Anna Kuntzevich (or “Grannie Annie” as she was affectionately known to many) of Wayne NJ, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 28, 2023. She was 105.

In 1918, the year of the influenza epidemic and shortly after her parents, Gregory and Agatha Kulak, immigrated from Russia to New York City, Anna was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut. She was the first of their five children to be born in America; Anna was followed by her four siblings, brother Al, sisters Helen and Olga, and brother Richard. When she was one year old the family moved to the Lower East side of Manhattan.

Anna’s stories recalling early childhood speak fondly of simple, yet often difficult times. Back then it was oil lamps, ice boxes and overcrowded apartments where baths were taken in a metal tub in the kitchen. There was also the Great Depression to contend with. When she was about twelve, the family moved to 340 Powell Street in Brooklyn, NY where she lived and graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School with the Class of 1936. During her high school years, Anna found work watching her teacher’s two children at their lake house during the summer. After high school she learned to be a bookkeeper while working for Steinberg Brothers Stone Cutters in Brooklyn, a skill that would serve her well throughout her life.

As a youngster, Anna was spry and athletically inclined - she played basketball - loved animals and also began to get in touch with her spirituality. Inspired by an older neighbor, she joined her local Russian Orthodox Church and eventually, as she got older, became a contributing member of that community.

Anna met a handsome young man named John Kuntzevich one day while hanging out in Brooklyn. He came by wearing a white sweater with a big “J” on it, asking if anyone had a cigarette. Anna offered one of hers and when she did, both a cigarette and a romance were lit that day. Their first date was to Melnick’s Place, a bar and grill in Brooklyn. They soon fell in love while the United States was being drawn into World War II.

Eventually John proposed to Anna saying, “I’m going to enlist in the Navy and I’d like to be married before I go.” Anna was simultaneously delighted and scared when she replied “I Do” on May 31, 1942. They married on a Sunday, Memorial Day, at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church on Pennsylvania Avenue in Brooklyn and honeymooned at Rova Farms in Jackson, New Jersey. Anna followed John to Virginia after he enlisted but he was soon sent overseas and so she returned to live with her parents in Brooklyn.

After serving in the Navy with The Seabees John was honorably discharged on November 20, 1945 and returned to live with Anna and her family until they found an apartment. They lived in city housing in Brooklyn, New York and Bridgeport, Connecticut before settling into a co-op in the Howard Beach section of Queens. John became a NYC Police Officer. “He was a sharpshooter” Anna always likes to remind us in her Brooklyn accent.

Together John and Anna had two daughters, Barbara and Dianna, who they raised in Brooklyn. Barbara and Dianna brought four grandchildren into Anna's life, Timothy, Christin, Kelly, and Erin. Her beloved grandchildren collectively gifted Anna with three great grandchildren, Katelynn, Fletcher and Griffin.

As the matriarch of the family, Anna’s mother-bear instincts and generous nature always had her looking out for and taking care of family. Her tireless work-ethic, love for numbers and lively sense of humor often found her employed in a number of creative environments. An “office manager” of sorts, on any given day, her responsibilities could range from bookkeeping to styling props for photo-shoots. One of her most memorable experiences was spending a day taking care of a chimpanzee named Zippy. Anna's fondness for people and conversation, combined with her willingness to contribute, made her an integral and adored member of her work and church communities. She credits her lifelong daily regimen of black coffee, dark chocolate and a heaping bowl of ice cream for keeping her going all these years.

Anna and John were happily married for 66 years until John passed in 2008 at the age of 89. She always held tight to the words John uttered years earlier “I will give you all the love and happiness you could hold.”

Anna was the loving wife of the late John Kuntzevich (2008); devoted mother of the late Barbara Kucynda (2018) and her husband Father Paul Kucynda of Jackson NJ, and Diana Hurley of Bloomingdale; cherished grandmother of Tim Kucynda, Christin Messina, Kelly Chabebe, Erin Schissel; much loved great-grandmother of Kaitlyn, Fletcher, and Griffin.  She was predeceased by two brothers Alexander and Richard Kulak and two sisters Helen Sharko and Olga Hudyma.

Barbara Ranley Austin, age 73, of Hamburg, New Jersey passed away Wednesday, December 27, 2023.

Barbara was the daughter of Louis G. Ranley and Barbara Ranley of Clifton, New Jersey.  She was the sister of Doctor Robert Ranley, Maree Casatelli and the late Louis Ranley and she was formerly married to Edward J. Smith and then Jay V. Surgent, Esq.

Barbara was a loving and caring person.  She adored her three boys, E.J. Smith, Jason Smith and Ranley Surgent and loved them with all her heart.  They were the joys of her life and then her grandchildren came along – Trevor Smith, Peyton and Braeden Smith and Londyn Surgent, and Barbara’s love only grew more as a proud and loving grandmother. Her eyes would light-up whenever she spoke of her grandchildren.

Some of Barbara’s favorite days were during her childhood, spending summers with her family in Walpack, New Jersey.  As a young adult, she enjoyed being with friends and family at the Cedar Lake Beach Club in Blairstown, New Jersey.  She especially loved the holidays and numerous family gatherings at Maree’s and Robert’s homes over the years.  Later in life she enjoyed every opportunity that she had to spend with her children and grandchildren.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Arie Jan Van Wingerden, age 89, of Pompton Plains, NJ.

Arie passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 26, 2023 while receiving the loving care of his family.

Arie was born in Ridderkirk, Netherlands and was one of eleven children to Leendert and Aplonia Van Wingerden.  He and his family immigrated to the United States in 1948 by boat and were at sea for over two weeks. Arie would later tell stories of how he and his siblings would peel potatoes for the ship kitchen.  Upon arriving in the United States, the family settled in Wayne, NJ. At first Arie, his siblings and parents grew vegetables on a rented farm in Wayne Township and sold them at a roadside stand.  Arie also drove a coal truck for Bailey and Winters. After approximately ten years, in 1958, Arie started his own business located in Pequannock called Orie Van Wingerden Greenhouse Inc.  Arie owned and operated his business for nearly sixty-five years.  He never actually retired, but for many years Arie treasured working alongside his son Alan in the family business.

Arie was introduced to the love of his life, Kathleen Vriezema by a mutual friend. On November 4, 1955 the two exchanged wedding vows and became husband and wife.  Arie and Kathleen settled in Wayne after getting married.  As their family grew, they moved to Pompton Plains, NJ.  They remained in Pompton Plains for the next sixty-one years where they raised their five sons, John, Alan, Ronald, Paul, and Glenn.

Arie had an outstanding work ethic that was instilled in him by his parents.  This was something that he also passed down to his children and grandchildren.  Aside from being dedicated to his career, Arie took great pleasure in translating church sermons from Dutch to English and sharing them with family, friends, and fellow church members.  He was often seen riding his bike around the greenhouse, down the lane by himself to get the mail, visit his sisters and brothers or taking his grandchildren for a ride.

It was clear that Arie’s greatest passion in life was his family.  Nothing meant more to Arie than providing for and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Arie and Kathleen cherished sixty-one years of marriage until Kathleen’s passing in 2019.   Arie was not only devoted to his family but also to his Christian Faith.  He and his family were devout members for many years of the Ebenezer Netherlands Reformed Church in Franklin Lakes, NJ.

Arie was always friendly and outgoing. His wonderful sense of humor and his quick wit made him a pleasure to be with.  Arie was also known to donate platelets. One year in the height of busy season he was asked to donate to a very sick young man. The next morning Arie left his busy business to help someone in need.  He will be forever remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather.  He was truly a special person who touched the lives of many people and will be sincerely missed by his family and friends.

Arie is survived by his five sons; John Van Wingerden and his wife Janey of Sunnyside, WA, Alan Van Wingerden and his wife Anita of Pompton Plains, NJ, Ron Van Wingerden and his wife Joyce of Priest River, ID, Paul Van Wingerden and his wife Stacey of Priest River, ID, and Glenn Van Wingerden and his wife Nicole of Priest River, ID, two sisters; Jenny Van Vugt of Pompton Plains, NJ, and Christina De Groot of Pompton Plains, NJ, four brothers; Kees Van Wingerden and his wife Rita of Augusta, NJ, Willem Van Wingerden and his wife Joanne of Pompton Plains, NJ, Jan Van Wingerden and his wife Barbara of Lynden, WA, and Abraham Van Wingerden and his wife Ruth of Pompton Plains, NJ, twenty three grandchildren; Michael, Matthew, Rachel, Heather, Kristen, Amanda, Arielle, Zachary, Alanna, Jack, Caitlyn, Andrew, Dylan, Lauryn, Arie, Brian, Edward, Kathleen, Josh, Amanda, Casandra, Logan, and Emma.

Twenty-seven great-grandchildren; Aedyn, Tate, Landon, Matilda, Vaughn, Teague, Piper, Waylon, Vera, Grant, Gisele, Brielle, Levi, Julia, Marie, Cora, Luke, Magnolia, Sabrina, Brooke, Hannah, Reagan, Addisson, Harper, Hadley, Reid and Aspen.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Sigfrido Humberto Duarte, age 69, of Wayne, NJ.

Sigfrido passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 26, 2023 while receiving the loving care of his family.  He was born and raised in San  Francisco de Macoris, Dominican Republic and was one of six children to Samuel and Maria Japonesa Duarte. 

Sigfrido attended a local high school in San Francisco and graduated with the class of 1972. Following his graduation from high school, he attended Universidad Autonoma de Santo Domingo where he earned his Degree in Veterinary Medicine.  Sigfrido worked as a Veterinarian in both the public and private sector. After seven years of private practice as a veterinarian, Sigfrido furthered his education, earning a Master’s Degree in Bilingual Education.

In 1991, Sigfrido immigrated to the United States, settling in New York City. He held a series of odd jobs, including selling "Piragua" drinks during the summers in Washington Heights, before accepting a position with the New York State Board of Education as a science teacher.  After many years of working with the New York Board of Education, Sigfrido moved back to the Dominican Republic.  Sigfrido remained in the Dominican Republic for about seven years then moved to Spain in 2009.  In 2011, Sigfrido and his family relocated again, moving back to the United States, this time settling in NJ. Sigfrido and his family would call Wayne their home for the rest of their lives.  Sigfrido eventually retired in 2017.

Every morning when heading for University in the Dominican Republic, Sigfrido found himself waiting at a bus stop nestled in front of a charming house. His attention was captivated by the graceful presence of a young attractive woman named Rosario Molina.  Sigfrido, struck by her beauty, mustered the courage to strike up a conversation. The bus stop became a stage for a delightful encounter as they exchanged stories and laughter.  As fate would have it, they fell in love and on April 24, 1982 the two exchanged wedding vows and became husband and wife.

The newlyweds settled in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.  While residing there, the couple welcomed the birth of their “one and only”, their daughter Charina.  As Sigfrido relocated throughout his life, Rosario was always by his side. 

Sigfrido, a self-taught artist with an unwavering passion for creativity, embarked on a remarkable journey as he showcased his unique artistic vision in exhibitions across the United States and various foreign countries. He had a natural talent and an insatiable desire to express himself through his craft in abstract art as well as landscape style paintings.  Sigfrido's artwork resonated with audiences worldwide.  He was a member of local and international art groups and was also a long-time member of the College of Veterinarian Medicine in the Dominican Republic.

Those who knew Sigfrido best knew that his greatest passion in life was for his family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Sigfrido than spending time with and providing for his family.  He and his wife Rosario cherished forty-one years of loyal and loving marriage together.  He was not only devoted to his family but also to his Catholic Faith.  Sigfrido and his family were parishioners of St Mary’s RC Church in Pompton Lakes for many years. 

There was not a topic or situation that Sigfrido would not make a joke about.  His quick wit and infectious sense of humor made him truly loved by everyone around him and a pleasure to be around.  Sigfrido also had the gift of being able to captivate an audience of any age with his talent to tell a story. 

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

Sigfrido is survived by his wife Rosario E Molina of Wayne, his daughter Charina Duarte and her husband Miguel Rosado of Wayne, his mother Maria J Hernandez of Hartford, CT, three sisters; Vanessa Duarte of Hartford, CT, Quisaira Duarte of Hartford, CT, and Julia Duarte of Hartford, CT, two brothers; Martin Duarte and his wife Altagracia of the Dominican Republic, and Samuel Duarte of Hartford, CT, and three grandchildren; Leah Rosado, Ian Rosado, and Amy Rosado.   

