Barbara Conklin, age 85, of Wayne (formerly of Oakland) passed Tuesday, August 31, 2021.

She was born in Paterson to William and Carrie Post.  She was raised in Paterson and graduated from Central High School with the Class of 1954, where she was involved with the Financial, Publicity, Decoration, Jewelry and Pageant Committees and the Bible Club.  

As a young woman, Barbara worked for the Sam Braen Quarry where she met Abram Ira Conklin.  They fell in love and married on January 12, 1956. Their marriage was blessed with three children: Joanne, David, and Nancy. For 21 ½ years she worked for the Oakland Board of Education and retired as a Cafeteria Manager on March 1, 1989. Barbara and Abe enjoyed five years of retirement in Palm Coast, Florida where she was involved with the Christian Women’s Club of Palm Coast. They had a loving and devoted marriage of 38 years before Abram’s passing in 1994.  After his passing, Barbara returned to Wayne where she lived for the past 27 years.

Barbara was dedicated to her Christian faith and was a member of the Ramapo Valley Baptist Church in Oakland and later the Preakness Baptist Church in Wayne.  She was active in both churches and sang in their choirs. At the Preakness Baptist Church she served as a Deacon, was active with mission trips, was a member of the Young at Heart Group, and could always be found working the kitchen for just about any church function. Upon returning to New Jersey, she chose to spend much of that time driving her senior friends shopping, to doctors, or anywhere else they needed to go – a truly selfless woman. She loved to entertain, decorate, and prepare food for family and friends.  Her loving touch on apple pie will be dearly missed. She was an active and devoted mom having been a Cub Scout leader, Brownie leader, and was always there to help with her children’s extracurricular activities.  She was skilled and creative; talents she demonstrated in the clothes she sewed for her kids as well as in her crafting. A favorite time of hers was taking girls trips to Street and Craft Fairs. Most of all Barbara will be remembered as a loving mom, grandma, and great-grandma that was faith-filled, spiritual, loving, and giving.

Barbara was predeceased by her husband Abram Ira Conklin (d. 1994), daughter Joanne Custer (d. 2011); and sister Carol Post (d. 2013). She is survived by her son David Conklin and his wife Darlene of Chelmsford, MA; daughter, Nancy Dukeshire and her husband Robert of Bloomingdale; son-in-law Benjamin Custer of Whitehouse Station; grandchildren, Chris Megnin and his wife Andrea, Kim Megnin, Steven Conklin, and Ashley Conklin; and great-grandchildren Ryan Megnin and Elena Megnin.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Baptist Camp Lebanon, 79 Blossom Hill Road, Lebanon, NJ 08833. The link for that donation can be found here.

Louise Pallante, age 94, of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 30, 2021.

Louise was born and grew up in Newark, NJ. Like so many of her generation, she left school at an early age so that she could get a paying job to contribute to the needs of her parents and sisters.

As a young woman, Louise fell in love with Pasquale Pallante and soon after, they exchanged wedding promises and began their life’s journey together as Mr. and Mrs Pallante.

Louise and Pasquale started their own catering business and called it Parkway Catering. As part of their new enterprise, they had a fleet of food services trucks that were used to transport the food, including lunch offerings at corporate parks, to their client’s venues. Running the business necessitated daily 3:00 AM starts where Louise would make all the food offerings for the day.

The catering business was a great success and this enabled Louise and Pasquale to retire early. In 1974, they moved to North Miami, Florida where they joined Louise’s sister Joyce and husband Frank. Shortly after, her sister Antoinette and husband Dominick moved to Florida too. In her efforts to get established in her new sunny home, Louise took a part-time job at a Jewish deli. Her bosses adored her because she kept all the equipment meticulously clean which was important in a kosher deli.

Louise’s favorite pastimes included testing her luck at the casinos, going out for dinner with friends, and going to the track to see the dog races. She adored animals, especially her dog Duke – a Dalmatian mix, and she had the kindest place in her heart for the poor homeless stray pooches that she’d regularly feed food scraps which she’d leave outside her catering business.

In September of 1989, Louise’s beloved Pasquale passed away. She remained in Florida until moving back to New Jersey, settling in Sisco Village in Wayne where she quickly made new friends who she loved to get together with for a game of dominos or just to visit. In 2019, Louise moved to the new Bristol Assisted Living Community in Wayne.

Louise will be remembered for her outgoing personality, good-hearted nature, and friendly, kind spirit. A parishioner of Our Lady of the Valley Church in Wayne, Louise lived out the words of the biblical “Golden Rule” from Matthew 7:12 where Jesus said “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” She would gladly give the shirt off her back to anyone in need.

Louise is survived by her sister Joyce Bollotta and husband Frank of North Miami, FL., her niece and nephew: Annette Guardabasco and husband Nick of Wayne, and Donald Bruno and wife Cynthia of Goose Creek, SC: and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Pasquale "Pat" and sisters: Antoinette Bruno and Florence Meola.

Laura Pulford (nee Swisher), age 88 of Butler, died peacefully on Sunday, August 29, 2021. Her family had all been gathered at her bedside when she passed.

Laura grew up in the Stoney Road section of Paterson and recalled it as being a fun place to grow up. She enjoyed sleigh riding at Garret Mountain (the bunny slopes), Pennington Park (the expert slopes), and regularly visited Palisades Amusement Park with her cousins as well as her best friend, Tina Roncone where they each terrorized other bumper car participants and wondered years later why they never got their driver's licenses. It was in her neighborhood that she met Leonard “Lenny” Pulford when they were just kids. Their love blossomed and they were married on May 23, 1953. Laura was the reserved one, and Lenny was the life of the party! They laughed together, cried together, danced together, and enjoyed doing just about everything else together. Laura was certainly ‘the boss,’ and Lenny was devoted to her. They took many family vacations to Pennsylvania, visiting Hershey Park, relatives in Reading, and the Lancaster area.They enjoyed a very special twenty-fifth anniversary vacation to Bermuda. Sadly, Lenny died suddenly in 1984, at just fifty-three years old. Laura mourned his loss ever since and has missed him dearly.

In 1965, Laura and Lenny moved their family to High Crest Lake in West Milford, NJ. Laura was a true homemaker and loved running her household. Her cooking was exceptional and she was one of those people who could whip up an incredible meal out of thin air. Laura remained in their family home until 1999, when she moved to Butler, NJ.

Through the years Laura always kept Lenny’s spirit alive with each of her grandchildren. She always told them lively stories and many times pointed out each grandchild’s individual trait that was surely passed down from their grandfather- from singing, to dancing, to acting, to smiling, to his swimming expertise, to laughing, to his sense of humor, and to playing baseball or softball. She loved each of her grandchildren and great grandchildren immensely and would do anything for anyone of them.

Laura is survived by her three children; Kenneth Pulford and his wife Patrice of Glen Rock, Lisa Davies and her husband Rich, and Karen Miller and Jim Petrizzi, eleven grandchildren; Erica and Ryan Pulford, Allison, Scott (Samantha), Matthew, Brendan, Madeline, Rick Davies/Miller, Melanie Marek (Keith), Drew and Dana Miller  and two great-grandchildren; Savannah and Syrus Miller, her beloved brother; Robert Swisher and his wife Sandra of Wayne, and four nieces; Sharon Rovere, Doreen Calvello,  Donna Rojas, and Jessica Lenczewski.

Pasquale J. “Pat” Antonelli, age 84 of Wayne, died peacefully at home on Saturday, August 28, 2021. He has lived in Wayne for approximately fifteen years.

Pat grew up in Belleville, NJ, the only child to Fred and Frances Antonelli. He graduated from Belleville High School with the class of ’56, where he was known as the hot guy in the black Oldsmobile (according to his x-wife). After high school, he briefly worked on the receiving docks for a company called Uarco before landing with Open Country Shoe Stores, rising to become district manager of several area stores. In 1984, he bought the T-Bowl Pro Shop (from his best friend Vinny Spranza), located at the T-Bowl Lanes in Wayne, which he operated until his retirement. Pat was an avid bowler, a proud member of the Bowler Hall of Fame, and he scored more than 8 “300” games and multiple "299" games during his bowling career. Besides running the pro shop, he also served as the “Bowling Pro” at T-Bowl for many years. In the evenings, after closing up the pro shop, he would often socialize at the bar, ordering his favorite “vodka-tonic with two limes!”

Pat also loved all types of cars, hence the nickname “Cadillac Pat.” When Pontiac announced final production of the Trans-Am 2002, he bought one and has kept it ever since. He loved music, always had a radio nearby, and was a big fan of CHICAGO. He also enjoyed keeping himself in shape, and visited Jack LaLanne fitness in Wayne for many years until it closed, and then switched over to Crunch Fitness, where you could find him exercising religiously, three times each week (or socializing). He enjoyed working on his tan just as much, and you could find him at Tom’s Lake or the Wayne Township Pool every day of the season, without fail! The Jersey Shore, Aruba, and Atlantis in the Bahamas, were tops on his vacation list.

A huge fan of the NY YANKEES and the SAN FRANSISCO 49ers, Pat particularly enjoyed the strategic details of just about any sport. He was so keen on baseball that he knew the pitches that would be thrown before they would even leave the glove, and the plays that would be called. Of course, he learned the importance of all of this in his younger years, running the local sportsbook, which no one’s supposed to know about, but everyone did!

Pat was affectionately called “Bowling Pop” by his four grandchildren. He truly adored them as much as they adored him. They vacationed together, enjoyed holidays together, and he especially looked forward to his annual Friday night dinner with Kevin "Jr". He was a devoted grandfather and he loves them all very much. They will miss him dearly, and they each have great memories to cherish for years to come.

Pat is survived by his daughter, Caprice Vieldhouse ("Monk") and her husband Kevin of Wayne, anyone who knew Pat knew his daughter was his whole world and he was often heard saying "he couldn't have asked for a better son in law".  Pat is also survived by his four grandchildren; Stephanie Shepard of Harriman, NY, Kevin Vieldhouse, Jr., Korey Vieldhouse, and Carli Jo Vieldhouse, all of Wayne.

Dominick A. Despenzire, age 86, of Lincoln Park passed away on Monday, August 23, 2021.

Dominick was born and raised in Newark, NJ and was one of two children to Angelo and Concetta Despenzire.  As a young boy, Dominick played baseball growing up in Newark and while attending Arts High School in Newark, he played the position of catcher for the High School baseball team.  Dominick graduated from Arts High School in Newark with the class of 1953.  Following his graduation, Dominick began working for Mutual Benefit Life Insurance Company in Newark.

While employed at Mutual Benefit Life Insurance, Dominick attended night classes at Rutgers University in Newark where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business in 1969.  During his years at Mutual Benefit Insurance in 1961, Dominick met Nancy Tamburri. As fate would have it, they fell in love and became husband and wife on July 21, 1963.  After getting married, Dominick and Nancy settled in Belleville where they lived for more than thirty years.  While living in Belleville, the couple welcomed the birth of their one and only daughter Donna.  In 2003, Dominick and Nancy moved to West Paterson and eventually moved to Lincoln Park eight years ago where they have been ever since.

Dominick was the epitome of a gentleman. He was a soft-spoken man, and the kindest and gentlest of souls. He was a selfless person who always put the needs of his family and others before his own. Nothing in the world meant more to him than providing for and spending time with his family.

Throughout the years, he and his family would spend their summers at their summer home in Ortley Beach at the Jersey Shore.  Their Family gatherings at his daughter Donna’s house, such as Sunday Dinner, birthday celebrations, and holidays were treasured by Dominick and his family.

“Grandpa Dom”, as everyone called him, cherished spending time helping raise his two granddaughters, Nicole and Christine.  He would take them to school every day, help them with their homework, teach them to read and write, do crafts with them and take them for long walks. He never missed a moment of their life. Above all, “Grandpa Dom” taught and showed them, by example, true and unconditional love.

Dominick was a voracious reader of all types of literature, especially novels.  He was a devoted New York Yankees and New York Giants fan.  He was a long-time member and past President of the Unico Newark Chapter, the largest Italian American service organization in the United States.  Dominick enjoyed frequenting different casinos, his favorite game being Craps.

Dominick is survived by his wife Nancy (nee Tamburri) of Lincoln Park, one daughter; Donna Pescatore of Wayne, one sister Anna Rubulotta of Totowa, two granddaughters; Nicole Pescatore of Wayne, and Christine Pescatore of Wayne, one brother-in-law; Sam Tamburri of Cedar Grove and many nieces and nephews.

Dominick was the epitome of a gentleman and it was an honor and privilege to know him. He will be sincerely missed by everyone that knew him. There is no one else like “Grandpa Dom”.

Donations in Dominick’s name may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959. http://www.stjude.org

Joseph W. Murray, retired Deputy Chief of the Paterson Fire Dept., age 74, of Wayne, passed Tuesday, August 24, 2021.

He was born to the late Joseph P and Agnes Murray of Paterson.  He was raised at 69 Maryland Avenue in Paterson and graduated from Eastside High School in 1964 where he played baseball.  After high school, he attended the University of Oklahoma and pursued his passion for baseball with the Sooners.

When Joe was 24 years old in 1971, he began his career with the Paterson Fire Department and worked as a firefighter for Ladder 3 on Lafayette Street.  He became a Captain in 1989 and served briefly with Engine 7 before returning to Ladder 3. In 1998 he was promoted to Battalion Chief and served in Battalion 1 and Battalion 3. In 2005, Joe was promoted to Deputy Chief and served as the Tour Commander of Tour 4 before retiring on July 1, 2010. He was also the founding President and a member of the Passaic County Police and Fire Emerald Society.

Joe will be remembered for his quick one-liners, passion for politics, generous nature,  and unbridled enthusiasm for sports especially the Dodgers.  His love for the Brooklyn team happened serendipitously when Joe was a young boy.  His father took him and his brother Andy to buy NY Yankee jackets but they didn’t have Joe’s size so he got a Dodgers jacket instead and a Dodgers fan was born.  He enjoyed watching sports, reading, listening to music, late night shopping on the internet, posting on Facebook, driving  flashy cars and collecting hats and watches.

Joe was the loving husband of Susan Sturgis; devoted father of Shannon Murray-Corsale of Jupiter, FL, Ryan Murray (Elizabeth) of Midland Park, Allison Murray of Wayne, and Jenny Sturgis of Van Nuys, CA; cherished grandfather of Seana Ann Corsale, John Michael Corsale, Evan Joseph Tagliareni, Emariah Faith Sturgis, Owen Joseph Murray, Ian James Murray, and Dylan Charles Murray; dear brother of Andrew Murray of Paterson; loving Uncle to Bryan Murray (Michelle), John Murray (Erin) , Danielle Murray, and Drew Murray; great uncle to Aidan Murray, Colin Murray,Skyler Murray, and Payton Murray. He is also survived by his former wife and mother of his children Carol Murray (nee Liberty) of Port Saint Lucie, Florida.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10306 would be greatly appreciated. To donate please call 718 987 1931 so the family can be properly informed that you donated in Joe’s memory.

Craig Daniel Zeglen, age 60, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Tuesday, August 24, 2021.

Craig was born and raised in Wayne and was one of two children to A.J. and Dolores Zeglen.  While growing up in Wayne, Craig attended Wayne Hills High School and graduated with the class of 1979.  Following his high school graduation, Craig went to work with this father at the Wayne based family business, AJ Zeglen Electric.  Craig worked closely with his dad for about twelve years.  Being an Electrician was work that Craig truly enjoyed and continued to practice throughout his life.  In 1991, Craig joined the Morris County Sheriff’s Department and earned a position as a Correctional Officer.  Craig’s career with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office spanned twenty-five years and over that time he earned the rank of Sergeant.  Throughout his career, Craig received a number of various commendations for his service.  Craig was truly dedicated to his work and treated every day like it was his first.  He loved the people he worked with and was truly well respected among his colleagues.  He remained close with many after retirement and treasured the bonds made.

When Craig was a young man he was an avid bodybuilder and while working with his father, he took a part time job at night as a bouncer in a club called The Getaway in his home town of Wayne.  One night at the club he met a young attractive woman named Cyndi Sockler.  The two started talking and agreed to meet at the club later in the week for a date.  Cyndi and Craig met at The Getaway on February 1, 1984 and went to the movies to see “The Terminator” and afterwards have some dinner at the Pompton Queen Diner in Pequannock.  The couple hit it off great and started dating.  As fate would have it, they fell in love and three years later on November 1, 1987 Craig and Cyndi were married.  After getting married, Craig and Cyndi bought a townhouse in Hardyston Township where they lived for about ten years.  During their time living in Hardyston, they welcomed the births of their two sons, Kyle and Craig.  In 1997, Craig and his family moved to Oak Ridge where they have been ever since.

Craig was a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association as well as the Association of New Jersey Rifle and Pistol Club at the Cherry Ridge Range in West Milford.  He and his family were also parishioners of St Mary’s Church in Pompton Lakes for many years.  He was an avid outdoorsman and one of his favorite past times was fishing, both fresh water and salt water.  Craig was an accomplished craftsman of all types; woodworking, metal, and even weaving.  Craig made his own fishing lures, knives, Halloween decorations for himself, his family, and his friends.  He had an extensive collection of various knives and firearms as well.  Another talent of Craig’s was gardening and landscaping.  His front and back yards were always meticulously manicured and beautifully landscaped making it a true family oasis.  Craig also had a far-reaching variety of Bonsai trees which he and his sons grew.  He was a devoted New York Giants and New York Yankees fan.  However, aside from all of Craig’s talents, hobbies, and interests, his greatest passion was for his family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Craig than spending time with and providing for his wife and sons.  Throughout the years, Craig and his family cherished yearly summer vacations at the Jersey Shore.  Craig was definitely a warm weather person and always felt at home on the beach or on an island. Craig and Cyndi treasured thirty-four years of loving and loyal marriage together.

Craig was the kind of guy who seemed to have a tough exterior; however, when someone got to know him they realized that he was a warm, kind, and compassionate man.  Craig touched the lives of many people and will be truly missed by everyone that knew him.

Craig is survived by his wife Cynthia (nee Sockler) of Oak Ridge, his two sons; Kyle Daniel Zeglen of Oak Ridge, and Craig Garrett Zeglen and his girlfriend Sabreen Nassar of Oak Ridge, one sister Denise Kearney of Cape Coral, Florida, his brother and sister in laws; Wayne and Sue Hasenbalg of Randolph, Nick and Nancy Sarnelli of Pequannock, along with his cherished nephews and niece and great nephews and great niece, and a group of the most treasured dear friends.  He is also survived by his two precious Pitbull’s; Brock and Junior.

Carmela R. Buglione (nee Stanco), age 73 of Boynton Beach, FL and formerly of North Haledon and Woodland Park, died on Tuesday, August 24, 2021. She had retired to Boynton Beach in 2013, for the warm weather and to be near the beach.

Her parents chose to name her “Carmela” when she was born on July 16, the day that the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is celebrated. Carmela was a devoted Roman Catholic herself, having attended St. Paul’s RC Church in Prospect Park, NJ for many years, and more recently she attended St. Vincent Ferrer RC Church in Delray Beach, Florida. To family and longtime friends she was also affectionately known as: “Lina.”  She was the devoted daughter of Pasquale and Dora (who pre-deceased her), and had an exceptional relationship with her Mother – who she loved dearly.

Carmela was a supremely dedicate mother, and she worked tirelessly raising her three sons. She taught them to be good people, charitable, and to give back to society. When it came to their education, Carmela motivated her sons to push themselves and she never accepted anything less than their best. She wasn’t bashful, never lost an argument and would call her kids out if they were cutting any corners at school. She was a tough task-master, but it was all borne out of love for her sons. She encouraged them in their athletic endeavors, college pursuits, and careers. She was their biggest fan, and greatest inspiration. Of course, all three of her sons would have been happier if she hadn’t made them pick weeds from the landscaping, or vacuum - so often! Her sons were keenly aware of how much she enjoyed spending time at the beach and for her 70th birthday, they surprised her with a wonderful vacation to Point Pleasant Beach, which she enjoyed beyond words.

Carmela was a wonderful hostess and often had an ‘open house’ for Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Eve. Her cooking was exceptional as well, and she was very gifted in this area. She could cook an incredible meal from scratch, often without a written recipe, relying on her taste and feel as she put the meal together.  Friday nights were reserved for her homemade pizza, and Sunday Dinners were always special - which always included influences from her beloved Mother’s cooking.

She could also be described as a world class shopper, who was always on the hunt for an incredible bargain, and had a knack for giving very thoughtful/special gifts for all occasions.

Carmela especially loved being a grandmother to her three grandchildren, and she enjoyed a very special bond with each of them. They all call her “Nonna,” and they adored her as much as she adored them! They played board games and loved doing puzzles together. It didn’t matter if they were together ‘in-person,’ FaceTime, or just talking on the phone, Carmela made the moments magical and she spoiled each of them! They will all miss her dearly.

Carmela was the loving and devoted wife of Carmine for forty-four years. Sadly, Carmine died suddenly in 2013 and Carmela was heartbroken. Yet she remained very strong and independent for her family.  Thereafter, she joined a Widow’s Ministry through her Church in Boynton Beach, and also participated in other widow’s groups and ladies clubs.  Where she made new friendships and created a strong social network, but she truly missed her husband. As a strong and independent woman, she kept up a strong persona, but she grieved for her beloved Carmine. We rest in the faith that they are reunited once again in eternity.

Over the last eight years she faced significant health issues with courage, dignity  and independently.  As she did not want to be a burden upon her children.

Carmela is survived by her three sons: Albert Buglione and his wife Taryn of Wayne, NJ, Marc Buglione of North Bergen, NJ, and Jonathan Buglione and his wife Carla of Verona; NJ, three grandchildren: Amelia, AJ, and Luca, with yet another grandchild expected soon.

She was the sister to Angelo and his wife Virginia, Michael and sister-in-law to Alberta. Aunt to several nieces and nephews, cousin to many, and beloved friend who was like family to many in New Jersey and Florida. In addition, she was pre-deceased by her in-laws Albert and Josephine Buglione.

In Carmela’s memory she would appreciate: an act of kindness, an act of charity, or a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959, www.stjude.org.

Dominick A. Despenzire, age 86, of Lincoln Park passed away on Monday, August 23, 2021.

Dominick was born and raised in Newark, NJ and was one of two children to Angelo and Concetta Despenzire.  As a young boy, Dominick played baseball growing up in Newark and while attending Arts High School in Newark, he played the position of catcher for the High School baseball team.  Dominick graduated from Arts High School in Newark with the class of 1953.  Following his graduation, Dominick began working for Mutual Benefit Life Insurance Company in Newark.

While employed at Mutual Benefit Life Insurance, Dominick attended night classes at Rutgers University in Newark where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business in 1969.  During his years at Mutual Benefit Insurance in 1961, Dominick met Nancy Tamburri. As fate would have it, they fell in love and became husband and wife on July 21, 1963.  After getting married, Dominick and Nancy settled in Belleville where they lived for more than thirty years.  While living in Belleville, the couple welcomed the birth of their one and only daughter Donna.  In 2003, Dominick and Nancy moved to West Paterson and eventually moved to Lincoln Park eight years ago where they have been ever since.

Dominick was the epitome of a gentleman. He was a soft-spoken man, and the kindest and gentlest of souls. He was a selfless person who always put the needs of his family and others before his own. Nothing in the world meant more to him than providing for and spending time with his family.

Throughout the years, he and his family would spend their summers at their summer home in Ortley Beach at the Jersey Shore.  Their Family gatherings at his daughter Donna’s house, such as Sunday Dinner, birthday celebrations, and holidays were treasured by Dominick and his family.

