202 (www.thefranciscans.org).

Madeline Moore age 96 of Wayne passed away peacefully at home on July 4, 2016 while receiving the loving care of her family.

Madeline was born to Camille and Magdalena Vogt who emigrated from Switzerland in the early 1900’s. Madeline was born in Paterson and grew up in North Haledon. She graduated from Hawthorne High School. A few years after graduating from high school and while working in Paterson, she met a gentleman by the name of Norman (Jack) Moore. They wanted to get married before he was shipped overseas, so Jack went AWOL while in an Air Force training course at Yale in New Haven, CT. They were married on May 14, 1943 at her parent's home in North Haledon. Afterwards, Jack quickly traveled back to New Haven. He got back safely without getting into any trouble. They spent the next sixty-seven years together in a loving, loyal marriage until Norman’s passing in 2010.

Madeline and Jack settled in Haledon after the war and raised their two children there. They moved to Wayne in 1968 where they would spend the rest of their lives together. Madeline, soon after becoming a mother, dedicated her life to her family and took on the full time position of a devoted homemaker. Although Madeline was extremely busy and devoted to her family, she was still able to balance her time and be extremely active at the Pequannock Reformed Church in Wayne. There she was a deacon, member of the church choir, member of the Evening Circle and Financial Secretary for over thirty years.

Madeline was an extraordinary person, very giving and thoughtful. She always remembered everyone’s birthday and would always send them a card or make their favorite desserts. She was a great cook and baker and she made a particularly wonderful date-nut bread. Madeline was not a big traveler (she hated to fly), but she and Jack did do a big trip to, and also a trans-Canada rail tour that they reminisced about often. She also spent many summers and falls in Bridgton, Maine every year over the past 60 years where she built countless long lasting friendships. Madeline was extremely blessed to live till the age of ninety-six and be of good health almost up until her passing. She was also healthy and sharp enough to drive her car well into her 80’s. Above all of Madeline’s interests and activities, her greatest love was for her family. She was an extraordinary person who touched the lives of many people. She will be sincerely missed by everyone who knew her.

It would be a dishonor not to mention her faithful caregiver, Marie Deaner. She was a big help to Madeline and her family over the past two years, and this is something that was greatly appreciated and will never be forgotten.

Madeline is survived by one son; Ken Moore and his wife Joanne of Pompton Plains, one daughter; Betty Pepper of Wayne, four grandchildren; Karen Grogan and her husband Scott of Wayne, Christine Heil and her husband Jeff of Randolph, Brian Moore and his wife Lisa of Palm Harbor, FL, and Michael Pepper of Wayne, four great grandchildren; Kayla Grogan of New York City, Melanie Grogan of Wayne, Julia and Jenna Heil both of Randolph. She was pre-deceased by her husband Norman Moore (2010) and her brother Camille Vogt (2007).

Donations in Madeline’s name may be made to Pequannock Reformed Church, 530 Newark Pompton Tpk, Wayne, NJ 07470.

Linda Diane Loffredo, age 58, of Rockaway, and formerly of Wayne, passed Tuesday, August 2, 2016, after a lengthy illness.

She was born in Pequannock to the late Ronald and Laura Loffredo. Linda’s family moved from Lincoln Park to Laauwe Avenue in Wayne when she was just five years old. She would call Wayne her home for well over thirty years. Linda graduated from Wayne Valley High School with the Class of 1976, where her years on the school swim team led to a lifelong love of swimming. She and her boyfriend/common-law-husband Raymond Escobar have lived in Rockaway for the past fifteen years.

During her high school years, Linda worked at the Shop Rite grocery store that was located at the intersection of Hamburg Turnpike and Church Lane in Wayne. In later years, she did data entry, secretarial work, and bookkeeping for Bell’s Data in Totowa, System One Security in Franklin Lakes, Benisch & Company Insurance in Livingston, and most recently for Drom International in Towaco. A true workaholic, she held many part-time jobs that she fit in on days off, evenings, and weekends. For a while she even became a real estate appraiser for Weichert Realtors in Hackensack. Linda had to leave her work at Drom International in November of 2013 because of her failing health.

Linda was baptized, confirmed, and a member of Saint Timothy Lutheran Church in Wayne. She loved her church, and particularly enjoyed being a reader for Stations of the Cross, held each year in Holy Week.

She will be missed dearly and fondly remembered for her outgoing personality, her friendly and compassionate ways, her generosity, her love of talking on the telephone, and as a great listener. She had a glowing smile and was a friend to just about everyone she met. Linda loved the Jersey Shore and formed many fond family memories during summer visits to Wildwood.

One of her passions was music. She played the guitar and piano, and loved going to concerts. She even dated one of the band members of the group White Tiger. Her music idol was Peter Frampton, whom she was fortunate to meet. Frampton gave her a song list from one of his concerts and a guitar pick, and she even got a pair of drumsticks from the band. For many years she was also a personal friend of Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, who is known for his Bluegrass folk music.

In her teens and early twenties, she also loved to dance and enjoyed dance recitals where she could take center stage.

Linda was a pet lover always. As a young girl, she had a bunny rabbit named Snoopy and a dog named Toby. Linda got Toby after visiting the home where he was part of a litter of puppies. Toby left the litter and followed Linda. She took this as a sign, and scooped up Toby and brought him home. Her father initially said no to a dog, but when he saw how cute Toby was, his heart melted and Toby was welcomed into the family. Years later, in her own home, she had a cat that she named Ronnie after her father, and a cat she named Toby after her first dog.

If there was one thing you could count on Linda for, it was being late. She was late to just about every family function or party, and was never on time to church. Those who knew her best would tell her to arrive 2 hours prior to the actual scheduled time – and then hope for the best. Linda herself always seemed to be surprised by her lateness. She never meant for it to happen; it just did!

Linda was the much-loved girlfriend and common-law-wife of twenty-five years to Raymond Escobar of Rockaway; much loved sister of Anthony Loffredo and his wife Rose Marie of Ringwood; cherished aunt of Melanie and Breanna Loffredo, both of Ringwood; dear step-daughter of Anne Loffredo of Wayne; loved step-sister of William Landolfi and his dear friend Dvora Najee of New York City. She is also survived by her loving uncle Joseph Loffredo of Wayne, her cousins and their families, and many good friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the St. Timothy Memorial Garden Fund, 395 Valley Road, Wayne, NJ 07470 would be appreciated.

Lucia Neumane, age 83, of Mahwah and formerly of Oakland, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 31, 2016.

Lucia was born and raised in Guayaquil, Ecuador. Her family were prominent members of Ecuadorian society and, while Lucia enjoyed the notoriety of family accomplishments like her great-grandfather being the person who wrote the country’s national anthem, the public’s attention sometimes made it difficult to maintain a level of privacy that was optimal for healthy living. Consequently, in 1953, she decided to pursue new dreams with a new life in the United States.

Shortly after settling in River Vale, NJ, Lucia was blessed with the birth of her first daughter - baby Lucia “Lucy”, followed by her son Alexander. A few years later while back in Ecuador to visit her parents, she came to the realization that she was pregnant again. Since Ecuador law would not allow her to return to the United States in her expectant state, Lucia remained there for the duration of her pregnancy, ultimately giving birth to twins – Frank and Maria! She stayed in Ecuador until her babies turned one, then returned to the U.S.A. leaving the twins behind with her parents while she worked to secure the proper immigration paperwork to bring them home to the United States. When that feat was finally accomplished Frank and Maria were six years and they joined their older sister and brother as well as a new baby brother Luis who was born in the U.S. in 1962.

At this point in her life, a single mom, Lucia completely and lovingly dedicated her time and talents to her five children. She was able to purchase a nice home in Oakland, NJ which was where all of them spent their formative years. Meanwhile, Lucia balanced the care of the kids with full-time work – for many years with Poly Plastics in Oakland. When that company closed its doors, she went to work for International Wire in Wyckoff and, prior to retirement, she worked as an inspector with Datascope Corporation, maker of surgical and medical instruments in Oakland. There were many years where she also worked during off hours cleaning offices, just to make sure to provide the best for her family. In 1989, she moved to Mahwah where she remained until moving to Wayne in 2011.

In 1972, Lucia and the whole family were dealt a devastating blow when her daughter and their big sister “Lucy” was suddenly taken from this life at the tender age of seventeen. Lucy was Lucia’s namesake and she very much played an important role in the home as Lucia’s right hand often acting as a surrogate mom to her younger siblings while Lucia was out serving the role of breadwinner.

Despite the sometime insurmountable setbacks and disappointments of life including also losing her son Alexander in 2004, Lucia always did her best to remain optimistic. Her life was a beautiful example of selfless love and always doing what was best for the ones entrusted to her care.

Lucia was the loving and devoted mother of the late Lucy Puentes (1972), the late Alexander Puentes (2004), Frank Puentes of Monroe, NY, Maria and husband Rick Black of Somerset, and Luis and wife Mary Anne Puentes of Wayne; grandmother of: Garret, Myles, Adam, Jonathan, Taylor, Hunter, and Alex; and the dear sister of Ida Trujillo of Garfield.

Lorraine, T. (nee Frazza), age 90, of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 8, 2016.

Lorraine was born and raised in Paterson where she attended St. Joseph’s High School, graduating with the Class of 1944. When she was twenty-one, she married William Hancock on Thursday, August 7, 1947. On that date, the president of the United States was Harry S. Truman and the top two most popular songs in the USA were “I Wonder Who’s Kissing Her Now” by Perry Como and “I Ain’t Mad at You” by Count Basie and His Orchestra. After a beautiful honeymoon in Atlantic City, Lorraine and Bill embarked upon a 54 year marriage that could only be described as the best marriage any two people could ask for. Together, they initially lived in Paterson, ultimately moving to Wayne in 1955 where Lorraine had remained for the past 61 years.

Lorraine was one of seven kids herself, so it’s no surprise that she and Bill had six children of their own – four girls and two boys. Lorraine was the consummate wife, mother, grandmother and homemaker who enjoyed the adoration of her husband and who never tired of his wonderful sense of humor. She was always loving, patient and considerate to her children, teaching them values which have taken them far in their own lives. When her children blessed her with grandchildren, Lorraine was all too willing to babysit and read books, color and sing songs with them. She was really smart too, so whenever the family got together for a game of Trivial Pursuit, everyone always wanted Lorraine on their team. Her yard was always adorned with beautiful flowers which was one of Lorraine’s favorite pastimes, and her children will always cherish fond memories of piling into the family’s giant Lincoln Continental – Mom, Dad, all six kids and enough luggage to last two weeks, every summer, in a rented house down in Point Pleasant Beach.

Her family will miss her loving presence in their lives. Right up to her final days Lorraine was the one to ask if you couldn’t recall something, and, being such a good listener, she was always just the person to call if you needed advice. Her virtues of patience, honesty, respect, and consideration will live on through those that will cherish her memory.

Beloved wife of the late William Hancock (2001), Lorraine was the loving mother of Patricia L. Yodice of Clifton, Peter and wife Nancy Hancock of Tucson, AZ, William J. Hancock, Jr. of Virginia, Susan and husband Michael Gunza of Chester, NY, Sharon and husband Tony of Nutley, and the late Melinda Hancock (1994); cherished grandmother of Amanda and husband Richard Jewell, Carlie Yodice, Frank and wife Shauna Yodice, and Sarah Slater; adored great-grandmother of Jack Jewell; dear sister of Averil Cimmino of Pompton Plains, the late Paul Frazza, the late Joseph Frazza, and the late Peter Frazza, Elizabeth and husband Frank Gallagher of Rutherford, and George and wife Marie Frazza of New York City; and dear sister-in-law of Peggy, Eleanor, and Marilyn Frazza.

Kenneth E. Moore, age 89, a resident of the Pines Lake section of Wayne for more than 60 years, passed peacefully at home on Friday, December 30, 2016. He was born in Passaic to Ernest and Wanda Moore. He met and married the love of his life, Janice Cupit Moore, and they remained friends, partners, and caring parents for 62 until her passing in 2011. They raised their three children, Kim, Darin and Heidi in a loving and respectful home.

Vital until the end, Ken had attended a church function just a few hours before his passing. He was an active and devoted member of the Preakness Reformed Church in Wayne where he served as a deacon, elder, Sunday school teacher and was a member of Helping Hands, bible study, book nook, pastoral search and outreach committees.

An avid reader and lover of poetry, Ken had also taken up oil painting and still enjoyed visiting the target practice range. Coin collecting and learning foreign languages were among his most recent pursuits.

Throughout his life, Ken exposed his children to the outdoors and his love of history. The family took trips across the United States, camping at many national parks and historically significant landmarks such as Fort Ticonderoga, Gettysburg, Glacier, Zion, Bad Lands, Mt. Rushmore, Yosemite, Hoover Dam, Sequoia and the Grand Tetons. His love of travel was resumed upon retirement, when he and Janice made a number of trips to the British Isles, Alaska, California and the Southwest.

Ken will be remembered as a strict yet gracious man who prided himself on his patriotism and devotion to his country and remained politically aware and active. He was a lifelong adventurous outdoorsman, hunter, fisherman, conservationist, and history buff. However, his greatest passion was fishing, which he indulged in well into his 80s. When not on the stream, he was tying flies, reading and writing about fly fishing, attending seminars, or simply talking about fishing. He was an active member of the Pines Lake community and served as president of the Pines Lake Fishing Club in the 1960s; he was a long-time member of Trout Unlimited.

Ken left Passaic High School midway through his senior year to join the United States Army – Air Corps. He was initially stationed at the United States Army Air Forces training base at the Lowry Air Field in Colorado and served much of his time as a ground crewman stationed in Guam. After his service he was awarded his high school diploma and later in life he attended classes at William Paterson University in Wayne. Just out of the service he worked as a flight instructor at the Lincoln Park Airport from 1946 through 1953 then began a career in automobile sales. In his younger years, Ken participated in British car road rallies, serving as driver and navigator in a Jaguar XK120 and XK140. He worked as a salesman and manager at Edwards Ford in Wayne, a salesman at Atkins Chevrolet in Wayne and finished his career working Route 23 Honda in Pompton Plains before retiring in 1992.

Ken was the loving husband of 62 years to the late Janice Cupit Moore (November 2011) with whom enjoyed a loving and devoted marriage before Janice’s passing in November of 2011; devoted father of Kim M. Moore of Lincoln Park, Darin K. Moore and his wife Kari Osaki-Moore of Laguna Beach, CA, and Heidi W. Moore and her husband George B. McAuliffe, III of New York City; cherished grandfather of Ryan Moore, Alexis Moore, Brooke Eyer, Camilla McAuliffe, Julian McAuliffe, Nicholas McAuliffe, and Taylor Williamson; he was the loved brother of the late Phyllis Blondin, and the late Audrey Dochtermann.