Raymond Scognamiglio, age 83, of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 24, 2023.

Born and raised in Paterson, he was the son of Raymond and Mary (Pasqual) Scognamiglio.

After graduating from Eastside High School in Paterson, Ray proudly served in the National Guard. Having a keen, analytical mind and being skilled at working with his hands, Ray was a machinist during his whole professional life. Prior to retirement Ray was employed with Lembo Machine Works in Paterson.

Ray was the beloved husband of Joyce Scognamiglio who predeceased him in 1998. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers and sisters: Joseph, Addi, Rose, Lillian, Marie, and Ray.    

Martina “Tina” Simpson, age 76, of Wayne, NJ, formerly of Nutley, passed away on Friday, December 22, 2023, after a long stay at Preakness Healthcare Center.

Tina was born to Edwin and Rita Krobatsch and lived on Fourth St. in Secaucus, NJ until young adulthood. She graduated from Weehawken High School in 1965. She also attended Montclair State University at night for several years and received a bachelor’s degree in Sociology with Honors in 1998. 

Tina worked as an Accounts Receivable Supervisor for 38 years at APA Transport in North Bergen, NJ until it went out of business. Subsequently, she found great satisfaction working with pre-school and kindergarten children in the Glen Ridge school system as an Aide until she retired.

“Chief”, as her husband Howard always called her, loved her family and enjoyed several hobbies such as ceramics, acrylic painting, gardening, and photography. Travel was also important with numerous trips to all the New England states, several Canada locations, and various Caribbean islands. In all, she visited over 20 states.

Howard and Tina were married in 1976 the bicentennial year. They honeymooned at Martha’s Vineyard and Rockport, Ma. They returned from their honeymoon to their cliffside apartment overlooking the Hudson River where the Tall Ships Flotilla had been. They were blessed with their son Scott during their marriage of more than 47 years. Scott and his wife Carmen provided Tina and Howard with two wonderful granddaughters, Alice and Natalie, who are the joys of their lives. 

Jeanette Kros, 95, passed away peacefully on December 21, 2023 with her loved ones beside her.

Jeanette was born September 23, 1928 to Cornelius and Trina Hokke Densel. She was a lifelong resident of Clifton until her move to the Holland Christian Home four years ago. Jeanette was also a longtime member of the Free Reformed Church of Pompton Plains, NJ. 

Jeanette was predeceased by her beloved husband of almost 70 years, Orie, and her three brothers; Neil, John, and Richard, all of whom she missed dearly. Her beloved granddaughter, Rebecca Becicka, passed away in 2022.

Left to mourn her loss are her son John (Patricia Murphy) and daughters; Corinne (Roy Hook), Marcia (David Sinke), and Ellen (Richard DeBel). Jeanette was a loving grandmother to Rachel, Sara, Elisabeth (Joel Tanis), Thomas (Lauren Van Vugt), James, and Joanna Hook, Arie, Ian (Crystal Law), Matthew, Grace, William (Carrie Vandenberg), Gareth, Lowell, and Ruth Sinke, and Emily, Abigail, Lydia (Jonathan Lewis), Caroline, Annelise, and Benjamin DeBel. She was also the loving great-grandmother of Noah, Charlotte, Eleanor, and Henry Tanis, Gwen Hook, and Elliot Lewis.

The family wishes to express their gratitude for the compassionate care their mother received at the Holland Christian Home, especially during her final illness.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Holland Christian Home in North Haledon.

With great sadness we announce the passing of Jess Eddeh, age 77, of Pequannock.  Jess died peacefully with his wife Lois by his side.

Jess was born on July 8, 1946 to Michel and Mary (Massoud) in Jerusalem, Jordan.  He was the youngest of eight children.  Sadly, siblings John and Jeanette passed away at two weeks of age. 

For several years he lived within the walls of the “Old City” of Jerusalem.  The Holy Sepulchre and the Via Dolorosa and many other holy sights were right outside his door. He never realized he lived in a land of such sacred significance, to him it was home.

Jess graduated secondary school from De La Salle Frere’s College in Jerusalem in 1965.  While attending school, he had a dream to go to America, get a college education, a good job, and marry an American girl.

He immigrated to America along with his mother and brother Joseph in 1969.  Upon arriving he found employment at MGM Transport in Totowa, NJ where he would also find his “American Girl,” Lois.  It was love at first sight.  He often wondered how two people from opposite sides of the world could find each other.

They married on February 20, 1972 and moved to Alexandria, VA.  Jess was hired to be a radio announcer at the Voice of America in Washington DC to broadcast the news in Arabic to the Middle East.  It was an exciting opportunity, however, New Jersey called them back home. 

Jess graduated from Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management and an Advanced Master’s Degree in Transportation and Logistics Management from the New School University in New York City.  It took many years to earn his degrees since he worked days and attended classes at night.

He became an International Logistics Manager and Specialist in contract rate negotiations for over thirty years.  Jess was employed with such companies as Estee Lauder in Melville, NY, Cosmair (Lancome Loreal) in Piscataway, NJ, and Loral Electronics in Yonkers, NY.  He also owned Paul’s Restaurant and Pizzeria in Totowa as well as Videography Etc., videotaping weddings on the weekends.

One of Jess’ favorite sayings was, “to seize the opportunity” which he certainly did.  He loved America and was truly grateful for everything it had to offer.

Things took a turn for the worse in 2001 when it was discovered that he had heart failure and needed a heart transplant.  His condition was so serious, it was necessary to implant a mechanical heart pump (LVAD) to keep him alive while waiting for a donor heart.  After five months, a miracle occurred.  Due to the generous decision of a grieving family, a heart became available.  He received his gift of life on September 16, 2001, twenty- two years ago!

Jess enjoyed life to the fullest traveling to many places including Hawaii nine times, Tahiti, Bora Bora, Alaska, Dubai, and several memorable cruises.  His favorite trip was taking his wife Lois to the Middle East to show her where he was born and raised.  He also traveled to Lebanon with his brother to discover their father’s roots.  This was truly a very emotional journey.

Sadly, in the last five years, he developed kidney and eventually liver failure, relying on dialysis to live.  He endured many medical problems, hospitalizations, and pain.  Always giving him hope were his three grandchildren.  No words could ever express how overjoyed he was to see them grow.  They brought much love and happiness to his life.

Jess is survived by his devoted wife Lois (Barbera) of Pequannock, NJ, his son Michael Eddeh, three grandchildren; Mitchell, Andie, and Russell of Pompton Plains, NJ, one brother Joseph Eddeh of Clifton, NJ, two sisters; Josephine Nimry of Amman, Jordan, and Yvonne Rai of Chicago, IL.  Also surviving and missing their KHALO (uncle) are many nieces and nephews.  He is predeceased by two sisters Clair Nammour and Renee Sahar, his son Daniel Eddeh (2015) and his beautiful daughter-in-law Kathleen Eddeh (2023) who’s untimely passing’s are still being mourned. 

Jess will be remembered for his kindness and generosity and devotion to his family.   He was a “Humble Hero” and a life long blessing.  He will be greatly missed. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jess’ name may be made to The NJ Sharing Network.

Marie A. Hess, 76, of Wayne, passed away peacefully at her home while in the loving presence of her dear family. 

Born and raised in Paterson, Marie was the daughter of Alexander and Frances (LaPuzz) Vitale.

After graduating from Eastside High School in Paterson with the Class of 1965, Marie attended William Paterson College which today is known as William Paterson University. She earned a degree in biology and started a career in healthcare as a licensed practical nurse at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson. She later ran an electron microscope at Sloan Kettering Hospital in New York City and worked as a histologic technician at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx, NY. Marie’s professional journey eventually led her to the field of education. She earned her teacher certification at William Paterson University and taught at Mary Help of Christian Academy (MHCA) in North Haledon. Marie was an excellent educator who demonstrated enthusiastic advocation for all of her students. As the school’s director of Healthcare Connections, she was successful in securing medical internships for many students expressing career interests in healthcare. By the time she retired in 2022, her twenty-year career as an educator earned her the love, respect and admiration of students and colleagues alike.

Marie was the beloved wife of David Hess. They met when Marie came into David’s father’s optician’s practice as a patient. Their first date was to the former Paris Inn in Wayne. They soon fell in love and ultimately exchanged their wedding promises at the former Wayne Manor in Wayne. After a honeymoon in Disney World Marie and David began married life together in Pompton Lakes. They later lived in West Paterson before moving their home in Wayne where they remained to the present. They were truly blessed by the birth of their daughter Carly. 

Marie’s leisure-time interests were numerous and varied. As a young woman she traveled to Italy and Ireland and was an avid horseback rider. She loved fishing off the jetties down the Jersey Shore and taking care of her freshwater fish tanks at home. Tending to her vegetables proved to be a great time of relaxation which also brought the reward of fresh makings for cooking. 

Above all else, Marie’s greatest love and devotion was to her family. She and David and Carly took regular trips to Mohegan Sun Casino in Connecticut and Marie and David celebrated twenty-five years of marriage with a trip to Las Vegas. Marie adored her two grand-nieces Olivia and Maddison. She spent as much time as she could with them and loved spoiling them. 

Marie was a beautiful, loving and kind person who would do anything to help a friend in need. She touched the lives of many and will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. 

Marie was the beloved wife of David Hess, blessed in marriage for 41 years. She was the precious mother of Carly Hess of Wayne; dearly loved daughter of her late father Alexander (1995) and her loving mother Frances of Wayne; dear sister of her late brother Alexander (1958) and her sister Linda Romanyschyn and husband John of Bloomingdale; dear godmother of Kristen Allemand and husband Scott; and doting great-aunt of Olivia and Maddison.  

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

Salesian Sisters of Mary Help of Christian

659 Belmont Avenue

North Haledon, NJ 07508

Please send your gifts to the attention of Sister Mary Rinaldi and indicate that it’s in memory of Marie Hess.  

Michelle DeBlasi (nee Atieh), age 71, of Pompton Plains, NJ, passed peacefully at home after a long cancer journey, Wednesday, December 20, 2023. She was surrounded with so much love and left this world with family at her side, and her hands held tight. 

Beloved wife of Frank DeBlasi; loving mother to Melissa and son-in-law Seth Hurley, and Jessica DeBlasi, all of Pompton Plains and Grammy to Tyler and Rebecca. Michele is survived by her siblings, Michael, Dennis, Denise, Charles, Evelyn, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Born in Paterson, she moved to Wayne at the age of 10. After marriage, she lived first in Highland Lakes, then the Lionshead Lake section of Wayne, and eventually settling in Pompton Plains.

After graduating from Wayne Valley High School in 1969, she worked as a secretary for the American Cyanamid Corporation in Wayne for 25 years until starting her family. Michelle was a stay-at-home mom, selling Tupperware, being President of the Home and School Association, and working part-time for many years at Sun Tan Lake in Riverdale, running their summer day camp, company picnics and working Haunted Hayrides in the Fall.

In 1997, she started working at the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) in the Accounting Department, where she stayed until she retired in January 2019. For many years she ran the ASME annual bus trips to Atlantic City, coordinating a fun party bus with snacks, sandwiches, bloody marys and jello shots.

Michelle met Frank while she was bowling for the American Cyanamid Corporation’s Thursday Night Bowling League at Holiday Bowl in Oakland. Their first date was at the Hayden Planetarium at the Museum of Natural History in New York City. Frank proposed at Chan’s Hawaii Restaurant in Mahwah, and they were married on November 24, 1974, at Saint Ann Melkite Catholic Church in West Paterson. They honeymooned at the Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami, Florida. They loved vacationing at The Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas, where you could always find Michelle at the slots or pool. They had a loving and devoted marriage of forty-nine years.

Being a mother was the greatest blessing for Michelle. She would go to the ends of the world for her girls if she needed to. Michelle would express her love not only with a standard, “I love you,” but would do so in other unique ways like, “it’s raining, be careful the leaves are slick,” “call me when you get home,” “because I said so,” and “I’m buying.” She mostly loved the simple times with Melissa and Jessica, like going to the movie theater on Tuesday nights, having breakfasts at the diner, lunches at Sushi Village and dinners at Hibachi, shopping at Kohl’s, playing Hollywood Rummy, and soaking in the joys of quality togetherness.