“Grandpa Dom”, as everyone called him, cherished spending time helping raise his two granddaughters, Nicole and Christine.  He would take them to school every day, help them with their homework, teach them to read and write, do crafts with them and take them for long walks. He never missed a moment of their life. Above all, “Grandpa Dom” taught and showed them, by example, true and unconditional love.

Dominick was a voracious reader of all types of literature, especially novels.  He was a devoted New York Yankees and New York Giants fan.  He was a long-time member and past President of the Unico Newark Chapter, the largest Italian American service organization in the United States.  Dominick enjoyed frequenting different casinos, his favorite game being Craps.

Dominick is survived by his wife Nancy (nee Tamburri) of Lincoln Park, one daughter; Donna Pescatore of Wayne, one sister Anna Rubulotta of Totowa, two granddaughters; Nicole Pescatore of Wayne, and Christine Pescatore of Wayne, one brother-in-law; Sam Tamburri of Cedar Grove and many nieces and nephews.

Dominick was the epitome of a gentleman and it was an honor and privilege to know him. He will be sincerely missed by everyone that knew him. There is no one else like “Grandpa Dom”.

Donations in Dominick’s name may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959. http://www.stjude.org

Theresa “Terry” Ann Rigoglioso, age 56, of Wayne, passed Saturday, August 21, 2021.

Terry was born in Passaic to Robert and Theresa Devecka of Clifton.  She was raised in Clifton and attended St Andrews School through 8th grade and graduated from Clifton High School with honors in the Class of 1983.  She continued her education at Seton Hall University in South Orange where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work and her Masters Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Rutgers University in New Brunswick.

Terry worked as an emergency room receptionist at Passaic General Hospital throughout her high school and college years.   After graduating Seton Hall, she worked as a social worker at St Michaels Medical Center in Newark and later for the Garfield Board of Education, and the Caldwell Board of Education.

It was at St. Michael’s, where Terry met the love of her life, Vincent Rigoglioso.  Their first date was to a NY Yankee game and to see the New York City Fireworks that were held just after the game.  They fell in love and after a three year courtship, Vincent proposed at the Cavalier Cafe in Clifton.  They were married on March 17, 1991 at St. Andrews RC Church in Clifton and have had thirty years of a loving and devoted marriage.

Terry was dedicated to her Catholic faith and a devoted parishioner of Saint Mary’s Church in Pompton Lakes.  She has always volunteered throughout her life helping others in various capacities and had found her niche using her professional skills for those in need at the St Marys Church’s “Pathways Counseling Center” in Pompton Lakes.

Terry was an adoring mother, devoted wife, a loving daughter, sister and friend.  She was so full of life and love, genuine, kind and always willing to help anyone almost to a fault.  She was a compassionate soul, with a strong moral compass. Terry’s sense of integrity and fairness set the standard for all.  She was smart, and an organized procrastinator. She earned straight A’s in high school and college. Often, after staying up all night, and needing a few minutes of sleep, she would ask her sister to wake her up in ten minutes and then proceed to hide. She would always get a few extra minutes because her sister would have to find her usually behind a couch or locked in the bathroom. Terry had a great sense of humor, was not afraid to laugh at herself, and when challenged she was always able to come back with a quick witty reply. Many friends benefited from Terry’s passion for walking. Terry looked forward to her walks through her neighborhood with the friends and walking partners she had made.  Terry had a sweet tooth that required a daily chocolate fix, and her family looked forward to her special breakfasts of homemade waffles.  Much of her family will recall her self-appointed nickname of “Auntie B” where she said the “B” stood for beautiful so they would always be reminded. She was actively involved with all of her children’s school organizations and booster clubs and was their number one fan.

Terry was the loving wife of Vincent Rigoglioso; devoted mother of Vincent Paul Rigoglioso, Domenic Rigoglioso, and Vanessa Rigoglioso; cherished daughter of Robert and Theresa Devecka of Clifton; loved sister of Maryrose Hosier (Norman) of Newton, Robert Devecka, Jr. (Nancy) of Toms River, Anthony Devecka (Betty) of Toms River, Roberta Cardaci (John) of Holmdel and John Devecka (Cherilyn) of Ladera Ranch, CA; she was the dear daughter-in-law of Marie Rigoglioso of Garfield and the late Charles Rigoglioso (d. 2016); she was dearly loved by many nieces, nephews, cousins, brothers and sisters-in-laws, and many friends.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Pathways Counseling Center of St Marys Church, 16 Pompton Avenue, Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442 would be greatly appreciated. Please include "Memorial Donation for Terry Rigoglioso" in your check memo. You can donate online by clicking here: Pathways Counseling Center.

Allen Simpson, age 84, of Bloomingdale, formerly of Wayne, passed Wednesday, August 18, 2021.

Allen was born in 1937 to Raymond A. and Helen E. Simpson in Jersey City. Living in the Vauxhall section of Newark until moving to Wayne. The roads in Wayne at the time he moved there were mostly dirt!  He walked up to Route 202, where all the mailboxes were for the Riverview community, and that is where he waited for the school bus.  

His father was a Captain in the Army during WWII, when the family was moved to Richland, Washington, where he lived for 2 years. At this time they lived near the Hanford Site, which, in 1943, was used to produce Plutonium for the Atomic bomb that helped bring an end to WWII. He lived near the Columbia River, where nuclear reactors lined the river bank, and Allen would walk the hills along the river and recounted how they were filled with wild asparagus.

He moved back to Wayne when he was 8 years old and lived in the Riverview Community. He spent much of his free time looking for frogs, salamanders, turtles, etc., in the local brooks and rivers.  He swam in the Pompton River several times a day.  He was always devoted 200% to his hobbies: chemistry, chess, and short wave radio (Ham). His call sign was N2NN. He attended Fairleigh Dickinson University but then joined the Navy.   He was in Communications and one of the best in the world at receiving Morse code. While in the Navy he served in French Morocco among many other stations. After the Navy he worked in Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and other Middle Eastern Countries working in communications with General Instrument, Kearfott, and several other companies.  

Later in life his hobbies turned to model trains, then photographing trains, which then led him to photography.  Nature became his obsession! Until his death, he spent his time photographing mushrooms, flowers, wildlife, etc.!!! In the Mycology Society he won many awards in Frelinghuysen arboretum. He developed his own photos, printed them and later professionally framed them. He entered many photography contests and received accolades from most. His equipment was highly professional! He took pleasure in giving away 4x6s of his work to clerks at stores, banks, etc.!!!

At Portobello’s restaurant in Oakland, he always gave a 100 % tip or more! During his last years he gave generously to many charities of which he would receive 25 requests daily! His last and most recent pleasure was feeding sunflower kernels to the groundhog, chipmunks squirrels, etc., of which many he could pet. He called his sister, “Snoops” and she called him, “Lallen”, up until he passed.

Allen is predeceased by his wife, Claire Elise (nee Bollinger), who died in 2019. Claire was the love of his life and they enjoyed thirty eight years of a very loving and devoted marriage. Allen is survived by his sister, Jane Van Eeuwen of Wayne, nephew William Van Eeuwen of Wayne, and his dear cousins; Stephanie, Heather, and Adrian.

Joseph P. Simone, age 74 of Sussex, formerly of North Haledon, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2021, surrounded by close family and friends. He was born to parents Joseph and Eleanor Simone on March 5, 1947, in Paterson, New Jersey. He attended Hawthorne High School and initially worked with his father doing auto-body work which later led him to opening his own shop. He married his sweetheart Marie (Siniscalchi) at age 19 and recently celebrated 55 years of marriage together this past February.

Joe was exceptionally talented in many ways. He was once the lead singer traveling around the country in a band called “Court of Appeals.” He was also an artist who thrived in both painting and metal artwork, displaying some of his works in a gallery in Ridgewood. In his spare time he used his auto-body experience to restore many antique cars, some of which went on to win “best in show” awards. He had a passion for making wine, winning many awards including several gold medals in the New York State Fair and Winemaker of the Year at Corrado’s Annual Amateur Winemaking Competition. He was a great su-chef (to Marie) and especially loved making his famous homemade raviolis for his grandchildren. Joe’s door was always open. It was never a 5 minute stay and you always had a great meal and lots of laughs. Everyone was welcome and invited for Sunday Dinner.

He cherished his friends and family. He married Marie, the love of his life, in 1966, who survives him. He is also survived by his son Joseph Simone and wife Maria Elena from Wayne, his son Michael Simone and wife Maria from Franklin Lakes, his daughter Monique Monaco and husband Michael from Wayne, thirteen loving grandchildren, his brother-in-law David Siniscalchi of Paterson, his sister Donna, his three brothers Dave, Mark and Glen, nieces and nephews.

Thomas John Drag, age 69, of Pompton Plains passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, August 15th surrounded by his loving family after a long illness. After 10 years of being apart, he is finally reunited with the love of his life, Renee.

Tom was born to Edward and Ann Drag (nee Lynch) in North Tarrytown, NY (now Sleepy Hollow). He was the second oldest of 5 children.

Tom and his family moved to the Packanack Lake section of Wayne in June of 1962. He is a 1969 graduate of DePaul High School. He then enrolled at the College of Insurance (now St. John’s), graduating Cum Laude with a BBA in 1974.

Tom met the love of his life Renee (nee Haggar) through his best friend Russ. Their first real date was Renee’s senior prom in 1973. They fell in love and were married on May 15th 1976 at Immaculate Heart of Mary in Wayne, NJ.

After their honeymoon in Aruba, they settled into their new apartment at Beaver Brook in Lincoln Park before moving onto Mary Place in Pequannock and finally settling on Whipple Road in Pompton Plains.

Tom was an eager volunteer within Pequannock Township. He was happy to help, whether it was coaching baseball or serving as a commissioner of the local PAL football program, especially if it involved spending time with his children. Tom was also a founding member of the Pequannock Boys and Girls Club spending countless hours turning an abandoned school building into the beginnings of what is now a wonderful facility for the youth of the community. Tom enjoyed many lifelong friendships from his volunteer work in Pequannock.

Tom had a 45-year career in the Insurance Industry, spending over 35 of those years at Alexander & Alexander/AON. His work allowed him to travel the world and make lifelong friends with colleagues from across the globe. He took great pride in his work and became a mentor to many in the insurance industry. Aon in New Jersey still gives the “Tom Drag Award” to an employee who goes above and beyond for a fellow employee.  He worked on the 105th floor of the World Trade Center, but his life was spared on September 11th, 2001. He lost hundreds of close friends and colleagues on 9/11, which impacted him for the rest of his life. He decided to retire in 2015 as a Senior Vice President to focus on family, but especially his 7 grandchildren.

He was a devoted, attentive, and loving husband, father, and “Pop-Pop”. He fought his illnesses with such tenacity so he could enjoy his children and grandchildren for as long as possible. He loved attending various sporting and school events, jumping waves with them on Long Beach Island, fishing trips to the St. Lawrence River, or simply sitting around telling stories and singing songs. Even when Tom’s health declined, he would Facetime his grandchildren to remind them of how much he loved them.

Tom leaves behind a loving and heartbroken family. He is survived by his three sons; Dr. Thomas John II and his girlfriend Amy Hillenbrand of Fishkill NY, Timothy James and his wife Michelle of Chester NJ, and Daniel Edward and his wife Alysen of Middletown, NJ; his 7 grandchildren, TJ, Thomas John III, Catie, Brody, Cooper, Gavin, and Royce; his siblings Edward Drag II of Columbus NJ, Robert Drag of Maple Grove, MN,  Martin Drag of Pompton Plains, NJ  and his beloved sister Jane Crank of Wayne, NJ.; as well as many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the Boys and Girls Club of Northwest NJ at 19 Oak Avenue, Pequannock, NJ 07440 or St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105.

Robert “Rob” J. Plavier, age 56, of Wayne passed peacefully on Sunday, August 15, 2021 in the comfort of his home.

Rob was born in Newark and raised in Wayne by his parents the late Joan and Robert Plavier.  He graduated from Wayne Valley High School, where he played on the football team, with the Class of 1983.  During his high school years he worked at the Wayne Hardware Store in the Packanack Shopping Center. Rob had a thirst for the knowledge of not only how things worked, but why they worked, as well as how to fix them when they didn’t work. After high school Rob attended school at Engine City in Union where he trained to be a diesel mechanic. He worked as a diesel mechanic locally and soon moved to New Milford, PA and later, Montrose, PA for many years.  While living in Pennsylvania he was the Service Manager for Five Star Equipment in Kirkwood, NY. Before recently moving back to Wayne Rob worked for the Proctor & Gamble Corporations paper facilities in Tunkhannock, PA throughout the pandemic as a mechanic for their fleet of trucks. He also served on the Pennsylvania Game Commission for several years.

Rob will be remembered for his good nature, strong will, and his willingness and ability to analyze both sides of an argument. When presented with a situation Rob would genuinely listen and then present a competing narrative to help him and others understand the counterpoint of a situation and achieve a fair outcome acceptable to both sides.  He was lovable, caring, generous, kind, patient, and persistent.  For many years he vacationed at his parent’s home in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania.  Swimming, wilderness, and building forts with his friend David were just some of the joys he found there.  Rob could fix anything with thoughtful consideration.  He took great pride in his ability to repair things properly, the first time.  For many years he quietly helped care for his housebound neighbor Jean, a widow.  He was her go-to guy for just about anything.  Rob enjoyed gardening and had five acres where his dog Xena patrolled and protected their park like property.  He was also an accomplished artist who created beautiful landscapes, portraits and still lifes.  Rob had a love of history and was an expert on the Industrial Revolution. Specifically, he was well versed on the impact of US railroads and their role in westward expansion.  His expertise extended to a thorough and complete knowledge of locomotive mechanics and design.  His attention to detail found him writing letters to editors to correct information incorrectly printed regarding train lines. It was important to him that history be preserved accurately.  Rob often visited Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton where a 40 acre rail yard houses one of our country’s largest collection of steam locomotives, freight and passenger cars.

Rob was the loving father of Miranda Luce and her husband Jason of Hallstead, PA; beloved grandfather of Joana Luce; devoted loving companion of Joli Behr of Vernon; much loved brother of Suzanne Amabile and her husband Scott of Wayne; and cherished uncle of Hanna Amabile. He was predeceased by his mother, Joan (DeBlock) in 2004, and by his father, Robert W. in 2020.

Memorial donations to Steamtown, a National Park associated with trains that Rob loved to visit, would be greatly appreciated.  Please make checks payable to "National Park Service" and place in your check memo "Steamtown/Robert Plavier."  Please mail to: Steamtown, 150 South Washington Ave., Scranton, PA 18503.

Kyle Gillespie, age 30 and formerly of Oakland, died tragically on Friday, August 13, 2021. What had begun as a few poor choices in his teenage years, swallowed him in a powerful heroin addiction that lasted more than a decade. His family and loved ones have prayed relentlessly for his rescue, which God has now secured.

Kyle grew up in Oakland and graduated from Indian Hills with the class of 2009. He loved playing ice hockey, roller hockey, and street hockey with “the boys.” He also loved riding dirt bikes and quads and was super lucky that his great-grandparents had a farm with many acres to ride on. He loved riding there. Sadly, while in high school, Kyle started a downward slide when drugs became involved. This story is all too familiar in our culture, and for Kyle it spiraled out of control rather quickly. He barely graduated high school and struggled to hold a job. The addiction became all-consuming. His parents and siblings did all they could, but to no avail. Kyle was on a frightening path that no one wanted to see him on, not even himself, but everyone was powerless to stop it. Heroin had an unrelenting grip on him that not even the power of a mother’s love, or a father’s love, could break. Kyle never stopped reading his Bible, praying, asking God for help, and singing along to his favorite Christian song “I am Redeemed” by Big Daddy Weave! He simply couldn’t break free. Today, his freedom is secured by the only one powerful enough to do so; his Lord Jesus Christ.

Kyle leaves behind many heartbroken souls, including his mother; Darlene Murphy and her husband Robert of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, his father; Thomas Gillespie of Barnegat, NJ, two brothers; Joshua Gillespie and his wife Lindsay of Bristol, PA, and Zachary Gillespie and Katie Coneys of Santa Clarita, CA, his girlfriend; Breanne MacKay, grandfather; Jacob Faber and his wife Rosalinda formerly of Haledon, NJ, great-grandmother; Helen Borduin of N. Haledon, a nephew; Jackson Gillespie, and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his grandparents; Jacalyn Faber (2006), Robert and Barbara Gillespie.

And they were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of His glory.” Isaiah 6:3

George J. Baskinger, Jr., age 38 of Montclair and formerly of Butler, died August 12, 2021.

George was a brilliant mechanical engineer, most recently employed with Tiburon Lockers, Inc. of Rockleigh, NJ. He had formerly worked with MAC Products of Kearny, NJ, Lockheed Martin in Moorestown, NJ, Mercury Systems of W. Caldwell, NJ and 901D LLC of Tallman, NY.

Growing up in Butler, NJ, George excelled in school. Showing signs of engineering passion at an early age, he loved doing projects with his father and building with Legos and construction toys. As a teenager, he worked at Star Lake Salvation Army Camp where he created several fun memories with many young people in town.  He also worked on cars and was largely self taught. He built a dog house that was a scaled-down model to match their lawn shed, and it is still there today! George loved to play baseball and have catches with his sister Bec, who dearly looked up to him and tried to keep up with him in every sport they played as kids.  George was an inspiration to his sister when he one day came home from a high school track meet with a medal.  After that day, Bec was determined to win her own track medal to make her brother proud.  He played the saxophone in the concert and marching bands at Butler High School and was a skilled member of Stage Crew. He was also fortunate to visit both Spain and Italy on two high school trips, which inspired a later love of travel. He was a National Honor Society Member at Butler High School, and was ranked third in his graduation class of 2001. He was honored as an Edward J. Bloustein Distinguished Scholar and a Merit Scholar at The College of New Jersey. George earned his BS in Mechanical Engineering from TCNJ and later an MS in Engineering and Project Management from Rowan University. He holds a U.S. Patent for Phased Array Radar systems used in ballistic missiles and was published in professional journals for his work with Fatigue Testing machinery.

To say that George was “bright” would be an understatement. He was brilliant. During his adult years, George was fortunate to travel to the Czech Republic on a business trip as he represented MAC Products. He was determined to visit all fifty states and collected souvenirs and refrigerator magnets as remembrances. Once he drove straight out to Iowa to stand on the Field of Dreams baseball field, and further to Nebraska to camp out in order to see the solar eclipse, stopping only in Wisconsin to visit his brother and family. He was a huge Jeopardy! fan and loved to watch it with his sister Bec. George had a collection of autographed baseballs signed by many of the NY YANKEES greats and always rooted for the Wisconsin Badgers! George maintained a love of model railroading, which he learned from his dad. He was fond of the family’s West Highland Terriers, named Westie and Winston, followed by Duncan and Duffy. George recently enjoyed a visit to his childhood home in Butler with Duncan and Duffy sleeping on him all day long, and he later recounted that day as his best memory in the recent past. Sadly, tragedy had visited George at a critical age; his father had passed away when he was just fifteen years old and the loss was very difficult for George to come to terms with. In recent months, George would call his mother and ask her to share Scripture with him. He was seeking God’s help and loved reading the Bible and praying with his mom. From memory, he would recite his favorite verses from hymns of the faith and also verses from Deut. 6, Isaiah 6 and Isaiah 43. He also found peace in listening to sermons by Alistair Begg of Truth for Life Ministries and his former pastor, Rev. Rich Kuiken. Through God’s mercy, George now lives a new life in the glorious presence of his Savior.

George had a strong desire to share Bible truths with those he met.  May his love for Jesus inspire all to have a relationship with the God of Heaven and Earth.

George is survived by his loving mother; Wilma Baskinger (Donkersloot) of Butler; his brother and sister-in-law, Samuel and Julie Baskinger with nephew Chase, of Deerfield, Wisconsin; and sister Rebecca of Butler. He was predeceased by his father, George Baskinger, Sr. in 1998.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to please make donations to Truth For Life - the Bible-teaching ministry of Alistair Begg, PO box 398000, Cleveland OH, 44139.

Mike Walton, age 62, of Wayne passed Tuesday, August 10, 2021.

He was born in Montclair to his father, the late Joseph Edward (d. 1993), and his surviving mother Sue Walton.  Mike was raised in the Packanack Lake section of Wayne and graduated from Wayne Valley High School with the Class of 1977.  He was a standout athlete and excelled on the high school football, baseball, and basketball teams.  He continued his education at Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania and later Trenton State University in New Jersey having played football at both institutions.

Mike’s first job as a teenager was working at Buxton’s Restaurant in Wayne. For the past thirty years Mike was the owner of the Walton Painting Co. in Wayne.

Mike lived life by his own terms and will be remembered as an outgoing guy who was just fun to be around.  He always had a positive, uplifting way about him.  He had an encyclopedia-like knowledge of all sorts of things along with being well organized, creative, dedicated, respectful, and the kind of person whose loyalty was unwavering.  He was a huge sports fan and loved the NY Mets, NY Knicks, but most of all he was a lifelong NY Jets fan with Season Tickets for as long as anyone can remember.  Most of all, Mike loved, adored, and was dedicated to his boys Ed and Matthew. Mike’s life revolved around his boys and he took great pleasure in watching them grow into men.

Mike was the loving and devoted father of Ed Walton and Matthew Walton both of Wayne; he was the cherished son of the late Joseph Edward Walton (d. 1993) and his surviving mother Suzanne Walton of Asheville, NC; he was the dearly loved brother of Tom Walton of Nantucket, MA, Patty Fast of Asheville, NC, Andy Walton (Kathy) of Oak Ridge, and Jennifer Ware (Steve) of Asheville, NC; he was the loving uncle of Brendan, Lisa Marie, Andrew, Joe, Allie, Tommy, and Faith; and several loving cousins.

It is with great sadness that the family of Andrew Scott Hill announces his passing on August 10th 2021, at the age of 57. He passed away at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson and is lovingly remembered by his family including his Aunt Sr. Jane Brady, his siblings Jane Moppert and her husband Wayne Moppert, Mark Hill, Tom Hill and his wife Tobey Hill, and Laura Dijkstra, and his nieces and nephew including Tommy Hill, Juliana Dijkstra, Alexandra Hill, Emily Dijkstra, Kiana Hill and Gianna Hill. Born in Connecticut, his family settled in Wayne, New Jersey when he was 12 years old. He graduated from DePaul High School in 1981 and after a short stint in California moved back to New Jersey at the age of 23. He took a job at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson as a clerk and it was there where he found his passion in Cardiology. He became a Registered Invasive Cardiac Specialist, performing thousands of cardiac catheterizations over a career that spanned nearly three decades with notable stops at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Lenox Hill Hospital in New York and finally Hackensack Medical Center. Often the go-to guy in the catheterization lab, he was nicknamed Dr. Andrew by his colleagues. He worked with some of the most preeminent physicians in his field, inspired colleagues around him and helped tens of thousands of patients and family members along the way.

His compassion extended internationally through a mission trip with Healing the Children in Kenya. He volunteered to help many children receive life-altering cleft palate repair. He was also able to experience an African safari, a dream fulfilled.

Andrew also took a keen interest in the growth and successes of his nieces and nephew and loved all animals including his pet cats dearly. He was fascinated by wildlife and the world around him whether on safari in the Masai Mara or in Packanack Lake – he had a natural curiosity about things. He enjoyed travel, astronomy, weather and fantasy literature.  Andrew never met a dragon he did not like. His irreverent streak was well known as was his kindness, wit and charm. You never forgot a conversation with him. He was a wonderful brother, uncle, and nephew and a loyal friend with a kind heart. His impact on this world has been enormous and he will be greatly missed. May he rest in peace.