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

Louis J. Iacovelli, age 81, of Wayne, passed peacefully, with family by his side, on Sunday, October 9, 2016.

Lou was born in Newark and raised in nearby Belleville, NJ. After graduation from Belleville High School in 1954, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and spent the next three years working in the ship’s engine room and traveling all over the world including the middle east and France.

Lou had met his bride-to-be Mary Marsico before joining the Navy so, while he was in France which is said to be the birthplace of the bikini, Mary asked him to bring one home for her. Needless to say, he happily obliged looking forward to see his beautiful girlfriend in one of those contraptions only a man could invent, but since bikinis were pretty-much cutting edge fashion in the U.S., sadly, he could never get her to wear it. Mary also recalls that when Lou would come home from service on leave, one of their favorite ways to spend time together was going to the movies. In fact their first date was to a movie theater in Newark where they saw Frank Sinatra and Kim Novak star in that 1955 American drama called The Man with the Golden Arm. Anyway, when Lou was home on leave, the last thing he wanted to wear was his Navy uniform but, when they went to the movies, Mary always asked Lou to wear it so everyone could see her proudly walking arm-in-arm with a handsome sailor.

Lou asked Mary to be his wife and, gladly accepting his proposal, they exchanged their wedding promises before God, family, and friends on Sunday, December 8, 1957 at St. Michael’s Church on Cianci Street in Paterson. After a honeymoon in Williamsburg, VA, their first home together was in Totowa in a second floor apartment that they rented for $55.00 per month. After living there for ten years the house was going to be torn down so that Kennedy High School could be built so Lou and Mary had to move. They ultimately purchased a home in Wayne where they’ve lived for the past thirty-nine years.

After returning home from the war, Lou got a job with Public Service Coordinated Transport in Newark as a bus driver. The company later became known as New Jersey Transit and his career spanned a total of 39 years including the last two years before retirement in 1996 as a Newark trolley operator.

Lou’s idea of relaxation was fishing for tuna down at Point Pleasant. He fished almost every Saturday, and lots of those excursions were with his son Lewis in Lewis’ boat, but he also fished with a lot with his buddies, and even with his grandchildren at lakes near home. Throughout their years together, Lou and Mary got to go to a lot of weddings where you could always find them on the dance floor impressing everyone with their rumba moves. After a day behind the wheel of that NJ Transit bus, Lou liked to eat dinner then pick up his brush and relax by painting different paintings by number. One of his proudest accomplishments was a pair of paintings he did of The Blue Boy originally painted by Thomas Gainsborough and Pinkie originally painted by Sir Thomas Lawrence. Lou recreated them so well, he swore there was no way you could tell they were painted by number. When it came to watching television, Lou’s favorite movies were from the James Bond series, but as Lou would always say, “Only the ones where Sean Connery starred as Bond.” During baseball season, Lou always watched the Mets and during football season, Sunday afternoons were spent rooting for the Giants.

Louis is survived by his beloved wife Mary; two dear sons: Lewis and wife Jami of Greensboro, NC and Michael of Phoenix, AZ; two dear daughters: Lisa and husband Joseph Radosky of Melbourne, FL and Mia Iacovelli of Gonic, NH; five cherished grandchildren: Stephanie, Matthew, Amara, Daniel, and Kayla; his brother Carl and wife Rae Iacovelli of Barnegat, NJ; his sister Agnes of Florida: and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Kenneth R. Tanis, age 87, of Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains passed peacefully at home on Wednesday, August 10, 2016.

He was born in Paterson and raised in the family home at 37 Mohawk Avenue in Hawthorne. Ken was a resident of Prospect Park and when he married Ruth Fish they moved in to live with her parents. They lived in a two family house with Ruth’s grandparents living on the first floor and the newlywed couple living on the second floor with Ruth’s parents.

Ken’s first job during his high school years was as a soda-jerk at the ice cream store in Hawthorne. He went on to become and apprentice at the Watson Machine Company in Paterson where his father-in-law worked. The company made cable, wire rope, sewer grates and various foundry items. He moved on to work for US Rubber and the Redem Company both in Wayne as a machinist. In 1963 he found work at the Bogue Electronics Manufacturing Company in Paterson and worked his way through the ranks from Assistant Shop Foreman to Forman to Plant Manager and was finally appointed Vice President. After retiring in 1994 he worked for the DenHollander Greenhouses in Pompton Plains for ten years fixing motors, generators, and power supplies.

Ken was the loving husband of Ruth (Fish) Tanis; devoted father of Lori Tanis-Blixt and her husband Timothy of Wayne, and Paul Tanis and his wife Beverly of Denton, TX; cherished grandfather of Christopher, Jesse, and Jacob Tanis.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in his memory are asked to consider the Cedar Crest Benevolent Care Fund, Cedar Crests Drive, Pompton Plains, NJ 07444.

Leonard “Len” Boniface, age 82 of Wayne, passed peacefully at home surrounded with the comfort of his family, on Monday, October 24, 2016.

Len was born at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Montclair, NJ, the fifth of seven children of the late Peter and Ida Boniface (nee Ossi), immigrants from the Veneto region of northern Italy. He was raised at 105 Cedar Hill Avenue in Belleville and graduated from Bellville High School in 1952. While at Belleville High he rowed on the crew team, played football and boxed in the Golden Gloves amateur boxing league. After high school he worked as a union sheet metal worker and attended Newark College of Engineering.

Len was drafted into the US Army and served from 1957 through 1959.

After his service in the Army, Len worked for Harris Upham & Company in Newark and mastered the field of financial planning. He later worked as a financial advisor for Prudential Bache in Wayne and then moved to Merrill Lynch, also in Wayne. At Merrill Lynch he enjoyed a long career of over thirty five years, before retiring in the Spring of 2016.

Len was a member of the Wayne Rotary Club and also a long standing member of the YMHA in Wayne. He will be remembered for his extraordinary sense of humor, kind heart, sound advice, love of family, and many family memories from summers on Cape Cod.

Leonard Boniface met the love of his life, Margaret “Peggy” McAloney at a church dance. In 1957, Len was drafted into the U.S. Army and following his return, he and Peggy married on June 26, 1959 at St. Peters Church in Bellville. Following their honeymoon to Cape Cod, they settled in Verona where they remained until they started a family and moved to Wayne in 1961. They had a loving and devoted marriage of fifty-four years before Margaret’s passing in July of 2013.

Len was the loving husband of 54 years to the late Margaret “Peggy”(McAloney) (2013); devoted father of six children - David and his partner Christopher Ferrara of Kinnelon, Laura Pheloung Levy and her husband David of Essex Fells, John and his wife Kristina of Wayne, Diana Hatton and her husband Christopher of Mountain Lakes, Charles of Wayne and Leonard James, Jr. and his wife Jenessa of Kinnelon; Cherished grandfather of William, Brigette and Danielle Pheloung, Ryan, Meg and Owen Hatton, and Lennox and Lachlan Boniface. Dear brother of Louise Rafter of Walnut Creek, CA, Ernest (Margaret) Boniface of Wayne, Rudy (Mina) Boniface of Paris, France; Peter (Delores) Boniface of East Sandwich, MA; and Thomas (Sigrid) Boniface of Wayne. Len was predeceased by his sister Theresa McGuire in 2014.

Kurt G. Kabula, age 81 of Wilmington, DE, formerly of Wayne, NJ passed away on Tuesday, March 1, 2016.

Kurt was born in Teupitz, Germany and came to America in 1956, where he worked as a tool maker in New York City. In 1959 he began his career as a machinist with Atlas Machine in Rutherford, NJ for 40 years.

He enjoyed playing Nintendo, chess and bowling in addition to taking walks. He loved to travel, especially taking road trips anywhere. He enjoyed watching professional wrestling and monster truck shows, listening to country music and the occasional beer. He had a very creative, inventive mind and loved to tinker in the garage.

Most of all he enjoyed laughing and making others laugh as well by telling his jokes and stories. His favorite thing of all was spending time with his family and friends.

Lovingly known as "Pop's" by most and "Opa" by family, he adored his two grandchildren; Trent and Maggie. He is also survived by his two children; son, Curt and his wife Marguerite Kabula of Wayne, NJ and daughter Barbara and her husband Scott Grill of Wilmington, DE., sister Inge and her husband Guenther of Germany, as well as extended family.

In lieu of flowers and in recognition of the difficult time dementia played in Pop's life over the last ten years, the family requests donations be made in Kurt's name to the Alzheimer's Association, Delaware Chapter, 240 N. James Street, Suite 100A, Newport, DE 19804.

Julie C. Salisbury, age 76 of Wayne, died peacefully at home on Saturday, May 7, 2016 with her family at her bedside. She had been a Wayne resident since 1964.

Julie had been an administrative assistant with American Cyanamid, American Home Products, and Reckitt Benckiser, retiring in 2011. She also volunteered more recently with Catholic Charities, serving as a driver for people in need of transportation.

Julie was born and raised in Paterson, living on W. Broadway. She graduated as Valedictorian from Central High in 1957 and often reminisced about the wonderful childhood she enjoyed in Paterson. Soon thereafter she met John Salisbury at a party in Wayne. John was a bit smitten after meeting her and they began dating. Marriage followed on February 20, 1964 and they settled in the King’s Arms Apartments on Hamburg Turnpike in Wayne, where they began to raise a family. Sadly, John passed in 1986 after just twenty two years of marriage and Julie was left to raise the children alone. She was a devoted mother and poured her heart into caring for her kids, but she couldn’t have done it without the uncommon support of her many friends and the fellow residents at the King’s Arms Apartment complex. Many people stepped in and helped Julie with car rides for the kids to school, sports, after school activities, and whatever else they could do to help. Julie and her kids have always been grateful for those friends and the loving support they gave so selflessly.

Several years later, Julie responded to a perfectly written singles ad in the newspaper. The writer was Al Outcalt, a public relations professional. They dated for several years before marrying in 1997. They lived on Packanack Lake in a home that Al’s family built in 1940’s and Julie just loved Packanack. She was a proud citizen of Wayne in general, touting the great library, township activities, the many unique lake communities, and she was especially happy to live in Packanack. Her daily routine involved walking around the lake, usually twice, to get her exercise and to socialize. She was also an avid church-goer, attending mass at all of the local parishes. She was never one to sit still and recently she volunteered with the Catholic Charities, providing rides to senior citizens. She enjoyed keeping herself busy.

Julie was also a wonderful grandmother and she never missed an activity or event with her grandkids. Her children knew they could always count on “mom’s limo” to drive the grandkids anywhere they needed to go and Julie frequently cared for her grandchildren during the day. Julie also became relatively ‘tech savvy,’ understanding that if she wanted to communicate with her grandkids, she had to learn how to text. She was a hip grandmother.

Throughout the years, Julie enjoyed some wonderful travel. She visited Europe on several occasions, including two river cruises. She had been to California a few times, several Caribbean cruises, and she visited Sicily just two years ago with a group of her high school friends. In recent years, she liked to make day trips to Ocean Grove to sink her toes in the sand. Her favorite places to visit were anywhere with a sandy beach, and the bluer the water, the better! Summer vacations to Wildwood Crest at the Jersey Shore were common when the kids were young, and Julie was always the last one off the beach – soaking up every last bit of sunshine.

Julie is survived by her three loving children; Julie Ritsema and her husband Fred of Wayne, NJ, Cynthia Setoodeh and her husband Sharvin of Ridgewood, NJ, and John and his wife Vanessa of Clark, NJ, and seven grandchildren; Morgan and Madison Ritsema of Wayne, Avery, James, and Declan Salisbury of Clark, and Devon and Amelia Setoodeh of Ridgewood, her brother; Benjamin Calvitti and his wife Barbara of Rutherford, NJ and sister; Marion Bartels and her husband Bill of Rutherford, NJ, three nieces and two nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Al Outcalt in 2009 and by her first husband John Salisbury in 1986.

Donations in Julie’s memory to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 560 Sylvan Ave, Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 would be greatly appreciated.

Kenneth A. Powley, Jr., age 54 of Wayne, died peacefully at home on Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2016 after a long battle with non-Hodgkin Lymphona. His wife, children, parents, brother, and sister-in-law were gathered at his bedside. Ken was a lifelong resident of Packanack Lake in Wayne.

Ken was employed by Valley National Bank of Wayne for twenty-eight years and was currently a Vice President of Commercial Lending out of Livingston. He graduated from Wayne Valley High School in 1979 where he competed on the Cross Country, Track and Field, and Winter Track teams. He went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Lafayette College and then an MBA from Rutgers. Ken was a member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity and he remained close with his brothers throughout the years.

Ken grew up in Packanack Lake, a place he was so fond of that he chose to raise his family there as well. He was involved in many Packanack activities from his early childhood, including “Sea Scouts,” “Ice Patrol," and he was a Boy Scout in the Packanack Troop 104. He earned his Eagle Scout rank in 1977. He later volunteered as a Cub Scout Den Leader for his son's pack, Pack 104. Ken also enjoyed fishing ever since he was little. He was currently Treasurer of the Packanack Lake Anglers Club, as he has served many times previously. He also was a member of the “Knee Deep” fishing club at Lake Hopatcong. He had also served as Treasurer for the Packanack Lake Country Club in the past where he was an active and dedicated member. As a boy he attended services as the Packanack Community Church, and was recently confirmed as a Catholic by Father Dan Kelly of Immaculate Heart of Mary RC Church.

Ken was a skilled craftsman, good with his hands, and capable of fixing anything. He enjoyed spending his time outdoors, landscaping, gardening and tending to his yard. His grandparents taught him many skills which he has passed on to his children. He was a devoted father.

Ken met his wife Ellen at the "Waterfront" on a blind date arranged by Ellen's cousin Judy. They enjoyed their time together. Ken proposed two years later on Ellen’s birthday and they married June 1st, 1996. They honeymooned on a Caribbean cruise followed by a week in Disney.

Ken is survived by his wife Ellen Mary (nee Melli) of Wayne, three children; Mary Ellen, Kenneth Charles, and Sharon Marie, by his parents; Ken and Dot Powley of Wayne and The Villages, Florida, by his brother; John Jay Powley and his wife Melanie of Frisco, Texas, two nephews; Troy and Nathan, and one niece; Jennifer. Also, a brother-in-law; Mark Melli of Hackensack, and a sister-in-law; Regina Woods of South Carolina.

Ken loved flowers. For those who would rather make a donation in his memory, please consider the Packanack Boy Scouts, “Troop 104,” 52 Lake Dr. West, Wayne, NJ 07470.

Leonard A. Zaffino, 86 of Wayne, died Sunday, August 21, 2016. He had been a resident of Wayne since 1956.