Lovingly known as Grammy, Michelle would sing different holiday versions of the traditional nursey rhyme, Christmas Is Coming, with her grandchildren, Tyler and Rebecca. Not a day went by where she didn’t see them in person or on FaceTime calls hours apart. Always the card-shark, she taught them how to play War and they taught her Trash. The kids fondly remember beach weekends bringing her buckets of water under the canopy to keep her cool, and remember each birthday of theirs would bring cards with money in denominations of their corresponding age. Michelle would say that her grandkids were the gas in her tank.

Most would define Michelle as a ray of sunshine, someone who would never speak badly of another, and one of the strongest women they know. She beat breast cancer in 1992, and was diagnosed again in 2013, later receiving the news of metastasis in 2017. She was a warrior and fighter, and despite her long battle, Michelle was the embodiment of positivity, always smiling and never complaining. Because of her bubbly personality, she was always the first one to say hello; her genuine interest in others made every encounter feel like a cherished moment. Her outgoing nature transformed strangers into friends, leaving an indelible mark on every heart she touched. Michelle loved watching Hallmark movies and singing competition shows and running an American Idol pool, doing Word Search puzzles, playing iPad casino games with her grandchildren, and being with her family. Her most favorite thing to do was spend summer weekends down the shore in Seaside Heights, eating butterfly fries and playing Pass the Trash and Left Right Center in the shorehouse kitchen with her siblings and family. Her care and love for family could be found just inside her front door, with a display of family photos lining the staircase wall, and always ensuring there was dinner on the table at 6:00pm throughout her children’s up-bringing. She enjoyed 45 years of tenting and pop-up camper trips every Memorial and Labor Day, laughing alongside her camping buddies as they played “I’m going on a picnic” around a roaring campfire. It was Michelle who started the “Thursday night dinner” ritual at her parents’ house, a long-standing tradition that continued for generations.

Michelle will be lovingly remembered for her signature dance moves, her crumb cake and her life mottos: “everything happens for a reason” and “keep the faith.”

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

Janice Mary (Regan) Puntasecca, age 58, passed away on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 with the comfort of family at her side. 

Janice was born to John and Mary Regan on December 23, 1964 in Paterson, New Jersey. She was a graduate of DePaul Catholic High School in Wayne. 

Janice was an instinctive nurturer. She devoted her career to teaching, most recently working at Young Scholars Academy in Wyckoff, New Jersey. Driven to earn her college degree, she graduated from The University of Massachusetts Amherst with a bachelor’s degree in early childhood development in 2019.

Janice married her high school sweetheart, Anthony Puntasecca. They enjoyed a commited and love-filled marriage of 29 years until Anthony’s passing in 2015. 

Janice was loving, caring, and above all, devoted to her family. She is survived by her children: Linda and her husband Craig, Michael, and Christopher and his wife Monica. She is also survived by her three grandchildren, Julia, Shaelagh, and Reagan, as well as her three siblings, John, Patricia, and Michael.

Memorial donations may be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

Augustine “Augie” Albino, age 60, of Milton, Delaware and formerly of Wayne, NJ, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, December 18, 2023.  His family is deeply saddened by his sudden passing. 

Augie was born on May 7, 1963 in Brooklyn, NY to Joseph and Rosemarie (Centra) Albino. After a brief time in the US Navy, he started his first business, Exclusive Towing. Augie began his career with Local 6A Concrete Cement Workers Union and remained with the union until retirement. He was a dedicated, hard worker with a strong work ethic. He took part in the construction of many buildings that are part of  the NY skyline today and he enjoyed the camaraderie he shared with his co-workers. 

Augie was a great cook! Everyone loved his Sunday sauce and meatballs.

He was an avid football fan, loved playing  the card game Let it Ride and his all-time favorite was doing his scratch offs. Augie's jokes and smiles made everyone's life brighter.

In 2012, Augie met Lisa Jensen, his forever love, and they wed in 2013. After a short time living in the East Village in NYC, they settled down in Wayne, NJ where they resided for 9 years with their dog Bear. While living in Wayne, Augie enjoyed throwing backyard barbecues, pool parties, and hosting family holiday dinners. Every summer he took pride in taking care of his in-ground pool for everyone else to enjoy. In 2022, he and Lisa moved to Delaware and took pleasure in the calmer life enjoying the beaches, fishing, crabbing and walking  through  the state parks with their four-legged children. His Godendoodles were his loyal companions. His buddy Sonny was always by his side and Charley was his big baby. His previous dogs, Buster and Bear, have been waiting to be reunited with their caring owner. Their wait is now over.

Augie was the loving husband and will be greatly missed by his beloved wife Lisa and their dogs.   

Augie was the proud father of Anthony, Tommy, Dylan and fiancé Rachel, and Samantha. He is also survived by his father Joseph, stepmother Ginny, brother Joe, sister Tracy, brother Frank and his wife Lucy, Paul and his wife Mari, and his number one favorite sister Natalie.

Augie loved and took great pleasure in being an uncle to his many nephews and nieces: Justina and her husband Herbert, Sally Ann and her husband Cosimo, Frankie, Sophia, Candace and Raymond, Nicole and her husband Nick, Maddie, Hannah, Zachary, Brandon, Devin, Shane and Kaden. Augie also took great delight in being a great-uncle to Rocco, Olivianna ,Eva, Kamden, Vincent and Dean.

He was predeceased by his mother Rosemarie “Candy”, his father Tom, and his maternal grandfather Augustine. 

Augie had a heart of gold that touched many lives with his boundless care and compassion. We will always love and miss you until we meet again. 

If you would like to honor Augie by making a memorial contribution in his name, please consider one of the following charities:

‍

Alan Purcell Wayne Animal Shelter

201 Pompton Plains Crossroads (Jackson Ave Extension)

Wayne, NJ 07470

973-694-0767

‍

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Memorial Processing

501 St. Jude Place

Memphis, TN 38105-9959

FUNERAL LIVESTREAM: the mass on Saturday will be livestreamed for anyone who wishes to watch. You can connect to the livestream on the homepage of the church website; www.ihmwaynenj.org. Click the link at the bottom of this obituary to connect at 10 AM, Saturday, Dec. 23.

Mary Katherine Mahon passed away at the age of 88 on December 17, 2023.

Mary was born in Brooklyn, NY to William Horan and Mary Ritter Horan on October 3, 1935. 

She met her future husband, Brendan in Brooklyn as they lived in the same neighborhood as teenagers, and he fell in love with her beautiful blue eyes and her sweetness.  Mary and Brendan married on June 29, 1957.  Prior to raising their family, Mary was a secretary for the Naval Department in Brooklyn.

Mary and Brendan moved several times before moving to Packanack Lake Road in Wayne, NJ and were long time parishioners of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church.

Mary was the sweetest, kindest person you could ever meet.  She would do things for others and keep it to herself because she didn’t want any praise.  She was loved by so many, and she truly loved everyone in return. She demonstrated a genuine respect for all people, as if blind to any sort of bias, judgement, or preconceived notions. She simply loved people in the most admirable of ways, perhaps as God intended us to love one another.

She was the loving wife of Brendan T. Mahon for 56 years, devoted and loving mother of Brendan Mahon and his wife Kanchan of Vestale, NY, Patricia Mortensen and her husband Chris of Wayne, Theresa Nicoletti of Toms River, Dr. James Mahon and his wife Robin of Sparta, and Francis Mahon and his wife Lauren of Katy, TX; cherished Nana to her eight grandchildren:  Ron, Leela, Asha, Alexander, Ashley, Kiara, Megan and Owen Mahon.  Devoted sister, aunt and friend to everyone. 

Mary was pre-deceased by her daughter Judith (1966) when she was 3 days old, her husband Brendan Mahon (2013), her brother Michael Horan (2014) and her sister Margaret Gallo (2016) and her son in law Frank Nicoletti (2020).

In lieu of flower please donate to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, www.stjude.org.

FUNERAL LIVESTREAM: the mass on Saturday will be livestreamed for anyone who wishes to watch. You can connect to the livestream on the homepage of the church website; www.ihmwaynenj.org. 

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of MaryAnn Gibney (née Caruso), age 86, of Wayne, NJ. MaryAnn passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, December, 16, 2023, while in the loving care of her family.

MaryAnn was born in Dunmore, Pa, to Louis and Mary Caruso. She was always an enthusiastic student who excelled in school. At the age of 14, MaryAnn’s family relocated to New Jersey where MaryAnn continued to excel academically. She graduated high school as class salutatorian and continued her education at Kean College where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in elementary education and graduated with honors. Upon graduation, she quickly found a job teaching second grade in East Orange, NJ.

While on a rare night out with girl friends, MaryAnn unexpectedly met a handsome and outgoing man by the name of George Gibney. George thought MaryAnn was a “knock out”. They started dating and married on July 8, 1961 at the Sacred Heart Armenian Catholic Church in Paterson, NJ.

After starting a family, George built MaryAnn a home in the Packanack Lake section of Wayne, where they happily lived for nearly twenty years. When they outgrew their home on Pine Terrace, George built them a home in the Valley section where they lived together for many years. 

MaryAnn was a resilient and devoted mother who, without complaining, took on the role of caregiver for her disabled son. She clearly saw his intelligence and academic potential and unwaveringly advocated for his educational rights. She was always his biggest supporter, and he credits her with his success.

MaryAnn was an avid reader with a passion for knowledge. She especially loved history and knew many obscure and fascinating facts. She never failed to dazzle with her knowledge of European history. Her ability to retain information was impressive. Even as adults, her children felt she knew everything about everything.

MaryAnn loved to travel. She kept notebooks with meticulous details of all the vacations she and George took. When anybody needed help planning a trip, MaryAnn was the go-to person. She would eagerly write up a detailed itinerary for anybody who asked. George and MaryAnn traveled all over the US, Europe and the Middle East. 

In addition to travel, MaryAnn was a master puzzler. She always had a jig saw puzzle on the table, and she loved to work on it with her grandchildren. She also did the Wall Street Journal crossword everyday and kept special crossword pencils. MaryAnn was also a talented seamstress and cook. She made many memorable Italian and Syrian meals for her family and friends.

Not only was MaryAnn was dedicated to her family, she was also dedicated to her Catholic faith. She never missed mass, not even when traveling. She was an active parishioner of Sacred Heart Armenian Catholic Church since 1961. She was the cherished wife of George for fifty-three years of a loving marriage filled with wonderful memories. Her greatest joy was becoming a grandmother. Known as Ma by her five grandchildren, she had a special bond with each of them. MaryAnn’s calm nature, strength and quiet determination was inspiring.

She will be missed by everyone who knew her.

Surviving are her devoted daughters, Susan and her husband Frank Dipre of Wayne; Georgene and her husband Anthony O’Loughlin of Wayne; her dear son Joseph of Wayne; beloved grandchildren Caroline, Alexandra and Luke Dipre and Niamh and Liam O’Loughlin; dear sister Madeline Cittadino of Lafayette; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. MaryAnn was predeceased by her loving husband George in 2014 and her cherished sister Bess Byrouty in 2009.

In lieu of flowers, donations in MaryAnn’s name may be made to Sacred Heart Armenian Catholic Church, 155 Long Hill Rd, Little Falls, NJ 07424. 

Timothy O’Neill, age 61, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, December 16, 2023. 

Tim was born in Mt. Kisco, NY to William and Patricia O’Neill. His family moved around a bit during his early childhood, but they eventually found Wayne, NJ and made it their home. Tim attended and graduated from Wayne Hills High School with the class of 1980 before continuing his education at Stockton State where he graduated with a degree in Finance. 

Tim was incredibly devoted to his professional career. He engrossed himself in his work and quickly became an employee that was irreplaceable. His early career saw him working at multiple different establishments. Tim was highly sought after and once he moved onto another job the previous would try to attract him back. He was just that good of an employee. He worked his way up the career ladder before he settled in working for WebMD for the last 10 years.