If you wish, donations in his honor may be made to either:
Chance At Life Cat Rescue, P.O. Box 4093, River Edge, New Jersey 07661 https://www.chanceatlifecatrescue.com/
Company 5 Fire Department, 5 Lake Drive West, Wayne, New Jersey 07470 http://www.plfc5.com/

Herman Kuiken, 93, the oldest son of Richard “Dick” and Lena (Steen) Kuiken, formerly of Wayne and Montville, New Jersey, was suddenly taken to glory to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Monday, August 9, 2021 while residing comfortably at his home at the Evergreen Court on the grounds of the Christian Health Care Center located at 303 Sicomac Avenue in Wyckoff, New Jersey.

Herm was born on October 1, 1927 in Fair Lawn on Saddle River Road in a $4500.00 house built by Kuiken Brothers. On March 14, 1952, Herm married his sweetheart, Ada Marjorie Houseward, in the home of his Aunt Jessie Steen located at #370 North 10th Street in Prospect Park, NJ.  Their Wedding Ceremony was officiated by Rev. Hessel Bouma of the Summer Street Christian Reformed Church of Passaic, New Jersey. The bride’s sister, Jeannie Vogel, served as Matron of Honor and the groom’s brother, Stan, served as Best Man. The newlyweds initially resided in a room in the home of the bride’s parents, Herbert and Jennie (Kievit) Houseward located at #610 Gregory Ave. in Clifton, New Jersey, situated at the top of the hill. After one year of marriage Herm and Ada moved to Hopper Street in Prospect Park, New Jersey, and in 1955 the couple moved to 29 Woodridge Terrace in Wayne, New Jersey, purchasing a Cape Cod home for $14,000.00 from an elderly couple who “found it too quiet living next to a swamp”!

Herm was a man who worked extremely hard all of his life beginning in his early teen years as he worked on his family’s truck (vegetable) farm on Weinmanns Boulevard in Wayne, New Jersey.  As he got older his work weeks grew to 60 hours per week, 6 days per week, for .10 cents per hour. At the end of the week he turned $5.00 back in to his parents to help supply the needs of the family while he was able to keep just $1.00 for himself. Herm reminisced about driving the old Model A around the family farm with its pedals on the floor when he was just 12 or 13 years old! Herm attended the North 4th Street Christian School in Paterson, New Jersey, but with his father needing him on the farm Herm was never even able to graduate from the 8th Grade or attend Eastern Academy. But with his 8th Grade class graduating in a ceremony held at the 11th Street Christian Reformed Church in Prospect Park, NJ, the school administration kindly awarded him a “PAC Certificate” in lieu of a Diploma: “Preakness Agricultural College”!

With his father “Dick” Kuiken getting Herm a “farm deferment” during World War II, Herm was subsequently drafted to serve in the Korean War and after Basic Training was stationed at the Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland.  Assigned to be shipped to Germany before heading to Korea, a fellow soldier went AWOL and, in God’s providence, Herm was assigned to work in the mailroom where he spent the rest of his service time. Herm said, “I felt like I paid for the New Jersey Turnpike myself with all the tolls going to see Ada as often as he could!” He proudly served in the United States Army from February of 1951 – February of 1953 being promoted to the rank of Corporal two weeks before his discharge.  His superior officers wanted him to stay in the Army, but Herm told them that “he wanted to get back to the farm!”  He served another four years with the Army Reserves and was Honorably Discharged on January 4, 1957. When Herm returned home to Wayne, Henry Van Dyke, who then served as the Chief of Police for Wayne Township, asked him at a funeral for the Chief’s brother-in-law, “Do you want a job?” Chief Van Dyke wanted him to join the 12 member Wayne Police Force … but as he told his Sergeant back at the Aberdeen Proving Grounds, “No thanks, I’m heading back to the farm!”

Subsequent to his farm years and after his military service, Herm worked for 9 years at Eelman’s Poultry Farm on Oldham Road in Wayne, New Jersey.  After his 9 years at Eelman’s, Herm began working at Van Steyn’s Nursery on Preakness Ave. in Wayne for $1.75 per hour and worked hard there for 10 years.  When the tree nursery property was being sold, Herm began working at the Fairlawn Memorial Cemetery located on Maple Ave. in Fair Lawn, New Jersey, and continued working there for nearly 40 years until he was 70 years old, serving as Foreman for the last two years.

With his parents being Charter Members of the Preakness Christian Reformed Church on Valley Road in Wayne, New Jersey, for most of their married life Herm and Ada were also both active members of the Preakness CRC, now known as the Preakness Valley United Reformed Church.  Along with their faithful worship attendance and Ada’s active participation in numerous ministries as well, Herm served a 3 year term as a Deacon at Preakness and also served as the Secretary of the Evangelism Committee … although Herm would say with his characteristic humor, “I never took any minutes because I am not very good at spelling!” Herm also served for five years as a fireman with Preakness Volunteer Fire Company #4 located on Ratzer Road in Wayne, New Jersey.

After Herm and Ada’s nearly 50 years of living on Woodridge Terrace in Wayne Township, they sold their home to a dearly loved granddaughter and her husband in order to “keep the home in the family” while they moved to a large ground floor apartment in the home of another “Kuiken relative” in Montville, New Jersey.  With Ada’s health failing and her needing to reside at the Christian Health Care Center in Wyckoff, NJ, and after countless faithful, difficult daily trips from Montville to visit and spend time with his wife there, Herm eventually joined her on those same grounds early in 2017, the year in which his dear Ada passed away in November of that same year.

Herman is survived by his daughter, Susan Gaechter, and her husband, Bill, of Bloomingdale, New Jersey; his son Rev. Richard Kuiken, and his wife, Margaret, of East Stroudsburg, PA; and his son Rev. Russell Kuiken, and his wife, Diane, of Beaverton, OR, along with 12 Grandchildren and 34 Great-Grandchildren.  He was predeceased by his parents, Richard and Lena Kuiken, as well as by his sister Eleanor Spalink of Prospect Park, NJ, and brothers Stanley Kuiken of Coraopolis, PA, and Peter Kuiken of Glen Spey, NY.  He is also survived by his sisters Margaret Pennings of Michigan and Joan Kuiken of West Virginia, along with numerous nephews and nieces scattered around the country.

Herm was an incredibly humble, hard working, loving, kind, generous, humorous, faith-filled and godly man who loved and adored his Lord, his family, and his countless number of friends.  He also loved the New York Yankees and Gaither gospel music, especially the song, “Because He Lives”. Needless to say, Herm will be sorely missed by those who knew and loved him, and yet by God’s grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, we look forward to a joyous reunion with him in the Holy City where “There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” (Revelation 21:4)

Donations in Herm’s memory may be made out to the name of his home church “Pompton Plains Reformed Bible Church” and on the memo line please write “PA Church Plant.”  Please mail to: Pocono Reformed Bible Church, c/o Rev. Richard Kuiken, 11 Schoolhouse Road, East Stroudsburg, PA 18302.

Willamina Pfeifer, (nee DeVos), 99, of Lincoln Park passed away at home on Friday, August 6, 2021. Her home was just 7 miles from the home she was born and raised, in Clifton New Jersey. She was the only daughter of 8 children. All Willamina’s brothers predeceased her.

Willamina spent her early adult years working for an aircraft manufacturer in Bloomfield NJ during World War ll. Willie as her friends affectionately call her, met Ferdinand Pfeifer while traveling on the transit bus he drove. They soon married and moved to Verona where they had their first daughter Kris. When Ferdinand became disabled, Willie went back to work as a toy manager for Two Guys in Totowa NJ. Her children and grandchildren fondly recall amazing Christmases during that time. Later she worked for Barbizon, a woman’s clothing outlet in Pinebrook NJ, before a much-deserved retirement.

Willie was always seen knitting sweaters, baby blankets, sewing plastic canvas creations, or making her granddaughters’ wedding dresses. There are a multitude of Willie’s tissue box covers and handmade decorations throughout the country!  The grandchildren and great-grandchildren knew her as “Mema” or “Grandma” and fondly remember playing card games, singing songs and spending summers at Jellystone Campground in Mema and Pepa’s (Ferdinand) RV.

Willie had a big, joyous, loving heart. Everyone who knew her was touched by her giving spirit, kindness and love of all people, animals, and Dutch cookies.

Willie was predeceased by her husband Ferdinand and her daughter Susan. She is survived by her daughter Kris, her son Fred and his wife Patti, her son John, and his wife Michele, 7 grandchildren, Lisa, Kristina, Ryan, Robert, Sean, Aaron, and John, 11 great-grandchildren, Michael, Caitlyn, George, Justin, Adam, Maxwell, Benjamin, Henry, Simon, Grant, Arden.

Willie, Mema, Grandma, Mom, has left a profound imprint on her all family and friends, she will be sorely missed by all.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Willie’s memory are asked to consider giving to Pompton Food Recovery, food pantry-530 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Wayne, NJ 07470. Donations can also be made through PayPal: pomptonfoodrecovery@gmail.com

Judy Achrem, age 71, of Wayne passed away peacefully on Friday, August 6, 2021 while receiving the loving care of her husband.

Judy was born in Paterson to Patsy and Adeline Orsillo.  She was raised in Paterson and attended Eastside High School.  After high school she attended Roman Beauty Academy in Paterson. Just out of beauty school she worked at Josephine’s Beauty Shop in Paterson before going out on her own.  Through the years Judy established a customer base and as her customers aged she stayed right there with them.  These customers were really friends Judy had made through the years.

Judy met the love of her life on a blind date.  Bob Achrem drove a bus to New York City every day and got to know a lady who said “I’ve got a girl for you.”  Bob agreed to meet this girl and the woman from the bus set it up.  Bob rang Judy’s doorbell and they basically fell in love at first sight. Bob took Judy on a first date to see The Duchess and the Dirtwater Fox film at a theatre on Route 4 in Paramus.  The soon fell in love and were married in Paterson on August 1, 1981.  They honeymooned in Hawaii and have had a loving marriage for the past forty years.

Judy will be lovingly remembered as a quiet and shy person who had a great sense of humor. She loved to watch television and would watch shows on the TLC channel over and over again. Most of all she was a caring and giving person who was one of the most loyal friends you could ever meet. She was an all around excellent cook and was especially good at making Italian specialties.

She was dedicated to her Catholic faith and was a long-time parishioner of Saint Marys Church in Pompton Lakes.

Judy was the loving wife of Robert “Bob” Achrem; she was the loving sister of Patsy Orsillo (Maryann) of Wayne and the late Diane Geary and her late husband Thomas; she was the dearly loved aunt of Kim, Jamie, Michael, and Christopher;   she was also the loved great-aunt of Dean and Adeline.

Michael Dennis Lamb, age 70 of the Packanack Lake section of Wayne, passed away on Thursday, August 5, 2021. His family was lovingly by his side at the time of this passing.

Raised in Scotch Plains, Mike was one of William and Elizabeth (McCarthy) Lamb’s five children. He was a graduate of Union Catholic High School in Scotch Plains, NJ the class of 1969. Already as a young boy Mike had a penchant for mischief. In elementary school, those nuns wouldn’t have any of it. Consequently, many-a wooden ruler was sacrificed by virtue of a very close encounter with Mike’s body. Once, during high school, he just couldn’t resist “borrowing” a steel sodium brick from the science lab. He took the brick and threw it in a nearby lake where it promptly exploded causing it to end up back on land. It got really funny when Mike read in the newspaper the next day that the local police took the brick back to headquarters where, in an attempt to cool it off, they threw it in water causing it to explode again!

In the fall of 1969, Mike headed off to Newark State Teachers College, now known as Kean University, in pursuit of higher education. Mike had hopes and aspirations of becoming a science teacher. Having earned his Bachelor’s degree in education, Mike would have made an awesome teacher but his life path lead him in a different direction. Back in the day when he graduated, it was hard for teachers to make a decent living. Mike knew this and, since he had been working part time as a butcher, he chose to pursue this trade instead. As a butcher at the ShopRite store in Oakland he gained a wealth of experience which eventually lead to a job with Foodtown at the corporate level in meat sales. In ensuing years he was also a meat sales executive at A&P and Kings Food Markets until formally retiring in 2016. Mike quickly realized that, for him, retirement wasn’t all that it was cracked up to be, so back to work he went, choosing to be an independent consultant for various food chains. In the end, he really never did retire. Mike was a most sociable guy who truly loved his customers and would do anything to make them happy. If they wanted a special cut of beef, Mike would make it happen and he especially loved mingling with the customers in the stores during the holidays.

While working as a butcher in the Oakland ShopRite Mike took a liking to a sweet young lady named Patty Fleming who worked in the deli department. After a time of admiring her from a distance, he finally worked up the courage to ask her out and, while Patty doesn’t remember where they went on that first date, it must have been fun enough to earn him more dates with her and eventually marriage. Lots of dates were down the shore to hang out with her and Mike’s former fraternity brothers from Nu Delta Pi. Mike proposed marriage by slipping a beautiful engagement ring into a glass of champagne. It almost backfired when, not really noticing the ring, Patty almost swallowed it while sipping the champagne. Talk about being choked up! Mike and Patty exchanged wedding promises before God, family and friends on Sunday, April 25, 1982 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Oakland. After a reception at the Pompton Lakes Elks Club they honeymooned in Bermuda where they both got badly sunburned on an overcast day. Their sunburn was so bad that, they had to stay inside for two days. Mike only went out to get pieces of aloe plant so they could squeeze out the aloe to apply on the sunburn for some much-needed relief.

Mike and Patty’s first home was in Ringwood at 18 James Drive. The highlight of living there was the neighbor’s golden retriever named Precious. Mike and Patty loved that dog and would often take her with them when they went on hikes. Their next home was in the Pines Lake section of Wayne where they were blessed with their own “Precious” – a baby boy which they named Michael. In 1988 they moved again, this time to Packanack Lake in Wayne where they were blessed that same year with another son named Ryan and, in 1989, a baby girl who they named Allison. Mike adored his children and would do anything he could to help them enjoy and succeed in life. His generosity to himself was put on the back burner so that he could give his kids the best. When his sons Mike and Ryan were in high school, Mike wanted them to enjoy those years, so he encouraged them to play sports rather than work. Michael’s generosity was also seen in the help he gave to the kids when it was time for their first cars. Michael always said, “you have your whole life to work, enjoy these times now”.

Mike himself loved cool cars. In college he had a Pontiac GTO and a 57 Chevy. One time before marriage he won a $10,000 lottery prize and went right out and bought himself a Datsun 280Z. Remember those?  Of course with a lottery win like that, anyone would be hooked on buying lottery tickets for the rest of their lives. He was religious about buying them and always played the same numbers. He especially liked playing the NJ Pick 6 and he didn’t just purchase tickets for himself. Mike bought them for everybody and anybody. Even when Allie was living in Hawaii and Ryan in Alaska, Mike would send them NJ Pick 6 scratch offs even though, if they won, they wouldn’t be able to take them to a local store in Hawaii or Alaska to cash in.

Mike was a lifelong lover of photography. Back in high school, he was the school’s yearbook photographer and when his kids came around, he was always ready to snap a shot. He had literally thousands of photos of his kids to document their lives. Many of those photos included action shots of them at their football, track, soccer, swimming and volleyball competitions. He took so many pictures of the kids, his family used to joke that he could put those photos in one of those old fashioned flip books where, when you flip fast through the pages, you could make it look like and action film. Mike also liked to play golf. In retirement, he found more time to play so he bought a new set of clubs and could always be found at the Packanack Golf Club, especially on Senior Wednesdays. He would bring an extra bucket of balls because of his propensity for losing them. His Friends would even sometimes drop a bucket of balls in the yard as a joke.

Mike had a great sense of dry, sarcastic humor. He had fun lovingly busting his wife Patty and his kids. He was very down to earth and had a heart of gold. He was the kind of guy who would take the shirt off his back if you needed it, get another and give you that one too. He will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Mike was the beloved husband of Patricia, blessed in marriage for 39 years. He was the incredibly loved father of Michael Gove Lamb and wife Haley of Hope Maine, Ryan Lamb of Wayne, and Allison Lamb of Honolulu and Oakland, CA; cherished grandfather of Alwin; dear brother of Patrick of Springfield, NJ, Christopher of Westfield, NJ, the late Mary Lamb and the late William Lamb; and several nieces and nephews.

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

Wayne Fire Company #5
5 Lake Drive W
Wayne, NJ 07470
If you would prefer to donate online, just click here

Gladys Harriett Schuster, (nee Scerbak), age 91, of Wayne passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 04, 2021 in the presence of and while receiving the loving care of her family.

Over the years, Gladys was always referred to as “Harriett” to those who knew her well.  Harriett was born in Clifton, NJ and was one of two children to John and Margaret Scerbak.  After living in Clifton for some time,  her family moved to Passaic.  Harriett attended Pope Pius XII High School in Passaic where she graduated with the class of 1947.  Following her graduation from high school, Harriett enrolled at Montclair State University, known then as Montclair Teacher’s College.  There she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education in 1952.  Succeeding her graduation from Montclair Teacher’s College, Harriett found work quickly in the Clifton School System at Public School # 5.  She was only at School #5 for a few years when she accepted another position with the Clifton Board of Education, this time at Clifton High School.  Harriett taught Accounting and General Mathematics at Clifton High School until her retirement in 1994, a career spanning over thirty-seven years.  Also during her years teaching at Clifton High, she earned her Master’s Degree in Education, once again attending Montclair Teacher’s College.

Throughout Harriett’s career at Clifton High School, she was a long time member and officer of the Clifton College Woman’s Club.  She also worked closely with the Keyettes Club which was known as an early STEM program offering General Academic Scholarships for women.  Over the years she was also a long time member of the YMCA in Wayne and had many close friends there.  In addition, she faithfully maintained lifelong friendships with her "ladyfriends" Ina, Laura, Dolores, Lorraine, and Alice, whom she met in her early teaching years.

While still in college, Harriett was introduced by some mutual friends to a handsome young man named Frank Schuster.  Frank and Harriett hit it off wonderfully and started dating.  As fate would have it they fell in love and on November 10, 1951 they became husband and wife.  Frank and Harriett settled on East 1st Street in Clifton after getting married and later moved to Sargeant Ave in Clifton.  During their time living in Clifton, the couple welcomed the births of their children.  In 1968, as the family grew, they had a home built in Wayne and Harriett has been there ever since.

Harriett was a devoted mother and wife and always there for her children when they needed her.  She was not only devoted to her family but also to her Catholic Faith.  She was a parishioner of Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Wayne for many years.

One of Harriett’s most cherished past times was travel.  Harriett and her family traveled to a variety of different destinations including many of the Caribbean Islands, Australia, and most every country in Europe.  Some of the destinations were visited by plane, but most of their vacations were by way of cruise ships.  Harriett was an accomplished and talented seamstress, sewing articles of clothing and even a wedding gown!  She was an avid art collector and music fan all her life, her particularly favorite genre of music being Classic Rock.  Some of her favorite artists included The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and The Beatles.  Harriett was also the type of person who enjoyed journaling.  She would on a daily basis, keep her diary updated by pouring her thoughts out onto paper.

Aside from all of Harriett’s talents, hobbies, and interests, her greatest passion was for her family and close circle of friends.  Nothing in the world meant more to Harriett than spending time with and providing for her children and grandchildren.  She was affectionately known to her grandchildren as “Grammie.”   She treasured thirty years of loving and loyal marriage with her husband Frank until his passing in 1981.  Harriett was a composed and tasteful woman, with a steady, positive outlook on life. She conducted herself in a conservative manner, never wanting to  “steal the show.”  She had a quiet elegance about her, never having a harsh word to say about anyone.  Harriett was a truly special person who touched the lives of everyone around her and will be sorely missed by her family and friends.

Harriett is survived by her three children, her daughter Lori Schuster-Calderone of Oak Ridge, her daughter Karen Schuster of Parlin, NJ, and her son Kurt Schuster and his wife Ellen of Wayne, two grandchildren; Michael Schuster and his wife Diane of Woodbury, CT, and Sarina Nesto and her husband Raymond of Chatham, NJ, and many loving nieces and extended family of the Clifton area and Central Florida.  She was predeceased by her husband Frank Schuster in 1981, and also by her infant son Mark Schuster in 1958, as well as her brother Gerald Scerbak.

Those wishing to make a donation in Harriett’s name are asked to consider Eva’s Village 393 Main Street, Paterson, NJ 07501.  http://www.evasvillage.org

Michael S. Nelson, age 58 of Montville, died peacefully at home on Saturday, July 31, 2021. He has lived in Montville   his entire life.

Mike was a railroad conductor with NJ Transit Rail since 1987 and was most recently operating from Suffern to Hoboken. He absolutely loved his job and the people he worked with. He had a special relationship with his “NJ Transit Family” and he’ll miss them all very much. Mike had a collection of bicycles that he kept stashed at various NJ Transit stations and whenever he had a prolonged break, he would take one of his bikes for a ride to make good use of his time.

Mike grew up in Montville and graduated from Morris Catholic High School with the class of 1981. He purchased his childhood home from his parents and has lived at the same address for nearly his entire life. He enjoyed playing with electronics, including his Tesla coil, reading mystery novels, and watching British TV shows. He was a huge fan of Monty Python and also enjoyed the Three Stooges and Abbott & Costello. Interestingly enough, he was also a fan of the daytime soap opera “Guiding Light.” Mike had his own, unique sense of humor that earned him the name “Uncle Scary” from his nieces and nephews. He was particularly good at tormenting kids with his scary stories and practical jokes, which the kids all loved him for. He was always ready to have fun and to share a laugh.

Mike was an animal lover in the truest sense. Throughout the years, he had many cats, his beloved dog Leon, and currently his two kitties, which were like children to him so he called them his “kid-ties:” Mea-Felis and Homer-Max. He loved those cats so much and he spoiled them terribly. Mike’s coworkers at NJ Transit were always amazed by Mike’s love for animals. Even when working, he couldn’t pass a dog or cat without stopping to pet them, get all mushy with them, and just fawn over them. And if he had food in his pocket, he would slip them a little treat to enjoy! He was a true animal lover and just couldn’t help himself!

In 1989, Mike met Mary Anne Banta through a personal ad. They enjoyed their first date on August 10, 1989 and it was love at first sight. By the third date, they were inseparable and wedding vows were exchanged on October 20, 1990. Mary Anne describes their thirty years together as amazing, unconventional, wild, crazy, and fun. They never left the ‘honeymoon’ stage and enjoyed doing everything together. Mary Anne particularly enjoyed riding in the locomotive with Mike whenever he had to work on their anniversary, birthday, or holiday. Mike was always very protective of Mary Anne, devoted to her, supportive of all her needs, and he loved her very much. She will miss him dearly and has a heart full of fond memories to cherish.

Mike is survived by his dear wife Mary Anne Banta-Nelson of Montville, his mother-in-law; Alma Banta of Kinnelon, his extended in-laws; Liz, Alma, Terri, Clare, and Steve, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and his NJ Transit Rail family. He was predeceased by his mother, Edith in 2007, and by his father, David, in 2010.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Mike's name are asked to consider a donation to your local animal shelter.

Vivian “Joan” Breithaupt, age 87, of Wayne, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, July 29, 2021.

Joan was born in Hackensack to Chester and Amelia Daeschler. She was raised in the family home in Carlstadt and graduated from East Rutherford High School with the Class of 1952.

After high school Joan worked for Becton Dickinson Corporation at their corporate headquarters in East Rutherford. She served there as a receptionist for four years and this is where she met her future husband Robert “Bob” Lee Breithaupt. Bob was a sales representative who was just in from Salt Lake City, Utah and he had to pass by Joan’s desk for several days. Each day he stayed to chat with her just a bit longer and soon they were dating. Bob had grown up in Phoenicia, New York where life centered around fishing, skiing, and all types of outdoor activities. Bob especially enjoyed fly fishing and soon found out that Joan’s father Chester enjoyed the sport as well. That solidified a friendship as Joan and Bob were falling in love. Bob eventually asked Chester for Joan’s hand in marriage and he enthusiastically gave his blessing.