Leo grew up in Hamilton Township, PA, a small-town, rural area where everyone knew each other. Leo left high school to join the U.S. Army where he became a drill instructor, training the new recruits. While in the Army, Leo became good friends with Sonny Wille from East Rutherford, NJ. Sonny invited Leo to his home after they were discharged from the Army and that’s when Leo met Margaret, Sonny’s sister. Leo and Margaret soon fell in love and they married on May 28, 1949. They lived briefly in Garfield before moving to Wayne in 1956. Leo was devoted to Margaret and they enjoyed fifty five years together. When she became ill with cancer, Leo was there at her side through every treatment and hospital visit. He loved her dearly and was heartbroken when she passed away in 2004. He has missed her dearly ever since.

Leo began his professional career with Bendix Corp. in Teterboro as an electroplater. He worked there nearly thirty years before retiring. An avid hunter, fisherman, and a very competitive bowler, Leo was proud to have bowled a 299 in his best game ever. In the 1970’s, he was fortunate to be a contestant on the popular television show “Bowling for Dollars” where he proudly walked away with $9.00 and a new frying pan! He loved fishing and was credited with catching two of the largest striped bass off of the beach at Sandy Hook. He coached Little League baseball with his sons and loved every minute of it. He was a big fan of the NY GIANTS and watched every game he could.

Leo is survived by his six children; Helene Deysenroth (Fred) of Vermont, Margaret McCue of Wayne, Kathleen Giordano (Thomas) of Tenafly, Leonard Zaffino (Gina) of Ringwood, Joseph Zaffino (Melinda) of Hoosick Falls, NY, and Michael Zaffino (Tara) of Wayne, and one brother; Angelo Zaffino (Shirley) of Kane, PA, sixteen grandchildren; Danny, Kimberly, Lisa, Kathy, Margie, Christine, Matthew, Nicholas, Alexis, Joey, Tommy, Anthony, Michael, Troy, Samantha, and Taylor, as well as six great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife Margaret, he was predeceased by his two sisters.

For those wishing to make a donation in Leo’s memory, please consider the Grace Hospice. Donations should be made payable to “Grace Healthcare Service” and mailed to 105 Fieldcrest Ave., Suite 402, Edison, NJ 08837.

Kristina Grosikova, known to her grandchildren and family friends as "Kika", age 62, passed away suddenly at her home in Irvington, NJ on March 3, 2016.

Kristina was born in Jurkiskes, small village in Belarus close to Lithuanian border. At the age of six her family moved to Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania. Vilnius was Kristina's home for nearly forty years. In 1996 she came to the United States, settling temporarily in Brooklyn, NY before crossing the Hudson River to Jersey City, NJ where she lived for over a decade. While searching for a place to settle closer to her daughter living in Wayne, Kristina rented the apartment in Irvington.

Kristina had never taken anything in life for granted. She had to start working in a factory assembly line at the age of 17, while studying in a Technical School. She would soon be transferred within the factory to a drafting department. During that time Kristina joined a Ham Radio Club and frequently participated in weekend-long contests, helping her team secure top placements many times. The walls of her Vilnius apartment were decorated not with the usual wallpaper but with the QSL cards (a written confirmation of radio communication) from all over the world. This hobby and electronics drafting work lead her to study Radio Electronics at the Vilnius Technical Institute. Later Kristina worked as an electronics maintenance engineer at the Vilnius Meteorological Bureau until the collapse of the USSR economy towards the end of the Cold War. Kristina then did whatever work she could find to survive. This inspired her to move to the United States.

In 1996 at the age of forty-three years old Kristina packed up her family and moved to Brooklyn, New York. Again she took any work she could to survive. She cleaned houses, cared for children and the elderly, sold new and used cars at automobile dealerships. She eventually settled working as a customer service representative in the health care industry. Kristina liked driving cars and speed, and worked as a car transporter at Hertz not just for additional income but because she also truly enjoyed it.

Kristina took delight in all the life's little pleasures. She has on more than one occasion sneaked quietly into her daughter's/grandkids' house in the middle of the night before the birthday or Christmas to decorate the common areas, surprising everyone in the morning. With the joy little children have and adults seem to loose, Kristina enjoyed bubbles and rainbows, fireworks and hot air balloon fiestas. She happily joined kids in laser tag games, laughed from her heart, and was always ready for a bit of silliness and a small (or big!) adventure, such as going to watch her daughter sky dive and ending up jumping the same day herself. Kristina also literally stopped to smell and admire the flowers, and would often pull over her car to the side of the road so she could capture the awe inspiring sunrises and sunsets.

Kika, we will miss your affection. Your frantic mess in the kitchen while cooking the traditional Lithuanian twelve Christmas dishes or coloring Easter eggs. We will miss your unique ‘Kika style’ multi-layered jello cakes with fruits. Our celebrations will not be the same without your presence. You will be remembered as a very tough, but very affectionate and loving person who had a survivor attitude, and kept dreaming. And even though we occasionally gave you hard time about your spoiling the grandchildren rotten, we are heartbroken that they will no longer get to experience your love.

Kristina is survived by daughter Renata Zachariah and her husband Boban of Wayne; her two grandchildren Adriel Jonathan and Miriam Grace Zachariah; and brother Teofilis Biveinis of Vilnius, Lithuania.

Keith A. Geffinger, age 51 of Wayne, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, September 14, 2016.

Keith grew up in Wayne and graduated from Wayne Valley High School with the class of 1983. He began working with his father’s construction company; Roger’s Carpentry of New York City. He’s been a member of Local Union 157 in NYC for many years. He even did a brief stint in the U.S. Coast Guard during his early 20’s, earning him the nickname “Coast Guard Keith.”

Keith loved his daughter Lauren and knew what she was going thru and took time out of his busy life to make sure she was ok because their beloved dog Lady was dying of cancer. They spent many summers in Beach Haven, LBI. They both loved the beach. He was a devoted father, Lauren was the light of his life, and this is the man we all loved and will miss.

He was very generous with his time and always willing to help everyone. If you called him with a problem, he would be there in no time to fix it. He could fix just about anything. Of course, he could have completed those projects more quickly if he didn’t talk so much! He just loved to talk. He was also one of those guys who loved to watch WWE wrestling. “Monday Night Raw” put a smile on his face that lasted throughout the whole program! He also enjoyed music, primarily classic rock like Pink Floyd, and KISS. He was a huge KISS fan and often dressed the part for Halloween. He collected comic books and pets. Yes, that’s right; he had more pets over the years than you could shake a stick at. He was the kind of guy who would watch those ASPCA commercials on TV, with the emaciated dogs, and it would make him cry. He would adopt more animals than he could care for himself, so he would give them to his family and friends! He had cats, dogs, birds, snakes, fish, and every other kind of animal (except ferrets!) throughout the years and he simply felt compelled to care for all of them, to help them. He was just that kind of person; caring and generous to a fault.

Keith met Jenifer Elkas about three years ago and the two of them were very much in love. Keith bought her a dog named Clyde and whenever he would call Jen, the first thing he would ask her is “how’s Clyde?” She says he was the most selfless and kind man she had ever known.

Keith is survived by his mother; Audrey “Jean” Freije and her husband Nick of Florida, his beloved daughter; Lauren Geffinger of Lincoln Park, his sister; Nancy Limite and her husband Bob of Wayne, one brother; Ken Geffinger and his wife Duvi of Australia, his girlfriend; Jenifer Elkas of Lincoln Park, his beloved Aunt Barbara Greder of Gouldboro, PA, and his father’s wife; Anita Geffinger of Montclair, and many nieces and a nephew. He was predeceased by his father; Kenneth R. Geffinger, Sr. in 2000.

In lieu of flowers, friends are asked to donate in Keith’s memory to the Wayne Animal Shelter, 201 Pompton Plains Crossroads, Wayne, NJ 07470.

Karen Elizabeth (Huff) Mscisz, age 51, of Hackensack, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 28, 2016.

Born and raised in Wayne, Karen grew up attending Wayne United Methodist Church. She was a graduate of Passaic County Technical Institute, Class of 1983.

After graduation Karen was employed by Fortunoff Jewelry in Wayne and later as a customer care representative with window blind maker Jencraft Corporation of Totowa.

Karen married Gary Mscisz in 1992. They were blessed with a little girl in 1996 and they named their bundle of sunshine Kimberly. In the early years of their relationship, Karen and Gary enjoyed going out dancing and being with family and friends even after their marriage ended, Karen and Gary remained friendly.

Karen loved to travel. She adored her daughter Kimberly and took her on road trips all over the USA. For Kim’s sixteenth birthday, they went on a cruise to Cozumel, Honduras, Cayman Island and Belize. This was right up Karen’s alley as she so much enjoyed a day soaking up the warm sun.

Karen valued a good time and living for the day. As a result, she had many friends and was a good listener who desired to help others and was only limited in doing acts of kindness by her own infirmities.

Karen is survived by her dear daughter Kimberly Mscisz of Wallington; her brother Thomas and wife Carol Huff of Wayne, her sister Janice Vetter of Toms River; two nieces: Katelyn and Victoria Huff; and one nephew: Ethan Vetter.

Memorial donations, if friends so wish, would be greatly appreciated. Please consider the American Cancer Society 20 Mercer St., Hackensack, NJ 07601 which is dear to Karen and Kimberly's heart.

Katherine E. Tourelle (nee Cederroth), age 90, of Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains and formerly of Verona, Livingston and Short Hills, NJ, passed peacefully on Sunday morning, January 24, 2016.

Kay, as she was affectionately known, was born in Brooklyn, NY. As a little girl, she moved with her parents to Verona, NJ, where she attended Verona schools, graduating from Verona High School with the Class of 1943.

Kay worked for a short time as a dental hygienist in Newark but, longing to develop her more creative gifts, she enrolled in the McDowell School of Dressmaking and Costume Design in New York City and, after graduating in 1945, enthusiastically worked as a fashion illustrator in Manhattan.

Though her husband-to-be, William Tourelle, typically commuted to his job in New York City by train, one day a rail strike forced him to take a bus. It was on that bus that he met beautiful Katherine as she also traveled to work. He proposed during their fourth date but they courted for several years before Kay finally said “yes”. They wed on Saturday, January 17, 1948, at Verona Congregational Church. They settled into their first home together in Livingston.

Kay and Bill were soon blessed with children, and Kay embarked on her career as a loving mother and homemaker. In her spare time, she enjoyed attending art museums and taking art classes where she learned to paint, especially embracing pastels and water color. She also liked to dabble in interior design. Although she possessed no formal training, Kay’s natural eye for color and design resulted in a Better Homes and Garden magazine feature on her and Bill’s master bedroom. It was quite an honor to be featured in a national publication read by millions.

The couple moved from Livingston to Short Hills in 1953 and stayed there for 50 years before moving to Cedar Crest Village in 2003. During their 61 years together—before Bill’s passing in 2009—Kay and Bill explored the world together with opportunities to travel only increasing after Bill’s early retirement at age 54.

Kay was a charter parishioner of the First Congregational Community Church of Short Hills. She always possessed a sense of joy and an attitude of thankfulness in her heart for the blessings she experienced throughout her life. Lately, she enjoyed singing the songs learned during her elementary school years. A very sociable person, she was outgoing and easily struck friendships with people she met.

Katherine was predeceased by her loving husband, William H. Tourelle (2009) and her son Glenn Tourelle in 2014. Surviving are her daughter Wendy Minshall and husband Hap of Montville; her son Robert Tourelle; her daughter-in-law Cynthia Tourelle of Ocala, Florida; and her granddaughter Elizabeth and husband Fabian Sonabria of Ocala, Florida.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Katherine’s memory may consider The Seeing Eye, Inc., P.O. Box 375, Morristown, NJ 07963-0375 (www.seeingeye.org), or Cedar Crest Resident Care Fund, 1 Cedar Crest Village Drive, Pompton Plains, NJ 07444, attention Department of Philanthropy. (Please make check out to Cedar Crest and on the memo line indicate: Resident Care Fund).

June D. Tamaro (Pasch) age 88 of Wayne, formerly of Paterson, passed peacefully to be with her lord and savior Jesus Christ, on Tuesday January 19, 2016.

She was born to John and Sally Pasch and raised on Mill Street in Paterson. June graduated from Eastside High School with the Class of 1945. During her high school years she was an avid swimmer and served as a lifeguard at the Circle Pool in Paterson.

June married Frank Tamaro at the age of seventeen and they lived on East 20th Street, in the People’s Park section, of Paterson. June dedicated herself to raising her children and when the kids went to school she worked at Universal Electric in Totowa and for the Russ Berrie Company in Oakland. June also held her beautician license and her kids remember family and friends having their hair done under the bonnet dryer in the kitchen. Her children recall their father coaching the Our Lady of Lourdes Church baseball team in Paterson with June driving their barely running 1955 Chevy all around the city of Paterson picking up and dropping off all the baseball players. Summers in the Ocean Grove section of the Jersey Shore was the sight of many fond memories for her children.

She will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who loved to be surrounded by family. June was a great cook that was indoctrinated into the Italian way of cooking by her mother-in-law. Sunday dinner, after Mass, an all-day affair at her home, was a weekly ritual with extended family and friends all welcomed. Her children had to stay at home and be with the family until June told them it was ok to leave and play elsewhere. Her special loving touch on roast beef, lasagna, and especially her Sunday Gravy will be greatly missed.

June had a special place in her heart for her great-granddaughter Dana. She helped her granddaughter Kelly Ann raise Dana and upon Kelly’s passing she jumped right back into the role of being a mother. June was very proud of all of Dana’s accomplishments and the love they shared for each other was very special.

June was a forty-year parishioner of Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary RC Church in Wayne.

She was the loving wife to the late Frank Tamaro; devoted mother of the late Deborah Meneve, and surviving sons Dr. Frank Tamaro and his wife Joanne, and Kenneth Tamaro and his wife Claire; much loved grandmother of Russell Meneve, Brittany Pobanz and her husband John, Nicholas Tamaro, and the late Kelly Ann Meneve; cherished great-grandmother of Dana Solis; dear sister of Irene Foley.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, 6520 North Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 would be appreciated.

Judith Ann (nee Sather) Suther, age 80, of Totowa for forty-six years, passed peacefully at home on Wednesday, May 18, 2016.

She was raised in Donnelly, Minnesota on the family farm. The farm was about 2000 acres with dairy cows, wheat and corn. Growing up on the farm Judy and her siblings were all put to work at a young age. She learned to drive the farm's tractor at the age of eight. As a young girl her father Arne proudly watched Judy drive the Farmall 450 tractor several miles in to town. The foundation of her Christian faith was formed at the Kongsvinger Lutheran Church in Donnelly, MN. Judy graduated from Oak Grove Lutheran School in Fargo, ND, and went on to receive her undergraduate and Masters degrees from Augsburg College in Minneapolis, MN.