Tim will be remembered as being outgoing and loved by all. He was funny, witty, a bit of a science fiction geek, and most of all - extremely generous. He was reliable and someone who you could always turn to if you needed a helping hand. His friends and family remarked that he was notorious for always trying to take the bill after dinner to make sure he could pay for everyone. 

Beyond anything, Tim was a great and loving uncle. He will be greatly missed by his 6 nieces and nephews who all have fond memories traveling and celebrating life’s events with their Uncle Tim. 

David M. Brink age 68 of Wayne died on Friday, December 15, 2023.

He was born in Decatur, IL, and lived in New Jersey most of his life, including Toms River, Bloomfield, and Wayne for more than 30 years. David graduated high school in 1974, Bergen Community College, and Montclair State University with a B.S. in Computer Science. He was a U.S. Army veteran (cryptologic analyst) and spent most of his career in Information Technology, as an instructor and consultant. David was retired from Hewlett-Packard and Solutions3. After his retirement, he began a hobby refurbishing furniture, bikes, wheelbarrows, and other home items.

David met his dear wife Karen (predeceased in 2013) at a United States Army reception in Fair Lawn. Both had enlisted in the Army and were in a waiting period before their initial assignments. They kept in touch with letters over the years as they were stationed far apart. They were re-united when they were stationed close together in Texas. Their letter relationship turned into love and David proposed marriage at a Texas Military Base. Karen accepted and they were married on June 30, 1979 at Our Lady of Sorrows RC Church in Garfield New Jersey. They honeymooned at the Jersey Shore and enjoyed 33 years of a loving and devoted marriage.

David was dedicated member of the Preakness Reformed Church in Wayne, where he was a member for more than 25 years. David was an active church participant, a church elder, and part of the Helping Hands group, who meet weekly to perform church facility functions. David was also known for his love of cars, birds, his yard, and Billie Jean (his granddog)!

He was the loving husband of Karen Brink (predeceased in 2013); devoted father of Lauren and her husband Sean Halloran of Weehawken; devoted father of Kristen and her husband Daniel Flores of MD; beloved grandfather of Owen Flores; beloved brother of Barbara Sweezy of ME and Katy Geiger of FL.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Preakness Reformed Church in Wayne (www.preaknessreformed.org) or International Waldenstroms Macroglobulinemia Foundation (www.iwmf.com) would be appreciated.

Maryann Zientek (nee Clarke), age 68, of Bushkill, PA, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 13, 2023.

Born in Bayonne, NJ, Maryann was one of five children to Joseph and Claire Clarke. The family spent their summers  vacationing at the beach in Lavalette, which were some of Maryann’s fondest memories. Not long after graduating from Bayonne High School she met Paul and the two married July 9, 1977.

Maryann dreamed of becoming a mother and that dream was fulfilled when her and Paul welcomed their daughter Stacy, followed by their son Christopher three years later. Her role as a mother was a vital part of her identity and she took great pride in attending cheerleading competitions, basketball games, and baseball games when her children were growing up.

Years later, Maryann and Paul built a beautiful home in Bushkill, PA where they have resided for the last  25+ years. As an empty-nester, she took comfort in the company of her dogs Samber, Snowball, and Marley and she was always eager and excited to watch her grandpups, Mocha and Coco.

Maryann was ecstatic to watch her family expand with the addition of her son-in-law Rich and her daughter-in-law Kristin, but her greatest joy was becoming a grandmother. Max, Lucas, Tyler, and Daniel were her world, her life, her everything. She spoiled them with love, attention, toys, and junk food. Whether it was Sunday Zoom calls or Disney Cruises, she made sure that she spent time with “her boys” and in turn, they adored her. She will be deeply and forever missed.

Maryann is survived by her husband Paul, her dear daughter Stacy Puchalik and her husband Rich, her beloved son Christopher Zientek and his wife Kristin, her beautiful grandchildren Max and Lucas Puchalik and Tyler and Daniel Zientek, her sister Patricia Radomski and her husband Alexander, her sister Diane Clarke, her brother Robert Clarke and his wife Britt. Maryann is preceded in death by her parents Joseph and Claire Clarke, and her brother Joseph Clarke, Jr.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Arlene Louise Meringer (nee Van DeMoere), age 92, of Wayne, NJ.

Arlene passed away peacefully on Wednesday December 13, 2023 while receiving the loving care of her family.  She was born in Paterson, NJ and was the only child to Louis and Claire Van DeMoere.  Arlene spent her formative years in Fair Lawn, NJ.  While she was a teenager, her family moved to Paterson where she attended Eastside High School.  While a student at Eastside High, Arlene was a Drum Majorette with the Eastside High School Marching Band.  Arlene was a vibrant and determined young girl and emerged as a standout student at Eastside HS.  Her teachers recognized her tenaciousness and her leadership skills and encouraged Arlene to embark on a journey in the world of business.  

Following her graduation from Eastside High School with the class of 1948, Arlene found employment quickly as a secretary at the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company.  She worked for Metropolitan Life before accepting another position as a secretary at Dumont Company in Oradell, NJ.  While employed at Dumont, Arlene worked alongside a handsome young man by the name of Joseph Meringer, an Electronics Technician.  Arlene and Joseph got to know each other well and started dating.  As fate would have it, they fell in love and on October 14, 1951 Arlene and Joseph became husband and wife.  The couple exchanged wedding vows in St Mary’s RC Church in Pompton Lakes.  

Arlene and Joseph, having married made a home in Oakland for two years, then the couple relocated to Wayne Township in 1953 where they remained for the rest of their lives together and raised their four sons, James, William, Donald, and Mark.   

Shortly after getting married, Arlene made the heartfelt decision to transition into the role of a homemaker, embracing the joys and responsibilities of creating a warm and nurturing home for her family.  After her children had grown, Arlene decided to re-enter the workforce and took a part-time job at Meyer’s Department Store in Wayne.  

Arlene, a compassionate and devoted mother, dedicated her life to the ongoing care for her special needs son, Mark, while simultaneously serving as a member, treasurer, and long-time president of the North Haledon Association for Exceptional Children, tirelessly advocating for support of the community, and providing year-round activities for special needs children.

Those who knew Arlene best, knew that her greatest passion in life was for her family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Arlene than spending time with and providing for her family.  Arlene and Joseph cherished more than fifty years of loving and loyal marriage together until Joseph’s passing in 2002.  Through the years, Arlene treasured her yearly two-week vacations at Lake Willoughby in Northern Vermont.  She and her family also enjoyed spending time at the Jersey Shore.  Arlene, an incredibly selfless and nurturing woman, not only devoted herself to her immediate family but also shouldered the responsibilities of caring for numerous elderly extended family members, embodying love, and compassion in every aspect of her extensive caregiving role.  In 2018, Arlene’s heart was broken when her dear son Mark passed away.

Arlene was not only devoted to her family but was also truly dedicated to her Catholic Faith.  She and Joseph were founding members of Our Lady of Consolation Church in Wayne, NJ.  There, Arlene also volunteered and was extremely active.  

Arlene will be forever remembered as a truly dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.  She touched to lives of many people and will be sincerely missed by everyone that knew her.

Arlene is survived by her three sons; James Meringer and his wife Dona of Wayne, William Meringer and his wife Donna of Randolph, NJ, and Donald Meringer of Parkton, MD,  six grandchildren; Elizabeth Gephardt and her husband Grant of Wayne, NJ, Patricia Meringer of Wayne, NJ, Joseph Meringer of Wayne, NJ, Lisa Meringer of Bridgewater, NJ, William Meringer and his wife Jacqueline of Newton, NJ, and Cynthia Meringer of Wallingford, Ct, and ten great grandchildren; Evelyn, Anna, Riley, Peyton, Isabel, Finley, Harper, Gunnar, Corrado, and Carmine.  Arlene was predeceased by her husband Joseph Meringer in 2002, and by her son Mark Meringer in 2018.

Giovanna Leone (nee Scaramia), age 88, a resident of Wayne for over forty years, passed Monday, December 11, 2023.

She was born in Santa Croce Camerina, Sicily, Italy to Giovanni and Giuseppina Scaramia

She will be lovingly remembered for her boundless warmth and joy, found immense fulfillment in the simple pleasures of life.  Her kitchen was a sanctuary where she artfully crafted Italian specialties, infusing each dish with love and tradition.  A gifted seamstress, who worked at the Macy’s store in Wayne for many years, Giovanna transformed fabrics into exquisite creations, weaving stories and memories into every stich.  Her love for dance manifested in her home where the rhythm of life flowed seamlessly.  Hosting gatherings at her home became an art form for Giovanna, as she orchestrated evenings filled with laughter, wonderful aromas, and a sense of family and belonging. Family was at the heart of her world, and her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and extended family, were the stars in her life’s tapestry.  Giovanna’s legacy was not just in her delicious recipes, skill with the needle and thread, or graceful dance steps but in the enduring love that radiated from the heart of her home.

Giovanna met Ovidio Leone during her youth working at the Paterson sewing mills.  She was set up on a blind date by Ecla D’aleo as her brother, Ovidio Leone, had just emigrated to the United States.  Giovanna departed on the MS Vulcania on July 8, 1955 and Ovidio arrived shortly after on August 9th, 1955 on Queen Frederica. In order for Ovidio to go on a date with Giovanna he had to request permission from her father to take her to a local Italian dance.  Her dad granted his permission and assigned Giovanna’s brother to chaperone the two as tradition at the time did not allow you to date alone. Giovanna’s father called Ovidio aside and said if he loved Giovanna, he had three months to marry her.  Her father was going to be married for the third time and wanted Giovanna to marry before he did.  Giovanna’s father’s two prior wives whom he loved very much passed away due to illness and Giovanna then became like a mother / caretaker to her siblings.  Giovanna and Ovidio married on January 25, 1958, at a Catholic church in Paterson.  They actually had a dual wedding with Ovidio’s sister who had introduced them.  Giovanna and Ovidio honeymooned in New York City and settled into life in Paterson.  They moved to Wayne in 1979 where they had a loving marriage of forty-six years that was blessed with six children.

Giovanna was the loving wife of forty-six years to the late Ovidio G. Leone (d. 2004); loving mother of Josephine Leone-Mirra of Little Falls, Diana Opirhory and her husband Douglas of Bayville, Luigi Leone of Lincoln Park, John Leone of Paterson, David Leone of Little Egg Harbor, and Lillian Leone-Loehwing and her husband Scott of Stockholm; she was the cherished grandmother of Daniela Perillo, Carmine Mirra, Davide Mirra, Jacquelynn Opirhory, Caitlin Opirhory, Ashley Opirhory, Daniel Opirhory, Christopher Opirhory; dearly loved great-grandmother of Sofia Perillo, Sara Elphick, Samantha Mirra, Giovanna Mirra and Sasha Opirhory; loved sister of the late Giuseppe Scaramia and his late wife Rosetta, Salvatore Scaramia and his wife Giovanna of Hawthorne, and Maria Guarino and her husband Gerard of Wayne; and she was the dearly loved aunt to many nieces and nephews.

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

Brian Reardon, age 57, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, December 10, 2023.

Brian grew up in West Paterson and graduated from Passaic Valley High School in Little Falls, NJ.

Shortly after graduating, he started a career with the Wayne Township working first in the road department and then eventually the water department. His career spanned an incredible 37 years and during his time there he made several lifelong bonds of friendship and mutual respect. His coworkers remarked that he was the only guy physically capable of lifting a manhole with a single hand!

Early in his career with Wayne Township he met Jennifer during his frequent stops at the Packanack Bakery. She was working to get his coffee and donut on his lunch breaks and they quickly became lifelong friends. They were married in December of 1996 and the pair purchased their first home together in Wanaque, eventually settling in Pequannock.  Their family grew with the birth of their twin boys: Michael and Jason. If you knew Brian you knew that he loved his two boys more than anything else in this world. He believed that his greatest accomplishments in life weren’t in personal achievements or successes, but in the remarkable individuals his sons had become. Brian spoke of them with immense pride and looked forward to watching all their football, soccer, and lacrosse games. He was incredibly proud to see them graduate college and couldn't wait to see what the future held for them. 

Brian and Jennifer shared a great chapter of life together raising their boys, but as time went on, they realized their paths were going in different directions. They amicably parted ways, maintaining a profound respect and friendship for one another. Several years later, Brian found a companion when he met Robin. Robin and Brian shared the last few years together before his untimely passing.