Joan and Bob married on Saturday, April 6, 1957 at the 1st Presbyterian Church in Woodbridge. After a reception at Gene Boyles Restaurant in Clifton they honeymooned in Bob’s family’s home in Miami, Florida. Joan and Bob started their family in the Pines Lake section of Wayne and designed and built their dream home. They loved Pines Lake as it reminded them of their youth as Joan spent her formative years summering at Lake Kemah, NJ and Bob’s outdoor roots were established in Phoenicia, NY. All were involved with camping, swimming, sailing, fishing, ice skating and the many other opportunities lake living offered. Family vacations consisted of summers in Maine, skiing at Mad River Glen in Vermont and camping on the family farm in Phoenicia.  Joan and Bob had a loving and devoted marriage of thirty-five years before his passing in 1992.

Joan was a sixty-one year member of the Preakness Reformed Church in Wayne where she served as a Deacon and volunteered her time and talents to many different functions and events at the church such as decorating the church and the Van Riper Hopper House at Christmas time. She loved flower gardening and was a past-president and honorary lifetime member of the Pines Lake Garden Club. She enjoyed shopping and was always dressed impeccably. Joan loved to entertain and whether it was friends or family, she was the consummate host. Favorite family meals included pot roast, chicken fricassee, “Turkey Breithaupt”, soda bread and carrot cake.

Her house was truly a home, beautifully decorated with antiques and she hosted every holiday for family and friends.  Joan will always be known as the “hostess with the mostest”. She organized an annual Christmas cookie exchange party and for thirty years close friends would come to share their special cookies. Joan will be remembered as a beautiful, classy, witty, independent, and strong person with a wonderful sense of humor that always came through. As a child of the Great Depression she would often recount laying on the floor in the living room and listening to the radio when Pearl Harbor was attacked. She loved the Public Broadcasting Station (PBS) on television, Masterpiece Theatre, and going to the Paper Mill Playhouse with friends. Most of all Joan loved and was proud of her family. She loved to attend many of her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events through the years. She even showed up at a granddaughter’s ski race with a fur coat on! She loved visiting her granddaughters at college and taking them and friends out to dinner. She was also proud to have attended all her grandchildren’s high school, college, and Air Force graduation ceremonies.

Joan had a love for music and the “Make Believe Ballroom” was always playing on the radio in her kitchen. She also had fond memories of seeing a young Frank Sinatra at the Rustic Cabin in Englewood Cliffs. Even as of late she enjoyed listening to the satellite radio station Siriusly Sinatra while driving around in her beloved convertibles after many years of driving family station wagons. When it came to her cars, she always kept her husband’s GATE13 license plates (he was in the Acapella group, Colgate 13) which always had people asking what the plates meant. Joan loved to dance and was in the Robin Harrington School of Dance adult group back in the 1970’s. For many years she and Bob sailed the Jet 443 on Pines Lake. They never won a race but hosted many sailing club gatherings and even recently spoke of North Island parties with the “Battenkill 5.”

Later in life, Joan traveled to many parts of the world with friends.  In the summer, she would swim and spend time with friends at West Beach…also known as the West Beach Mermaids.

Joan was the loving wife of the late Robert “Bob” Lee Breithaupt (d. 1992); devoted mother of Robin Preuss (Kenneth) of Boonton, Holly Ryan (Scott) of Wayne, Allison Breithaupt of Unionville, CT, and Noel Turner (Peter) of Burlington, CT. She was the cherished grandmother of Jonathan (Michele) Preuss, Deven Yudelson, Bethany (James) Donaldson, Erin Ryan, Meryl Ryan, Sage Yudelson, Jennifer Carmody, and Staff Sgt. Heather Carmody (Jorden Crouse) and her much-loved great grandson Owen Preuss. Joan was predeceased by her brother Albert Daeschler.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Joan’s name are asked to consider Preakness Reformed Church, 131 Church Lane, Wayne, NJ 07470.

Herbert J. Zieger, age 88 of Rockaway, died peacefully on July 28, 2021. Had been a lifelong resident of Clifton before retiring to Fox Hills in Rockaway twenty five years ago.

Herb was a Master Plumber and operated Zieger Plumbing and Heating from his home in Clifton before retiring. He was a past president of the New Jersey League of Master Plumbers. Herb was also a U.S. Army veteran and earned the distinction of “Expert Gunner” during his service. He was honorably discharged in 1958.

Herb was born in America, but sadly his mother passed away while he was just an infant. With no other family here in America, Herb’s father moved back to Germany with his children during the middle-1930’s and they lived there throughout World War II. Fortunately for Herb, he was a U.S. citizen, so he was able to come back to America just prior to his eighteenth birthday. They settled in Lyndhurst, where there was a large German population, and Herb felt right at home. He enjoyed going to the local German dances where they would listen to accordion music and dance to the Polka! It was at one of these dances that he met Sheila Connor and their romance blossomed. They married not long after and honeymooned at Niagara Falls, NY. They settled into their home in Clifton and began raising a family. They also became active at the Preakness Baptist Church in Wayne, where they were both dedicated members for decades. They enjoyed a very loving and devoted marriage for more than sixty-five years. Herb was especially doting in recent years as he cared for Sheila at home as best as he could. Sheila will surely miss her beloved Herb.

Herb is survived by his wife Sheila of Rockaway, by their four children; Paula Van Gurp and her husband Karl of Ohio, Herbert Zieger, Jr. and his wife Laura of Lincoln Park, NJ, Eric Zieger and his wife Barbara of Clifton, and Bruce Zieger and his wife Allison of Highlands Ranch, CO, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Ann Murray (nee Pluchino), age 89, of Wayne and formerly of Queens, NY passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 28, 2021 while receiving the loving care of her family.

Ann was born and raised in Astoria Queens, NY and was the only child to Joseph and Jennie Pluchino.  While growing up in Astoria Queens, Ann attended Long Island City High School where she graduated with the class of 1950. Following her graduation from high school, Ann found work quickly and accepted a position at Metropolitan Life Insurance in New York City.  Ann worked there for several years.  During this time she attended a local dance event in Jamaica Queens, NY where she met a young and handsome man by the name of Robert Murray.  Ann and Robert hit it off great and started dating.  As fate would have it, they fell in love and on September 24, 1955 Ann and Robert became husband and wife.  They cherished thirty-nine years of loving and loyal marriage together until Robert’s passing in 1994.  
 
After getting married, the newly married couple lived in an apartment for a short time then settled in Howard Beach where they purchased their first home.  While living in Howard Beach Ann and Robert welcomed the births of their two children, Robert and Diane.  Ann decided that after her first child was born that she would dedicate herself to being a full-time homemaker.  This was truly Ann’s calling and where she flourished.  Ann was always there for her children and remained a homemaker throughout most of their childhood.  When her children got older, Ann decided to get back into the workforce and took a position as a teacher’s aide at John Adams High School in Queens, NY.  Ann spent the next several years there until she stopped working in 1994 when her husband Robert passed away.  

In 1996, a couple of years after her husband’s passing, Ann moved to Wayne, NJ to live with her daughter Diane and her grandson Paul.  Ann was a member of the Golden Age of Wayne for many years and enjoyed getting together with her friends to play cards, particularly a game called “Fourteen.”  She was a diehard New York Yankees fan and always cherished very fond memories of her father bringing her to many Yankee games to see her favorite player Mickey Mantle.  Through the years, Ann treasured spending time with family and friends especially around the holidays and enjoyed decorating her house for Easter and Christmas.  But aside from all of Ann’s hobbies, talents, and interests, her greatest passion was for her family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Ann than spending time with her children and grandchildren.  Ann was a kind and gentle person who was always quiet and private, but also made sure her family knew how much she loved them.  Ann was a truly special person who touched the lives of everyone around her and will be sincerely missed by her family and friends.  
 
Ann is survived by her two children; Diane Murray and her significant other Edward Grogan of Wayne, and Robert Murray and his wife Fran of Monroe, NY, three grandchildren; Sharon Murray of Boston, MA, Lauren Murray of Monroe, NY, and Paul Cava of Hoboken, NJ.  She was predeceased by her husband Robert Murray in 1994.  

Pauline Colazzo (nee Gualtieri), age 92 of Wayne, died peacefully Tuesday, July 27, 2021. She has lived in Wayne for fifty-seven years.

Pauline grew up in the Sandy Hill section of Paterson and graduated from Eastside High School in 1947. She began working at United Hardware as a bookkeeper and stayed there for nearly fourteen years. Once her children were in high school, Pauline went back to work at the Matano Insurance Agency as an office manager until her retirement in 1993.

After finishing high school, Pauline met and fell in love with Frank Colazzo. Frank was serving in the U.S. Army at the time, but after completing his service, and a long courtship, they married on July 2, 1961 at St. Anthony’s RC Church in Paterson. They first settled in Paterson and in 1964, purchased a home in Wayne. They have lived in that very same house ever since, raising their two children there and enjoying many years together. They were long-time parishioners of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Wayne, and they did just about everything together as a couple. Sadly, Frank passed away in 2020, after nearly sixty years of marriage, and Pauline has missed him dearly ever since.

Pauline enjoyed listening to opera and was a big fan of Luciano Pavarotti. She and Frank went to the opera in New York on a few occasions and she truly enjoyed watching those live performances. She was also a wonderful cook and homemaker, taking great pride in her home. She was a devoted grandmother to her five grandchildren, and she made it a point to attend as many of their events as she could – and she went to many! Although her grandchildren will miss her dearly, they all have great memories with her to hold onto.

Pauline is survived by her two children; Connie Millahn and her husband Charlie of Wantage, and Frank and his wife Rosemary of Wayne, five grandchildren; Scott Millahn of Morristown, Lauren Scott and her husband Patrick of Vernon, Nick Colazzo of Bear, DE, Jimmy Colazzo of Manhattan, and Danny Colazzo of Wayne. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Frank in 2020.

Pauline Jurgens, age 89, passed into the presence of our Lord & Savior on Sunday, July 25th, 2021.

She was born in South Bridge, Massachusetts.  In her early youth the family moved to Passaic, N.J. where Pauline entered the school system.  Pauline attended high school in Passaic and volunteered at the hospital in Passaic.  She worked in the Passaic textile industry, as a key-punch operator for the Glamorene Products Company in Clifton, and finally worked side-by-side with her husband, Jack, as they owned PJ's (Pauline and Jack's) auto body shop, located on New Jersey Ave., Lyndhurst.  With Jack's talents and Pauline working as his office manager and bookkeeper, PJ's Auto Body enjoyed much success as Jack worked to restore his customer's cars to their original luster into the 1980's.  Health issues forced them to sell the business and retire.

Pauline will be lovingly remembered for her quiet, reserved way.  She was incredibly organized and saved everything including every slip of paper and even cookie tins for Jack to put small parts in.  She would balance her checkbook to the penny and if it was off she would head right over to the bank to figure out what went wrong.  She loved her cats and was always feeding the neighborhood cats as well.  Her Tuxedo cat, Peanut, will miss her very much.  Pauline had a deep Christian faith and was a longstanding member of the Midland Park Gospel Hall.

Pauline was the loving wife of Gustave "Jack" Jurgens who predeceased her on April 7, 2021; she was the devoted mother of Bruce Burgess (Susan) of North Haledon; and was the step-mother of Debra J. Guiffrida of Henderson, NV, Guy Edwin Jurgens (Jeanne) of Roseville, Ca, and the late Bret Jurgens; she was the cherished grandmother of David Burgess (Ruth), Kristin Taylor(Orlando), Teresa Jurgens and Scott Jurgens; she was the great-grandmother of Desiree, Nicholas, Gianna, Arianna, Vincent and Jayden.

Harvey Davison, age 88, of Wayne, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, July 25, 2021. He was cherished by his children, grandchildren, and family, and lived his life devoted to them.

He was born in Newark to Irving and Ethel Davison. Harvey graduated from Weequahic High School in Newark, Class of 1950, where he played on the basketball team and was given the nickname Dave (short for Davison). He continued his education at Temple University in Philadelphia where he graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology with the Class of 1954. After graduation Harvey enlisted in the Army and over the years has shared stories with his family of the time he served in Germany.

When he was honorably discharged from the Army he returned to live with his parents in Newark.  He met and married Phyllis Klein and was blessed with four children. A son Bruce, who was born on Harvey’s 27th birthday, and three daughters Sheri, Susan, and Ilene.

Harvey worked with his father at Rose Dairy in Newark and then joined his in-laws family owned business, Keil’s Bakery in Newark. Harvey had a strong interest in computers. He eventually attended night school to further his education after which he left the bakery to work as a computer programmer. He was in high demand in his field mostly for his ability to find solutions where it seemed that no one else could. He worked for J. Wiss and Sons, Goody Corporation, Red Devil Corporation, and American Cyanamid Corporation. He was also heavily recruited as a consultant. Although consulting would have been more lucrative, he chose a more stable path  with American Cyanamid in Wayne to better provide for his family. He worked at American Cyanamid until he retired in 1995.

Harvey will be remembered for his love of animals, especially dogs. Throughout his adult life he always had at least one dog, often more than one. His love of animals was evident to all who knew him. Although he was not overly social, he couldn’t help but stop to talk to anyone in the neighborhood who had a dog with them, or who came up to meet any of his dogs. Once he connected with the neighbors they became friends who would often meet up to walk and talk together.

Harvey enjoyed vegetable gardening and loved to cook which helped him when he became diabetic. He learned on his own how to prepare food with ingredients that would not raise his blood sugar without sacrificing the flavors he enjoyed. Harvey often questioned conventional medicine and would research his and his family’s maladies to find alternate solutions. When he was diagnosed with glaucoma, doctors told him that he would lose his sight in his 40’s. He refused to accept that prognosis without doing his own research. He developed a game plan that doctors said was futile, but trusted his own findings and still retained his vision until the end of his life. When he was diagnosed with diabetes, he was able to maintain blood sugar levels in the normal range by doing the same as he did for the glaucoma. His doctors were so impressed with his results that some even asked him to do classes for other diabetic patients. He was always so proud of that.

Most of all Harvey loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them. If they shared a problem with him, he would try to find a solution. Even if he did not always have the solution, he would listen if they just needed to talk. He included his children in the things that he enjoyed, such as going to lunch, running errands, and watching the Yankees, Giants, and Hallmark movies on TV. He was self-taught in guitar and piano and shared with his children, and later his grandchildren, his favorite country songs such as “Froggy Went A Courtin”. He had a curiosity about the supernatural and his family got to share in his enthusiasm when he attempted to hypnotize them. Even though it never worked, some pretended it did to make him happy. It was a fun time usually ending in laughter, and as long as his family was happy, Harvey was happy.

Harvey is survived by his son Bruce Davison and wife, Julie of Hubertus, WI, his daughters Sheri Lynch and husband, Keith of Wayne, Susan Yale-Mancini and husband, Rick of Wayne, Ilene McFarland of Basking Ridge, and his grandchildren  Rachel, Justin, Grace, Hanna Rose, Jimmy, Eddie, Ricky and his wife, Jessica, Billy, and Stephanie. He was also survived by his sister Judy, her husband, Ken, and his brother Phil.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Friends of Wayne Animals (FOWA) PO Box 3701 Wayne, NJ 07470 or through their website https://fowarescue.org/

Tony Ho, age 92, of Wayne, passed away peacefully at home, in the presence of his loving family, on Saturday, July 24, 2021.

Born in 1929 in Guizhou, China, Tony was the oldest son of Franklin and Hwa-Bing Ho’s ten children. After surviving World War II, he and his family fled to Taiwan during China’s Communist Revolution. He would later leave Taiwan for Australia, where he spent a few years working odd jobs before coming to the United States in the late 1950’s for college. He started college at Tennessee Polytechnic Institute, but then transferred to Virginia Tech where he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.

While at Virginia Tech, Tony would come to New York City to work summer jobs.  It was then that he met and fell in love with a beautiful young woman named Lorraine Lee. Tony and Lorraine got engaged in December 1961 and married on March 16, 1963 at the Corpus Christi Church on 121st Street in New York City. A wedding reception followed at Earl Hall at Columbia University and a honeymoon to Philadelphia.

Tony and Lorraine started married life living in Hackensack. In the late 1960’s they moved into their brand new home in Wayne and have remained there ever since. In 1972, they were blessed with the birth of their son Andrew.

Tony was a life-time mechanical engineer in the field of commercial heating, ventilation, and air conditioning design. He worked for a few different engineering firms, including Frank McBride Mechanical Services in Hawthorne, before ultimately opening his own HVAC consulting business under Tony Ho & Associates.

After retiring from full-time work in 1995, Tony and Lorraine enjoyed traveling. They set out to explore the world, usually taking one big trip per year. They spent time in Spain, Italy, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Greece, China, and Tahiti, but their favorite destinations were England, France, and Hawaii. In between world travel, Tony loved going with Lorraine to their condominium down the Jersey shore at Wildwood Crest.

Back at home in Wayne, Tony liked to putter around the house sprucing up the yard or doing home maintenance. He also really enjoyed cooking and making his own hot sauces. Chinese food was his specialty, particularly both boiled and fried dumplings, as well as his version of zha jiang mian (a Chinese noodle dish). He also liked to make non-Chinese food with a highlight being homemade pizza with kielbasa slices in leiu of pepperoni. In addition, Tony had a unique fascination with kitchen appliances. He was always slipping off to Bed Bath and Beyond and coming home with the latest kitchen appliance or gadget.

Above all else, Tony’s family was his greatest source of pride and joy. He simply adored his two grandsons, Nathan and Alex, and always looked forward to seeing them. Tony was a friendly guy. Always smiling, he touched the lives of many and will be dearly missed by both his family and friends.        

Tony was the beloved husband of Lorraine (Lee), blessed in marriage for 58 years. He was the loving father of Andrew Ho and wife Yani of Tenafly; cherished grandfather of: Nathan and Alex: and dear brother of: Linda Wang, Ruby Chiang, Robert Ho, James Ho, Polly Huang, Juju Hsu, Lily Chu, Albert Ho, and Anthony Ho.

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

Chilton Medical Center Foundation

97 West Parkway,

Pompton Plains, NJ 07444.

Click Here to donate online

Marianne (Mariola) Tybur, affectionately known to her grandchildren as ‘Babcia,’ was a loving, Polish, cornerstone for her family and friends.  She was born on April 19, 1942 in Dortmund, Germany, as the oldest child and only daughter of Klara and Stanislaw Jedrkowiak.  Escaping World War II, she moved with her family back to their homeland of Poland where she lived for ~20 years before starting a new life in the United States with fellow Polish native and love of her life, Longin Tybur.  Together they created a caring home for their three sons, Charles, Tom and Jim. It was a life that prioritized faith in God, love, education, Polish traditions and endless hugs and kisses.

Marianne as ‘kamien wegielny’ (cornerstone in Polish), held many critical roles for the family (historian, disciplinarian, healer, teacher, listener and more) while also being a genuine and sincere daughter, sister, wife, mother, mother-in-law, aunt, grandmother and friend.  In all interactions, she was deeply genuine in her ability to feel others’ joys and sorrows.  She was eager and ready for phone calls and visits with her loved ones. The simple pleasures in life gave her the greatest happiness – a lovely flower, updates on her grandchildren or the perfect weather.  One never left her table hungry – offering third and fourth servings were standard, and she gifted something, no matter how small, on every visit.  She had a love for Wigilia (Polish Christmas Eve), dogs, cats, bunnies, babies, Dancing with the Stars, everything Polish and sweets!  Her sharp mind and memory (especially for dates) was one of her greatest gifts, which she held onto until the very end of her life.

After a short battle with an aggressive cancer, Marianne passed away peacefully in her sleep on July 24, 2021 leaving an enormous hole in the hearts of all who love her, especially immediate family of Longin (husband of 55 years); her three children: Chuck (Marcy), Tom (Tanya), Jim (Marie); and her seven grandchildren: Jonathan, Spencer, Ben, Maddie, Matthew, Noelle and Graham; and two younger siblings: Piotr and Johannes Jedrkowiak.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to the church at Our Lady of the Valley.

Richard Gerard Brennan, age 62, of Pine Brook, NJ passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 22, 2021 while receiving the loving care of his family.

Richard was born in Paterson, raised in Riverdale, and was one of six children to Andrew and Dolores Brennan. When Richard was born, he was diagnosed with Congenital Heart Disease. Doctors told Richard’s parents that he would likely not live past the age of fifteen. When Richard was ten years old, his parents decided to take a chance on a clinical trial operation by the National Institute of Health (NIH). The surgical procedure was the first of its kind and entailed surgically implanting Teflon patches, newly developed by the company DuPont, on Richard’s heart to cover the holes or “defects.” The operation was successful and Richard became somewhat of an instant celebrity. During his recovery, Richard was visited by a number of congressmen, senators, ambassadors, and even the King and Queen of Jordan. All of the dignitaries wanted their picture taken with Rich and would often bring toys and other gifts when they visited him, of course making his siblings a little jealous.  

Richard attended grammar school at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Pompton Lakes and later DePaul High School. Richard graduated from DePaul High School with the class of 1977. When Richard was just seventeen, he took a job at a local Pathmark Supermarket. After graduating from high school, Richard went on to William Paterson College not really knowing where his education would take him. During his time at William Paterson, Richard was offered a managerial position with Pathmark whom he had been working with for about three years. Richard kept his managerial position at Pathmark and his career with the company spanned thirty years from 1977 until 2001. Richard stopped working and retired in 2001 due to health issues.

In 1979 while attending a Young Adult Event at St. Mary’s Church in Pompton Lakes, Richard met an attractive young lady by the name of Nancy Pankow, who worked with his mother at GAF. Richard and Nancy hit it off great and started dating. The couple dated for about seven years and as fate would have it, they fell in love and were married on April 27, 1986 at St. Mary's. After getting married, Richard and Nancy settled in Prospect Park, but they were not there for very long when they moved to Mahwah in 1988. While living in Mahwah, Richard and Nancy welcomed the births of their first two children, Matthew and Meghan. As the family started to grow, they moved to Waldwick in 1996 where they welcomed their third child, Colleen. In 1998 the family moved again, this time to Pompton Lakes and in 2002, the family moved to Pine Brook, NJ where they have been ever since.

Richard loved music and was a self-taught acoustic guitar player and was fluent on the harmonica as well. He could play by ear and was also able to read music and guitar tablature. Some of his favorite artists included James Taylor, Coldplay, Elvis, America, Duran Duran, Michael Jackson, Foster the People and The Eagles. He also loved the Peanuts franchise, with Snoopy and Woodstock being some of his favorites. He was an adept voice impressionist of sorts, often mimicking some of his favorite music artists and actors and cartoon characters. Richard had a way with quoting memorable movie lines with humor and memorable effect, and also would come up with comedic phrases of his very own that became part of his family's regular lexicon. He also enjoyed freshwater fishing and frequenting Island Beach State Park at the Jersey Shore for yearly summer family vacations. He adored celebrating the Christmas season with his family, and was very interested in learning about space, science, history, and new technology. Another of Richard’s favorite pastimes was gaming. He could often be found on his Xbox or his Nintendo gaming systems playing his favorite titles which included Legend of Zelda, Super Smash Bros, Super Mario/Mario Kart, Donkey Kong, and Call of Duty. Richard was a devoted father and brother, always there for his family. He was not only devoted to his family but also to his Catholic Faith. He and his family were parishioners of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pompton Lakes for many years. Richard loved animals and always took the time to feed the birds and squirrels around his home. However, aside from all of Richard’s hobbies, interests, and talents, his greatest passion was for his family. Nothing in the world meant more to Richard than spending time with his family and friends. He had a unique way of immersive storytelling of engaging tales from his past, sharing family photos, and would sometimes quip "What are your hopes and dreams for the future?" He and his wife Nancy cherished twenty-seven years of loving and loyal marriage together until Nancy’s passing in 2013. Richard was a sweet, gentle, and kindhearted man who called everyone his friend. He was the type of guy you couldn’t help but like and want to be around. Richard had the gift of being able to find humor in anything, even if it was at his own expense. He had an infectious laugh and was always able to see the brighter side of things.  Richard was a very special man who touched the lives of everyone that knew him and will be truly missed by his family and friends.