During her college years Judy met the love of her life, Paul Suther. Paul and Judy sat next to each other, as in those days seating was alphabetical and Judy Sather was seated next to Paul Suther. They eventually fell in love and married on November 16, 1957 at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Minneapolis. They honeymooned at Niagara Falls, New York and enjoyed thirty-one years of loving, devoted, and faith filled marriage until Paul’s passing in 1988.

Judy was devoted to her Christian faith, and a steadfast member of St. Timothy Lutheran Church in Wayne. She served as President of the Church Council, as a Sunday School Teacher, sang with the choir, and as a pianist. Many will remember her militaristic supervision and choreography of church musicals, where she would both perform and accompany on the piano, and demand you hit your note on time!

She will be remembered as a loving mother who seemingly planned the birth of each of her three children approximately five years apart so she could dedicate exclusive mom-time to each child’s formative years. Her direct, speak your mind personality was softened with her caring, kind, and giving ways. Judy had a huge heart and selflessly gave of her time and talents to others. In her heart she was a perfectionist and fastidious cleaner. Her sons recount that if they were to go on vacation the house had to be immaculate before they left. Judy just couldn’t come home to a house that wasn’t spotless. Annual family vacations were always to Ocean City, Maryland, where many fond memories were made. As a matter of fact Paul and Judy were in the midst of closing on a townhome in Ocean City when his passing brought an end to that dream retirement home. The family will also miss Judy’s cooking and special touch on all holiday meals. During a two year residency in Saint Louis, Judy was surrounded by Italian neighbors and picked-up up on their Italian style of cooking. Paul was always in charge of any traditional Scandinavian cooking, and Judy enjoyed cooking Italian. Her manicotti was revered by her sons, and they still cook her recipe to this day.

Judy was the beloved wife of the late Paul Suther (1988); devoted mother of David Suther of Totowa, Steven Suther and his life partner Richard Klein of Lebanon, and John Suther and his wife Tracey of Clifton; cherished grandmother of Leah, Haley, and Amber; dear sister of Sonja Skurdal of Addison, ME, and Arne Sather and his wife Dyanne of New Hope, MN.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Saint Timothy Lutheran Church Memorial Fund, 395 Valley Road, Wayne, NJ 07470 would be appreciated.

PLEASE NOTE: The Funeral Mass for Julia P. Zisa, scheduled for Saturday, December 24, 2016 at 10 AM, has been moved from St. Gerards RC Church, Paterson to St. John the Baptist, Bishop Rodimer Center, 387-389 Grand Street, Paterson.

Julia P. Zisa, age 90 and life-long resident of Paterson, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2016. She was daughter to the late Elizabeth and Guerino Piermattie.

Julia had been an Executive Secretary to Engineering at Kearfott during her early career. She was very organized and fastidious by nature, and the engineers at Kearfott loved the way she worked. She was always proud how much they appreciated her work there. She had also worked for Dr. Dumont who founded Dumont Industries and the Dumont Televsion Network. Dr. Dumont invented one of the first TV’s in Upper Montclair, NJ, and he started the Dumont Television Network to provide the first content to be viewed on his TV’s. When her daughter was born, Julia embarked on her most rewarding career ever; as a full time mom.

Julia was the consummate homemaker, wife and mother. She loved housekeeping and kept a perfectly clean home. She was a devoted wife to her beloved Louis, and the best mom possible to her daughter Linda. Linda will tell you what a fantastic cook she was, as well as the most nurturing and loving mother a girl could have asked for. Julia was simply a great mom and Linda will miss her dearly.

Julia met her husband Louis during the 1940’s. Merely by coincidence the two of them were visiting unrelated patients at the St. Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson. They met in the hallway outside the patient rooms, and Louis asked her for her phone number. Louis resembled a young Gregory Peck then, which made him nearly irresistible to Julia. The two of them began dating soon after that. They were married on October 7, 1950 and after enjoying a memorable honeymoon to Niagara Falls, they settled down for a lifetime in Paterson. Linda describes her parents as “inseparable” and “in love; heart, mind, & soul.” Louis was an angel and Julia was the most wonderful wife to him. They were blessed with a truly wonderful, loving marriage. After Louis’ sudden passing in 1998, Julia’s sadness never subsided and she has missed him terribly ever since.

Julia is survived by her beloved daughter Linda Zisa of Paterson, her niece; Jacqueline DiPasquale of Totowa, Lisa Hack of Hackettstown, Elaine Piermattie of Hawthorne, Ginny Piermattie of Pennsylvania, her sister-in-law; Diane Piermattie of Hackettstown, two grand-nephews; Joseph DiPasquale and his wife Kristen, Steven DiPasquale and his girlfriend Amanda, and two great-grand nieces; Isabella and Ava DiPasquale, and many more loving family. She was predeceased by her devoted husband Louis in 1998, by her sister; Theresa Mania of Totowa in 2010, and by her brothers; Vincent and Charles Piermattie.

Katherine J. Tomasi (nee Polizzotto), age 97 of Galloway, formerly of Kinnelon and Toms River, died peacefully on Saturday, Feb. 6, 2016. She had lived in Kinnelon prior to 1981 and then Toms River before moving to Galloway just three years ago.

Katherine was raised in Haledon and attended Central High School. Growing up during the Great Depression, she left high school and began working to help support her family. After marrying George Tomasi, they settled in Paterson and ran the family bakery; Tomasi Prospect Bakery on Prospect St. and Van Houten Ave. in Paterson. She became the consummate mom to her three children, often taking them to the various movie houses around Paterson when the new films were released, and they also made frequent day trips to Long Branch at the Jersey Shore. Katherine had been a fabulous bowler in her day and even belonged to a woman’s bowling league. She was a wonderful cook and everything she made was simply fantastic! Her meatballs, lasagna, pasta fagioli and roasted chicken were among her family’s favorites. Fresh pasta was the norm and her children recall laying out strands of fresh pasta across the bed to dry before it was all cooked at dinner time. Katherine always had food in the house and if you stopped by to visit, she would soon have a full meal on the table, ready for your enjoyment. She hosted most of the holiday dinners and the tradition for many years was Sunday dinner at her place with no less than eighteen people at the table. No one went home hungry!

She loved “AC” and while living in Holiday City, Toms River, she went to AC at least twice a week and organized one bus trip a month with her community friends. She just loved going to AC and enjoyed herself there countless times. She enjoyed traveling with her husband George and friends. Each labor day they visited Villa Roma in the Catskills for a week of dancing, cards games, and food. She felt blessed to have been able to visit Italy her parents birth place. Hawaii and San Francisco were also places she visited and enjoyed. She loved music and convinced George to take dancing lessons so they could dance the night away. She truly enjoyed her life.

Katherine was predeceased by her husband George in 1983, and by her grandson; George Garbarino in 1982. She is survived by her three children; Margaret Garbarino of Galloway, Peter Tomasi and his wife Carol of Hawthorne, NJ, and George Tomasi and his wife Linda of San Marco, CA, seven grandchildren; Cathy Rusyniak and her husband Michael of Rockaway Township, NJ, Frank Garbarino and his wife Kelly of Denville, NJ, Susan Jacalone and her husband Victor of Galloway, NJ, Peter Tomasi of Hawthorne, NJ, John Tomasi and his wife Jessica of N. Haledon, NJ, George Tomasi of San Marco, CA, and Daniel Tomasi and his wife Julie of Poway, CA, as well as eleven great-grandchildren: Sarah Murphy and her husband Francis of Galloway, Vincent Jacalone also of Galloway. Forrest Rusyniak and Tanner Rusyniak of Rockaway Township. Margaret Garbarino and Jack Garbarino of Denville. Evan Tomasi Lorelai Tomasi, and Cassidy Tomasi of North Haledon. Mia Tomasi and Kelsey Tomasi of Poway.

Juan Toscano, Jr., left fascist Spain and overcame countless obstacles to become the Chief Financial Officer of Diamond Shamrock and establish a devoted family in the United States, dies at 90.

Juan Toscano, Jr., born in Newark, NJ, raised in Cambados, Spain, returned to New Jersey leaving Franco controlled fascist Spain shortly after his marriage to Maria Luisa (Marisa) Montero died on August 25, 2016. He was 90.

Juan was born in Newark, NJ, to Juan Toscano Nunez, a veteran of the merchant marine serving honorably during WWI, and Encarnacion Garcia Losada. He moved to Cambados, Spain in 1930. He studied accounting at the Escuela de Comercio in Vigo, Spain. He met and fell in love with his childhood sweetheart, Marisa Montero of Cambados. The couple married on October 22, 1949 in Spain. As an American citizen, Juan was not allowed to work in post-revolutionary fascist Spain forcing the newlywed couple to immigrate to America in 1950 only to find that his degree was not recognized in the United States. With characteristic determination, he simultaneously began work at a manufacturing plant and the US post office, both full time, while matriculating at Rutgers University. He was famous for the enormity of his lunches while at the manufacturing plant where he would regularly consume 4 sandwiches out of his lunch box. A nod to the traditional Spanish mid-day meal, la comida, which is traditionally the largest. However there was no siesta to follow for Juan, just an unwavering commitment to better himself and provide for his growing family. He graduated with high honors from Rutgers in 1958.

With his new degree he was again free to pursue his accounting career. He started as a staff accountant at the Diamond Shamrock Corporation where he rose to the position of Chief Financial Officer. His arithmetic ability was legendary. He often recalls a day when a salesperson came to the office with a new “calculating machine”, an early mechanical adding machine, claiming a 100 % increase in productivity. Ever the skeptic, Juan challenged the salesperson and his machine to a contest. They each took a column of accounting calculations dozens of numbers in length. To the surprise of no one in the office except the salesperson, Juan easily bested the machine, but with characteristic humanitarian charity he encouraged the young man to return when it was at least as fast and accurate as an “average” human. Not one to ever be satisfied with only one job, Juan opened a private accounting practice and became the “go to” accountant for many of the newly immigrated Spanish and Portuguese shopkeepers, businesses, and restaurant owners also making new lives for their families in the Ironbound section of Newark, NJ. Perhaps the proudest moment of his professional career came with his election to President of The New Jersey Association of Public Accountants.

Juan realized the economic power of real estate soon after his return from Spain. Shortly after arriving back in the United States, with his first son on the way, he purchased a two family home. He and his growing family occupied the smaller unit, while renting out the larger fully covering his mortgage. This incredible financial discipline and real estate savvy found him the eventual owner of 7 income producing properties as well as his primary residence in Wayne and vacation homes in Ortley Beach, NJ and Cancun, Mexico.

The “shore house” in Ortley beach allowed Juan and his family a welcome return to the sea. Cambados is an ocean side town of people who live off the sea; it was at the shore that Juan and his family were truly at home. Every summer the entire extended family would gather in Ortley to share dinners which would include charcoal broiled sardines and fresh Jersey corn, bringing together the best that Spain and New Jersey had to offer presided over by a man who was the embodiment of that notion.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Marisa Toscano; devoted father of 7 children: John (Linda) Toscano of Cedar Grove, Maria Ackerman of Edison, Raymond Toscano, MD, of Tampa, FL, James Toscano of Wayne, Luis (Flo) Toscano of Clifton, Rose Marie (Jock, MD) McCullough of Hanover, NH, and Joe (Tammy) Toscano of Sparta; cherished grandfather of 17 grandchildren: Jennifer Brockman, Chris Ackerman, Matthew Toscano, Melissa Toscano, Brian Ackerman, Cathy Alcalde, Marisa Ackerman, Noelle Griffis, Robert Toscano, Ray Toscano, Marisa Lee McCullough, Alex McCullough, Tomas McCullough, Jessica Toscano, Samantha Toscano, Benjamin Toscano, Cristina McCullough and 12 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his sister Rosario Pouso.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Juan’s memory are asked to consider a donation to www.gofundme.com/InMemoryofDad.  All donations to this fund will be forwarded to St. Teresa De Avila Order of Carmelite Nuns, Pontevedra, Spain.

Joseph J. Rubiski, age 84, of Haskell, passed peacefully on Thursday, October 20, 2016.

He was born in the family home at 14 Camden Street in Paterson. He was raised here and graduated from Saint Johns High School in Paterson with the Class of 1950.

On June 1, 1951 Joseph enlisted in the US Navy where he proudly served aboard the USS Albert T. Harris, a destroyer escort. He was honorably discharged on May 31, 1955 having attained the rank of Electrician’s Mate First Class.

After his service in the US Navy he worked at the A&P distribution warehouse in Fair Lawn for many years. Once the facility closed he found work as a custodian for the Haskell Board of Education having worked at the Haskell Elementary School before retiring in 1997.

Joseph was living on Taylor Street in Clifton when he met the love of his life Betty Townsley while at J&J’s Tavern on Mary Street in Paterson. They fell in love and married on September 26, 1959 at Saint Agnes RC Church in Paterson and honeymooned at Niagara Falls, New York. They loved to dance together and would often traverse the dance floor doing the Jitterbug or dancing to Polka’s. They enjoyed fifty-two years of a loving and devoted marriage before Betty's passing in 2011.

He will be remembered as a funny, quiet, smart, easy going guy who showed up at a family graduation party bare chested and wearing a tie. Joseph always loved the water and especially enjoyed swimming in the ocean. The problem with his ocean swims was he twice lost his teeth in the water. One time they found them the next day at the edge of the water and the other time they spotted a little girl digging in the sand at the surfs edge with his teeth. Again, he did love the water and the family even has a photo of him, at age 83, riding a WaveRunner on Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire. Joseph had many fond memories of trips to Atlantic City with his sister Elaine. The entire family has great memories of day trips to Aunt Mary and Uncle George’s Jersey Shore house and an Auto Train trip to Florida visiting West Palm Beach and Disney World. His favorite thing of all was spending time at home, in his swimming pool, with family around.

He was the loving husband of the late Betty Townsley (2011); devoted father of Joseph Rubiski and his wife Sharon of Vernon, Diane Lane and her husband Bob of Vernon, Leslie Vitale of Haskell, Carl Vitale and his wife Jackie of Kinnelon, and Mike Vitale and his wife Irene of Haskell; he was the cherished grandfather of six grandchildren Chrissie, Sean, Melissa, Michelee, Carl and Alicia and four great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the American Cancer Society, 20 Mercer Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601 would be appreciated.

Joseph J. Jazwick, Jr.  “Joey Jazz” age 52 of Passaic passed suddenly and unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 20, 2016.