He loved the Mets and the Cowboys but also supported his local teams like the Giants – he just enjoyed the game. Big Bri was quiet and laidback but had a sentimental side that could catch people by surprise. Brian was a great friend to all that knew him. Perhaps his greatest quality was his loyalty. Although a man of few words, his unwavering commitment to those he loved made him someone that will be forever loved and deeply missed. 

Brian is survived by his two boys Michael and Jason, their mother, Jennifer, his brother Tom and his wife Melissa, his brother John, his companion Robin and numerous nieces, nephews, and other loving family. He is pre deceased by his parents John and Mary Reardon.

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

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Memorial Processing

501 St. Jude Place

Memphis, TN 38105-9959

 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Evelyn Mary Corsello (nee Cacace), age 94 of Pompton Plains and formerly of Brooklyn, NY.  Evelyn was born and raised in Brooklyn and was one of four children to Aristo and Lena Canace.  She attended Girls High School in Brooklyn where she excelled in academics, particularly Mathematics, receiving numerous awards.
Evelyn’s first job was at the Meadow Gold Ice Cream Company in Brooklyn.  While there, she and her co-workers would discreetly write their names and phone numbers on the lid of the ice cream cups being sent to American GI’s.  Their aim was to attract the attention of the Servicemen and make a connection. Unfortunately, no-one called.  Eventually, they realized that their efforts were futile because the penciled numbers melted inside the cup. Later, Evelyn accepted a position as a bookkeeper at the Firemen’s Fund Insurance Company.
Evelyn met her future husband, William Corsello at a dance hall in Coney Island.
The two were married on August 28, 1949 at Sacred Heart Church in Brooklyn. Their first apartment was on Waverley Avenue, where Evelyn and William welcomed the births of their sons, Frankie and Billy.  The family relocated to East Flatbush where Barbara was born.  In 1978, they moved to Bergen Beach.  Evelyn and Bill cherished sixty-four years of marriage until William’s passing in 2013.  In 2014, Evelyn moved to Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains where she enjoyed many wonderful friendships. 
Evelyn loved her role as a homemaker, devoting herself to creating a warm and nurturing home for her children and spouse.  During this time, she worked with her father, for the Evergrip Company, putting pushpins and picture hooks onto cards for extra income as well as helping his friend sell jewelry.  As her children grew, Evelyn re-entered the workforce, taking a position as a comptometer operator at Times Square Stores.   She also worked for Chase Manhattan Bank as a teller for several years before her retirement.
Evelyn liked to sew and crochet.  She loved everything that sparkled and was fancy.  She enjoyed reading and loved to travel.  She has visited most of Europe, Japan and almost anywhere with a beach. She was a fabulous cook, well known for her meatballs.  Her garlic crabs were so famous that a local restaurant had her teach their chief how to make them for their menu.  Aside from all Evelyn’s hobbies, interests, and talents, her greatest passion was for her family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Evelyn than spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She was a worshiping Catholic who belonged to Saint Vincent Ferrer Church in Flatbush, Saint Bernard’s Church in Bergen Beach and later worshiped at the Cedar Crest Chapel.
Evelyn had a quick wit and a fondness for sarcasm.  She could leave people both amused and appreciative of her sense of humor.  She will be forever remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.  She touched the lives of many people and will be sincerely missed by everyone that knew her.  Evelyn is survived by her daughter Barbara Maloney and her husband Eugene of Wayne, NJ, her son William Corsello, Jr and his wife Robin of Rockaway Beach, NY, her daughter-in-law, MaryAnne Corsello of Salisbury Mills, NY, thirteen grandchildren; Gene Maloney and his wife Isabel of Wayne, NJ, Brian Maloney and his wife Ashley of Kinnelon, NJ, Kylie Herget and her husband Lucas of Kinnelon, NJ, William Corsello, III and his husband Benjamin Whine of New York City, Tara Corsello of Brooklyn, NY, Toni Corsello of New York City, Todd Corsello and his wife Patricia of Staten Island, NY, Traci Mahr and her husband Brian of Kinnelon, NJ, Lisa DeFelice and her husband Anthony of New Windsor, NY, Frank Corsello and his wife Danielle of Highland Mills, NY, Marissa Fernandez and her husband Nick of New Windsor, NY, Alexis Culhane and her husband Kevin of New Windsor, NY, and Christopher Corsello of West Nyack, NY, and seventeen great grandchildren; Ava, Michael, Liliana, Frank, Mia, Tessa, Daniel, Gianna, Luke, Lyla, Lia, Brooke, Ellis, Wren, Kayden, Ariella, and Jack, and many nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her husband William Corsello, Sr. in 2013, by her son Frank Corsello in 2000, her sister Lilian Maione, her brother Albert Cacace, her grandson Francis Corsello, and her granddaughter Kristen Maloney.

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

Carol M. Buyck, age 86 of Kinnelon, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on December 6, 2023.

Carol was born in Passaic, New Jersey to Frank and Anna Klaus.  She and her older brother, Cliff, lived in Paramus, Rochelle Park, and eventually Oradell. She attended Dwight Morrow High School in Englewood, New Jersey.

After graduation, Carol continued her education at Paterson State College. Carol’s further education was briefly halted when she took up a position at Collard’s Furniture Store as a decorator. During this time, she was set up on a blind date with Robert Buyck.  The two married in April of 1959 before moving to their new home in Bloomingdale and then finally settling down in Paramus in 1970, where they raised their two children, Suzanne and Jon. 

Carol returned to night school at William Paterson College with her neighbor and dear friend, Linda Shortman.  Carol was a lifelong learner and educator who went on to earn her master’s degree in early childhood education. While she initially dreamed of opening a nursery school, she found her passion teaching 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students in the Wanaque school district for the next 30 years.

Carol’s inquisitive nature led her to become a world traveler with her good friend Christine Lynch.  They visited most of Europe, South America, Cuba, China, Russia and explored other countries and cultures. Carol shared her passion with her grandchildren by accompanying them on trips to various countries. 

Carol loved dogs, being outdoors, entertaining, and good times with her many friends. She was an expert gardener and loved to “play in the dirt”.  Carol’s other interests included opera, movies, Broadway shows, and dinners in New York City with her grandchildren. Carol loved the slot machines in Atlantic City, playing Bunco with her friends, and a nice Cabernet.

Carol’s endless energy and zest for life were evident to everyone around her.  She touched many lives over the years and was blessed to have many dear friends. Her kindness, generosity, and loving personality will be greatly missed and always remembered. 

Above all else, family was the most important aspect of Carol’s life. She adored her family and loved sharing her life with them. She was the best mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother anyone could ever want. Her strong, independent, and often stubborn mindset gave her the drive to live an incredible life. 

Carol was the cherished mother of: Suzanne Russo and husband Michael of Glen Rock, Jon Buyck and wife Arlene of Rochelle Park; beloved grandmother of: Matthew Russo and wife Tierney, Katherine Harper and husband Seth, Christina Russo, Jonathan Buyck, and Nicholas Buyck; great-grandmother of: Theodore Harper and Caroline Russo. Also survived by brother Frank Klaus and wife Kathy, nephew Christopher, and niece Cortney. 

‍

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

The Humane Society of the United States

Or

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Memorial processing

501 St. Jude Place

Memphis, TN 38105-9959

Michael John Rosania, age 74, of Packanack Lake in Wayne, passed peacefully on Wednesday, December 6, 2023.

Michael was born in Newark, NJ, the son of Michael Rosania and Sophie Kaniecki. He grew up for a short time in Newark before moving with his parents and brother Nick to North Arlington.

After graduating from Queen of Peace High School in North Arlington with the Class of 1966, Michael attended Fairleigh Dickinson University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering and two master’s degrees – one in electrical engineering and one in computer science. Utilizing his education, Michael began a fulfilling and prosperous career in aerospace manufacturing until he retired in 2012 from BAE Systems.

Michael first met his beloved wife Nancy when they were both members of Spa 23 in Wayne. They fell in love and married on Saturday, September 15, 1984 at Packanack Community Church in Wayne. After a honeymoon in Hawaii, they started married life in the Packanack Lake section of Wayne and have remained residents there throughout their entire married life. Their marriage could best be described as precious, loving, and devoted having celebrated 39 years as husband and wife this past September.

Michael’s leisure time pursuits were numerous. He and Nancy were avid skiers regularly carving the moguls at Hidden Valley. He loved playing tennis and he was a member of the Packanack Lake Tennis Club. Golf also was a passion of Michaels and one which he was able to enjoy even more in retirement. In addition to skiing, tennis and golf, Michael was an expert archer and marksman, fisherman and photographer. His willingness to share his knowledge and teach archery at the NASP Clinics and Kids Archery Leagues was second to none and will never be forgotten. He and Nancy had the privilege of taking trips to Paris, France and Glasgow, Scotland. The whole family vacationed every summer down the Jersey Shore in LBI. 

Above all of the passions of Michael’s life nothing came close to the love and adoration he had for his wife Nancy, children Michael and Heather, his brother Nick, and his four grandchildren. Michael considered being a grandpa one of the greatest blessings of life. He was amazingly involved in his grandchildren’s lives, babysitting regularly when they were little and teaching them all the skills of archery and fishing when they got a little older. They learned so much from him but will also cherish warm and happy memories of the times when he would make them laugh by being goofy.         

Michael was the beloved husband of Nancy Rosania, blessed in marriage for 39 years. He was the loving father of Michael John Vincent Rosania and wife Melissa of Wayne, loving stepfather of Heather MacDougall of Sugarland, TX, dear brother of Nicholas “Nick” Rosania of North Arlington, adored grandfather of: Mia Rosania, Presley Rosania, Benjamin Sievers, and Amanda Sievers.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Michael’s name consider donating to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

To ensure secure, timely delivery of DONATIONS for the New Jersey Region, please mail donations to the region processing center:

NJ Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

Northeast (New Jersey)

P.O. Box 22470

New York, NY  10087-2470

James “Scruffty” “Big Jim” “Jim” Tuit, Sr., age 82 passed away peacefully Tuesday morning, December 5, 2023.

He was born in Paterson and raised in Prospect Park.  Jim attended Passaic County Technical High School with the Class of 1959. He loved to go to Hinchcliffe Stadium in Paterson, which was very close to his home in Prospect Park and watch the car races.  When he got in trouble at home, like the time when he forgot to take out the garbage, his mom made him sit in the backyard and listen to the races which was torturous to him. 

Those early days of attending Hinchliffe Stadium would be the catalyst for Jim to get behind the wheel of a race car in the early 1970’s Jim would fabricate, weld, set-up, and drive stock cars.  Through the years he was a regular at the Orange County Fair Speedway in Middletown, NY where he drove the 673 owned by John Baum, 342 owned by John “JC” Cunningham and the 318 that he co-owned with his son-in-law Bobby Pass (and that’s just to name a few) One of his fondest racing memories happened in the 80’s when his son Jimmy, Jr. finished 1st and he finished 2nd at the Orange County Fair Speedway. Jim loved and cherished the family time together, friends, and competition that racing brought to him. 

In his youth Jim painted houses for his grandfather’s company, and pumped gas at an Oakland gas station.

He spent most all of his working life in the local crushed stone, asphalt, and quarry industry. For many years he worked at Passaic Crushed Stone in Riverdale and retired in 2002 as a supervisor.

In 2002 when Jim retired, he and Judy moved to North Wilkesboro, North Carolina also known as NASCAR Country. One of their favorite things to do was attend multiple NASCAR races with their friends from Martinsville, Richmond, and Darlington just to name a few.  They spent a decade together enjoying life until Judy suddenly passed away. Encouraged by his children, he moved back to NJ so he would be around family. 

Jim was a remarkable individual whose life was defined by his genuine love of racing and connecting with people. Known for his affable nature, he possessed an innate ability to strike up conversations with anyone he encountered. Jim's warmth and approachability made him a cherished figure in the racing community where he fostered deep and meaningful relationships. He was a fierce competitor on the track, and once he hung up racing gloves he became a staple in the pits and a popular guy in the grandstands. Every year Jim would head up to Orange County Fair Speedway for the annual Nostalgia Night signing autographs, meeting new fans of racing and reminiscing about the good ole days with his fellow racers young and old. 