Richard is survived by his three children: his son Matthew Brennan of Pine Brook, NJ, Meghan Walker and her husband Devaughn of Pine Brook, NJ, and Colleen Brennan of Pine Brook, NJ, one sister Maureen Tencza and her fiancé Ernest Dane, one brother Joseph Brennan and his wife Beth of Doylestown, PA, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Nancy (nee Pankow) in 2013, his sister Rosemary Uhl and brother John Brennan in 2011, and his brother Andrew Brennan in 2020.

Those wishing to make a donation in Richard’s name are asked to consider the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 417005, Boston MA 02241-7005 http://www.heart.org, or National Kidney Foundation, 30 East 33rd St, New York, NY 10016 http://www.kidney.org

JESSIE ANN STANZEL GOEHNER – WRITER, DIES AT 85

Jessie Ann Stanzel Goehner, born May 20, 1936, in Rahway, N.J. died peacefully on July 21, 2021 at Brandywine Senior Living, Haddonfield, NJ after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Jessie was the daughter of Janet Bain McFarlane Stanzel and Rudolph Albert Stanzel, Sr.

and was raised in suburban Westfield, NJ. with her older brother, Rudy.  

One of Jessie’s fondest memories from childhood was being a Mariner Scout, part of the nation’s Girl Scout program. As a scout she embarked on a week-long cruise on the brigantine "Yankee" with Skipper Irving Johnson to Mystic, Connecticut. That adventure forged lifelong friendships among her crewmates.

Jessie graduated from Westfield High School in 1954 and went on to graduate from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro where she received her BA degree in Education with the class of 1958.

Jessie met her husband Ronald, through his cousin, Marianne Gehrhardt, in 1957. While dating, they enjoyed picnics, long walks, and excursions with friends to New York City. Ronald treated Jessie to concerts at Carnegie Hall and they always sat in the two center seats of the front row.  Jessie married Ronald Henry Goehner at The Presbyterian Church in Westfield, NJ on February 20, 1960.

Once married she resided in South Plainfield, NJ, Lawrenceville, NJ and Saratoga, CA before moving to the Packanack Lake community in Wayne in 1973 where she resided on Castles Drive until 2018.

While raising three children, Jessie pursued a Master of Arts degree in Communications from William Paterson College and graduated in 1979.

Jessie worked as a freelance writer journalist often covering the local school board.  She also wrote several children’s stories inspired by her experiences as a teacher and mother. One beloved story,“Watery Wednesday” was a playful message on how to make the most of the “rainy” days we are given.

She worked at the National Institutes for the Blind in their purchasing department and later switched careers to work in the public relations and communications department for St. Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson, NJ.

In retirement Jessie put her career experiences to work on behalf of Healing the Children NJ, a non-profit organization that provides essential medical care to children of the world. For her volunteer work with Healing the Children, Jessie was honored with the NJ Governor’s Award in 2002.

In 2013, Jessie published a novel, The Crooked Play Straight, which was a tale of medical intrigue. This fulfilled a lifelong dream to write and publish a full-length novel. The project had long been deferred by demands of her family, career, and volunteer work.

Jessie was an active member of Packanack Community church in Wayne for 45 years. As a church member she believed wholly in the need for inclusivity in the church and worked to promote that message within the congregation.

Jessie truly dedicated her life to caring for others. She managed food pantries, volunteered to teach English as a second language at Literacy of America in Passaic, and volunteered for several other charities, including a counseling center through her church. Jessie served as co-president of the Packanack swim team with her husband Ronald in the mid 1980s and was on the board of governors for the Packanack lake community association. Jessie would often take on the less visible tasks and assist with operations, accounting, fundraising and communications. Jessie also advocated for historical and environmental preservation both globally and within her community and passed that ethic on to her children.  

During Ron and Jessie’s retirement they enjoyed many travels that included a boating adventure down the Snake River canyon, riding camels in Egypt, and several visits to Europe for family genealogy research. In 1992 Ron and Jessie purchased a beach bungalow in Ocean Grove, NJ that had been the home of Jessie’s Great cousin, Anne Bain Forrester. There they spent many happy summers at the Jersey shore.

Jessie is predeceased by her husband of 55 years, Ronald Henry Goehner and her brother Rudolph A. Stanzel Jr.

Surviving is her sister-in-law, Marguerite “Peg” Craig Stanzel, and her cousin, Alberta MacFarlane Matyas

Also surviving are her children, Ronald Henry Goehner Jr., Thomas Bain Goehner, Janet Marie Goehner-Jacobs, and her husband, David Scott Jacobs. Jessie is also survived by her two grandchildren, Heidi Anne Jacobs, Philippe Kallagov, and his wife Maria Perez Kallagov and their daughters Abby Walsh and Alicia Kallagov.

As a writer, Jessie’s words on the page will endure, but her greatest legacy will be her many acts of compassion for those most in need.

Jessie’s family is eternally grateful to Brandywine of Haddonfield for providing such wonderful care in her final years, allowing her to live her best life to the end.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Jessie’s memory are asked to consider giving to Healing the Children, 112 Fifth Avenue Hawthorne, NJ 07506 or online at http://www.htcnj.org

Ernest “Mickey” Darnsteadt, Jr., age 85 of Wayne, died peacefully at home on Wednesday, July 21, 2021. He had lived in Wayne for nearly his entire life.

Mickey was a machinist for Sandvik Corporation in Fair Lawn, NJ throughout his entire career before retiring in 1998.

Mickey was a train enthusiast who traveled anywhere and everywhere that you could find train shows, train museums, or shops that sold collectible trains. He just loved trains! When he traveled with his wife, Emma, they almost always went somewhere that had trains. Mickey preferred to travel by car and he loved to drive. He refused to use a GPS, relying only on his trusty map collection, and he preferred back roads rather than the interstate. He never got lost, not even once. When his sons were young boys, he took them on a cross-country trip, visiting forty-eight states in six weeks, driving a station wagon with a camper in tow. He loved yard sales too, and one of their road trips included driving through one of the longest yard sales in America, driving for an entire week from vendor to vendor! Mickey only traveled in an airplane once, at age 70, and the airline pilots gave him a set of wings when the flight landed! But even after that, he preferred to drive wherever he needed to go.

In 1988, Mickey met Emma De Guzman at a singles event. They hit it off immediately and were married the next year. He encouraged her to finish school and get her LPN, which she did! The love they shared was truly special. They have enjoyed thirty-two years of loving each other, gardening together, traveling, and watching their family grow. Mickey’s ‘other love’ is their dog, Sydney. They were very close and Sydney will miss him dearly.

Mickey is survived by his beloved wife Emma of Wayne, by his two sons; Darrin and his wife Mary of Andover, and Dale and his wife Kelly of Sparta, two granddaughters; Jennifer and Ashley Darnsteadt, Emma’s children; Michael Serrano and his wife Hilda, and Carmela Swing and her husband Michael, Emma’s grandchildren; Heidee, Ellaijah, Amme, and Carmela Serrano, and Chanize, Kayla and Shawn Swing, and Mickey’s dear nephew; Kevin Sudol and his wife Barbara.

Nancy A. Dale (nee Abrams), age 83 of Bloomingdale, NJ died peacefully on Saturday, July 17, 2021. She has lived in Bloomingdale for more than fifty years.

Nancy grew up in Wyckoff and graduated from Ramsey High School and went on to earn a degree from Montpelier College. She served on the Passaic County Board of Elections for more than thirty years as a Master Board Worker and she was a fixture at the polls every election season! She was a friend to everyone she met and could have handily run for office herself. Nancy was also a big sports fan, having played softball in her younger years, she was a tennis player and bowler as well.  A huge fan of the NY YANKEES, she also had season tickets for the NY GIANTS for many years. She was a dedicated supporter of Butler and Bloomingdale athletics where she enjoyed keeping her own scorebooks and rooting for all the local kids. She kept herself fit, maintained a healthy diet, and walked about six miles at least three times per week. She never forgot to bring a trash bag with her on walks, picking up litter as she went along. She was proud of her community and did her part to keep things neat. Her family credits her with being an incredible cook with an innate ability to whip up delicious, multi-course meals out of thin air.

Nancy met her husband, Leonard, at the Old Duck Farm and they hit it off. They married on October 5, 1962 and had a reception at the Paris Inn in Wayne. They truly lived for each other, with the endearing nicknames of “Shotsy” and “Burt.” Leonard will miss her dearly.

Nancy is survived by her beloved husband, Leonard of Bloomingdale, her son Frank DelMonaco and his wife Linda of Florida, one grandson; Ryan DelMonaco of Connecticut, her brother; Richard Abrams and his wife JoAnn of North Carolina, sister-in-law Patricia Miklos and her husband Andrew of Wayne, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews that truly adored her. Nancy was predeceased by her parents and by her brother, Donald Abrams.

Donations in Nancy’s memory would be appreciated to support the athletic department at the Butler High School.

John C. Meyer, age 90, of Wayne passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 14, 2021 while in the loving care of his family.

John was born and raised in Paterson, NJ and was the only child of Joseph and Elizabeth Meyer. He attended Paterson Technical and Vocational High School, graduating with the class of 1948.  Immediately following  graduation, he found work as a Carpenter’s Apprentice with Mahieu Construction Company in Prospect Park, NJ.  While learning the carpenter trade in 1951, John got the call to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Navy. John served honorably in the United States Navy from 1951 to 1955.

In 1952, while stationed in Boston with the US Navy, John met and fell in love with Charlotte Brady. They were married on April 10, 1954 and moved to Fair Lawn, NJ. While living in Fair Lawn, John and Charlotte welcomed all five of their children.  In 1968, as their family started to grow, they moved to Wayne, where they built their own home, raised their children, and have been ever since.

Over the years, John became a general contractor and eventually Vice President of Mahieu Construction.  Throughout his career, he oversaw the construction of many commercial buildings, including churches, courthouses, and Kittatinny Regional High School, earning himself the nickname “Big John.”  John was dedicated to his career, and his work ethic was outstanding. Throughout his entire career, his family does not recall him ever taking a sick day.  For the last seven years of his career, and up until he was eighty-five years old, he taught carpenter apprentices for the Northeast Carpenter’s Apprentice Training School.

Following his retirement in 2016, John took his carpentry skills to a new level and started woodcarving, transforming his basement into a professional woodshop.  Over the years, John earned several awards for his various carvings. John’s talents were not limited to carpentry; he was also a gifted singer and self-taught organ/keyboard player, and his favorite music to play and sing were church hymns. John was active in the church and participated in the men’s chorus, where he was featured as a soloist many times. He was devoted to his Christian faith and was a member of Living Word Reformed Church with his family for many years.

John was also an excellent skier. In his later years, he and his wife Charlotte bought a condo near Killington, VT, where they enjoyed vacationing and skiing.  Aside from all of John’s talents, hobbies, and interests, his greatest passion was for his family.  Nothing in the world meant more to John than providing for his family and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He and his wife Charlotte cherished an amazing sixty-seven years of loving and loyal marriage together. John was well loved by his family, friends, and community.  He touched the lives of many people and will be sincerely missed by everyone that knew him.

John is survived by wife Charlotte (nee Brady) of Wayne, his five children; Kimberly Meyer and James Mulhern of Blairstown, NJ, Eileen Langenfeld and her husband Michael of Wayne, NJ, John Meyer of New Cumberland, PA, Robert Meyer and his wife Nancy of Oakland, NJ, and Patricia Panasik and her husband Wallace of Sandyston, NJ, eight grandchildren; Jason Mills and his wife Cindy of Austin, TX, Amy Sierant and her husband Joseph of Blairstown, NJ, James Mulhern and his wife Nikki of Long Valley, NJ, Sean Mulhern of Ringwood, NJ, Collin Panasik of Providence, RI, John Meyer of Morristown, NJ, Danny Meyer of Oakland, NJ, and Cassidy Langenfeld of Wayne, NJ, and five great grandchildren; Graeson, Roen, Zoey, Remy, and Evie.

In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s name may be made to Living Word Reformed Church, 21 Pleasant View Drive, North Haledon, NJ 07508.  http://www.livingwordrc.org/

Gabriele Violante, aged 88 years -- of Wayne and formerly of Clifton, New Jersey passed away peacefully in the early hours of Sunday morning on the 11th of July 2021. He is survived by his wife Yolanda, daughter Nancy and grand-daughter Nicole.

Born and raised in the rural village of Villa Celiera in the central Italian region of Abruzzo, Gabriele, the beloved son of Antonio and Anunziata Violante was the youngest of seven children. His childhood was defined by the family’s modest means and by the passing of his mother when he was just 11 years old. Like many of his generation, Gabriele’s formal education concluded with the eighth grade and his lessons in the school of life began soon after. Desperate to help his family, he would walk miles in bare feet to neighboring towns looking for work, trekking deep through the mountains to get to his destination. It was in these moments he would learn the benefits of hard work; a core value that would carry him through the rest of his life.

As a young man, Gabriele served in the Italian Army’s specialist mountain infantry. Known as the Alpini or Le Penne Nere, “The Black Feathers” were nicknamed for the black raven feathers that adorned their emerald helmets. His troop was responsible for maintaining a force in the Alpine mountains during the Cold War. Upon Gabriele’s return to civilian life, he made the life-altering decision to leave his homeland behind and emigrated to Canada where he would begin work as a brick layer. It was back-breaking work, but it helped lay the foundation for the new life he was trying to create.

Lonely in his new home, Gabriele hoped to meet someone to share his life with. A friend showed him a photograph of a beaming brown-haired beauty named Yolanda Silvestri. Yolanda was also a recent immigrant from Italy who had moved in with family in the United States. No stranger to overcoming obstacles, a little distance wasn’t going to keep him from meeting the girl with the brilliant smile. Gabriele made the journey from Sarnia in Ontario, Canada to Passaic, New Jersey. Yolanda was charmed by his piercing blue eyes, deep brown hair and chiseled features, but it was his warm heart and loving nature that sealed the deal. They fell in love and after a whirlwind courtship of just three months, the young couple knew they wanted to spend the rest of their lives together.

They exchanged wedding vows on Sunday, the 5th of October 1958 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church on St. Francis Way in Passaic. After a honeymoon to Niagara Falls, they started life as husband and wife in an apartment on Hope Avenue in Passaic. Two years later, they welcomed a precious baby girl whom they named Nancy, in honor of Gabriele’s late mother. After years of hard work and pinching pennies, in 1965 the couple purchased their own home on Patricia Place in Clifton. Gabriele and Yolanda would spend the next 46 years making memories in that home.

Summer weekends were spent in front of a hot charcoal grill with an ice-cold bottle of St. Pauli Girl beer in one hand and a sizzling lamb skewer in the other. In the winter, his holiday light display would make his little girl’s eyes twinkle with joy. Gabriele put plenty of work into making his house the pride of the street. The outside was blooming with flowers of every size and variety, and the inside never went more than 4 years, every election cycle – like clockwork, without a fresh coat of paint.

Inspired by his rural upbringing, Gabriele started a landscaping business – Silvestri and Violante Landscaping, with his brother-in-law Bruno Silvestri. The business was based in Clifton and served residents of the surrounding areas. During the winter months when the ground was hard and cold, Gabriele found work at the Marcal paper mill in Elmwood Park. It was his dream to earn enough to provide his daughter with the kind of childhood he never had. Love was his source of motivation in all that he did. He loved his family and his neighbors on Patricia Place. The families that lined the quiet suburban street reminded him of the friendly little village of his childhood, and the lucky ones were gifted a bottle of Gabriele’s homemade Italian red wine.

In 2011, when Gabriele and Yolanda sold their home in Clifton and moved in with their daughter Nancy, Gabriele retired and concentrated all his efforts on keeping his daughter’s lawn in tip-top shape and planting enough tomatoes and vegetables in the garden to feed all his new neighbors. Being a man of leisure did not come easily to him, but he enjoyed spending his evenings sitting beside his wife watching episodes of Jeopardy and Law and Order on television. He loved re-runs of old cowboy shows like Gunsmoke and Bonanza, and would enjoy them while treating himself to a heaping bowl of Tin Roof Sundae ice cream, or the occasional scotch and soda. His favorite member of his new household was his grand-daughter’s fluffy white Maltese named Murphy. Murphy’s exuberant tail wagging let everyone know that the feeling was mutual. “It’s my gray hair,” he would joke, “he thinks we’re related!”

While Gabriele had spent his entire life taking pride in his work, in the end, his greatest pride and achievement was his family. This was especially true of his daughter Nancy and grand-daughter Nicole. He saw them as his legacy. Their successes and happiness were the reasons Gabriele had moved to America all those years ago. With each of life’s milestones, he knew he’d done what he set out to do – create a better life for the next generation. He had done his best to set an example and to prepare them for the world they’d face when he wasn’t around. He had finally made it and was able to leave this life with the peace of knowing he would live on in the hearts and minds of those he had loved most.

Gabriele Violante was a selfless and humble man, and a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. He was an ordinary, yet remarkable, person whose hard work and determination inspired all those that had the privilege of knowing him. He will be profoundly missed by his family and friends.

Gabriele was the beloved husband to his wife of 62 years, Yolanda. He was the loving father of Nancy Cakir of Wayne, and cherished grandfather of Nicole Cakir of Wayne.

Joseph “Joe” Florek, 91 of Wayne passed away at home on Saturday, July 10, 2021.  A 1952 graduate of Purdue University, Joe worked in RCA, Harrison and Powermate Corporation in Hackensack as a mechanical engineer, plant manager and VP of operations before retiring.

Joe is the son of Helen and John Florek of Passaic.  He leaves behind his beloved wife of 68 years Milly (nee Wolos) and devoted daughter Dawn and her husband, Kevin Healey.  Grandchildren include Jonathan Healey and wife Melissa (Baroni) of Medford, MA; and Christopher Healey and wife Rebecca (Ainscow) of North Andover, MA.  He has 3 great-grandchildren.

Joe has a sister Joyce Perini of Hollywood, FL, a brother George Florek of Cedar Grove and 4 nieces and nephews.  His sister Phyllis predeceased him.

He has gone from our sight but never from our hearts.

Kathleen “Kate” D. Rebecky (McQuillan), age 64, of Hawthorne and a former longtime resident of Wayne, passed away unexpectedly at home on Wednesday, July 7, 2021.

Born in Passaic and raised in Wallington, Kate was the middle child and only daughter of Joseph and Rose (Waddleton) McQuillan. She was a graduate of Wallington High School Class of 1975 and a captain of the majorettes for the school’s Panthers.

Kate and her husband Richard met at a party through mutual best friends who happened to be siblings. They quickly shared a tender infatuation and dated a mere six months before concluding they wanted to spend the rest of their lives together. Kate and Rich tied the knot three months later on Saturday, September 6, 1980 at the Bible Baptist Church in Lodi. Rich’s brother Joe officiated the ceremony as pastor. After a beautiful reception at The Landmark in East Rutherford, the newlyweds honeymooned in Bermuda. Initially settling in Clifton, they soon moved to East Rutherford where they lived for twelve years and welcomed their one son and three daughters – CJ, Ryann, Melissa, and Samantha. In 1996, this family of six moved to Wayne. After a cherished marriage of almost 40 years, sadly, Rich passed away a year ago in February, 2020. Kate remained in their home in Wayne until just moving this past May to Hawthorne to be with her daughter Melissa.

After high school, Kate took classes for certification as an x-ray technician. She worked at Passaic General Hospital in Passaic for several years before giving it up in the mid-1980’s to devote herself to fulltime care of her children. It’s been said that “Life doesn’t come with a manual, it comes with a mother.” Well, Kate’s kids mourn her loss but celebrate all the goodness and blessings that Kate selflessly gave. Kate lived for her family. A Girl Scout leader, softball coach, class mom, member of the PTO and PTA, she was the consummate super mom when they were young. While she rarely said “No”, when disciplining was necessary (if her kids heard the jangling of the bangles around her wrist they knew she was coming to get em, and if she pointed her finger at them, they knew they better listen) she was not afraid to set boundaries. But, while every kid sometimes needs those boundaries, Kate’s love, guidance and affection was always boundless. Kate was the go-to person, no matter what the situation. In adulthood, her relationship with her kids became more of “best friends” and her daughters even affectionately referred to her as “Kateygurls”. It was a perpetual open house at the Rebecky’s. Her children’s friends were always welcome. Consequently, the house and the swimming pool were often full.

Every summer Kate, Rich and the kids would vacation at their summer home down in Hilton Head, SC. Quite frankly, Kate was no lover of the hot weather but, she selflessly went because of her greater love for her family’s happiness. The blessing of grandchildren only added to the people that Kate had the opportunity to love. She adored her grandsons Noah and Colt and was looking so forward to the much anticipated birth of her first granddaughter. Kate’s friends were like family to her and many of those friends were life-long. Though her heart was broken when Rich passed away, she was just starting to move on and had been looking forward to some travel with those great friends.  

If you wanted to get the pulse on something, just ask Kate. With her iPad in hand, she was Facebook’s best friend, always keeping up on the latest. And while she loved to hear about a good scuttlebutt, she usually erred on the side of wisdom choosing not to get involved. With her favorite drink, Canada Dry Ginger Ale by her side, Kate enjoyed countless hours playing Words with Friends. In fact, she was playing the night before her passing. A bit of a hippie at heart, Kate was a true free spirit. When mildly frustrated, instead of saying “shoot”, she would often say “Jiminy Cricket”! Her musical tastes were rather eclectic but her tender heart seemed to be drawn to songs with lyrics that would move her.

If there was a lottery for winning great parents, Kate and Rich’s kids would gratefully tell you that they hit the Mega Millions jackpot with theirs. Kate will be missed dearly by family and friends whose lives she touched in countless ways.

Kate was the beloved wife of Richard Rebecky, blessed in marriage for 39 years until his passing in February, 2020. She was the most loving mother of CJ Rebecky of Providence, RI, Ryann Jodoin and husband Colt of West Milford, Melissa Rebecky and fiancé Joel Morales of Hawthorne, and Samantha Rebecky of Wayne; adoring grandmother “MA” of Noah Perez, Colt Jodoin, Jr. and her soon-to-be-born granddaughter whose name is still a secret; dearest sister of Mac McQuillan and late wife Chickie of Rutherford and David McQuillan and wife Michelle of Vernon; and dear aunt of numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kathleen’s name to Aids Project Rhode Island (apri) P.O. Box 6688  Providence, RI 02940-6688 (aidsprojectri.org),  or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959 (www.stjude.org).

Steve Klics, age 67 of Montville passed away peacefully on Monday, July 5, 2021 in the presence of and while receiving the loving care of his family.

Steve was born in Passaic, NJ, raised in Clifton and was one of three children to Stefan and Erika Klics.  His parents’ heritage originated from Germany and Hungry.  When Steve was about eight years old, his family moved back to their homeland of Germany where Steve attended grammar school for two years during second and third grade.  Steve and his family only lived there for about two years when they moved back to the United States, again settling in Clifton, NJ.  Steve eventually attended Clifton High School graduating with the class of 1971.  While at Clifton High School he was an active member of the Clifton High School Soccer team.  Following Steve’s graduation from high school, he attended Seton Hall University in South Orange.  Steve was only at Seton Hall University for about two years when he left school to work with his father who owned a machine shop in Passaic.