He was born in Jersey City and raised in the Singac Section of Little Falls having attended the Holy Angels grammar School and went on to the Passaic Valley High School with the Class of 1981.

Out of high school Joe worked as a coach driver and EMT for the Action Ambulance Company and several other area private ambulance companies.  During his years driving the ambulances he received training and certification as a Certified Medical Assistant.  Joe took the training he received to the next level and became a trainer himself. He started his own company, Healthcare Training & Consulting, L.L.C., in 2005 and has run CPR, Defensive Driving, and Mobility Assistance Vehicle Technician classes for the past eleven years.

Joe was an outgoing, fun loving, dog lover who always spoke his mind.  He loved playing the durms, Disney World, and was always fussing over his truck. His love of music was inspired and nurtured by his father who taught him to play the drums.  His dad was a professional drummer, trained by the jazz and big band drummer Gene Krupa, having played and toured with Frankie Valli. With drumming practically embedded into Joe’s DNA, he truly loved playing and worked with bands such as TT Quick, Ritual, Hired Guns, and Fair Warning to name a few.

He met the love of his life, Karen Gianinio, when he pulled up to a physician’s office with a patient in his ambulance.  It was Karen’s first day of the job at the doctor’s office and the receptionist had not shown up to unlock the office.  Karen was sitting outside in the heat and Joe offered to let her sit in the ambulance to keep cool. She said no and the doctor soon showed up to unlock the office.  Not one to accept no for an answer Joe approached Karen in the hallway and said “I know girls don’t like giving their number to guys” to which she answered…”I’m not afraid to give you my number…here it is.”  Well they talked on the phone and Karen, who was living at home with her parents at the time, told her parents she was going to visit a friend in Hawthorne when in fact she was going to visit Joe. Their first official date was to Bojangles in Wayne where Joe was set to play with his band Fair Warning – a Van Halen tribute band. When Karen arrived she got out of the car and all she could hear was Joe’s drums through the walls as the band kept shorting out the sound system. Joe proposed marriage to Karen during a show at the Quincy’s Junkyard Pub in Rochelle Park.  He had secured his grandmother’s engagement ring and snuck it into his pocket that night.  Anyone who know Karen will understand that she immediately saw the ring was not where it was supposed to be.  She said nothing until she was called up onto the stage (a nightmare for Karen)  for Joe’s proposal. She said yes of course but had to whisper to him “I knew.”   They married  on October 18, 1997 at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Wayne, had a reception at the Radisson Hotel in Fairfield and honeymooned at Disney World.  They went to Disney World each year for ten straight years until they became parents to their first set of Rottweilers (Rozzey & Jerzey).  They love their current dogs Buddy and Missy like children.  Since their chance encounter they have been by each other’s side for the past twenty-four years.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the American Heart Association or any worthy organization relating to pets or animals would be greatly appreciated.

Joseph Albanese, age 90 of Wayne, died peacefully on Wednesday, October 26, 2016, with his family at his side. He had been a resident of Wayne since 1956.

Joe was raised in Garfield and joined the U.S. Navy at the age of seventeen by lying about his age on the enlistment forms. Within months, he was serving aboard a ship in the Pacific Ocean and headed right into the thick of things. His ship was torpedoed and Joe was injured while fighting a fire onboard. He was transferred to a hospital in Seattle, Washington before being sent back home to recover from his wounds.

Upon returning home, Joe started working for his father as a plumber and this became his life long career. He eventually started his own plumbing company; Albanese Plumbing. Joe worked on many new housing developments throughout the State and became a member of the NJ State League of Master Plumbers, and the Tri-boro Master Plumbers Association. Joe was also an avid member of the Wayne Chapter of UNICO. He retired at fifty five years old and began wintering in Delray Beach, Florida.

Joe and his wife Corrine met in Paterson where she was a bookkeeper at Harris & Jaffee Plumbing Supply. They married at St. Paul’s Church and settled in Clifton for a few years before Joe found a building lot in Wayne. He built his own house there and they moved to Wayne in 1956. They loved to socialize with their many good friends and family, and Joe’s children recall parties at their house which were always memorable and usually stretched well into the night. Joe also enjoyed cooking for his family and Sunday dinner was a special treat at his house where the door was always open. He and Corrine traveled all around the United States and had visited the Bahamas and Puerto Rico as well. In his leisure time, Joe liked to golf and go fishing. On the golf course, he typically spent more time searching for stray golf balls instead of hitting them and he built quite the collection over the years.

His house was loaded with bins full of them, and Corrine used to get frustrated when he would attempt to wash them in their home washing machine! The noise was unbearable!

Joe was ‘old school’ and tough in a good way – which was his way. He had an endearing soft side that was kind and caring. He will always be dearly loved and missed by his family and many close friends.

Joe is survived by his daughter, Marilyn Webb, her children and grandson, Kari Millikin and husband Bryan, Gary Webb Jr, wife Danielle and their son Preston. His son, Joseph Albanese Jr and his wife Renee, their children , Joseph Albanese III, Michele Albanese, Nicollette Levan, Renee Wilke and their granddaughter Madison; and his son, Peter Albanese and his wife Lisa, their children Peter Jr, Kyle and Leighann Albanese. He is also survived by one brother, Donald Albanese and his wife Jacqueline. He is predeceased by three brothers; Robert, Charles and Thomas.

Josephine Ladonne, age 91, died on Tuesday, May 10, 2016.

Born on October 7, 1924 in the Bronx, NY. Sister of Michael, Lucy, Angie, and Laura.

Married John Ladonne on June 20, 1959 in St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan. They met while she was working as an Executive Secretary and he as a buyer for Macy’s in New York, NY. They enjoyed all of the wonderful restaurants and Broadway shows that Manhattan had to offer during their courtship and early marriage. Throughout their forty-six years of marriage, until John’s death, they were deeply in love and committed to each other.

They settle first in the Bronx, then New Hyde Park, and finally in Dix Hills, NY, where they raised their three children; Joseph, Lisa, and Robert. She was a homemaker for many years and then took a job as the school secretary for Madonna Heights School for Girls, where she worked for almost two decades, nurturing the students and enjoying the great friendship of her co-workers. She was committed to her Roman Catholic faith and took much comfort in prayer.

Later in life, she and John lived in Ramsey, NJ and the later in Wayne, NJ.

Josephine loved to entertain and was famous for her lavish annual Thanksgiving feast, complete with beautiful table settings and homemade treats. In addition, she enjoyed decorating her home, shopping in Garden City, vacations in Montauk, NY and later in Spring Lake and Wildwood Crest, NJ. Being near the ocean gave her happiness and peace.

A loving and giving mother, she took great pride in the fact that she and John were able to give their three children college educations. She loved her six grandchildren; Michael and Timothy Ladonne, Laura and Christine DiTaranti, Sarah Schipper and Robert Anderson and enjoyed helping them grow. She was blessed to see them all grow into wonderful adults. Her life was dedicated to loving and nurturing her beautiful family. She was loved and will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her son Joseph Ladonne and his wife Nancy of Glen Spey, NY, her daughter; Lisa DiTaranti and her husband Richard of Wayne, NJ, and her son; Robert Ladonne and his wife Lisa of Upper Chichester, PA as well as her sister: Lucy Pomeroy of Tannersville, PA, six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Joyce E. Fitzgibbon, age 61, of Wayne, passed away at her home on Monday, May 16, 2016.

The year was 1954. It was in that year that Roger and Virginia Mullin were blessed with twin girls – Joyce and Jayne. The doctors delivered Jayne first, and even up to that moment no one realized yet that Mom was carrying twins. As the doctors attended to sister Jayne’s needs, poor Joyce’s vitals began to drop. Joyce was fighting for her life as her Mom realized that her job was not done yet. Joyce battled but was born healthy. Throughout the years, the twins enjoyed a loving and inseparable bond that grew stronger in adulthood. They even went to the same college- but we will get to that later! Like most typical siblings, the girls didn’t always get along. Despite the childhood rivalry, the girls, along with their older sister Karen and younger sister Nancy, all enjoyed a loving sisterhood.

Joyce grew up in Staten Island, NY where she graduated from Susan E. Wagner High School with the Class of 1972. She went on to earn an Associate’s degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. She loved numbers and had a knack for working with them. Although she used her creative mind for daily projects, she went on to get an Accounting certificate at Pace University in NYC. Her first job was with Helmsley- Spear Inc. Then at Silverstein Properties of New York City in the accounting department. It was there that she met a young flirtatious auditor named Mark FitzGibbon. It seemed he flirted with almost every lady in her office. So, when he asked her out she just laughed and asked “Why me? I always see you flirting with other women!” His reply was that he was not flirting; he was gathering information about her. It turned out that he really meant it! They got married on Saturday August 21, 1981 in the Roman Catholic Church in Clifton. After a honeymoon in Sonesta, Bermuda Joyce and Mark settled in Clifton.

Joyce continued to work and eventually she and Mark moved to Wayne where she lived for over thirty years. There they were blessed with three children – Ryan, their eldest followed by twins Meredith and Keith. Sadly, she and Mark only had nine years of marriage and parenthood together before cancer took Mark’s life in 1990.

Suddenly Joyce found herself in the unenviable position of being a single mother of a five-year-old boy and nine month old twins. She battled again, this time taking a position in the accounts receivable department of McElroy, Deutsch, Mulvaney and Carpenter Law Firm in Morristown so that she could provide for her young family. At home she drew on the home improvement skills taught to her as a young girl by her father. No project was too much of a challenge for Joyce and she bravely took on tiling, electrical, and plumbing improvements because who else could she turn to for help. In fact, Joyce not only worked on her own house but volunteered to help others with their do-it-yourself projects too.

In March, 1991, Joyce found love and companionship again. It was before online dating really took off and she met a great guy through an independent dating service for singles. His name is Peter Weil and they enjoyed a special relationship for the past twenty-five years.

Joyce always took a great interest in the lives of her children. She volunteered as a Cub Scout Master when her two sons were of Cub Scout age. She was tougher than some of the scouts and she loved going with them on camping trips. One time while camping she got her minivan stuck on a large rock. When she stepped out of the van she exclaimed, “where did that come from?” It took several Cub Scout leaders and Boy Scouts to safely lift the van off the rock so Joyce could get back to her busy and fast pace life.

It was through the Cub Scouts that Joyce and her daughter Meredith (tough like Mom) were introduced to a caring organization called The Seeing Eye. This triggered an interest in raising pups and preparing them for their seeing-eye training. Joyce ended up raising a total of three seeing-eye prospects – all Labrador Retrievers. Jevon was a black lab who eventually became the faithful companion of a blind college professor in Washington DC. Karlo was a black lab also. His aggressive nature rendered him unsuitable for being a seeing-eye dog but made him the perfect candidate to help the police uphold law and justice. Finally, there was Éclair, a chocolate lab who loved Joyce and her family too much so they ended up keeping him. Joyce never saw an animal she didn’t like and over the years another Labrador-mix named Timber. Joyce enjoyed opening up the pool to allow Éclair and Timber to cool down in the summers. She also took in numerous cats including Brandy, Oreo, Butler, Bounce and Brittany, Cloudy and Midnight, and Smokey who all found lots of love in Joyce’s care. Once while attending one of her son Ryan’s baseball games, a cockatiel landed right on her shoulder. Talk about animal magnetism! She checked with all the local shelters to see if anyone had reported a missing bird. Since there were none, she took her new feathered friend home and named him Baxter. Feeling that Baxter needed some company she went out and purchased two more cockatiels – one for each of her twins and they named them Beethoven and Barbie.

Joyce enjoyed the challenge of working with her kids putting one of those thousand-piece puzzles together and, of course, she always looked forward to some good mommy-daughter time with Meredith, or watching movies with Keith. In spite of working full-time and maintaining a household, somehow Joyce managed to never miss a Cub Scout meeting, baseball game or marching band performances her kids were involved in. While that was more than the average person could handle, she also gladly took in her nephew Gavin who lived in South Carolina but was going to college in New York City. She gladly offered her house to be his college dorm!

In March 2014, Joyce herself was diagnosed with cancer. Like all the other times she was up against a challenge, including the time she took on a car jacker and ended up with a black eye, Joyce displayed a great will to fight and survive. Throughout her cancer treatments she never took off from work and often drove herself to undergo radiation. She only ever missed work when forced to be admitted to the hospital. When the doctors gave up and sent Joyce home to be on hospice care, she beat the odds and experienced improved health and even got off of hospice care. Soon after she returned to work and worked until this past January.

Joyce inspired many with her feisty, never give up attitude. She will be dearly missed by all her loved ones and many friends.

Joyce is survived by her three dear children: Ryan, Meredith and Keith Fitzgibbon, all of Wayne; loving companion Peter Weil of Pequannock; three dear sisters: Karen Motola of Las Vegas, NV, Jayne Slyman of Gaston, SC, and Nancy and husband Allan Curren of Horseheads, NY; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Mark in 1990; and her parents Roger and Virginia Mullin in 2001.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Joyce’s memory are asked to consider The Seeing Eye, Inc. 10 Washington Valley Road, Morristown, NJ 07960, or at www.seeingeye.org

Joy Catanzaro (nee Viviano), age 84 of Wayne, died peacefully at home on Saturday, April 2, 2016. She had been a Wayne resident since 1960 and a devoted founding member of Our Lady of the Valley RC Church in Wayne.

Joy grew up in Fair Lawn and graduated from Fair Lawn High School. The home she was raised in is now the Louis Suburban Funeral Chapel on Broadway. After high school, she trained as a model at the Barbizon Modeling School in New York City and modeled for Meyer Bros. in Paterson. At that time,the printed advertisements were created by artists who sketched by hand. Joy would pose wearing various garments in the studio while those sketch artists rendered their drawings of her. She was proud to be a Barbizon model and was blessed with a youthful complexion too, something she attributed to the routine ‘facial exercises’ she did, which kept those wrinkles at bay.

Joy met her husband Raymond on a blind date that she almost didn’t attend. Some friends invited her to join them for a night of bowling and she really didn’t want to go, but they persuaded her. When she and Ray met that night, it was love at first sight! Joy and Ray would eventually enjoy a love-affair marriage that grew stronger by the day and has lasted nearly sixty years. Joy’s daughter, Maryann, recalls how often she has heard her father say “Joy, I don’t just love you, I adore you.” They shared an uncommon love and set a wonderful example for their children and grandchildren.