A dedicated and industrious worker throughout his life, Jim's work ethic was as impressive as his social skills. Whether he was engaged in his profession or lending a helping hand to friends and neighbors, Jim's commitment to hard work was unwavering. His enduring legacy is not just one of diligence and industriousness but also a testament to the profound impact one can have through kindness and authentic connections with others.

Jim was the beloved husband of the late Judy (nee Ricker) Tuit (d.2013); loving father of Kathy Pass and her husband Bob of Wayne, Ray Tuit and his wife Debbie of Oakland, and the late Jimmy Tuit, Jr. (d. 2017); he was a bonus Dad to Crystal Baum of Wayne; much loved companion to Dianne Caputo of Wayne; predeceased by his loving brother John Tuit, Jr., and his beloved cat Hoosier (d.2022).

In lieu of flowers donations in Jim’s memory to the Wayne Memorial First Aid Squad would be greatly appreciated.

Ida Calligaro (nee Battistus), age 99 of Wayne, died on Friday, December 1, 2023.

She was born in the family home in Clifton, where she lived until she was married. Ida graduated from Clifton High School with the Class of 1942 and has lived in Wayne for over fifty years.

She met the love of her life Mario Calligaro at a dance in the Co-Operative Hall in Clifton. They married ten months later at St. Claire’s Church in Clifton on September 29, 1946. They enjoyed fifty years of loving and devoted marriage before Mario’s passing on November 24, 1996.

Ida graduated from Drake Business College in Newark and attended New York School of Interior Design. She worked at the Waldrich Company in Clifton and at Hoffman La-Roche in Nutley as a secretary. In 1966, Ida went back to school at William Paterson College where she earned a degree in Elementary Teaching. She worked for the Wanaque Board of Education, teaching 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade, for twenty-five years before retiring in 1994. During her years with the Wanaque Board of Education she continued her education at William Paterson College earning her Master’s Degree.

Ida’s loves were her family, interior decorating, collecting antiques, education, and teaching children.

She was the loving wife of the late Dr. Mario V. Calligaro (1996); devoted mother of Dr. Bruce Calligaro and his wife Diana of Ringwood, Dr. Keith Calligaro and his wife Dr. Ina of Narberth, PA; the late Dr. Greg Calligaro(2008) and his wife Tammy of Maryland; cherished grandmother of Jason, Dr. Lindsey, Breanne Calligaro Decker, Blake, Anthony, and Ashley Calligaro; proud great grandmother of two; loved sister of the late Richard Battistus (1975) and the late Mafalda Pavan (2011).

 Those planning an expression of sympathy in Ida’s memory are asked to consider St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org

Anthony Bianco, age 70 of Paterson and formerly of Dumont and Vernon, died on December 1, 2023 after a brief illness. He had been an accountant throughout his career, retiring from Sabrett (Marathon Enterprises) of Englewood in 2018.

Anthony grew up in Paterson and graduated from Kennedy High School. He had been an active member of several youth groups as a young man and later became a member of the Elks Lodge in Tenafly, where he honorably served for many years, including as the Exalted Ruler. After retiring, he moved to Vernon and joined the Sparta UNICO where he served as treasurer of the chapter.

Anthony was an animal lover by any definition. He always kept a housecat, and sometimes as many as four at a time! While living in Vernon, he was thrilled to watch the wildlife that visited his property. He loved that there was always something to be observed out his window, and he especially loved watching the bears. He was also a fan of antique and classic cars. He also enjoyed attending the NASCAR races throughout the years. He would frequently attend the car shows that you see in shopping center parking lots around the area, and he would spend hours looking at each and every one of them.

Anthony is survived by his beloved cat, Max, and by his three cousins; Richard Natole, Christina Avigliano, and Robert Leo. He was predeceased by his parents, Anthony and Catherine (nee Murray) many years ago.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Anthony’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Keith Cavill, age 42, of Wayne, NJ.

Keith passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 after a courageous battle with cancer and while receiving the loving care of his family.

Keith was born in Pequannock and grew up in Wayne Township.  He was one of three children to George and Joann Cavill.  Keith had a wonderfully fulfilling childhood surrounded by a loving family and many friends.  While growing up in Wayne, Keith was an avid rider and racer of dirt bikes.  He attended Wayne Hills High School graduating with the class of 1999.  During his time as a student in high school, he played soccer and was a member of the high school’s very first Varsity Ice Hockey Team.  Keith was also active playing soccer, basketball, and football with the Wayne PAL, where his father was director for many years.   

After graduating from Wayne Hills High School, Keith attended Morris County Community College.  Keith left school to pursue an opportunity to start his own landscaping business.  In 2000, Keith raised the curtain on Cavill Landscaping, later to be called Stellar Property Management.  He owned and operated Cavill Landscaping for several years. 

In 2003, Keith suffered a spinal injury in a motocross accident which left him a quadriplegic. His injury did not daunt him in the least.  Keith went on to become a motivational speaker, traveling to colleges and other institutions around the United States.  He remained active in sports and was a member of the quadriplegic rugby team, the New York United Spinal Jets.  In 2005, an American documentary film called “Murderball” was made about the athletes on the United States quad rugby team and their journey to the Paralympic Games in Athens, Greece. The film was highly acclaimed and won multiple awards at the Sundance Film Festival in 2005.

Keith, later in 2012, restarted his landscaping business naming it Stellar Property Management.  Keith owned and operated his business until 2018.

Keith Was known by his family and friends as an individual who could defy and overcome any obstacle and seemingly impossible odds.  

In his spare time, Keith enjoyed flying drones and was an avid New York Jets fan.  But aside from all his talents, hobbies, and interests, his greatest passion in life was for his family and friends.  Nothing meant more to Keith than spending time with those he loved.  He had a wonderfully infectious sense of humor and could light up any room he walked into with his beautiful smile.

Keith will be forever remembered as an inspiring, tenacious human being that touched the lives of countless people with his positive attitude and his perseverance.

Keith is survived by his mother Joann Cavill of Wayne, NJ, his sister Theresa Gabriele and her husband Greg of Wayne, NJ, his brother Robert Cavill of Lincoln Park, three aunts; Joyce Porr of Wayne, NJ, Robin Lapinski of Wayne, NJ, and Donna Polizzi of North Haledon, NJ, his cousins; Joseph Porr and his wife Linda, Justin Porr, Angie Shaw, Danielle Denman and her husband Brandon, Larry Lapinski, Jaime Penza, and others. He was predeceased by his father George C Cavill, Jr., and his four uncles; Larry Lapinski, Joseph Porr, Michael Polizzi, and Anthony Polizzi.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Keith’s name may be made to United Spinal Association, 120-34 Queens Blvd #330, Kew Gardens, NY 11415.

Eileen Patricia Albanese, age 64 of Wayne, passed away on Saturday, September 16, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. 

She was born in The Bronx, NY to Neil and Mary O’Sullivan before moving to Ridgefield, New Jersey at a young age. Eileen would go on to graduate from Ridgefield Memorial High School where she competed on the softball team and was a statistician for the high school basketball team. After her graduation, Eileen continued her education at Fairleigh Dickinson University where she received a bachelor’s degree in accounting, graduating with the class of 1983. 

Eileen met the love of her life, Joseph Albanese, Jr. during her time at Ridgefield Memorial High School. Being two years apart, the two didn’t decide to date until one of their mutual teachers, Mr. Bastick, recognized their compatibility and suggested the two go on a date together. Both athletes, Eileen and Joseph decided to go to the Ridgefield vs. Harrison basketball game together. Although they went to the game with one another, they did not leave together. Unfortunately, a benches clearing brawl erupted that led to all the attendees being escorted out of the building. Eileen’s job as the statistician delayed her exit, but when she got out, she found that Joseph was nowhere to be found! Fortunately, Eileen’s dad Neil was there to take her home, but she made sure to never let Joe live that down over the years! Eileen and Joseph fell in love and Joseph asked her father for his permission to marry her. He proposed on Christmas Eve Mass at Saint Matthews Church in Ridgefield, the same place they eventually married at on June 9, 1979. Eileen and Joseph decided to honeymoon in Jamaica only to return after a single day. Eileen ended up suffering such a bad sunburn that the local doctors recommended she return home. While being rolled off the plane in a wheelchair, a young nephew there to greet the couple asked Joe, “What did you do to her?!” The two shared a loving, best friends’ marriage for 39 years before Joe’s untimely passing in 2018.

Eileen will be remembered as a hardworking, loving, funny, and especially witty individual who balanced out Joe’s laid-back persona perfectly. She loved spending her time reading, baking goods – especially scones, hosting family holidays, and of course cheering on the Mets. Her friends will remember her for her brilliance and her uncanny ability to help take care of everyone around her. She was a selfless woman who was deeply involved in her community. 

Eileen’s professional career started at Mercedes Benz where she worked as an accountant for many years. After the birth of her first child, Eileen spent her time taking care of her family and becoming involved in every activity they took part in. This meant becoming involved in organizations throughout Wayne such as the President of the Pines Lake PTO, working at the school store, the baseball booster club, and one of her most proud accomplishments - her tenure as the President of the Board of Education of the Wayne School System for 9 years. Eileen had a passion for fairness, equality, and education that lasted long after her three children graduated from the Wayne school system. She saw the value in a quality education and wanted to constantly give back to her community. In addition to being involved with her children’s education, Eileen made sure her family had a close relationship with God. Eileen was a parishioner of Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary for many years attending weekly Mass with her family. She was involved in CCD and acted as a Confirmation instructor for many families in addition to her own. After Joe’s passing, Eileen decided to go back to work as an office administrator for Prestige Wealth out of Franklin Lakes. She fit more life into only 64 years than most could in 100. 

Eileen is survived by her three children: Daniel and his wife Rebecca Albanese, Steven Albanese of Little Falls, and Caitlin Albanese of Philadelphia; her two sisters: Colleen O’Sullivan and Maureen O’Sullivan and her fiancé Robert Casella. She is predeceased by her loving husband of 39 years Joseph Albanese; her parents Neil O’Sullivan and Mary O’Sullivan; and their family Shih Tzu Sophie. 

The family has decided to establish a scholarship to reward academic excellence and community service in Eileen's name, to continue giving back to the students and community Eileen gave so much to in life. In lieu of flowers, donations by check to the Wayne Board of Education (50 Nellis Drive, Wayne, NJ 07470), indicating the Eileen P. Albanese Educational Excellence and Service Award in the memo, would be appreciated.

Adam John Shakoor passed away at the far too young age of 40, in his family home in Totowa on Monday, September 11, surrounded by the love of his family, cherished friends, and his devoted girlfriend.

Adam was born and raised by his loving parents, Mary Ellen and Jack Shakoor in Wayne, New Jersey. He was a graduate of Wayne Hills High School and Lynn University, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications.

His passion and ability to give nothing short of one hundred and ten percent in everything he did was evident through his work at Jack’s Super Foodtown in Caldwell, of which he had been an essential part since 2006, eventually rising to the role of the store's general manager. He was beloved by customers and coworkers alike who held him in high regard for his warm greetings, helpful nature, and his handsome, infectious smile that brightened everyone's day.

Nothing was more important to Adam than family. He was an exceptional son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, brother-in-law, and grandson. With his sisters, Jill and Holly, he shared countless joyful moments, and they created a beloved tradition known as "Siblings Unite,” where they would sip wine from a can while listening to music from an iphone, talk smack and watch Arrested Development in locations spanning the globe - from New Jersey to Los Angeles to Cabo del Sur.

Friendship was of paramount importance to Adam, and he and his beloved girlfriend, Rosemarie, could often be found raising an Orange Jameson to a good time at a local bar, concert or the track. From his long-time childhood friends to college buddies, coworkers, and the various companions he made throughout his journey, Adam's dedication to his friends was unwavering. Adam was known for always being down for a good time, and was someone you could undeniably count on, there for you whenever needed.

An avid fan of the NY Knicks and a WWE wrestlemaniac, Adam was also a lover of all things Marvel and DC, and an OG Nintendo gamer - he put the FAN in “FANdom.” Adam always made sure to show up for the things he loved. If he wasn’t training at the gym, running marathons or hanging out at a Yappy Hour with his beloved shelties, Zelda and Carmelo, Adam could be found on most weekends attending a concert, embracing his love for live music and supporting his favorite bands.