Steve worked with his father at his machine shop in Passaic for several years.  Next door to the machine shop was an auto body shop.  Steve became interested in auto body and took a position at the shop next to his father’s.  After working there for several years, Steve and his father bought the auto body shop and it became Klics and Sons Auto Body.  Years later in 1985, Steve left the family shop and accepted a position at Wayne Lincoln Mercury Auto Body.  Steve was employed at Wayne Lincoln Mercury for the next twenty-five years until his health issues forced him into an early retirement.

Many years earlier while Steve was still in school, he met an attractive young lady by the name of AnnMarie Guida, who was the sister of one of his friends.  Nothing came of Steve and AnnMarie until years later in 1974 when the two met at a party. Steve and AnnMarie hit it off great at the party and started dating.  As fate would have it they fell in love and were married on January 15, 1978 at St. Philips Church in Clifton.  After getting married, Steve and AnnMarie settled in Clifton where they welcomed the births of all three of their children.  In 1986, as their family continued to grow, they moved to Lincoln Park.  Eventually in 2007, the family moved to Montville where they have been ever since.

Steve never lost his love of soccer.  For more than ten years he played on the soccer team of the Sportfriends Soccer Club in Wayne.  Steve also enjoyed playing volleyball with his friends and his brothers throughout the years.  He and his family also enjoyed skiing, frequenting such destinations as Mountain Creek in Vernon, NJ, Hunter Mountain in New York, and ski resorts in  Vermont.  Hiking was another of Steve’s favorite pastimes.  For many years Steve, AnnMarie, and their children, enjoyed hiking trails near the Delaware Water Gap.  Steve also enjoyed watching television and movies, particularly the Science Fiction genre.  Steve and his family truly cherished their yearly summer vacations to Sea Isle City at the Jersey Shore throughout the years.  Music was another of Steve’s passions, he treasured listening to a variety of music genres and was an accomplished guitar player as well.

Steve had an outstanding work ethic and was truly dedicated to his profession.  He would often, without hesitation, help his family and friends with their automobile troubles.  Steve was also dedicated to his Christian Faith.  For many years he and his family were members of First Reformed Church in Lincoln Park, and later attended Jacksonville Chapel in Lincoln Park.  Aside from all of Steve’s interests, hobbies, and talents, his greatest passion was for his family.  Steve was a truly devoted husband, father, and grandfather.  Steve and his wife AnnMarie cherished forty three years of loving and loyal married together.  Nothing in the world meant more to Steve than spending time with his family.  He was a friendly outgoing person who loved to socialize with people.  He was a genuinely special person who touched the lives of many people and will be truly missed by his family and friends.    

Steve is survived by his wife AnnMarie (nee Guida) of Montville, one daughter Kristen Klics of Morristown, NJ, two sons; Matthew Klics and his wife Jennifer of Clayton, NC, and David Klics and his wife Milady of Warren, NJ, one brother Richard Klics and his wife Diane of Wantage, NJ, two grandchildren; James Klics, and Charlisse Klics, one sister-in-law Helen Klics of Wallington, NJ, two nieces; Erika Hoffman, and Ivanna Klics, two nephews; Michael Klics, and Stefan Klics.  He was predeceased by his brother Ronald Klics.

Those planning to make a donation in Steve’s name are asked to consider the PAN Foundation, PO Box 76408, Baltimore, MD 21275-6408.  http://www.panfoundation.org/ or Foundation for Morristown Medical Center Stroke Fund, 475 South Street, Morristown, NJ 07960

So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord. For we walk by faith, not by sight. We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him.  2 Corinthians 5:6-9

Jane Philbrook (nee Casper), age 76 of Caldwell, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, July 2, 2021. No more pain, no more illness, no more struggle, but eternal glory.

Jane grew up in Irvington, NJ as one of five children in her family. Jane had an identical twin, June, and the two of them were truly “identical” twins – often wearing the same style eyeglasses and wardrobes. Even their closest family and friends had difficulty telling them apart, and Jane’s own husband found himself putting his arm around his sister-in-law by mistake! Jane and June spoke to each other daily throughout their lives before June passed in 2019.

Jane and her husband, Roger (who most call “Phil”) met at the Trinity Baptist Church. Their love blossomed and they married in October of 1974. When it came time to start a family, God led them to adopt, but that proved to be more difficult than they could have known. In the 1970’s, every adoption agency turned them away! It’s hard to imagine today, but because they were in their 30’s, they were considered to be too old to properly raise a child. They were not dissuaded, however, and God once again led them in the right direction. They found an adoption agency that placed special needs babies and children with adoptive families, and Dusty joined their family. Despite all the incredible challenges they faced as Dusty’s new parents, Jane and Phil knew that it was God’s will. They subsequently adopted Timmy and then Felicia, who were both also special-needs kids. Jane and Phil embraced every challenge, like changing diapers for thirty years, and they built a family that was more full of love than they could have imagined. Jane’s daily life was all about the kids and she wouldn’t have done any of it differently. She made wonderful, life-long friends with other families at places like Joni & Friends Retreat in Spruce Lake, PA, and she was always grateful to God for blessing her in so many unbelievable ways. For a person of just five-feet tall, she was able to carry the weight of the world on her shoulders, and she was grateful for all of it. She was a devoted mother to her three children, and they will all miss her dearly.

Jane is survived by her beloved husband, Roger “Phil” Philbrook of Caldwell, their three children; Dusty, Timmy and Fefe, all of Caldwell, two sisters; Joan of Pennsylvania, and Gail and her husband Dave of Florida, and a brother; Gary of Virginia. She was predeceased by her twin sister June in 2019.

Donations in Jane’s memory would be greatly appreciated to the Trinity Baptist Church, 160 Changebridge Rd., Montville, NJ 07045, or visit www.trinitymontville.org

Anita Manno (nee Faillace), 90, passed away on July 2, 2021 at home with her family by her side.

Anita was born in Clifton at her grandmother’s two-family house in 1931. During the depression years, her family moved around trying to make a living. Once, they moved to Nyack, NY to open a chicken market. After that business failed, they moved back to Clifton. At one point during the Depression the family had to split up and live with relatives. The family continued moving between Clifton and Passaic until eventually, the parents bought their family home in Clifton where they could settle down. Anita and her sister Gladys were responsible for watching over three very rambunctious brothers, Ronald, Robert and Angelo, while their parents were working.

Anita met her future husband, Tony Manno, at a candy store near their homes in Clifton. Tony was a very generous and helpful person which won Anita’s heart. After getting married, they moved to various places in Clifton where they started their family. Eventually, they bought a home in what seemed to be, at that time, a town far away and “in the country”, Wayne. They had their fourth child soon after moving to Wayne.

Anita was a very devoted Catholic. Coincidentally, they moved to the same area where a new church, Our Lady of the Valley, was created, but not yet built.   Anita and Tony enjoyed volunteering their time and energy in supporting the growth of the new parish.  Their favorite priest, Fr. Rugel, was now pastor of the new church. They helped build it up to become a full-fledged church then helped it grow. At that church, she was a member of the choir and a Eucharistic minister. Anita and Tony joined Marriage Encounter and the charismatic movement in the 70s. She made lifelong friends from these organizations.

According to her children, Diane, John, Theresa, and Anthony, Anita was the best mother you could have. She was a stay-at-home mother until Diane became a teenager. Then she had jobs as an administrative assistant and a salesclerk at Bamberger’s. Diane remembers getting many clothes from Bamberger’s as a result. Anthony remembers that his mother would still be available when he came home after school.

Anita always supported her children in whatever they did, even if it might have conflicted with her religious beliefs due to the circumstances they were in.  Family was everything. She would help with advice, money, teaching the art of Italian cooking, the virtue of patience and many other things. She was always there for her children.

Since all her children were becoming adults in the late 70s, she decided to broaden her horizons by taking courses at the local college, William Paterson. Tony also encouraged her to further her education even though it was not a popular concept for a housewife to pursue these goals at the time. Anthony would go to New Jersey Institute of Technology for Computer Science and Anita studied Psychology. Anita would help Anthony with essays and Anthony would help Anita with statistics. When Anthony left the house, he bought Anita a Commodore 64 which made her more advanced in computers than other people her age when she was older. They graduated at the same time in 1984. She continued to use her computer for keeping track of the family’s finances, investments, recipes, cards for special occasions and creating a family genealogical tree.

Anita then went on to go to Rutgers in New Brunswick for a master’s degree. That was a huge move for her since it was so far away and she had to go on busy highways (something she feared), but Tony kept encouraging her to go for her dreams. She overcame any obstacles and earned her Master’s in Social Work (MSW). She was an excellent student who graduated Magna Cum Laude.  She was a role model for her family. She worked as a counselor at a family service agency then opened her own marriage and family counseling practice. At first, she shared an office with another business, later Tony added an addition to the house to create an office for her to use. Anita was also a counselor at Our Lady of the Valley. She helped many patients as a result. Her daughters saw Anita as a role model for a strong woman who was a supporter of women’s rights. Anthony remembers her frequently discussing how women should be able to advance further in the Catholic Church into new roles. Anita always saw the bright side of a situation.  Her love of knowledge brought her joy and many exciting and fulfilling years.

Anita had many hobbies and interests. She was a passionate gardener which was on full display in her Wayne and Rockaway gardens. Whenever you wanted to brighten her mood, just get her flowers. She was a truly great Italian cook. Anita threw many wonderful and memorable parties for family and friends. She enjoyed photography and later in life she experimented with watercolor painting. Another passion was traveling where she and Tony traveled many times throughout the United States, Europe and on cruise ships.

Eventually, she decided it was time to relax from working on the house in Wayne and move to an adult community in Rockaway.  It was there that she enjoyed swimming, water aerobics, ceramic classes, educational seminars, raising finches and parakeets, and her companion Maltipoo dog.  She cared for Tony when he was afflicted with a long-term illness until he passed away peacefully in 2012. They were married for 62 years. She never took her wedding band off. The last three years, Anita has been living in an assisted living facility in Morris County where she did not have to maintain her condo and she could enjoy more time of leisure with minimal responsibilities.  Her favorite activities at the assisted living facility were bingo, socializing at happy hour, craft activities and many holiday parties.  She continued to be a strong woman until the end. The staff at the assisted living community commented that they loved her sense of humor and infectious laugh and that she will be missed.

Anita is survived by four loving children, four siblings, six grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by them all. We hope she is reunited with the love of her life, her husband Tony.  

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

Patricia Lavore, age 61, of Wayne and formerly of Shelbyville, IN passed away peacefully on Monday, June 28, 2021 while receiving the loving care of her family.

Trish was born in Hackensack and was raised in Hasbrouck Heights.  She was the second youngest of four children to Paul and Gail Gelewski.  As a young girl, Trish attended high school at Immaculate Heart Academy in Washington Township and graduated with the class of 1978.

Following her high school graduation, Trish found work quickly as a dispatcher with Airbrook Limousine in Rochelle Park.  While employed as a dispatcher, Trish’s boss offered her a position as a hostess on buses taking seniors on day trips to Atlantic City.  Over the next few years traveling to and from Atlantic City, Trish made connections with people in AC and was offered a position in the hospitality services department at the Tropicana Casino.  Trish worked there for a number of years and was then transferred to Evansville, Indiana where she was sent to assist in the opening of the Casino Aztar.  Trish was employed at the Casino Aztar for almost fifteen years where she held the executive position of Vice President of Marketing / General Manager.  Trish loved her work and the people she worked with.  She made it a point to be involved in every aspect of the casino, always making sure the casino was clean and organized to her liking.   In 2009, Trish accepted another position, again as Vice President of Marketing, this time with Indiana Live Casino in Shelbyville, IN.  Trish held this position for about five years when her health issues forced her to stop working.

While Trish was employed at the Tropicana in South Jersey, she found a home and lived in Mays Landing. During her time in Mays Landing, Trish welcomed the births of her two daughters, Taylor in 1990, and Giana in 1993.  In 1995, Trish and her daughters moved to Newburgh, IN where Trish was relocating for her career.  After Trish was no longer able to work, she moved to Wayne, NJ where she moved in with her daughter Taylor and her husband Chris.  Trish never had much time for hobbies due to her demanding career and outstanding work ethic. Trish’s greatest passion was always her family and nothing in the world meant more to Trish than providing for and spending time with them.  While living in Indiana, Trish and her family treasured making the fourteen hour drive from Indiana to New Jersey for their yearly two week summer family vacation at Seacrest Beach on the Jersey Shore. After moving back to New Jersey, Taylor’s mother-in-law, Cathy Bodtmann, became a close friend and dedicated caregiver to Trish.

Trish was a fun loving person who was always able to find the funny side of things and situations.  Trish also had the wonderful quality of being able to laugh at herself and make jokes at her own expense.  She had an infectious laugh and always made the people around her smile.  She was the kind of person you couldn’t help but like and want to be around.  For a few years, because of her health issues, Trish had a speech therapist whom she would meet with frequently.  The therapy Trish needed to receive was tedious to her, so she took the liberty to teach her Speech Therapist the card game, Rummy 500.  Trish and her therapist would play while she received her therapy.  Since then, her Speech Therapist now incorporates Rummy 500 into all of her patient’s therapy sessions.  Trish was truly a special person who touched the lives of many people and will be sincerely missed by her family and friends.

Trish is survived by her two daughters, Taylor Lavore and her husband Christopher Bodtmann of Wayne, NJ, and Giana Lavore of Shelbyville, IN, her mother Gail Connolly of Upper Saddle River, NJ, two sisters, Jan Melli of Los Angeles, CA, and Jody Peltz and her husband George of Apopka, FL, one brother Michael Gelewski and his wife Lisa of Glen Rock, NJ, one grandchild, Josephine Bodtmann of Wayne, NJ and many loving nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her father Paul Gelewski in 2017.

Mary Lou Baisch (nee Kammerer) age 88, of Wayne passed peacefully on Monday, June 28, 2021.

Mary Lou was born to Herbert and Edna Kammerer in Hawthorne, NJ.   The family lived in Paterson where she graduated from Central High School with the Class of 1951. Mary Lou had many fond childhood memories of summers in Oakland by her grandparents’ home.  It is there that she learned to fish, play in the water by the river, and developed a remarkably close relationship with her Uncle Henry, which continued throughout her life.

In high school, Mary Lou began dating a boy named Charles “Charlie” Baisch and while he was teaching her to drive with his new car, she hit the gas instead of the brake and they had a minor accident.  It was love at first “hit” and Charlie always teased her that she agreed to marry him because she smashed his new car.   Charlie then borrowed money from his brother to purchase an engagement ring and they married on June 27, 1953, at the 1st Baptist Church in Paterson.  They honeymooned in Daytona Beach, Florida and moved into the first floor of Charlie’s parents’ home at 424 McBride Avenue in Paterson where they lived until they bought their first and only home in Wayne, New Jersey on December 23, 1963.  There they lived and raised their family for over fifty-five years.

They called their home “The Welcome Home Inn” for it had a revolving door welcoming “all”.  Mary Lou had a true gift for “hospitality” and loved being a wife, mother, grandmother and homemaker.  One of the highlights of their home, was the inground swimming pool which was used continually by their four daughters Jane, Laurie, Judy and Diane and their countless friends.  In fact, “Mrs. Baisch” to many was well loved for she made everything fun, always had ice cream and cupcakes ready, and found joy in showering love to all.  When the grandchildren arrived, they turned their basement into a “Kids Clubhouse”, heated the inground pool and you would find Grandma heating the matching pool towels one by one as she hugged and wrapped each child coming out of the pool.  To Mary Lou and Charlie, the more the merrier at the well-manicured, tastefully decorated “Welcome Home Inn”.

Mary Lou will be lovingly remembered for being easy-going, compassionate, caring and generous to a fault. Her home was always open to family and friends. For many years she was the organist at the West Side Methodist Church in Paterson and often held choir practice in her home while still remaining active at her home church, The Preakness Baptist Church in Wayne.  In fact, when not playing at West Side, you would find her playing duets with her husband Charlie before every service at Preakness.

“Family” meant everything to Mary Lou, especially her beloved husband Charlie and her four daughters and eventually their families.  She was a constant “encourager”, always looking at the positive side of life.  That coupled with her love for “all” and reaching out to others in need, you would find her giving her “last dollar” to even a stranger whom she referred to as “strangers are friends we have not met yet”!

Mary Lou was truly “sweet” from her personality, to eating their children’s Easter bunnies while they were at school, to finding her sitting on the couch eating a fudgesicle when they returned home.  In fact, she was truly a “chocoholic” and in her later years, would hide candy for those late-night binges.  That legacy has truly been passed on too!

Her love for music began early on, learning to play the piano at a young age.  It not only gave enjoyment to those that listened but soothed her soul and brought her peace.   She could never walk pass her piano without stopping to play a song or two even late at night.  She found comfort in playing many old-time hymns which brought depth to her faith in Jesus Christ.

She was the loving wife of sixty-two years to the late Charles Baisch (d.2015); devoted mother of Jane Harlan of Wayne, Gerry Harlan of Hilltown, PA, Laurie Roemer and her husband William of Milton, DE, Judy Bakonyi and her husband Jim of Highland Lakes, Diane Axberg and her husband George of Wayne, and Beverly and David Radway of Wayne who she loved like her own children; cherished grandmother of Jennifer McGillick and her husband Chris of Nanuet, NY, Justin Harlan and his wife Brooke of Red Hill, PA, Kristin Saskowitz and her husband Matt of Denville, Sarah Hendrickson and her husband John of Wantage, Jenna Leib and her husband Will of Corpus Christi, TX, Caneel Axberg of Wayne, Summer Axberg of Wayne, and Jonathan Radway of West Chester, PA; dearly loved great-grandmother of  Cash and Weston Harlan of Red Hill, PA, Kaleigh and Dylan McGillick of Nanuet, NY, and Abigail Leib of Corpus Christi, TX.  She was also dearly loved by extended family and friends she considered family.

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In lieu of flowers, you can make a donation in memory of Mary Lou Baisch c/o Jane Harlan, 47 Worcester Drive, Wayne, NJ 07470 to be used to enhance the memory care unit, outdoor garden of Sunrise Assisted Living, where our Mom was given wonderful and loving care until her last day.

Dr. Shanta Dhar age 81, passed peacefully on Monday, June 28, 2021 while being in the company of her family.

Shanta was born and raised in Srinagar, Kashmir in India. She was passionate about helping people and making a positive impact in the field of medicine during a time when not many women in India studied beyond high school. She graduated with a degree in MBBS from Gandhi Medical College and went on to get her Master of Surgery (MS) degree from All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).  

Shortly after graduating with her medical degree, Shanta was engaged and married to Raj Dhar. As a newly married couple Raj and Shanta moved to New Delhi to start their newly married life together. Raj and Shanta welcomed their first child Rakesh who was born in New Delhi. A few years later Raj got an exciting job opportunity which required the family to move to Bangalore. A few years after moving to Bangalore, Raj and Shanta welcomed their second son Sanjay.  

Both Raj and Shanta worked very hard to provide the best for their two sons. On 22nd May 1983, something very unexpected and drastic happened. Raj suffered a massive heart attack and passed away suddenly. This was a devastating blow to the entire family.  

Shanta has always been very strong and the sudden death of her husband was a huge blow. Shanta was a pillar of strength, hope and perseverance. She single handedly raised both Rakesh and Sanjay, despite all the challenges of life. She succeeded and prevailed brilliantly. Shanta has always been a selfless and benevolent person asking for nothing in return. She is an epitome of the proverbial “Iron Lady” with a heart of gold.  In addition to being a dedicated professional and mom, she also was an excellent cook. She made the best lamb Rogan Josh among other various Kashmiri delicacies.

She spent the last few years of her life staying with her children and grandchildren in the US between Massachusetts and New Jersey. She had a jolly good time with friends during family parties and would always surprise everyone with some of her quirks.  

Special thanks to Neeru and Vini who took care of Shanta just like a real daughter would do and in some cases more than what a daughter may have done. We are all going to miss her dearly and she continues to live in our memories and in our hearts.

Phyllis Mary Kay O’Reilly, age 91, of Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains, formerly an over fifty year resident of the Packanack Lake Section of Wayne, passed peacefully at home on Saturday, June 26, 2021 while in the loving company of her family.

Born in Paterson New Jersey on September 26, 1929, Phyllis was the sole child of John and Alice (Donohue) Kay. She grew up in the home located at 287 East 18th Avenue in Paterson and, as a member of the Donohue clan, she was very well connected to the leadership of Paterson.

After graduating from St. Joseph’s High School in Paterson with the Class of 1946, she attended Berkeley Secretarial School, then got her first job working as an executive secretary at McGraw Hill for an editor in the Times Square section of New York City.

Phyllis was married to Hugh, a veteran of World War II. They met through a friend of Hugh’s and soon fell in love. They exchanged wedding promises on Sunday, February 18, 1951 at Saint Joseph’s Church in Paterson. After the wedding the newlyweds drove to Florida in a black Pontiac and honeymooned in Fort Lauderdale. They initially lived in an apartment in Passaic where they welcomed their firstborn, a son named John (Jack). A year later, with the help of the G.I. Bill, Phyllis and Hugh were able to buy their own home at 41 Hillcrest Drive in the Packanack Lake section of Wayne. They chose that particular home because of its beautiful fireplace. In the following years, four more children were welcomed - Michael, Maura, Jean and Brian. To this day, Phyllis and Hugh’s kids enjoy childhood memories of hanging their pajamas by that fireplace so they’d be toasty warm when they finished their baths. Phyllis and Hugh enjoyed over fifty years on Hillcrest Drive before moving to Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains. They were living proof of the old adage that opposites attract. Hugh kept Phyllis perpetually laughing and Phyllis kept Hugh’s mind perpetually stimulated and challenged. They were blessed with 67 years of marriage until Hugh’s passing in 2018 at the good age of 98.

At the age of 38 Hugh developed a cardiac condition and Phyllis, then just 28, realized that she may need to support her family. So she enrolled in Paterson State College (which eventually became William Paterson College and then William Paterson University) and obtained her undergraduate degree and teaching certificate in education. She would later go on to obtain multiple graduate degrees including one while pregnant with her fifth child Brian. Always ready to seize and opportunity, Phyllis’ children recall how she enrolled them in summer science labs at William Paterson while she took summer classes. Phyllis enjoyed a stimulating and rewarding career of thirty years teaching at Stonybrook Elementary School and Pearl R. Miller Middle School, both in the Kinnelon, NJ school district. She served as President of the Kinnelon Education Association (KEA) and as Union representative for the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA). She retired in 1991 at age 62.

Growing up, Phyllis and her parents spent summers at the Jersey shore in Seaside Heights and, as a teen, worked as a locker attendant at Lucky Leo’s Boardwalk Amusement Center. From early childhood, Phyllis developed an enthusiastic love of reading. Her home library was so extensive friends would visit and check out books. Phyllis was very smart and very talented. She made her own clothes, and jewelry and she taught watercolor painting for the Cedar Crest Community. She was well known to complete the Sunday New York Times crossword puzzle with her morning coffee. It was only in the last few months that she needed an extra cup of coffee to finish! Not many could boast of having a letter to the editor published in the New York Times, but Phyllis could. She was a huge fan of the old college bowl games and Jeopardy. She embraced technology, and always acquired the latest iPhone, Apple Watch, and iPad, and taught technology classes to fellow Cedar Crest residents. Phyllis’ family considered her to be the smartest woman any of them knew!