Difficulty came upon Joy when she was unable to have children naturally. She and Ray prayed about their dilemma and decided to do one of the most noble things anyone can; they adopted a little girl. Lo and behold, when their daughter Terri was three years old, Joy got pregnant naturally and had another daughter; Maryann. Joy devoted herself to her family and was a wonderful mom. She never sweat the small stuff and always put God first, followed by her family, and lots of prayer too, of course. Joy had a gift for being a good listener and her daughters knew who they could turn to when faced with difficulty. She taught them that “worry and anger lead to trouble. Pray, and trust in God.” It’s no wonder her Bible is so well used, with numerous highlighted verses and many notes in the margins. She spent a great deal of time at Our Lady of the Valley RC Church in Wayne, where she was an early founder, member of the Rosary Society, and a volunteer on the cleaning crew who helped to keep the church spotless. Even as her health failed and she struggled with a degenerative neurological disease that gradually took her mobility over the past fifteen years, her faith never waned. She told her 2 granddaughters Nicole and Rachel recently that she will always watch over them and planned to go tap dancing upon her arrival in heaven.

Joy is survived by her devoted husband Raymond of Wayne, by her daughter Maryann Mahon and her husband Matthew and their 2 children Nicole and Rachel Mahon of Wayne, NJ and also survived by her daughter Terri Moore of Clark, NJ and her 2 children Jennifer and Jonathan Moore.

Joseph, D’Amario, age 85 and a resident of Wayne since 1966, passed peacefully on Wednesday, June 15, 2016.

Joe was born and grew up in Paterson where he attended Eastside High School. As a young man, one of his friends told him about this nice girl who was working at the Majestic Luncheonette in Paterson. On the friends advise, Joe stopped in one day to meet her. Her name was Mary Van Sickell and soon after meeting, Joe asked Mary out. For their first date, they went out for hot dogs. From that time on, they dated steadily, even while Joe was serving in the U.S. Army, stationed at Fort Dix. While there, Joe got sick. Mary didn’t remember exactly what was ailing Joe but her suspicions were that he was just plain love sick. Upon his return to civilian life, Joe and Mary tied the knot, marrying on Sunday August 30, 1953 at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Paterson. A reception celebration followed in the Paterson firehouse on Broadway and then the newlyweds took a road trip to Florida for their honeymoon. They moved around a bit, first living in Paterson on Sassafras Street, then on Fifth Ave. and then on East 25th Street.

During those early years of marriage Joe and Mary became the proud parents of Dominick and Gina. They also started their own business called Jersey Boiler. They manufactured dry cleaning plants all over the U.S.A. and abroad, including Italy, Puerto Rico, and even Pakistan. From that time on, many who knew Joe through business dealings referred to him as “Joe the Boiler,” “Jersey Joe” or “Jersey Boiler.” An entrepreneur at heart, Joe was adaptable to change and as opportunities in the dry cleaning business diminished he didn’t wait around. Instead, through careful, wise decision making, he began to invest in real estate including industrial warehousing and multiple dwelling residences. This business was established as D’Amario Management. As part of this pursuit, Joe successfully restored several historical factories in Paterson, resulting in revitalization of portions of the city’s languishing enterprise zone. Joe’s innate ability to see business opportunity and mix it with philanthropy was greatly appreciated by the city of Paterson, and for his work, he was bestowed with several awards. He enjoyed a great reputation for being fair to his many tenants, often looking out to help them by mentoring them and giving them opportunities to develop and succeed. An example of this mentorship quality was expressed when some young men who were his tenants wanted to start a company manufacturing neon lighting for automobiles. Joe gave them room in one of his warehouses and lots of advice. That business became known as Street Glow and ultimately became a Fortune 500 company.

Joe truly loved his family. When his kids were growing up, the family would take regular trips to Atlantic City where they often stayed at Rocco’s, a place made famous by Frank Sinatra who liked to eat there after singing at The 500 Club. The family also enjoyed great times together taking numerous trips to Italy and also Puerto Rico and Greece.

One of the “Card Room Guys” as a member of the North Jersey Country Club, Joe was always up for a game and he really enjoyed the camaraderie of the old guard as well as new members. Golf was usually played with his buddies on Wednesdays and weekends and Joe was one of the best at the game having scored three holes-in-one!

Joe was also the biggest fan the New York Jets ever had. A season ticket holder since 1967, he loved to tell the story about his encounter with the Jets famous quarterback Joe Namath. Joe was in a New York bar one day and across the room sat Namath with a friend. Joe summoned the maître D to tell Mr. Namath that “The Boiler” wanted to buy him a drink. When Namath asked, “Whose The Boiler?” Joe exclaimed, “That’s me. I’m the guy who freezes my a$# in the seats every Sunday watching you!”

Joe’s greatest legacy is the great love he had for his family and friends. He greatly admired his parents who taught him the value of hard work and respect for all. Joe embraced those lessons truly enjoying the many friends and acquaintances that he encountered in his life. Rich or poor, he treated everyone exactly the same and did his best to help many to develop their God-given gifts and talents.

Surviving are Mary – Joe’s beloved wife of 62 years; his son Dominick D’Amario and wife Ann Marie of Wayne; his daughter Gina D’Amario-Aubin and husband Keith of Wayne; four grandchildren: Anthony and Danielle D’Amario, and Joseph and Nicholas Aubin; two great-grandchildren: Jonathan and Timothy, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents Domenic and Jennie D’Amario.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Joseph’s name are asked to consider Make-A-Wish Foundation Samuel and Josephine Plumeri Wishing Place, 1347 Perrineville Road, Monroe Township, NJ 08831, or online at nj.wish.org

Joseph Ackaway, age 86 of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 15, 2016.

Joe was born and raised in Paterson. He served during the Korean War as a proud member of the U.S Army, and was owner of Joe Ack Flooring of Clifton.

Surviving are Joseph’s beloved wife of 60 years, Georgetta; his three dear sons: Gerald Ackaway and Barbara of Wayne, Richard Ackaway of Wayne, and Steven and wife Anna Ackaway of Clinton; three cherished grandchildren: Amanda, Steven, Jr. and Amy; one sister: Kate and husband Dominick Costillo of Pennsylvania; and one brother: Edward and wife Betty Ackaway of Clifton. He was predeceased by two brothers: Michael and George Ackaway, and one sister: Josie Ackaway.

Thank you Dad for being a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and brother. We love you and we will miss you more than words can say.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Joseph’s name are asked to consider purchasing a mass card in his name.

Josephine “Josie” Kudla, age 93, a longtime resident of Wayne, went peacefully to join her husband John in heaven on Sunday, January 31, 2016. This day would have been John’s 97th birthday so Josie’s passing was a bittersweet loss to those who survived her but a great gift for John.

Born and raised in Passaic, Josie found her true love early and, after dating for a season of their lives, she and John Kudla married on Friday, June 14, 1940 at Holy Rosary Church in Passaic. They honeymooned in Niagara Falls.

Initially settling in Passaic, they moved a few more time – to Clifton, then Garfield before settling permanently in Wayne in 1954. In 1990, they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary and were blessed altogether with 58 years as husband and wife.

Professionally speaking, Josie wore many different hats throughout her working days. In the earlier years, she helped her husband John and his brother Emil by pumping gas at their Gulf gas stations. She would even climb up to the top of the tanker truck that delivered the gas to make sure that they received their full delivery. Proficient with needle and thread, Josie also worked as a seamstress in Botany Mills, but the majority of her working years – twenty-six in all, from 1964 to 1990, she managed a team of cooks in the Wayne schools. Josie loved to cook herself so going to work was like going out to play! She really enjoyed interacting with the hundreds of students she met throughout the years and she was well-liked and respected by the faculty and office staff. Of course, throughout all of these jobs she also did a fantastic job in her role as wife, homemaker, and mother to her two children.

Josie’s hobbies tracked exactly with what she did for a living. Her sewing machine was always spinning, making beautiful clothing and drapes. She also loved to knit and crochet and many children became the grateful recipients of the lovely, soft blankets that she lovingly and generously made for them. Josie also enjoyed to get outdoors to work in her gardens where she grew flowers and vegetables. The produce of her gardens were no doubt, used as ingredients in the many delicious meals she made for her family and friends that came over for dinner.

Josie loved taking the fruits of her labor to the casinos to see if she could turn it into more. She took trips to Atlantic City with John where you could always find Josie in front of a slot machine. They took trips to Las Vegas too where one particular highlight was seeing musical sensation Elvis Presley. At the Garden State Art Center, they spent many-a-night under the stars seeing awesome shows including one of their favorites – famous pianist Liberace. Feeling blessed to have such a wonderful family, Josie, John and their children and grandchildren enjoyed numerous trips down the Jersey Shore and, as a couple, they took some awesome trips together to the Islands.

Josie always seemed to be happy. She loved life and anyone that knew her could tell this by her fun-loving spirit. She greatly adored all of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Shelby and Connor’s fondest memories of Grandma included a delicious bowl of her homemade chicken soup, going with her to playgrounds, birdwatching and picking berries.

Over the course of many years living in Wayne, Josie was a faithful parishioner of Annunciation Church. It wasn’t until she became afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease that she was no longer able to attend. While her family will greatly miss her, they are grateful to God for her life and the blessing she was to them. They are comforted by the fact that she now in heaven, reunited with her beloved husband John and which to express their appreciation to the wonderful caregivers from the Chelsea at Montville and Grace Healthcare Services in Edison for the loving and gentle care that you provided to Josie.

Josephine was predeceased by her beloved husband John J. in 1998. She was the loving mother of Sandra and husband James Evans and John R. and wife Linda Kudla; devoted grandmother of Kristine Labanich, Noel Kudla, Shelby and Connor Evans; cherished great-grandmother of Brianna Labanich and J.J. Labanich; dear sister of the late Mary Macchiarelli; and dear aunt of Phyllis Wakeland and Donna Blair.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Josephine’s name are asked to consider Grace Healthcare Services, 105 Fieldcrest Avenue, Suite 402, Edison, NJ 08837.

John R. Tomaszek, age 49, of Wayne, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 10, 2016.

Born and raised in Wayne, John was a 1985 graduate of DePaul High School in Wayne.

After high school, John pursued his artistic interests by enrolling in the Culinary Institute of America (CIA). He graduated in 1987 and went on to serve as a chef in various restaurants in New Jersey as well as Oregon, Cape Cod and the Florida Keys, ultimately culminating in the position of Executive Chef at the Grain House Restaurant in Basking Ridge, New Jersey. He received positive written reviews in various newspapers and magazines, leading to the enhanced prestige of the restaurants where his culinary creations were served. He was also featured in a cooking segment on television.

Most recently he was employed as a supervisor with a company specializing in customized, non-slip surfacing. His roles included product testing and application training to new clients, and involved extensive travel throughout the U.S.A., Ireland and South Africa.

John’s two children – Hanna and Mitchell infused so much life, energy, and joy into his own life. He was a doting, proud father who loved to spend time with them, teaching them everything he knew about cooking, and spending great times and making memories together tent-camping at Nickerson State Park on Cape Cod. He enjoyed all that the park had to offer including fishing and swimming. Basically, if an activity included water, John was for it. Day trips down the Jersey Shore were a regular activity they enjoyed together. From a young age, John’s favorite holiday was Christmas and making Christmas wreaths was his passion. The Advent holidays were special to him so it only seems fitting that his birthday was on New Year’s Eve.

John always exhibited an interest in the world of art. He expressed that love through painting, both in oil and water color. This love was something that he shared with his daughter and son and they enjoyed it as much as he did.

John was a wonderful man who enjoyed the love and friendship of many. He was like sunshine in the way that he could brighten any place, event or situation, just by his mere presence. He often entertained friends and family at his home, serving delicious food as only a great chef could. He had an amazing sense of humor and was appreciated by many. He cherished his friendships and was always available if he could help in any way. His infectious laugh will be missed by many who loved him.

John is survived by his wife Jennifer of Boonton Township; much loved children: Hanna Jo Tomaszek and Mitchell Tomaszek of Boonton Township; dear parents: Joseph and Eleanor Tomaszek of Wayne; dear sister Marianne and husband Christopher Cooper of Ayer, MA; two nieces: Catherine and Carolyn; and many cousins. He was predeceased by his dear brother Michael in 2004.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider a donation to their favorite charity in John’s name.

John R. Reed age 65 of Stockholm, formerly of Wayne, passed Thursday, January 7, 2016.

He was born in Paterson and raised in Wayne having graduated from Wayne Valley High School with the Class of 1968. At the age of eighteen John moved to Fort Lauderdale, Florida to attend college and at the age of twenty-five he returned to Wayne and lived in Garfield and Parsippany before moving to Stockholm.

John met a beautiful girl, the love of his life Cookie (Connie) Caliente and after only three months of dating, told her she was the girl he was going to marry. John gave her an engagement ring during Christmas of 1981 and they married on February 13, 1982 at Our Lady of the Valley Church in Wayne with a reception at the West Orange Manor.

He enjoyed working around the house and could fix or build just about anything. He loved the simple things in life, was a sharp dresser, liked to disappear and when he came back would state he had “gone fishin’,” was a devout Bob Marley and Rolling Stones fan, and could often be heard saying: “life is good.” He loved his parrot “Lucky” who he found sitting on his roof one day. After coaxing him down with some sunflowers seeds, and trying in vain to find the rightful owner, Lucky became the family pet. When thinking of John many will remember the “Johnny Isms,” way too many to list here. All that being said the most important thing to John was his family. He loved nothing more than being with them, cooking and enjoying life.

John was the loving husband of Cookie (Connie) Reed; devoted father of Anthony Reed, his wife Carrie and his cherished grandson Nicholas of North Arlington, Joseph of Stockholm and more recently of Gilbert, AZ, and Jessica Reed of Stockholm; devoted son of John Francis Reed of Toms River and the late Ruth Reed; cherished grandfather of Nicholas Reed; dear brother of David Reed and his wife Donna of Jefferson, Susan Schulte and her husband John of Annapolis, MD, William “Billy” Reed and his wife Christine of Wayne, and Steven Reed and his wife Janie of High Point, NC.

John Philip “Phil” Barnett, age 82 of Pompton Lakes, passed away peacefully at home with the comfort of family by his side on Monday February 1, 2016, after bravely battling ALS.

Phil was born in Lyndhurst, NJ to John and Edith Barnett. He spent his entire childhood in Lyndhurst and graduated from Lyndhurst High School in 1952. While he was in High School, he met the love of his life, Josephine ”Jo” Natoli. They became High School sweethearts and were destined to spend the rest of their lives together. While in High School , Phil enlisted in the United Sates Navy received training in Newport, RI.

After High School, Phil transferred to the US Marine Corp. He served very proudly and bravely defended our country in the Korean War. He was part of the First Marine Division. After seeing combat in Korea, Phil shipped back to Parris Island, SC where he became a Drill Instructor. He would remain a Drill Sergeant until his Honorable Discharge in 1955. It was during his time serving our country that he married Jo on September 5, 1953.