In this difficult time, Adam is survived by his mother, Mary Ellen Shakoor, father, Jack  Shakoor, two loving sisters, Holly and Jill, brothers-in-law, Ruben and Stephen, his nieces Goldie and Jack, cousins Jeffrey and Aimee, his beloved girlfriend, Rosemarie, her two precious daughters, Haley and Bella, and lastly, his ride or die Sheltie, Zelda.

In Adam's honor, let us remember to embrace life with the same passion, dedication, and love that he so brilliantly exemplified. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Kevin Joseph Naudts, age 73, of Wayne passed away peacefully on Monday, September 11, 2023 surrounded by his loving family. Kevin was born in Paterson, New Jersey to Alfred and Elizabeth (nee McCabe) Naudts.

He attended Saint Mary’s High School in Paterson, New Jersey and graduated in 1967. He continued his education at Ramapo College of New Jersey in Mahwah and graduated in 1987 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business. 

Kevin started his career in the retail industry. Upon the completion of his B.S. Degree, his chosen profession was Internet Technology, where he remained for 27 years. The majority of his time was with Bank of America Securities in New York City. After retirement in 2014, he enjoyed working as a School Crossing Guard and for Security at Pines Lake, where he was a resident for over 35 years. 

Kevin was an avid fisherman and enjoyed spending his days in his kayak. He was happy to share his passions and did so by frequently writing articles for “On the Water” and “The Fisherman” magazines. He loved the outdoors and being surrounded by nature. He had an easy-going personality and was a friend to everyone he met. His greatest accomplishment was being “Papa” to his three grandchildren, Jonathan, McKayla, and Cassidy. 

Kevin met the love of his life, Carolyn, in 1972 through mutual friends.  They were married at Saint Anne’s Church in Fair Lawn, New Jersey on April 16, 1977. They shared a beautiful life together for 51 years and were blessed with two beautiful daughters. 

Kevin is survived by his wife Carolyn (nee Rudolph) Naudts; his brother John Naudts and wife Joan; his daughter Kaitlin (nee Naudts) Dobiesz and husband Michael; his daughter Megan (nee Naudts) Bruno and husband Joseph; grandchildren Jonathan, McKayla, and Cassidy Dobiesz, as well as many other cherished family members and friends who will greatly miss him. Kevin was predeceased by his parents Alfred and Elizabeth Naudts, his sister Colleen Pina, and his brother Sonny Naudts.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to the Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research.

William R. Mirko, of Wayne, New Jersey, passed away on Sunday, September 10, 2023 at the age of 79.

William fondly known as “Bill” or “Gapa” was born on April 9, 1944 in Newark, NJ son of the late William and Helen Mirkowski. Bill attended High School in Queens NY. At the age of 18, he followed in his father’s footsteps and enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he served as a Security Agent.

Bill married the love of his life, Mary Ann Sudovar in 1980. They lived in Packanack Lake for over 40 years where they raised their 5 children. They were active parishioners of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church for many years where they spent numerous hours volunteering. They also were a big part of the Immaculate Heart of Mary School community, where all of their children attended. 

After his time in the military, he spent most of his career working as a Tele Communications Executive at the Singer/Kearfott Company. Following a short period of retirement, he took a part-time job at the Oak Ridge U.S. Post Office where he was able to relax and enjoy a slower pace of life. Bill was extremely kind, friendly, and social; there wasn't anyone in town that didn't know him and love him.

Bill was a loving husband, father, uncle, grandfather and friend to all he met. He was happiest when he was with his family. He loved nothing more than spending time with his 12 grandchildren who were his pride and joy. He also had a deep love for all things Myrtle Beach, SC.  He took great pleasure in the annual tradition of vacationing there with the entire family every summer. The family tradition continues to this day, 40 years later.  

He is survived by his loving wife Mary Ann, and children Marianne and husband Charlie Lazzio of Wayne, NJ; Roy Mirko and wife Dawn of Wayne NJ;  Kathleen and husband Bryan Fox of Stamford, CT; and Ed Mirko and wife Carolina of Oakland, NJ; 12 grandchildren; Brianna, Mateo, William, Kaitlyn, Ashley, Mattingly, Carlee, Michael, Peyton, Miles, Emma and Manning. As well as many other cherished family members and friends who will greatly miss him. He was predeceased by his son Michael who passed away in 1996. 

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

Clementine “Tina” Walsh peacefully left us in the morning on 10 September, 2023.  Tina was born to Joseph Kuss and Jennie Kuss (nee Szczech) of Passaic, New Jersey and has been a resident of Wayne since 1976.  Her parents chose her name after seeing the movie My Darling Clementine.  Growing up in Clifton, she often spent time with family at her grandparents’ dairy farm in Belle Mead.  After high school, she attended Seton Hall University; where she graduated with a degree in history.

After graduating, she became an English teacher and thrived with being able to help others master the language.  When her time teaching came to an end, she began a career in the customer service field; working for Duro-Test Lighting (Fairfield, NJ) and GAF in Wayne.  If anyone had a question on lighting or roofing… she knew the answer.  After retiring in 2011, she experienced a quiet life; where she enjoyed the animals that would come to the house and feeding the deer that would wait by the door.

Surviving Tina are her husband of forty-nine years (Ed Walsh), her sons (Edward Kuss-Walsh and Ian Walsh), grandchildren (Liam, Keira, and Victoria), her God children (Melissa Purdie and John Wilczek), her niece (Eileen Kosch) and nephew (Richard Swift), and many beloved cousins… She will be greatly missed by family, friends, and neighbors who will all remember her for her caring and kindness. 

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Wayne First Aid Squad.

Robert A. Flower

September 4, 1940 – September 9, 2023

Robert (Bob) Allen Flower, 83, of Wayne, New Jersey, passed away on Saturday, September 9, 2023.

Bob was born on September 4, 1940 in Upland, California, son of the late Clifford A. and Grace C. Flower.  Bob attended Emmaus High School in Emmaus, Pennsylvania and received his Bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University in 1963, where he played Football and Lacrosse.  Bob was a proud member of the Rutgers 1961 undefeated Football team and as a member of that team, has been inducted in to the Rutgers Football Hall of Fame.  He went on to receive his Master’s degree from East Stroudsburg University in 1971.  

Bob married Esther Elizabeth Goyne on February 19, 1966 in Conyngham, Pennsylvania.  In 1967, Bob and Esther moved to Packanack Lake in Wayne, New Jersey, where they have lived for 56 years and raised three sons.  Bob started teaching Physical Education and Health in the Wayne Township Public Schools in 1963.  Bob was a well-loved coach of Football, Baseball, Basketball and Track and Field at Wayne Hills.  Towards the end of his career, Bob served as the Department Chair of Physical Education, and at one point, was tapped to be the Interim Athletic Director.  After 40 years of teaching the children of Wayne, Bob retired in 2003.  

Always involved in his sons’ activities, Bob served as the President of the Wayne Valley Football Booster Club for many years.  For 30 summers, Bob served as the pool manager at the Glen Ridge Country Club.

Bob is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Esther Flower; three beloved sons – Michael Allen Flower and wife, Laura Flower of Wayne, New Jersey; Douglas Goyne Flower and wife, Larissa Flower of Wayne, New Jersey; James MacGregor Flower and wife, Joyce Flower of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina; seven grandchildren; Drake Flower, Caden Flower, Bryce Flower, Sophia Flower, Canyon Flower, Piper Flower and Asher Flower; his sister, Ellen Yerkes and brother in law Hal Yerkes; and two nieces and a nephew.

Bob was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, and grandfather.  Nothing made Bob happier than being with family and attending untold numbers of school performances, plays, musical concerts and every sporting event imaginable of his children and grandchildren.   Bob loved sharing his home on Lake Wallenpaupack, PA with friends and family.  Many memories were made there – boating, fishing, and playing card games.  Bob was a friend to all and the family finds comfort in the many, many colleagues and students who share how much they loved working with Bob and having Mr. Flower as their teacher.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to be made to the Wayne Memorial First Aid Squad, P.O. Box 2004, Wayne, NJ 07474 or the Wayne Council of PTO’s Memorial Scholarship Fund, 50 Nellis Drive, Wayne, NJ 07470.

Rita F. Carey, age 72, of Fallston, Maryland and a former longtime resident of Lions Head Lake in Wayne, NJ, passed away on Thursday, September 7, 2023.

Rita was born in New York City, the daughter of Anthony and Bessie (Salemi) Chianese. When she was just three years old, she moved west, across the Hudson River, to Oakland New Jersey, and later to Pompton Lakes before settling in Wayne, NJ at 39 Grantwood Road. 

Rita was a graduate of Wayne Hills High School’s Class of 1969. Her graduating class held the distinction of being the first class to go through all four years in the newly constructed high school building. After graduating, Rita launched full time into a career as a bodily injury claims representative for State Farm Insurance Company. She began work there when she was still in high school and by the time she retired in 2013, Rita clocked in 45 years. With her hard work ethic and empathetic and encouraging disposition, Rita was able to effectively help her clients through very challenging situations.  

Rita met her husband-to-be, William Carey on a blind date. Bill suggested that they go bowling. Bill didn’t know that Rita was an accomplished bowler and, not wanting to embarrass him, Rita kept it a secret by letting Bill defeat her. After bowling, Rita and Bill went back to her house where Bill got to meet Rita’s parents. When her dad asked them where they’d been, Bill explained that they had gone bowling. He respectfully added a comment about defeating Rita and something to the effect of her not being a good bowler. A little surprised at first, Rita’s father quickly realized that his daughter threw the game and he proceeded to break the bad news to Bill that he had been played. Bill never did bowl with Rita again but he did eventually ask her to marry him. They exchanged wedding vows on April 9, 1972 at Our Lady of Consolation Church in Wayne. They purchased their home at 29 Brookdale Road in the Lions Head Lake section of Wayne and Rita remained there for 49 years until moving to Fallston, Maryland to be closer to her daughter and grandchildren. Sadly, Bill passed away unexpectedly on January 31, 1995.

Rita loved competing in sports, especially softball and bowling. She played softball in town recreation leagues and for many years for State Farm Insurance’s team. She primarily played third base and pitched and, during softball season, it wasn’t unusual for her to have games at least three nights a week. When she wasn’t playing softball, Rita was bowling. She was a regular at T-Bowl in Wayne, Butler Bowl, and Astro Bowl in Clifton. Her 190 average earned Rita the right to compete in the tri-state Women’s All-Star Association (WASA) League and the Garden State Games.

Above all else, nothing was as important to Rita as her family. During her formative years and to the present, she lived for her daughter Robyn by pouring herself into raising, loving, and nurturing her as her mother and as a single mom from when Robyn was just thirteen years old. Rita was her greatest cheerleader at all of Robyn’s bowling, softball, and field hockey competitions. When life necessitated a move to Maryland for Robyn and her family, Rita moved also so that she could be near Robyn, husband Adam, and her two grandsons, Munson and Mason. This past December, Robyn and Adam welcome sweet Savannah to their family. Rita referred to Savannah as her little sunshine.. 

Rita simply loved people. She was a tremendously kind, gentle, empathetic, positive  and resilient person who always had a kind word for anyone she encountered. She would give you the shirt off of her back or give you whatever you stood in need of. These qualities helped her to be a loving wife, mother, grandmother, friend, employee and coworker. She affected peoples lives in ways that her family never realized.   

Rita was the beloved wife of William Carey, blessed in marriage for 23 years until his sudden passing in 1995. She was the very loving mother of Robyn Westover and husband Adam of Fallston, Maryland, and adored grandmother of Munson, Mason, and Savannah. 

In lieu of flowers, because Rita adored her grandchildren and loved to watch Munson and Mason compete in their local sports programs, those wishing to give a memorial contribution are asked to consider:

Fallston Recreation Council, Inc.

1707 Fallston Road

Fallston, MD  21047-1410

Surrounded by his loving wife Ruth and family, William B. Parisen (Bill), 94, of Wayne, New Jersey passed into the open arms of our Good Lord on September 6, 2023. Bill spent his life fully dedicated to being a husband, father and friend to many.