With all that intellect, Phyllis was able to accomplish a lot! Running a household, pursuing college degrees and teaching in the Kinnelon schools would be more than enough for most people, but Phyllis still found quality time to enrich the lives of family, friends, and acquaintances. She and Hugh did their best to make events for their children fun and educational. There were trips to every museum you could think of, Saturday matinees at the New York Metropolitan Opera, regular attendance at plays such as The King and I, and visits to cemeteries to learn about history and to sharpen the children’s math skills by making equations to solve, using the dates on headstones. The love of reading was instilled in her children from the start. Every week, Phyllis would ask each one of the kids what subject they would like to read about for the week, then she was off to the Wayne Public Library in pursuit of books on the chosen subjects. The family enjoyed annual vacations to Cape Cod. Hugh built an amazing custom trailer and the family camped and fished right off the beach. Of course, even Phyllis had her limits. When life got just a little too hectic.

Hugh would take the kids down to the Hi-Ho Club in Wayne. He’d enjoy a shot and a beer with friends while the kids were treated to a bottle of birch beer or sarsaparilla. When graced with the blessing of grandchildren, Phyllis proudly presented each one of them with a personally made blanket and sweater. Phyllis and Hugh had the pleasure of traveling to many places around the world including: Antarctica on a Russian research ship, Argentina, Easter Island, Tibet, the British Isles, China, and Italy to name a few. Many of her watercolor paintings were depictions of places traveled or interesting people met along the way.

Phyllis drank deeply from all the richness that life had to offer. She was a life-long learner who inspired and consequently raised up family and friends and even strangers. As a longtime member of the Packanack Community Association and Country Club, president of the Resident Advisory Board at Cedar Crest Village, and member of  the Allendale Community Arts Association, to name a few, she always gave much more than she took from this world.  

Phyllis was the beloved wife of Hugh, blessed in marriage for 67 years until his passing in 2018. She was the loving mother of: Jack O’Reilly and his wife Mary, Dr. Michael O’Reilly and his late wife Saundra (2018), Maura Kayal and her husband John, Jean O’Reilly, and Brian O’Reilly; dear grandmother of: Brendan O’Reilly, Sean O’Reilly, the late Padraic O’Reilly (2018), Andrea Kayal, Jeffrey Kayal, Daniel Kayal, Ryan Kayal, and Shannon O’Reilly Leahy; and cherished great-grandmother of Opal Faye O’Reilly and Fiona O’Reilly Leahy.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Phyllis’ name are asked to consider “Cedar Crest Resident Care Fund” with “In Memory of Phyllis O’Reilly” written in the memo line of the check. Contributions can be mailed to Cedar Crest, Attn: Department of Philanthropy, 1 Cedar Crest Drive, Pompton Plains, NJ 07444.

Claire Florence Wallenburg (nee Chadwick/Whittaker), age 94, of Pompton Plains and formerly of Wayne passed away peacefully on Friday June 18, 2021 while receiving the loving care of her family.

Claire was born in Trenton and grew up in and around the Trenton area of New Jersey.  She was the daughter to Howard and Florence Chadwick.  Claire and her family moved around quite a bit when she was a young girl.  Eventually after graduating from high school with the class of 1944, she attended Drakes School of Business where she earned her Associates Degree in Bookkeeping.

Claire found work quickly as a bookkeeper with the Fair Department Store in Passaic, NJ.  Claire held employment there for the next seven years until 1958.  During that time her brother had enlisted in the United States Navy and was stationed at a naval base in the state of Virginia.  Every so often her brother would commute home to New Jersey when he had time off.  When he did, he traveled with another young enlisted man by the name of Fred Wallenburg.  Claire was introduced to Fred by her brother and they hit it off great.  Claire and Fred started dating, as fate would have it they fell in love and on May 17, 1953 they became husband and wife getting married in Calvary Baptist Church in Clifton, NJ.

After getting married the couple settled in Passaic, NJ where they resided for about seven years.  In 1958 while living in Passaic, they welcomed the birth of their first child, their daughter Debra. Claire and Fred moved to Wayne in 1960, where they actively participated in the building of their home. Not long after that in 1962, they welcomed a second child, their son Lee. Claire and Fred raised their children in Wayne and remained there until they retired and moved to Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains eleven years ago.

Following the birth of her first child, Claire decided to dedicate her time to being a full time homemaker.  Claire remained a homemaker until 1972 when her children became older.  At that point, Claire made the decision to return to the workplace.  Claire called upon her previous skills from her earned degree and accepted a position once again as a bookkeeper, this time at Tires of Wayne on Route 23 in Wayne, NJ.  Claire held this position from 1972 until 1994 when she finally retired.

Throughout the years, Claire participated in and organized various 4H Clubs in her local area where she worked with young people in an effort to advance the field of youth development.  One of Claire’s most beloved passions was sewing.  Claire was extremely talented at sewing, needlepoint, and crocheting.  She was a voracious reader, mostly of mystery and suspense novels.  Some of her favorite authors included Mary Higgins Clark and Stephen King.  Over the years she received books via mail order as part of a Book Of The Month Club. Being an avid reader, it came as no surprise that Claire strongly supported and could be often found at the Wayne Public Library.

Claire was not only dedicated to her family but also to her Baptist Faith as well.  She and her family were members of the Preakness Baptist Church in Wayne for many years.  There she was very active and participated in and worked closely with a variety of the church groups and committees.

Travel was another of Claire’s favorite past times.  Throughout Claire and Fred’s time together, they were able to visit all fifty states of our great nation.  They also had fond memories of traveling to various islands in the Caribbean.  Many of the couple’s vacations would often be two to three weeks in duration.  However, above all of Claire’s talents, hobbies, and interests, her greatest passion was for her family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Claire than spending time with her children and grandchildren.  Claire and Fred cherished sixty-five years of loving and loyal marriage together until Fred’s passing in 2018.  Claire was a truly special person who touched the lives of everyone around her.  She will be sincerely missed by her family and friends alike.

Claire is survived by her daughter Debra Flynn and her husband Brian of Oak Ridge, NJ, her son Lee Wallenburg and his wife Romy of Merritt Island, FL, six grandchildren; Kathleen Flynn of Norfolk, VA, Shannon Flynn of Silver Spring, MD, Patrick Flynn of Oak Ridge, NJ, Randi Wallenburg of Merritt Island, FL, Nina Wallenburg of Merritt Island, FL, and Troy Wallenburg of Merritt Island, FL.  She was predeceased by her husband Fred Wallenburg in 2018.

“If there’s no chocolate or licorice in Heaven, I’m not going!”

Ida Keil (nee Dahl) of Wayne, N.J. died on Wednesday, June 16, 2021 at the age of 93. She has lived in Wayne since 1954.

Ida grew up in Copenhagen, Denmark, enduring World War II and Nazi occupation throughout her childhood and the better part of her teenage years. She recalled that her father worked at the world-famous Tivoli Gardens Amusement Park in Copenhagen, and her mother was a barber. After the war, Ida ventured to America, planning to visit for just one year while staying with relatives and working at the family bakery in Passaic, N.J. Her plans to return to Denmark were interrupted after a blind date with the handsome George Keil from Union City, N.J. Although George had a bit of a wild side, with Ida describing him early on as “untrainable,” she said “yes” when George proposed. They married on May 2, 1954 and honeymooned in Copenhagen. This was the first opportunity for Ida’s parents to meet George, and her mother’s greatest concern was his German heritage. “But he’s German, Ida. What will you do if there’s another war?” Well, in short time Ida’s mother came to adore George and the family embraced their union. Throughout the years, Ida and George returned to Denmark on many occasions to visit her family. George and Ida also traveled throughout the world, visiting more than 75 countries and embarking on many cruises. Ida even continued traveling after George passed away in 2004, taking a 15-week cruise around the world by herself. During their 50 years of marriage, they worked together every day, keeping each other grounded and truly enjoying their years together.

Ida’s children recall what an excellent cook she was—her seafood strudel was famous at holiday dinners. Her kitchen skills were exceptional, though it would be unfair to say that everything turned out perfectly, proving that the day she tossed a flaming toaster out the kitchen window. Ida was also very serious about her fitness, swimming across Pines Lake many mornings with her dog swimming alongside in her earlier years until later keeping this tradition alive by swimming daily in her pool. Ida enjoyed golfing as a member of the North Jersey Country Club and at the Island Country Club in Marco Island, Fla., where her and George had a home for many years. Whether she was golfing or playing cards at the club, she proved to be a competitive woman. She became a ‘widow card shark’ of sorts, taking home more than her share of quarters. Ida was also a wonderful grandmother to her three grandchildren, frequently baking with them, teaching them her native tongue and hosting tea parties with them. She was loved dearly by her family. She had an adventurous spirit and was always on the move—truly enjoyed her life to the fullest.

Ida is survived by her four daughters, Susan Kocay and her husband Kenneth of Sanford, Fla, Annette Carr and her husband Ron of Wayne, Barbara Keil of Wayne and Katherine Keil and her partner Leo Russ of New York, N.Y.; her three grandchildren, Lisa Kocay, Annalise Carr and ErinRose Carr; as well as her brother, Benny Yde Dahl of Copenhagen, Denmark. Ida was predeceased by her beloved husband, George in 2004 and her two brothers.

Donations in Ida’s memory would be appreciated to Messiah Lutheran Church, 228 Ramapo Valley Rd., Oakland, N.J. 07436, or donate online at the church website; www.messiahoaklandnj.org.

The Kudla family is postponing the celebration of Ken's life that had been planned for August 26, 2021.

Kenneth William Kudla, age 56, of Wayne passed suddenly and unexpectedly on Tuesday, June 15, 2021.

Kenneth was born in Passaic and raised in Wayne, NJ and was the fourth oldest of six children and the only son to William and Mary Kudla.  Over the years, Kenneth was affectionately known to his family and friends as “Kenny.”  While growing up in Wayne, Kenny attended Passaic County Technical Institute where he studied “Small Engine Repair.”  Following his graduation from Passaic County Tech in 1982, Kenny moved out to California to live with his sister Barbara.  While living in California, Kenny’s sister Barbara taught him the trade of carpentry and construction.   After living there for about a year, Kenny moved back to Wayne, New Jersey where he accepted a position in construction with Boothney Builders based in Wayne.  Kenny was employed with Boothney Builders for several years.  Later, Kenny moved back in with his parents where he served as a companion and caregiver to his mother and father until their passing’s.

Kenny truly enjoyed working with his hands and was a talented and creative individual.  Over the years, Kenny built a number of birdhouses and other woodworking projects for himself and his family.  He also had a passion for remote control cars and could often be found at Garret Mountain in Clifton where he would race and toy around with them.  Throughout his life, Kenny cherished building, rebuilding, and repairing his RC Car collection.  He was an outdoorsman of sorts in the fact that enjoyed camping with his father in Highpoint, NJ as well as fishing when he was younger.  During the summer while Kenny was growing up, his parents and his sisters frequented the Jersey Shore at Seaside Park for family vacations.

Kenny was robust in his beliefs and strong willed.  He was a tough and resilient individual and could quite often be rather convincing, persuasive and compelling.  Although family and friends would often try to provide him with advice and guidance, Kenny was his own man, independent, and lived life his own way.  Aside from all of Kenny interests and hobbies, his greatest passion was for his family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Kenny than spending time with his family and friends.  Kenny’s family refers to his unexpected passing as “losing one of the spokes in the family wheel.”

Kenny was a genuinely special person who touched the lives of everyone around him and will be missed by his family and friends alike.  His family has said that if Kenny had any last words, they would probably be a quote from his favorite song, “I’m as free as a bird now.”

Kenny is survived by his five sisters; Marion Velechko of Toms River, NJ, Patricia Kudla of Tuxedo, NY, Barbara Rissman and her husband Craig of Tionesta, CA, Kim Kudla of Warwick, NY, and Darlene Grasso and her husband James of Highland Lakes, NJ, and several nieces and nephews.  Kenny was predeceased by his parents William and Mary Kulda.    

Kenneth Kudla - I am a free spirit, admire me and fly with me.  

Thomas J. Spillane, Sr., age 81, of Pompton Plains and a former longtime resident of Caldwell and Belleville, passed away on Saturday, June 12, 2021.

Born in Newark and raised in Belleville Township, Tom was the oldest of Thomas F. and Rebecca “Betty” (Higgins) Spillane’s five children.

While attending Belleville High School, Tom got his first job as a clerk at Patty’s Drug Store in Newark. When he graduated with his classmates in 1958, he began fulltime work in the mailing department of New Jersey Bell. It was a “foot-in-the-door” position in which Tom was required to sort internal mail and deliver it by truck to all the departments within New Jersey Bell’s various locations. During the span of the next thirty-plus years, Tom remained a loyal employee who was there when New Jersey Bell changed names to Bell Atlantic and ultimately Verizon. He moved on quickly from the mail department with a promotion to the central office as a technician and, after taking night classes at Rutgers University where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in 1972, he ultimately ascended to the position of senior engineer before retiring in 1992.

Tom enjoyed a couple years off before his wife Barbara encouraged him to explore new job possibilities. His quest for his next pursuit lead Tom to a position as a social worker with Essex County Welfare. After working there for sixteen years, he was diagnosed with lung cancer. He hung in there for two more years before retiring completely in 2012.

Tom met Barbara Kuratnick on a blind date set up by friends Sandy and John McNally. That first date was to a party and many dates followed that one. Even when Barbara left for college at Kent State University in Ohio, they maintained a long-distance relationship. In 1964, Tom attended Barbara’s college graduation and, while there, he popped the question – “Will you marry me?” Four months later, on Friday, November 21, 1964, they publicly declared their wedding promises in a marriage ceremony at St. Peters Church in Belleville. After a reception at the Princeton Inn in Belleville, the newlyweds loaded some suitcases into their 1964 Volkswagen Bug and headed north for New England for a weeklong honeymoon. Volkswagens were notorious for having no heat but Tom and Barbara had each other’s love to keep them warm.

Upon their return from their honeymoon, Tom and Barb’s first abode, a third-floor apartment in a house on Academy Street in Belleville awaited them. Five years later, they were able to scrape up the money to purchase their own home at 90 Tappan Ave. in Belleville. While there, they were blessed with the first two of their three children – Patricia “Trish” and Thomas Jr. In 1975, they moved again, this time to 53 Lloyd Place in Belleville where daughter, Melanie was born. They remained in that home for the next 27 years. When it was time to move again, they bought a home in Caldwell located at 6 Beekman Hill Road. The next eighteen years were spent there until they decided to move to Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains in 2020.

You could say that Tom was a true Belleville boy. Belleville ran through his blood. Though his graduation from Belleville High School was over 60 years ago, Tom remained in close contact with many of his classmates to the present, especially his buddy Danny Riordan who he met when he was just two years old as next door neighbors. Even in 2020, with the COVID-19 pandemic making it impossible to get together, Tom and his friends would virtually chat. In adulthood, Tom was active in a myriad of different Belleville endeavors. He served as a former member of the Belleville Board of Education where, as Vice President, he had the honor of publicly presenting his daughter Trish with her high school diploma. He was an avid member of the Belleville Democratic Club, was elected as Belleville’s Third Ward Councilman and rose to the position of Deputy Mayor of the town. As an enthusiastic member of the Belleville Chamber of Commerce, one of his favorite annual activities was dressing up as Santa Claus and landing from a helicopter to give out Christmas gifts to the excited children. He was a charter member of the Belleville Optimist Club and served as the club’s president several years. He also loved getting together with other Belleville couples for dinner and  families for group vacations to the Jersey shore. And of course, who could forget the annual trips with his buddies to Hilton Head to play golf? When Tom and Barbara moved to Cedar Crest Village in 2020, Tom was so excited to find out that they had a democratic club he could join. He immediately volunteered for the club’s program committee and was able to sponsor a few speakers before the COVID pandemic shut everything down. He and Barb also made some friends by participating in the bocce ball club. Tom loved his 1963 Corvette convertible. Unfortunately, one night it was stripped by thieves for much-in-demand and impossible-to-replace-parts. They even took the seats and the convertible top. That was the end of that car. He was a big Boston Red Sox fan who frequently tried to catch games at Yankee Stadium when his beloved Bosox were in town.

Above all else, Tom’s family was his greatest passion. Throughout their childhood his daughters and son were treated to regular trips to Disney, vacations down the shore to Wildwood Crest and Lavallette, to the Poconos, Wallpack NJ and to Scranton, PA. There were also long drives to visit family in Florida. Those drives were so frequent that Tom’s wood-paneled Chevy Caprice Classic Wagon almost knew the way by itself. At Christmas, that car would be filled with three excited kids as it headed in the other direction for a trip to Santa’s Workshop in North Pole, NY. Tom served as a Cub Scout Leader in Belleville Pack 301 when his son Tom was young and he volunteered at the YMCA in their scouting program in which his son Thomas was an Indian Guide and his daughter Melanie was an Indian Princess. Tom convinced all the other fathers to join him in taking their little Indian Princess’s on a camping trip, twice a year to Frost Valley in upstate New York. It was here that Tom earned the nickname “Big Bear” that some of his friends still use today. Tom’s devotion to his daughters and son was only matched by his devotion to his nine grandchildren. You could guarantee that Tom would be in attendance at all of their sporting events and dance and music recitals. In fact, he was so faithful and encouraging that they unanimously declared Grandpa their number one fan. Tom and Barbara loved to travel. When they were engaged to be married they took a trip together in Barb’s 1958 Chevy. The trip went great until the car’s engine blew. In more recent years they enjoyed cruises to Alaska and the Mediterranean and trips abroad to Italy, Russia, Ukraine, and Ireland. Aaaah, Ireland! Tom was so proud of his Irish heritage!

Tom was a great human being. He truly was the eternal optimist. He was a compassionate man. He was a loyal friend and the best grandfather a kid could ask for. If you needed a hand with something, Tom was always happy to offer his time and wisdom.  

Tom was the beloved husband of Barbara (nee Kuratnick), blessed in marriage for 56 years. He was the loving father of: Patricia and husband Tim Schaffer of West Caldwell, Thomas Jr. and wife Stephanie Spillane of Rockaway Township, and Melanie and husband Shelby Tuhari of Wayne; cherished grandfather of: Ryan, Kyle, and Luke Schaffer, TJ(Thomas III), Tyler, and Mackenzie Spillane, and Justin, Shelby, and Chelsea Tuhari; dear brother of Patty and late husband Tony Licastri of Hillsborough Township, Jeane and husband Ralph Pacheco of Rutherford, Mark and wife Lisa Spillane of Sparta, and Susan and husband Richard Schneider of Hillsboro Township. He was predeceased by his much-loved parents Thomas F. and Betty (Higgins) Spillane.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Tom’s name are asked to consider Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center or a charity of your choice:

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

1275 York Ave.

New York, NY  10065.

To donate online, click here.

Joyce Cushman Alexander (Silva), age 87 of Wayne passed Friday, June 11, 2021.

                 “If you remember a single blossom that defied the frost,

           You have no reason to fear this great mystery that is Life;

     For you hold its secret deep within your heart.”   --Winston Abbott

Joyce Annetta Silva was born July 19, 1933, in Arkansas City, Kansas, to Jacinto and Ruby Silva.  Jacinto (Jack) was a jazz musician of Portuguese descent and Ruby was an Irish-Scottish Normal School (Teachers’ College) graduate who taught English to indigenous children on a reservation in Kansas.   When Joyce was a baby, the family moved to Springfield, Mass., and her mother transitioned to being a single mom who ran a boarding house where Joyce grew up.  Undaunted by her modest means, Joyce was devoted to schooling and to pursuing higher education.  She graduated from the High School of Commerce in Springfield, the Salutatorian of her class in 1950.   She was awarded a scholarship to the University of Massachusetts at Amherst where, because of her frequent whistling, her peers nicknamed her “Cricket.”  Joyce graduated third in the Class of 1954 with her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology.

Although she received a full scholarship to pursue graduate studies at Smith College, Joyce was already happily engaged to Walter K. Cushman, Jr. of Springfield, whom she had met in a youth group at South Congregational Church.  Walter and Joyce married on June 19, 1954 and were blessed with four children throughout their 22-year marriage.  After the couple separated, they both went on to re-marry.   While working as a typing instructor for her own business, “CricketType,” Joyce met Dennis Jon Alexander with whom she had a thirty-one year marriage of love and devotion until his passing in 2007.

Throughout her life, Joyce was deeply dedicated to her Christian faith and was a member of the South Congregational Church of Springfield in her youth; Bayport United Methodist church on Long Island in her young adult life; and Pompton Valley Presbyterian Church in Pompton Plains, N.J. in middle age.  For years, she sang in the church choir as the only female tenor. She also volunteered in many capacities with the church, for disabled children, and for racial integration on Long Island.

Joyce was a woman ahead of her time, willing to stand up as an activist for civil rights, social justice, and progressive causes.  She was engaging, articulate, witty, and charismatic.  Her sparkling personality, quick tongue, and keen mind will be dearly missed. She had a strong work ethic and truly prized the value of education, passing the love of learning on to her children. She enjoyed Bible study, classical music (the Three Tenors were a favorite), and reading across genres, including poetry, fiction, and non-fiction.  A few of her coffee table favorites were Scientific American, National Geographic, Psychology Today, Guideposts, and Reader’s Digest.

Joyce also enjoyed a longstanding career in the medical field. She served as a Medical Secretary and Transcriptionist for Chilton Hospital and several local area physicians until she retired in the mid-1980s. For several years, Joyce also enjoyed part-time work for AVON, and received their “diamond pin” as one of the company’s top sales representatives.  She appreciated the AVON company’s positive representation and treatment of women and remained connected to the organization for many years.

No story about Joyce would be complete without mentioning her VW Bus camping trips. She did not have the means to tour the world, so she brought the world to her kids by instilling in them a love of travel and diverse cultures.  The family enjoyed vacations in their 1966 maroon and white VW Bus.  They would camp in a tent alongside the bus during their trips to Washington D.C., Florida, Minnesota, Michigan, and Canada, to name just a few.  Along the way, they visited roadside attractions, museums, and parks; Joyce also made sure her kids swam in all five Great Lakes. On one occasion, a campground was full, so Joyce just pulled the bus to the side of the road and set up camp.  The next morning, when a state trooper arrived to remedy the infraction, Joyce turned on the charm and offered him breakfast.  Eggs were enjoyed, and no ticket was issued.  

Joyce was the devoted wife of Walter K. Cushman, Jr. (d.2018) and Dennis J. Alexander (d.2007); the loving mother of Linda Cushman (Rev. Ed Baugh) of Englewood, N.J.; David Cushman (d.1982); James Cushman of San Mateo, Calif.; and Susan Cushman of Garden City, N.Y.; the charming grandmother of Julia (Dan) Branda of Yorktown Heights, N.Y.; and the dearly loved aunt of Lyn (Peter) Strickler of Malvern, P.A., Nancy (Javid) Valente of Philadelphia, and Cynthia (Scott) Nestle of Summit, N.J.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to M.A.D.D. (Mothers Against Drunk Driving), the American Cancer Society, or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, would be greatly appreciated.

Website for donations to M.A.D.D.

www.madd.org

Website for donations to the American Cancer Society:

www.cancer.org

Website for donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital:

www.stjude.org

Sonia M. Sellars, age 94 and a long-time resident of the Packanack Lake community in Wayne, New Jersey passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 8, 2021.

Sonia was born in Larvik Norway on September 30, 1926. The daughter of Stanley Matthews and Gerda (Baglin) Matthews, Sonia’s father was a captain in the British Merchant Marines. He met Gerda while in port in Norway. They fell in love and married and, in 1928, when Sonia was two years old, her father, having been offered citizenship in the United States, moved the family to Brooklyn, NY. Soon after, they moved to the Westerly section of Staten Island, NY where Sonia grew up. Having been blessed with a sharp intellect and a determined spirit, she graduated two years early and with honors from Port Richmond High School and immediately enrolled in Katharine Gibbs Secretarial School to prepare for a career in the workplace.