After leaving the Marines, Phil landed a position as a Sales Representative at a company called Air Associates. After working there for some time, Phil earned a position at IBM as a Sales Representative. He would spend the next 26 years working at various locations for IBM’s Office Products Division. Phil had a storied sales career consistently achieving the 100% Club and Golden Circle recognition. Phil retired from his position at IBM in 1987. After his retirement, Phil refused to sit still. He landed another job at a small business called Computertown in Pine Brook, NJ. Phil was great with computers and was more than happy to help anyone who had a problem with their computer.

Phil was an original member of the Marine Corp League, Lakeland Detachment 744 and served as Commandant, Paymaster and Editor until ALS prevented him from continuing. He was also a parishioner of St Mary’s Roman Catholic Church in Pompton Lakes. He was a big New York Giants fan, loved to watch golf on TV, but never could play the game. He had a love for cars and cherished the time restoring a couple antique cars with his sons. But out of all his hobbies, interests and talents, his true dedication was to his family. Phil and Jo cherished sixty-two years of loving marriage. Phil had a strong presence about him and was always the life of the party. He always remained positive and was willing to help anyone in need. He was strong on the outside but soft on the inside, he was well loved and loved well and was the epitome of Semper Fidelis.

Phil was the loving husband of his wife of sixty-two years Josephine (nee Natoli), devoted father of daughter Barbara Dygert and her husband Jim of Seaford, VA; son James and his wife Lisa of Wayne; two brothers Peter Dunne and Jeffery Dunne, and seven grandchildren Patrick Barnett, Ryan Barnett, Casey Barnett, Andrea Dygert, Elisabeth Barnett, Stephanie Dygert, and James Barnett, Jr; he was pre-deceased by his son Stephan Barnett in 1996 and his two sisters Marjorie Dahl and Barbara Hoskin.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to ALS Association, Gift Processing Center, PO Box 6051, Albert Lea, MN 56007.

John Matthew Arias, age 20, of Wayne, passed away suddenly on Thursday, February 11, 2016.

John was born in Wayne and had lived there all his life. Already as a very young child John was a great story teller. When he was just in pre-K, he was attending Our Lady of Consolation School. He came home one day with this story about how he and his friend Jack were in the bathroom and there was a mouse running around on the floor. John went on to assure everyone that it wasn’t a problem though because his friend Jack had special gloves to pick up the mouse.

John also was a student at Theunis Dey Elementary School, Schuyler Colfax Middle School, and Wayne Hills High School where he played football for two years as a linebacker for the Patriots. He had played football also when he was younger as a member of the Wayne Hills Boys Club Panthers.

John enjoyed a wonderful, loving childhood with great memories of trips with his family down the Jersey shore at Ocean Beach and nights spent at Seaside Heights. When down the shore, he always loved the way his grandfather would treat him and his cousins by taking them for morning donuts at Donuts Plus. There was also a great tradition of vacationing in the Bahamas with his whole extended family and they always stayed at the Atlantis Hotel which had this amazing pool filled with stingrays. At night, the colored lights in the stingray pool fascinated John and, if he couldn’t be found, that was a great place to go look for him first.

John was also a camper – an activity that he shared with his cousins Jose and James. The three of them were given this love of the outdoors by his father and Aunt Luz. His father was a great role model in John’s life and it was a great loss for him when Dad passed away suddenly in 2009. His father was always delighting in being with John and his younger brother Patrick – hiking, going to the movies and being at John’s sporting events.

John had a sort-of artistic side to him. He was recently exploring this creative side as a culinary arts student at the Culinary School at Eva’s Village. He was also entertaining the idea of becoming a tattoo artist. He was a bit of a clothes horse who would only wear jeans with the finest labels paired with one of his twenty pairs of upscale sneakers. He also had a huge baseball cap collection.

Popular and good-hearted, John’s friends described him as one of the sweetest kids they knew and many referred to him as “Brother.” He always greeted you with a smile and a great big hug and he had the reputation of being willing and eager to do anything for anyone.

John was the dear son of the late John A. (2009) and Lisa Arias (nee Quinn) of Wayne; dear brother of Patrick of Wayne; cherished grandson of Adel and Jack Quinn of Wayne and Adelayda and Tony Sanchez of Neptune; much-loved nephew of: Luz and John Hewitt of Belmar, Kathy Caraballo of Neptune, Jodie and Michael Quinn of Wayne, and Jack and Beth Litman-Quinn of Sarasota, FL; excellent cousin of: Nicki and Stephanie Quinn, Shannon Quinn, Ryan, Jason, and Anna Littman-Quinn, Polina and Victoria Quinn, James Stovall, and Jose Caraballo.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in John’s memory are asked to consider Eva’s Village, 393 Main Street, Paterson, NJ 07501, (evasvillage.org) and there has also been a GoFundMe page established to assist John's family with the funeral expenses; GoFundMe/JohnArias.

John S. (Jack),Jacobchick, age 88, of Wayne for fifty-five years, passed Wednesday, September 14, 2016.

age 88, of Wayne for fifty-five years, passed Wednesday, September 14, 2016.

Born in Avoca, PA, John was a Customer Service Engineer for the Univac Corporation in New York City which merged with Burroughs Corp to become Unisys Corporation in Blue Bell, PA. He worked there for thirty-four years before retiring in 1986.

John was devoted to his Catholic faith and was a member of Holy Cross RC Church and then Immaculate Heart of Mary RC Church both in Wayne where he also sung with the choir. He served his faith as a Past Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus Council 6354 and was a 4th Degree Knight with the Monsignor Stein Assembly in West Paterson.

He was active in his community having belonged to the American Legion Post# 174, Wayne Elks Lodge 2181, the Golden Age Circle of Wayne, the Mountain View Chapter of the Golden Key, past president of the North Jersey Operetta Guild, and served as a Boy Scout Leader with Troop #106.

He is survived by his loving wife Mary (Allenfort) Jacobchick, his devoted children John W. Jacobchick and his wife Linda of Towaco, Maribeth Smialek and her husband John of Kinnelon, Catherine Ann Kasley and her husband Paul of Rutherford, his cherished grandchildren Ryan and Marc Jacobchick, Ashley and John Smialek, Kimberly Kasley, and his dear sister Dorothy Loyas of Goshen, NY. He was predeceased by his parents John J. Jacobchick and Mary C. (Derenoski) Jacobchick.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Wayne Elks Lodge 2181, 50 Hinchman Ave, Wayne, NJ 07470 or Knights of Columbus Council 6354, PO Box 282, Little Falls, NJ 07424 would be appreciated.

John Kulik age 91 of Wayne, passed peacefully at home on Tuesday, October 18, 2016.

He was born in Passaic and raised in Garfield having graduated from Garfield High School with the Class of 1942. Just out of high school John was a frame operator for Forstmann Mills in Passaic and soon enlisted in the US Navy. He was honorably discharged on May 10, 1946 with a Pharmacist’s Mate Third Class rank and received the American Theatre Medal, Asiatic Pacific Medal with 1 Star, and the WWII Victory Medal for his service. John was very proud of serving his country and was often found telling the younger generations about his experiences.

John was a member of the Wayne Elks Lodge 2181 and the Golden Age Circle of Wayne.

He was a dedicated member of Holy Resurrection Orthodox Church in Wayne. He was always volunteering his skills relating to maintenance at the church.

He was a career employee of the Hewitt & Robbins in Passaic for over thirty-five years having retired in 1986 as an Industrial Engineer. While working he attended college at night under the GI Bill and was able to earn his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Rutgers University’s Paterson Division with the Class of 1957.

John met his future bride, Margaret “Marge” Stefancik on a trip to the circus with her Uncle John and his sister Josie who we married. The two sat apart at the circus but made a connection that would have Marge mailing him letters while he was serving in the Navy. Upon his return from the service John took Marge to her high school prom and they soon fell in love. After asking Marge’s parents for her hand in marriage they married at Saint Peter & Paul Russian Orthodox Cathedral in Passaic on February 5, 1949. They honeymooned in Florida and have enjoyed a loving and devoted marriage of over sixty-five years.

John will be remembered as a soft hearted disciplinarian whose bark was bigger than his bite. He was giving, caring, thoughtful, and often emotional. He was the ultimate recycler and often took pallet wood from work to make ornamental flowers and such that he would give away to neighbors and friends. He was a avid wood worker and furniture builder. He loved being creative and being Mr. Fix-It. He had a knack for improvising and problem solving.

When he was 31 years old, John designed and built their home in the Pines Lake section of Wayne. It was a big change from Garfield and being a nature lover this was the perfect spot for them to raise their family. He was active in the Pines Lake community. He loved to fish and could be found "bass bugging" with his fly rod almost every night at 7 pm. John also was an avid golfer and golf ball-hawker. He was the assistant scout master of Troop 107 during the late 60's and early 70's.

He was a founding member of the North Jersey Rod and Reel club.

He supported the New York sport teams and was a real ice hockey and baseball fan.

He was the loving husband of sixty-seven years to Margaret (Stefancik) Kulik; devoted father of Joanne Ferrara and her husband James M. of Port St Lucie, FL, Michael Kulik and his wife Michelle of Kinnelon, and Carol Bencivengo and her husband Peter W. of Flanders; he was the cherished grandfather of five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his sisters Josephine Glita and Emily Jacob.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Holy Resurrection Orthodox Church, 285 French Hill Road, Wayne, NJ 07470 would be appreciated.

John Sobczak, age 65, of Wayne died on September 8, 2016.

John was born in Irvington, NJ and had been a resident of Wayne for many years.

John is survived by his dear Aunt Elaine and husband James Turner of West Chester, PA, and several cousins. He was predeceased by his father John F. Sobczak in 1954, his step-father William A. Giemza in 2000, and two uncles: Chester Terplewich and Clement Terplivetz.

John J. Daly, age 81, of Brick formerly of Wayne passed peacefully on Thursday, June 9, 2016 at the New Jersey Firemen’s Home in Boonton, NJ.

He was born and raised in Paterson, NJ. John graduated from Saint John’s High School in Paterson with the Class of 1953. It was there that he met the love of his life, Patricia Dowling. While on a date as friends they had their first kiss, sparks flew, and they fell deeply in love. John and Patricia married on July 9, 1955 at Saint Paul’s Church in Clifton. John and Patricia had a devoted and loving marriage for 59 years until Patricia’s sudden passing on April 7, 2015. John’s heart was truly broken on that day.

John was drafted into the US Army having served during the Korean War. John was a Paterson policeman for 2 years later accepting a position with the Paterson Fire Department where he served for 22 ½ years, retiring in 1986. He also ran a local appliance repair business for 30 years.

Some fond family memories are Seaside Park vacations and many family pool parties at their Alps Road home in Wayne. John enjoyed playing the guitar, bowling and golf. He also enjoyed country music and watching the Mets or Yankees on TV.

John was the devoted father of John J. Daly, Jr. of Brick, Robert J. Daly and his wife Maureen of Pequannock, Michael J. Daly and his wife Donna of Wayne, Laurie A. Kokos and her husband Alex of Wayne, Linda A. Thomson and her husband Randy of Wayne, and David J. Daly and his wife Patricia of West Milford; he was the cherished grandfather of sixteen grandchildren and 2 great-granddaughters.

John was predeceased by his siblings Frances O’Brien, Catherine Livingstone, Anna Struck, and James Daly.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the NJ Firemen’s Home, 565 Lathrop Avenue, Boonton, NJ 07005 would be appreciated.

John C. Kachadurian, (better known as “Kach”) age 67, of Cedar Grove, passed Wednesday, August 17, 2016.

He was bornin Paterson and raised in Wyckoff having attended Ramapo High School with the Class of 1966. He continued his education at Wagner College in Staten Island, NY where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree. He was inducted into the Ramapo High School Hall of Fame for his outstanding skills as a running back on the football field. In addition his fame as a star football player followed him into the Hall of Fame at Wagner College.

Jack began a career in the New York City textile industry as a warehouseman. His work ethic and charismatic nature soon had him hosting fabric parties at various homes. His good looks and charming way had wallets opening freely.  Jack soon founded his own textile company called Textured Fabs in New York. He would grow and expand this company to the point that it caught the attention of investors looking to diversify. His company was purchased and he became the President and CEO of the Itochu Prominent USA textile division, a Global 500 Company. He tried to retire but because of his work ethic and breadth of industry specific knowledge he was kept on as a part-time consultant working a few days a week. Jack worked in the New York City textile industry for over thirty years.

Jack will be remembered as a charming, energetic, determined, hardworking, loyal and compassionate man who had a soft spot in his heart for all that knew him. He was an exceptional athlete and during his high school and college years he excelled as a running back.  His running back skills and large thighs earned him the nickname “thigh man” in high school – a nickname that followed him through his college years.  After his collegiate years he took a liking to tennis.  He was the North Jersey Country Club champion for a time, and could often be found at the Nutley Tennis Club.

Jack met his future wife, Pamela Perazzone, through his best friend Rolf.  Their first date was going out to dinner in New York City and soon Jack proposed to Pam.  He took her out to dinner in New York to a restaurant called “A Quiet Little Place in the Corner.”  He had bought Pam an outfit and when she opened the box the engagement ring was within.  They married on July 21, 1979 at Our Lady of Consolation Church in Wayne and honeymooned in the Bahamas.  Pam and Jack have enjoyed thirty-seven years of loving and devoted marriage.

Jack was the loving husband of Pamela (Perazzone) Kachadurian; devoted son of Albert Kachadurian of Pompton Plains and the late Janet Kachadurian (2011); much loved brother of Gail McCallion of New York City, and Janet Orwig of Reading, PA.  He was dearly loved by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Those contemplating a memorial donation are asked to consider the Ronald MacDonald House Charities, 26345 Network Place, Chicago, IL 60673-1263.

John J. Byrne, III, Esq., age 72, passed away on Friday, August 26, 2016.

Born in Orange, he was a long-time resident of Wayne.

A graduate of Seton Hall University and Rutgers School of Law, Jack began his career in law as a Partner at Cole, Geaney, Yamner and Byrne of Paterson. He later practiced corporate law in his own private practice in Wayne for over twenty years.

Jack was a member of the Passaic County Bar Association, New Jersey Bar Association and the American Bar Association. He also served as chairman of the Ethics District XI and was a longtime member of the Upper Montclair Country Club where he served on the Board of trustees and chaired the Membership and Golf Committee.

Surviving are Jacks beloved wife Pat – with whom he shared 48 years of wonderful memories; two sons who brought him constant joy and pride: Michael of Raleigh, NC, and Mark of Woodland Park; his grandson Jake – the apple of this eye and who he played so many basketball and baseball tournaments with, some of which Jake let Grandpa win; his brother Dennis and wife Carole Byrne; his sister Nancy and husband Tom Cullivan; brother and sister-in-laws: Richard and Margo Werner, Robert and Judi Werner, and Lenore and Patrick Noble, with whom he shared so many wonderful memories; and his treasured nieces and nephews: Matt, Tim, Adam, Patrick, Sian, Michelle, D.J., and David.