William was born on January 29, 1929 in Paterson, NJ to John and Clara Parisen. He thrived as a young boy in Wayne chasing squirrels, playing the violin and excelling at being the mischievous and protective big brother to his sisters Jean and MaryLou. His sense of humor and jokester ways always kept everyone that had the pleasure of knowing him entertained.

William began his professional career as a young, eager Civil Engineer learning the industry and playing silly pranks on his co-workers.

Bill met the love of his life, Ruth, and married in 1953. Ruth was quite surprised when he asked her one day if she’d like to buy a restaurant on Nassau Street in lower Manhattan. For 20+ years Bill served the working class of New York City from behind the deli counter at Bill’s Place, The Hero of Nassau Street. Choosing to get back into the office, he served as a Project Engineer for Orange and Rockland Utilities for 25 years retiring as manager of the Civil Engineering Department.

As if there wasn’t enough with work and raising 7 children Bill and a few close friends turned WestBrook Park, their quaint local swim and picnic area in West Milford into WestBrook Park KOA Campground. Weekends were spent in the beautiful surroundings of the park caring for the property, campers, staff and all that made the campground special.

Bill was also proud to be the founder and owner of Parisen Associates, a home inspection company in the tri-state area. His sons, Robert and David Parisen and grandson Ian Parisen will carry on the company’s success for years to come.

William and his wife Ruth are recognized as founding members of Our Lady of Consolation Church, Wayne. They have been active parishioners for over 60 years.

Bill was an avid gardener and took pride in the surroundings of his home, yard and vegetable garden in Wayne. He thoroughly enjoyed ice cream, Diet Pepsi and the Yankees.

Bill and Ruth shared their home on Long Beach Island for many years with family and friends. Bill enjoyed a relaxing swim in the ocean while waving off the "pesky" lifeguards as he was always the furthest swimmer beyond the breaking waves.

William is survived by his devoted wife Ruth having shared 71 memory filled years of marriage, his 7 children, Nancy and son-in-law Jay Jarossy, John Parisen, Loren and son-in law Pat Ascione, Robert and daughter-in-law Susan Parisen, Jill and son-in-law Robert Mertrud, David and daughter-in-law Brigitte Parisen and Kim Thomas. Bill’s 17 grandchildren will miss him dearly: Michael and Sara Jarossy, Emily, Ethan and Eric Parisen, Neil Ascione and Allison Romeo, Jessica Parisen, Jenna Pinchook and Jared Parisen, Scott, Sam and Emma Schultz, Ian and Victoria Parisen and Chris and Amanda Thomas. He leaves his 9 great grandchildren, Mason, Tenley and Sienna Romeo, Evelyn and Natalie Ascione, Lucas Parisen, Theodore, Calvin and Thomas Schultz.

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

St.Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Memorial Processing

501 St. Jude Place

Memphis, TN 38105-9959

Marion Veronica Monzo, age 90 of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 4, 2023, with her loving husband by her side.

Born in Evanston, Illinois to Michael and Veronica Bredger, her family moved to New Jersey where she attended and graduated from Hasbrouck Heights High School.

Marion began her professional career at Grand Union Food Store – a big grocery store chain at the time. She worked as a secretary for them while a young man named Bill Monzo worked part-time in the mail room. Their paths crossed one day, and Bill found himself starstruck by her beauty. In an effort to catch Marion’s attention, Bill convinced Marion that he was actually quite wealthy (whether she believed a younger man working in the mail room that he was rich is another story) but she agreed to join Bill for a date. The two quickly fell in love with one another. Bill was drafted into the Korean war which kept them apart for a time, but the two never lost touch and eventually Bill proposed to Marion.

They got married in 1954 and enjoyed a loving and devoted marriage to one another that lasted for 69 years. Bill and Marion honeymooned in the beautiful Bar Harbor, Maine – a favorite destination that they revisited many times during their lives together. 

In 1955, Marion and Bill welcomed their son Christopher Monzo into the world. Marion was an understanding, compassionate, loving, and caring mother. Their family expanded with the adoption of several cats and a loving Samoyed dog with a snow-white coat that they named Frosty. 

In addition to her responsibilities as a mother, Marion also worked for Bell Telephones as a telephone operator for 32 years! She and Bill both worked hard in their respective fields to eventually purchase a second residence at a golf community in the beautiful west coast of Florida. Although Marion wasn’t into golf, she did enjoy knitting so she would use the time away from Bill to refine her craft. She donated many of her knitted garments to Our Lady of Consolation Church to help those in need. They enjoyed that home for 10 years before retiring full-time to Wayne, New Jersey. 

Marion is survived by her husband William “Bill” Monzo; her grandson Dr. Christopher Monzo and his wife Laura Monzo; and her great-grandkids Logan Monzo and Diana Monzo. She is predeceased by her son Christopher Monzo. 

Wilma Kuiphof Philips age 90 of Pompton Plains died at home on September 3, 2023.

Wilma was born on August 16, 1933 in Paterson, New Jersey, the daughter of Ida Caroline Heusser and William Kuiphoff.  She spent her formative years in Paterson during the Great Depression.  While her family struggled at times during the decade, Wilma’s parents insisted that she be well educated.  Although resources were scarce, her parents enrolled her at the then Eastern Academy in Prospect Park, New Jersey for her high school education.  After graduating from Eastern Academy in 1951, she continued her education in the registered nurse program at Paterson General Hospital, receiving her RN certification in 1954.  Wilma worked as an operating room nurse throughout the remainder of the 1950’s at Paterson General Hospital in Paterson, New Jersey. While living with her parents in Haledon, New Jersey, she traveled extensively during vacation time. Her ultimate voyage took place in 1956 when along with her nurse friends she drove to California and back in a 1955 Pontiac. 

In 1958 Wilma met John Philips on a vacation to the Pocono Mountains. Despite proclaiming she would never marry, they did so on April 23, 1960 and had a wonderful marriage together for forty-nine years.

She and John lived on Orchard Place in Maywood, New Jersey from 1960 to 1965. As was the custom of that time, she gave up her career as a nurse and soon gave birth to her two children:  John William in 1961 and Judy in 1962.

In 1965, John was transferred by RCA to their facility in Bridgewater, New Jersey. This meant leaving Wilma’s home environment in Northern New Jersey and moving to then rural Somerset County. Despite a difficult transition to life in the country, she soon embraced this new lifestyle. She attended the South Branch Reformed Church where she was an active member of the Women’s Guild. Wilma also reentered the workforce in 1967 when she took a part time job as a nurse at the Carrier Clinic in Belle Meade, New Jersey. When John and Judy reached their teen years, she embarked on a new career in 1971 as a beloved school nurse at Old York School in Branchburg, New Jersey.  During this time, she completed her bachelor’s degree at the then Trenton State College (now the College of New Jersey). She worked at Old York School until she retired in 1992.

After retirement, Wilma and John moved to Ormond Beach, Florida where she as an active member of the Ormond Beach Presbyterian Church. She was also an active volunteer at the Ormond Beach Memorial Hospital, serving a term as the president of the auxiliary before she and John moved to Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains in December 2007. At Cedar Crest, she was an active member of the Protestant Community, specializing in tolling the bells at memorial services. While there, she was frequently visited by her children, grandchildren, and in-laws.

Wilma was predeceased by her husband John in 2010 and her parents. Surviving are her son John Philips and his wife Sarah (Cockcroft) of Branchburg, and her daughter Judy Philips and her husband Paul Scott of Brooklyn, New York; two cherished grandchildren William and Peter Philips; her brother-in-law Peter Filipczak and his significant other Delores Shanklin Kronemer of Fair Lawn; her niece Pat Colville of Middletown, New York and nephew Pete Filipczak of Campbell Hall, New York.

Wilma will be remembered as a person who stood by her values, demanded the best from those around her, and who provided her children with the best education possible.  While she frequently disagreed with her children after they received their college and graduate degrees, she steadfastly loved and respected them.  

Carmine Joseph Liguori, 83, of Haskell, NJ, formerly of Pompton Lakes, NJ, and Naples, FL, passed away peacefully, in the comfort of his home, and in the presence of his loving family, on Thursday, August 31, 2023. 

Carmine was born and raised in Paterson, New Jersey. He was born in the family's home on Martin Street and grew up on 27th Street, where he lived for nearly forty years. Carmine graduated from Eastside High School, then proudly served in the National Guard. He worked for many years at a pharmacy in Paterson, before becoming a Police Officer for the City of Paterson, while at the same time earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice at William Paterson University. Carmine eventually transferred over to the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office in Paterson. Upon his retirement, Carmine served a combined 25 years in law enforcement. 

Carmine is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Roseanne (D’Ambrosio) Liguori of Haskell, his daughter Joanne Presta and her husband Larry of Pompton Lakes, and his son, Alfonso “Al” Liguori and his wife Jeanette of Pompton Lakes. He was “Pop-Pop” to his seven grandchildren, Marc, Lauren and Ryan Presta, and Joseph, Anna, John, and Amy Liguori. Carmine was predeceased by his parents Alfonso Liguori and Nicoletta “Lena” Liguori (nee Violante) and his brother Louis Liguori.  

Carmine loved to play golf and achieved two holes-in-one during his playing days, making him extremely skilled or extremely lucky. He also enjoyed annual fresh-water fishing trips to Canada with friends and was a New York Jets season ticket holder for over thirty years. Carmine also loved to sing and dance, especially to the smooth sounds of Frank Sinatra and other music from the 1950’s. He was always the life of the party, and he made friends with everyone he met.

Carmine’s greatest love was for his family. His grandchildren meant the world to him, and they loved their “Pop-Pop” just as much. Nothing made Carmine more proud and thankful than when the whole family was gathered. He and Roseanne and their children and grandkids had the thrill of taking trips together, including a vacation to Disney World, a cruise to the Bahamas for Carmine and Roseanne’s 50th wedding anniversary, and a vacation down the Jersey shore at Ortley Beach. 

Carmine lived his life according to the principles guided by his Christian faith. He was a faithful parishioner at St. Brendan’s Church in Clifton, St. Mary’s Church in Pompton Lakes, and Our Lady of Consolation Church in Wayne. He served for countless years helping to make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate and disadvantaged through his active involvement as a member and former president of the Fidelians Foundation in North Haledon. 

Whether you knew him as Carmine, Joe, Sonny, Hon, Dad, Uncle Joe, or Pop-Pop, he was a kind, generous, honorable, fun and loving gentleman. With a glass of red wine or a martini in his hand, he would always offer a Salute’ to the friends and family who surrounded him. We now offer a Salute’ to him, thanking him for the love, kindness, support, and priceless memories he has given to us all. SALUTE’!!! See you on the rebound…

‍

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

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 

Memorial Processing 

501 St. Jude Place 

Memphis, TN 38105-9959 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alzheimer’s NJ

Attention Develpment Department

425 Eagle Rock Ave. Suite 203

Roseland, NJ 07068

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Matthew 19:14

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

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

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

Send to: 

Liam’s Warriors

PO Box 227

Totowa, NJ 07511

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Memorial Processing

501 St. Jude Place

Memphis, TN 38105-9959

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mona Lisa Adamo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

or via conventionally to:

Caribbean Medical Services Association

75 Adalia Ave, Tampa FL 33606

Tel: 813-251-8500

TD Bank

Routing # 0670-14822

Account # 42793011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

American Cancer Society

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

P.O. Box 6704

Hagerstown, MD 21741

Please indicate that your gift is in memory of Carmen Miele

Wayne Animal Shelter

201 Pompton Plains Crossroad

Wayne, NJ 07470

Please indicate that your gift is in memory of Carmen Miele

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Donations in Frank’s memory may be made to: 

Tunnels to Towers 

2361 Hylan Blvd. 

Staten Island, NY 10306

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Valley Hospital Foundation

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

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

The Valley Hospital Foundation

223 North Van Dien Avenue

Ridgewood, NJ 07450

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To family and friends far and near;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bella Op’t Hof ( née Mac Donald )

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

UNICO National

271 US-46 F103

Fairfield, NJ 07004

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

Wounded Warrior Project

P.O. Box 78516

Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rest in well-deserved peace and serenity.                                       

Good night, Dana

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rainbows for All Children

614 Dempster Street

Suite C

Evanston, IL 60202

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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