Jack loved his Packanack Lake Community for over 44 years coaching his sons and successfully fund raising as President of the PLAA through block parties and Christmas dances. He loved golfing with his buddies: Jim, Joe, and Lou, and many other treasured friends, watching Yankees and Giants games, and all things Irish – especially Notre Dame!

In lieu of flowers, donations to a charity of your choice would be appreciated.

Joel L. Redman, Jr., age 68 of Wayne, formerly of Totowa, passed Tuesday, April 5, 2016.

He was born in Paterson and raised in Totowa. Joel graduated from Carteret Preparatory High School, West Orange with the class of 1966. In 1968, on his birthday, Joel joined the United States Marine Corps. He served, with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, through three TET offensives and was discharged in 1969 as a decorated veteran.

After his service in the Marine Corps he attended night classes for several years at Montclair State University under the GI Bill. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in History with the Class of 1995.

As a young boy Joel worked by his father’s side at the family business, Crews Burial Vault Company in Totowa. When Joel was about 6 years old he would accompany his father to current funerals where his dad would inspect the burial process. As his father worked, Joel would stay behind in the car. On one occasion, Joel wanted his dad to come back to the car so he started honking the horn…during an ongoing funeral. After that incident, his dad would offer him a quarter not to honk the horn while the funeral was going on. For the rest of Joel’s life, he would offer his daughter, and then his grandchildren, a quarter not to honk the horn.

In 1980, after the family business was sold, Joel opened his own business called Atlas Tent, a party rental company, in Totowa which he eventually sold in 1989. Joel then worked for the Passaic County Human Services Department in Paterson for twenty-two years before retiring in July of 2015. During this time, Joel started an import business called Argo Bag, which supplies the party rental industry with heavy duty bags for tents, chairs, and sand bags. The Argo Bag company is still being run by his family today.

He married Teresa Merola on June 20, 1971 at Saint Mary’s Church in Paterson. They have enjoyed forty-five years of a loving and caring marriage.

He will be remembered as a humble, generous to a fault, kind, practical joker, that had a dry sense of humor. He enjoyed making others laugh and would often answer the phone saying “hey you’re looking good.” He never complained and relied on that sense of humor to the end.

He was the loving husband of Teresa (Merola) Redman; devoted father of Heather Antonucci and her husband Thomas of Totowa; cherished grandfather of Matthew, Giuliana, Alayna, and Sabrina Antonucci; dear step-brother of Judith Taterka and her husband Louis of Lafayette, and Uncle to David Taterka, Michelle Morrissey, Melissa Mohr, John Porter, Jr., Christopher Porter and Andrew Giambalvo. Joel was predeceased by his sister, Lynn VanDyke, and his step-brother, John Porter.

Joel was a member of the American Legion Post 227 of Totowa Borough for 46 years and member of the Marine Corps League Lakeland Detachment 744.

In lieu of flowers donations for Prostate Cancer Research can be made in Joel’s memory to the Rutgers Cancer Institute of NJ. Please send donations to C.I.N.J. Development Office, 120 Albany Street Plaza, Tower 1-Suite 305, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 would be appreciated.

John L. Cardaci, age 87, of Wayne, passed peacefully on Sunday, February 21, 2016.

He was born in Lodi and raised in Passaic. Many don’t know that as a young boy John lost his eyesight. His mom prayed to Saint Lucy and promised to honor her each Saint Lucy Day if she would help restore her son’s eyesight. John’s eyesight did come back and his mother, and later John himself, would commemorate Saint Lucy Day on December 13 each year eating a special soup of Chickpeas and Barley in her honor.

After attending 8th grade John had to go to work to help support the family. His father passed when he was just thirteen years old and John had to grow up fast. He was soon delivering newspapers and shining shoes trying to help his mom support him and his thirteen siblings. At the age of eighteen he began working at the Manhattan Rubber Company in Passaic and was a gas station attendant at DeMassi Cadillac in Lyndhurst. He worked his way up the ladder and was picked to be the Service Manager at DeMassi Cadillac's new location in Englewood Cliffs. He worked at DeMassi Cadillac for thirty-seven years before retiring in 1986. He was awarded Service Manager of the Year several times during his tenure at DeMassi. John had a deep work ethic and soon he and his wife Dorothy started their own business called Clifton Wine and Liquors on Main Avenue. After selling the store John found work with the Murphy Bus Company in North Haledon for a few years.

John was a kind, loving, caring man who truly loved his family. He lived for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Family and friends will remember his love of gardening with tomato plants, cucumbers, peppers, grapes, and many herbs as well. He enjoyed making homemade ravioli, pizza, sausage, and of course the gravy. His favorite saying was, spaghetti without cheese is like a kiss without a squeeze. He enjoyed fishing, crabbing and watching his favorite baseball team the Yankees. He also enjoyed raising chickens, rabbits, and even had a duck for a while. For many years he also played guitar and led a family sing along after dinner on Sunday afternoons.

John was the loving husband of the late Dorothy B. (Caltigerone) Cardaci (2007); devoted father of John Cardaci and his wife Roberta of Holmdel, Michele LaPlaca and her husband Jack of West Milford, Doreen Steinberg and her husband Stuart of Wayne, and Mary Landy and her husband Tony of Wayne; He was the cherished grandfather of fourteen grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren; dear brother of his twin brother Tony and his wife Lee, Orlando “Butchie” and his wife Claudette, Gabriel Castiglia, Loretta Batista and her husband Angelo, Silvia Caltigerone, Annabelle Pomo and the late: Catherine, Carmine, Susie, Paul, Jay, Philomenia, and Rocky.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Wayne Memorial First Aid Squad, PO Box 2004, Wayne, NJ 07470  would be appreciated.

John J. Zarych, age 89 and formerly of Clifton, died peacefully on Wednesday, March 16, 2016 in New Brunswick.

John grew up in Newark, the youngest of six children, and attended St. Casimir’s RC School. While he was in high school, World War II captured John’s enthusiasm and he joined the U.S. Navy in 1945, just before turning eighteen. Joining the Navy was a big step for a city kid from Newark, considering that he only recently learned to swim after his brothers threw him into Newark Bay. Enlisting as a Seaman Apprentice, he was trained as a photographer and captured countless images for the Navy during a career that spanned twenty seven years. He retired from the Navy in 1972 after earning the Vietnam Service Medal with a Bronze Star. Being such a young ‘retired’ man didn’t suit him, so he took a job at the Montclair Post Office where he worked until officially retiring in 1987.

John remained very close with his family and lived with his siblings and mother as they moved from Newark to the new family home in Clifton in 1959. John cared for his mother at home until her passing and he lived with and cared for each of his siblings throughout his many years in Clifton. He was a loving and caring man who was devoted to his family. John, along with his brother Ted, moved to Cedar Crest Village in 2010 where he enjoyed meeting many new people.

John also enjoyed gambling and was a very careful card player, no doubt a skill he honed during his many years in the Navy. His annual tradition every March, right after his birthday, was to drive out to Las Vegas where he would play cards for two weeks before making the drive home again. When the long trip to Las Vegas was too much for him to handle, Atlantic City became his new go-to place for playing Blackjack and slot machines. He really loved his time in the casinos. He also enjoyed being a part of the life of events of his nieces and nephews and their families. He was also devoted to his church, St. Andrews in Clifton, and he loved his cars.

John is survived by five nieces and nephews; Mary Di Tore and her husband Peter of Wayne, Ken Karnas of Wantage, Anthony Karnas and his wife Claire of S. Carolina, Stephen Karnas and his wife Barbara of Florida, and Michael Karnas and his wife Kathleen of New York, and many more great-nieces and great-nephews. He was predeceased by his siblings Albina, Helen, Thaddeus, Walter, and Mary.

John J. McKniff III, ESQ., age 66, of Wayne, passed Friday, January 29, 2016.

age 66, of Wayne Township died Friday, January 29, as a result of complications from Primary Lateral Sclerosis. He was born on August 17, 1949 in Ridley Park, PA and resided in Paterson, Passaic, and Pequannock before moving to Wayne for the last 30 years.

John graduated from Rutgers (Newark) with a degree in Political Science before receiving his Juris Doctorate from Delaware Law School where he was a member of the Moot Court Honor Society. While in college he became the youngest person to run for the office of State Assembly and City Council in Paterson. After graduation he served as the City Attorney in Passaic for 10 years before becoming the Assistant City Attorney in Wayne for 25 years. He served on the Board of the Passaic County Children’s Shelter and was President of the Board of Directors of Catholic Family and Community Services. He loved to serve and acted as the President of the Home and School Association of Holy Spirit School where he instituted its first Carnival which he ran for the next 30 years. He served as a member of the Football Fathers of DePaul High School and as a lector and trustee of Holy Spirit Church for many years. As a result he received the Vivere Christus award from the Diocese of Paterson. He was a trustee of the State Board of Municipal Attorney’s and was a Diplomat of the Institute for Continuing Legal Education where he was instrumental in having Municipal Law declared as a legal specialty. In addition, he received the Gordon P. Griffin Award from the NJ Institute of Legal Government Attorneys for excellence in Municipal Law. He was also proud of his 5 recorded decisions before the NJ State Supreme Court.

He was most proud of being known as “The Godfather” because if anyone needed his help, he gave it freely.

He was predeceased by his parents John McKniff Jr and Carmela Tirri. He is survived by his wife of 42 years Regina (nee Simmen) and his children, Eric of Wayne, Todd and his wife Sharon of Wayne, and his daughter Kristen of Jersey City. He is also survived by his grandson Connor John and his granddog Miss Olivia. He is also survived by his loving Aunt and adopted mother Helen Thomas and her husband Charles and his sister and brother in law, Pauline and George Alger and MaryEllen Simmen. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Holy Spirit Church or School, 330 Newark Pompton Tpk., Pequannock, NJ 07440 would be appreciated.

John De Biasio age 95 of Wayne passed away peacefully on August 5, 2016.

John was born in the United States in 1921 to Luigi and Emma De Biasio. At the age of two, he moved to Italy with his mother to join his extended family. Shortly after his eighth birthday he, his mother, and siblings returned to his father in the United States, where he would live a long, happy, and healthful life.

At a young age, John entered the world of gear manufacturing as a machinist. Early in his career and through World War II, he worked his way up to become foreman at Watson-Flagg producing precision gears for military aircraft. During this time, he collaborated with researchers at the New Jersey Institute of Technology to improve on the manufacturing process of military helicopter rotor gears. After the war he rose further into management spending ten years as a manufacturing supervisor at Precision Gear. In the late fifties, John was instrumental in building and establishing Eastern Gear in Paterson as the company’s Vice President. There he expanded his career in specialty manufacturing as he oversaw the production of bespoke gears of the highest quality for twenty-five years until his retirement in 1984.

One evening out at a dance during the Second World War, John was incredibly fortunate to meet a beautiful woman named Stella Groncki. They danced together, began a wonderful courtship, and soon fell in love. They were married at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church in Passaic in 1944 and celebrated their honeymoon in New York City. They initially settled in Clifton, NJ where they lived for fifteen years before finding their permanent home in Wayne. John had a loving soul able to see through to the good in all people, and he instilled that value in his family, his greatest devotion in life. His happiest moments in life were spent with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

John lived an active, social life with many diverse interests. He was a devout Yankees fan who had the privilege of witnessing some of Mickey Mantle’s greatest achievements. He loved to socialize by going out dancing with his wife and friends. He was the go-to handyman to fix things around his own house or those of his friends. He was also an avid traveler because he loved to explore the world’s cultural diversity; however, he would always believe the United States to be the most beautiful country in the world no matter how many wonderful places he visited. John was a loving Catholic and founding member of Our Lady of the Valley Roman Catholic Church in Wayne. He was an extraordinary person who touched the lives of many people and will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know him.

John was defined by his generous spirit and love of life and family. He loved people, whether dancing with friends or traveling the world. He was ahead of his time as he taught his children the importance of caring for all people without prejudice. Most importantly he loved his family: his children, his grandchildren, his great-grandchildren, and beyond all else his loving wife. He cherished and adored Stella throughout their seventy-two years of loving and loyal marriage together. He never stopped seeing her as the most beautiful woman in the world.

John is survived by his wife Stella (nee Groncki), two daughters; Barbara DeCamp and her husband Tim of Wayne, and Joan Chrisbacher and her husband Al of Stonington, CT, one son; John and his wife Lynn of River Vale, twelve grandchildren; John, Donna, Jason, Michele, Kristy, Thomas, Justin, Nicole, Danielle, Lauren, Kim, and Greg, and eight great-grandchildren; Elise, Amy, Alexander, Alexa, Gavin, Isabella, Ian, and Emilia. He was predeceased by his sister Josephine Strehl, his two brothers Ernesto and Anthony, and his granddaughter Karen.

Those wishing to make a donation in John’s name are asked to consider Alzheimer’s Foundation,

400 Morris Ave, Suite 251, Denville, NJ 07834-1365.Ave,Suite251, Denville, NJ 07834-1365.

John Hatala, Jr., age 79, of Wayne, passed Monday, March 14, 2016.

He was born in Passaic General Hospital and raised at number eighteen Guenther Place in Passaic. He graduated from Passaic High School with the Class of 1954. After he married Eleanor Bundas they moved to Wayne where they have lived for the past fifty-four years. As a young man in Passaic he delivered newspapers for the Herald & News Newspaper and would often talk of the days when he would transfer money between bank branches carrying the cash inside a paint bucket. Just after high school John joined the United States Army and was sent to Korea. During his time in the service he attained the rank of corporal and served as a code interceptor deciphering messages from North Korea and China. He was honorably discharged and received the Good Conduct Medal. He took advantage of the GI Bill and enrolled in the Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken where he received his degree in Engineering with the Class of 1960. While in college he was a brother of the Theta Xi fraternity.

During John’s college years he worked for the Weather Tite Storm Window company. After graduating from college he put his engineering degree to work for a cinder block manufacturing company in Hackettstown, the I.O. Corporation in Montville, Perkin-Elmer Company in Randolph, and served as an engineering consultant for corporations like Ricoh of Japan, General Motors of California and Texas, and finally retired in 2001 from the Bel Art Company in Pequannock. Some will also remember him owning a share in the Red Vest Tavern in Wayne where he worked for two years.

John was a member of Saint John the Baptist Russian Orthodox Church in Little Falls.

John will be remembered for his sense of humor, friendly, outgoing way, and for telling jokes.