Upon completion of her education, Sonia entered the workforce as a secretary with Wellington Sears, a textile firm located in New York City at Worth Street and West Broadway.

Sonia actually met her husband-to-be when they were young children. His name was Eric Elliot Sellars and they knew each other from singing together in the choir at the Emanuel Lutheran Church in Staten Island which was pastored by Eric’s father, Reverend Fred Sellars. When they came of age, they fell in love and married on April 14, 1950 at the same church. Sonia and Eric lived for a short time in Staten Island before moving across the river to a little summer community in the Packanack Lake section of Wayne, New Jersey. It turned out to be a lovely place to raise their two daughters, Robin and Laurie. Sonia settled into her primary role of mother and homemaker but managed to keep active in various outside endeavors. Sonia utilized her gifts of being skilled at working with numbers combined with a penchant for fastidious record keeping by serving as the treasurer of the Packanack Lake community’s monthly newsletter called the Pack-A-News, and also as treasurer of the Packanack Community Church. If that wasn’t enough to keep her busy, she also served as treasurer of Healing the Children – a private, humanitarian organization that partners with American healthcare providers to help underserved children around the world to get the medical care that would otherwise be unobtainable. She also served as treasurer for Doctors Without Borders – an international organization that provides lifesaving medical humanitarian care.

Sonia always had plenty of spare energy for projects around her home too. She was an expert gardener of both flowers and vegetables who enjoyed the particular challenge of growing rare plants. Because of her knowledge about the plant world people would frequently stop by her house for advice that Sonia was always more than happy to give. She also loved to sew and knit and care for her precious dogs and cats that enriched her life over the years – Poncho, Yazoo, Molly, and Duke to name a few. The kitchen was also a place where Sonia liked to be. She was an excellent cook who made a fantastic lasagna that was right up there with the finest Italian cooks. On summer nights you could usually find her playing tennis at the Packanack Lake tennis courts and she also relished the time spent with friends playing bridge and gathering for dances and other social gatherings at the Packanack Lake Clubhouse.

Sonia was a kind-hearted woman who truly cared about the welfare of fellow humans – both those she knew personally as well as total strangers. She had a real soft spot in her heart for little children and for many years, she and husband Eric hosted kids who were flown to the United States for surgery for cleft pallet repair.

Sonia was predeceased by her beloved husband Eric in 1980, her two daughters: Robin Sellars in 2006 and Laurie Jean Sellars in 1994, and her sister Thelma in 1979. Sonia is survived by her grandsons: Jacob Vander Weide, Joseph Eiche and Eric Anthony Sellars, her brother Edward Kaye Matthews of Denver, Colorado, and her nephew Stanley and wife Susan McMillen.

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

Healing the Children

New Jersey Chapter

112 5th Ave

Hawthorne, NJ  07506

To donate online CLICK HERE

Doctors Without Borders USA

P.O. Box 5030

Hagerstown, MD 21741-5030

To download the mail-in form CLICK HERE

To donate online CLICK HERE

Charles Edward Tahan, age 77 of Wayne, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2021.

Charles grew up on Rowland Avenue in Clifton, New Jersey with his parents and 4 siblings.  He graduated from Clifton High School and went on to Masters Beauty School graduating in 1962. Charles was a resident of Wayne since 1968.

He created a lifetime career in cosmetology.  Charles opened Coiffures by Charles on Livingston Street in Clifton soon after graduation and built a thriving business for 10 years.  He built the Countee Academy of Hair Design in Wayne where he was owner, partner, teacher, director and stylist.  Charles recruited students from local high schools and taught hundreds of students the art of hair design along with managing the salon.  He was proud of the high completion rate of students that took and passed the state board test.  Charles continued to teach all subjects of cosmetology at Wilfred Academy in their 4 locations as the New Jersey Style Director.   He brought new procedures to the school with innovation and creativity.   Charles then opened The Hair Studio in Wayne in 1986 and operated this full-service family salon for 20 years.  He was the Director of Education at European Academy of Cosmetology responsible for the overall level of education and management of assigned campus.  Charles was responsible for creating and sustaining academic and professional excellence for students and faculty.    He was later the program manager of Blanco Cosmetology School where he created and wrote the school curriculum, set-up the bulletin of information, syllabus and designed the floor plan for state approval.

Charles had a spirited personality. He made his presence known not by his words but by his outlandish golf attire, loud ties, and his crazy pants. He embraced his Syrian heritage and always celebrating with his extended family – food, family and music.   He was an active member of St. Ann Melkite Catholic Church in Woodland Park.  He enjoyed serving on the church advisory committees, working the festival booths, and playing at the annual golf outings. Outside of the church community, he loved deep sea fishing and crabbing, cooking classes, classic cars, and spirited conversations with all friends and family.   He was the family historian, knowing how each member was intertwined within the group.  He was proud of his family and always wanted to be a part of each celebration.

Charles proudly held the following licenses: New Jersey Cosmetology – Hairstylist, New Jersey Cosmetology Teacher and New Jersey Licensed Real Estate Salesperson / Referral license.  He was certified in 2005 with his New Jersey Teaching Certification.  Charles’ affiliations as Member of the Official Hair Fashion Committee, Member of the Hair America Teaching area of the PBA/NCA, Styles Director of NJCA, Chairman of the Official Hair Fashion Committee, Vice President of NJCA, President of the NJCA New Jersey Cosmetologist Association.  Charles was also a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus, Chapter 240, Woodland Park, NJ.

His most notable and impactful contribution was when he was appointed area trainer for the Look Good, Feel Better Program by the PBA/NCA.  Charles volunteered his skills selflessly, working directly with cancer patients to uplift their spirits. He taught them techniques of make-up application and facilitating their ability to obtain wigs and hair pieces that would always be a welcome healing moment. He met each patients needs when they were at their lowest point in their treatments and put a smile on their face.

Charles is survived by his wife of 54 years, Patti Coussa Tahan, his four children; Claudine Tahan-Tunbakji and her husband Samer of Wayne, Charles E Tahan, Jr and his wife Susie of Wayne, Patti Ann Cadet and her husband Juan Carlos of Clifton and Renee Faraj and her husband Maher of Franklin Lakes along with his six grandchildren Faith, Chloe, Noah, Lucas, Maxwell and Amir. His sister Mary Ann Hine and her husband George of Sea Girt, his brother Paul Tahan and his wife Debbie of Wayne, his brother Thomas Tahan and his fiancée Debbie Passenti of Brick, his sister-in-law Mary Tahan of Kinnelon, and his brother-in-law Eddy Coussa and his wife Ann of Pompano Beach, FL. Charles loved his many cousins, nieces and nephews. Charles was predeceased his parents Basil and Lillian Tahan and his brother John Tahan.

In remembrance of Charles Tahan’s life, the family asks that memorial donations be made to St. Ann Melkite Catholic Church in his honor.  St Ann Melkite Catholic Church, 802 Rifle Camp Road, Woodland Park, NJ 07424

Ernest “Ernie” LeMay, age 76, of Wayne for twenty-two years, formerly of Haledon where he lived for fifty-five years, passed Sunday, June 6, 2021.

He was born in Paterson and raised in the family home on Aberdeen Court in Haledon. He graduated from Paterson Technical High School with the Class of 1963.

Through the years Ernest worked as a diesel mechanic and was self-employed trading as Aberdeen Trucking where he owned a dump truck and an eighteen wheeler. After a few years he found employment as a diesel mechanic for the Hess Corporation in Bogota. Before he would take the job with Hess he insisted they give him the missing collectable trucks from his Hess Truck collection. He worked at the Hess Corporation for 25 years before retiring in 2013.

Ernest met his wife Ann when they were just teenagers. Ernie was working at the local service station and was sent to the Cafasso home to pick up their car for service. He knocked on the door and Ann answered – with her head covered in curlers! She was so embarrassed when she saw this handsome young man at the door that she ran back into the house, forgetting to give him the car keys. When Ernie returned the car late that day, Ann came to the door looking perfectly stunning, and she caught his eye this time. Sometime later she came to visit him at the service station, tapping him on the shoulder while he was hunched over working on a car. He replied “I’ll be right with you Sam!” When Ernie finally turned around, he was pleasantly surprised to see Ann standing there, and not his friend Sam. Nevertheless, her nickname was born that day, and she’s been affectionately called “Sam” ever since. After their first date to Falls View for hot dogs, they were married on October 22, 1966. They’ve enjoyed forty nine “very good” years together, including many memorable trips to Atlantic City where they would play the slots sitting right next to each other, until her passing on October 18, 2015.

Ernie was a member of the Paterson Elks Lodge and a bowler in Fair Lawn and Paterson leagues for many years. He was a man of few words and had a very dry sense of humor. As a diesel mechanic he would only buy diesel cars, loved his 1966 Chevy Pickup, and didn’t let anyone else drive his cars. He loved his 50’s and 60’s music and as a matter of fact if you had a different radio station on he would sneak over and change the radio to his music. He was a Nascar Fanatic who collected model Nascar cars along with his toy Hess truck collection. He was the master of taking care of the pool at his and his daughter, Jacqui’s home, and when it came to loading the dish washer only he was capable of doing it correctly. When it came to many things like recycling or loading the dish washer Ernie stood fast to the “no matter how you did it…it wasn’t right” motto. He was a long time New York Yankee fan who also liked watching BuzzrTV which shows re-runs of many old game show programs.

He was the loving husband of Ann “Sam” LeMay (d.2015); devoted father of Jacqueline “Jacqui” Tirella (Michael) of Wayne, Ernest LeMay III (Christine) of West Milford, Christopher LeMay (Jessica) of North Haledon, and David (Cynthia) LeMay of West Milford; he was the cherished grandfather of eleven boys: Michael, Nicholas, Dominic, Jay, Mathew, Anthony, Joey, CJ, Donevan, Aaron, Evan and one granddaughter Miliana; he was the dearly loved great-grandfather of Adalynn; and the much loved brother of Eleanor “Ellie,” or as Ernie would call her, “honey” Buda of Monroe, NJ.

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

Carmen Matthew Marano, 99, long-time resident of Ridgefield, N.J. died peacefully on Sunday, June 6, 2021.  Born May 23, 1922, in Hoboken N.J. to parents Josephine (nee Verno) and Anthony Marano, Carmen lived in Hoboken until deploying with the army to serve in the Pacific Theatre during World War II.  Upon returning home in 1946, Carmen married his sweetheart, Marie Cortellino.  They settled in Ridgefield to raise their family and lived there for more than sixty years, before recently moving to the Cedar Crest community in Pompton Plains.

Carmen is survived by his loving wife of 75 years, Marie, as well as his three sons and their spouses: Anthony and Marilyn Marano of Wayne N.J., Len and Diane Marano of Washington Township, N.J., and Rich and Eileen Marano of Mantoloking, N.J.

Carmen was predeceased by his parents and his three sisters, Lucy DeGregorio, Marie Pianese and Michelle Marano, as well as his daughter, Marie, who passed in infancy.

He is lovingly remembered by his grandchildren Alison and Adam White, Christine and Rob Odell, Jillian and Mark Capalbo, Dana and Alex Cunningham, Connor Marano and Griffin Marano.  He enjoyed his great-grandchildren Samantha, Robert, Reese, Ashley, and Ella.

Carmen was happiest when surrounded by his family.  He was active in his community, volunteering for the Ridgefield Fire Department for more than 40 years, coaching his sons’ baseball teams and worshiping at St. Matthews RC church. He was an avid fan of the New York Yankees, Frank Sinatra, and the craps tables at Caesar’s.  Carmen was also a terrific dancer, and his Cha-Cha was the highlight of many social events.

He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org/donate/).

Annette R. Hric (nee Grolly), age 77, of Newfoundland passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 5, 2021 while receiving the loving care of her family and after a courageous battle with cancer.

Annette was born and raised in the Passaic Park section of Passaic and was one of three children to Charles and Charlotte Grolly.  Annette attended Passaic High School as a young girl and graduated with the class of 1961.  While she was in high school she met a handsome young man while attending Grace Church in Clifton. The man’s name was Joseph Hric.  The couple hit it off great and it was love at first sight.  Joe and Annette started dating and got married shortly after Annette graduated high school on November 21, 1961.  Annette and Joe settled in Clifton and lived there for about four years.  The two then then moved to Lincoln Park.  While in Lincoln Park, Annette and Joe welcomed the births of their three children; Suzanne, Joseph, and Pamela.  Annette and her family remained in Lincoln Park until 1981 when they moved to Kinnelon, NJ.  Annette, Joe, and their children remained there until 1998 when they moved to Newfoundland.  Joe and Annette have been in Newfoundland ever since.

Annette found work quickly after high school as a secretary for a company called Federal Sweets on Hazel Street in Clifton.  Annette held this position for a few years until her children were born.  Subsequent to becoming a mother, Annette devoted herself to being a full time homemaker.  This was a career she sincerely cherished and was her true calling.  As time passed and her children grew up, she partnered with her husband, assisting with bookkeeping and secretarial work for their business with Wise Potato Chips.  Annette worked with her husband Joe for about ten years until their retirement in 1995.

One of Annette’s favorite past times was gardening.  Annette grew a variety of flowers and vegetables throughout all the seasons, year after year.  Her family recalls their home resembling the grounds of a well-kept state park.  Annette had such a talent for gardening that often times she would get bored with certain plants and flowers, then telling her children to come and dig them up and plant them in their own yards.  Crocheting and sewing was another of Annette’s talents.  Throughout the years she knitted and crocheted countless sweaters and afghans for herself and her family.  Joe and Annette also enjoyed traveling together visiting Florida and treasured memorable trips across the country to The Grand Canyon and Yellowstone National Park.  Not only was Annette a wonderful homemaker, she also had the skills to work on her own, and the homes of her children.  She would often help her kids with tiling kitchens and bathrooms, spackling, and wallpapering.

But beyond all of Annette’s talent, hobbies, and interests, her greatest passion was for her family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Annette than spending quality time with her children and grandchildren.  She was a wonderful cook and cherished hosting holidays and family events at her home.  Annette loved to laugh and joke around with her friends and her family.  She was a truly lovable person whom everyone wanted to be around.  Annette and her husband Joe cherished fifty-nine years of loving and loyal marriage together.  She was a truly special person who touched the lives of everyone around her.  She will be sorely missed by her family and friends alike.

Annette is survived by her husband Joseph Hric of Newfoundland, NJ, three children; her daughter Pamela Hric of Newfoundland, NJ, her son Joseph Charles Hric and his wife Franci of Oak Ridge, NJ, and her daughter Suzanne Hasten and her husband Jim of Franklin, NJ, four grandchildren; Jack Myles Hric of Newfoundland, NJ, Joseph Anthony Hric of Oak Ridge, NJ, Ginnette Hric of Virginia Beach, VA, and Denise Meeker and her husband Bob of Bloomsbury, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Annette’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

Richard Stephen Swetz, 84 of Wayne, NJ, a successful business man, and a devoted family man, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday, June 4th, 2021.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of sixty years; Dolores Ann Swetz (nee Fecsik), his daughters; Karen Andruska and Kimberley DeMarco, son-in-law; Jeffrey DeMarco, and four grandchildren; Kaylee Andruska, Zachary Andruska, Kristina DeMarco, and Nicholas DeMarco. He was preceded in death by his cherished parents; Adam and Agnes Swetz, and by his brother; Robert Swetz.

He was born in Ashley, PA.  He grew up in Jersey City and graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University. He served his country in the Army Reserves. He then began his career as a stock boy for Tappens Jewelers. After many years of hard work, he obtained the position of Vice President of Merchandising. He then followed his dream and purchased Chandel Jewelers in Midland Park, NJ.  His success allowed him to purchase three more stores. After twenty-two years of retail, he retired. During his retirement, he consulted with the Independent Jewelers Organization in Connecticut. His expertise brought him the opportunity to acquire the company, which he ran for ten years. He then permanently retired to enjoy his life and family.

He was a devout Catholic and parishioner of Our Lady of the Valley Church in Wayne, NJ, where he served as a Eucharistic Minister. He participated in various committees and fostered many charitable endeavors. He was a Grand Knight with the Knights of Columbus.

Richard’s passions included traveling extensively, playing cards, gardening, and spending time with his family and friends. He loved the jewelry industry and he touched many lives by mentoring countless business owners who he passionately encouraged to follow their hearts. He truly lived life to the fullest.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing to make a donation in Richard’s memory are asked to please consider the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. Visit www.michaeljfox.org

Mary Anne McGuire, age 70, of Wayne peacefully passed away on Thursday, June 3, 2021, with her husband and two daughters by her side.

Mary was born and raised in Passaic, New Jersey and was one of three children to John and Anna Makar. John and Anna immigrated to the United States, from Ukraine, seeking a better life for the family. Mary attended a Ukrainian high school at St. Mary’s Villa Academy in Sloatsburg, NY.  Following Mary’s graduation from St Mary’s Villa Academy in 1969, she earned a certification as a Medical Lab Technician.  Over the next several years, Mary held a number of positions as a Medical Lab Technician for local hospitals and doctor’s offices.

Mary’s parents and her sisters were living in a two family home in Passaic, in which they rented the downstairs apartment to John McGuire. As fate would have it, they fell in love and after about two years of dating, they were married on November 20, 1976.  Then, they settled in Belleville, where they rented their first apartment together. The couple remained in Belleville and purchased their first home there as well.  While continuing to live in their second home, Mary and John welcomed the births of their two daughters, Tanya and Natalie. In order for Mary to watch her children grow and learn, she made the decision to stop working and dedicate herself to becoming a full time homemaker. Being a devoted and caring mother was what made Mary happy. In 1987, Mary and her family moved to the Packanack Lake section of Wayne and have been there ever since.

Mary enjoyed taking karate lessons, dancing, and playing golf with her lady friends and husband at The Packanack Lake Golf Club.  Mary was very active in her youth, however, she loved relaxing in the comfort of her own home, watching her soap operas, Dr. Pol and game shows.  Apart from all of Mary’s talents, interests, and hobbies; her greatest passion was for her family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Mary than spending time with her children and grandchildren.  She and her husband John cherished forty-five years of a loving and loyal marriage together.

Mary was an extremely strong woman and strong willed as well.  She was tenacious and determined in her convictions.  She was a serious person, often times serious enough for everyone, but she also had an enormous heart. She loved her family with all of her heart. Mary was a truly special person who touched the lives of many people and will be missed by everyone that knew her.

Mary is survived by her husband John McGuire of Wayne NJ, two daughters Tanya McGuire of Wayne and Natalie McGuire and John Cilmi of Parsippany.  three grandchildren; Camryn Minckler of Wayne, NJ, Karlee Cilmi of Parsippany, NJ, and Gianna Cilmi of Parsippany, NJ, two nephews; Keith Petrick of Pennsylvania, and Danny Lukiw of Hillsborough, NJ.  Mary was predeceased by her sisters Gloria Johnson and Sonia Lukiw.

Those wishing to make a donation in Mary’s name are asked to consider   Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation, 663 Thirteenth Street, Suite 100, Oakland, CA 94612.  https://www.myotonic.org/

Kathleen D. Sherger (nee Reed), age 71 of Riverdale and formerly of Lincoln Park, died peacefully at home surrounded by family on the morning of Thursday, June 3, 2021, after a brave and graceful battle with ALS.

Kathleen was a dedicated teacher at Butler High School for twenty-seven years, retiring in 2012. Prior to teaching, she was a programmer for Texas Instruments and then went back to school to get her teaching certification. While at Butler, she taught mathematics and computer science and her summer breaks were often spent reading about and learning subject matter in preparation to teach new courses she designed for her students. She was very bright and a quick study, teaching herself coding languages such as Java and  C++, as well as networking and video game design. She loved learning as much as she loved teaching.

Kathleen met her husband Bob when they were both in the eighth grade at Schuyler Colfax Middle School in Wayne. They often sat next to each other on the school bus and began ‘dating’ around sophomore year in high school. The childhood sweethearts tied the knot on December 26, 1971 at Our Lady of Consolation RC Church in Wayne. Bob was still in the U.S. Army, so their honeymoon was a romantic road trip down south to his base in San Antonio, Texas. They lived there briefly and then in Phoenixville, PA before Bob was discharged. In 1973, they settled in Lincoln Park, NJ where they lived for forty-six years, raising their family of three children.

They were fortunate to have traveled regularly after Kathleen’s retirement. They returned again and again to Key West and Cape May, and visited resorts across the Caribbean. Kathleen also enjoyed annual family vacations to Maine, the Catskills and Adirondacks, the Jersey shore, and beyond. An avid reader, Kathleen was happiest at the beach or pool relaxing with a novel and capping the day off with dinner and drinks.

Kathleen was a beloved full-time teacher, a loving mother and wife, and a devoted caregiver for 38 years to her son Reed, who was born with a developmental disability. Her strength and devotion were an inspiration to colleagues, students, and friends alike. She took pride in her home and gardens, enjoyed cooking with her family, and always welcomed a visitor. Kathleen cherished family traditions and especially loved the holidays and listening to Christmas music while decorating their house to the nines! She enjoyed more than 50 years of the annual Sherger family wreath-making gathering, carrying on a joyful family tradition started by her mother-in-law, Willie. Her adoring daughters will be sure to keep this tradition alive with friends and family for years to come.

Kathleen is survived by her husband Robert of Riverdale, her son Reed of Parsippany, and two daughters; Erika Sherger of Boonton Township and Sara Varney and her husband Jason of Conshohocken, Pennsylvania; two grandchildren; Wynn and River Varney, two brothers; Robb Reed and his wife Kjersti of Port Angeles, Washington, and Anthony Reed of Wantage, New Jersey, a sister; Diane Reed-Chong and her husband Glenn of San Diego, CA, and several nieces and nephews.

Those wishing to make a donation in Kathleen’s memory are asked to consider the ALS Association Greater New York Chapter, 42 Broadway, Suite 1724, New York, NY 10004, als-ny.org; or the ARC of Morris County, P.O.Box 123, Morris Plains, NJ 07950, arcmorris.org

Carl Joseph Gutt, age 85, of Galloway, NJ and formerly of Wayne, NJ passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 2, 2021 while receiving the loving care of his family.

Carl was born and raised in Jersey City, NJ and was one of three children to Carl Anthony and Blanche Gutt.  While growing up in Jersey City, Carl attended St. Peter’s Preparatory School graduating with the class of 1953.  Following his graduation from high school, Carl worked at a local ACME where he quickly became manager.  While working at ACME, Carl put himself through college taking night courses at Seton Hall University in South Orange, NJ and earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting.

Carl eventually left ACME and opened up a business of his own.  He purchased a delicatessen and liquor store in Westwood, NJ and named it Gutt’s Deli.  Carl owned and operated his delicatessen for more than ten years until selling it in the late 1970’s.  Subsequent to selling his delicatessen, Carl accepted a position in sales with a food brokerage firm named John Harrison & Company.  Carl was employed with John Harrison and Company for several years when Carl decided again to open up his own business, a food brokerage company called Crown Brokerage in Ridgefield Park, NJ.  Carl operated this business until his retirement in 1997.

One day when Carl was a young man, he and some friends were gathered at a place called Nankees Ice Cream Parlor.  Carl ordered a Black Raspberry Parfait and his order was brought to him by a lovely young attractive girl named Helen Ryan.  The two hit it off wonderfully and as fate would have it they fell in love and were married on June 29, 1957 at Queen of Peace Roman Catholic Church in North Arlington NJ.

After getting married the couple settled in an apartment in Ridgefield Park, NJ and then moved to Park Ridge, NJ where they purchased their first home.  During their time living in Ridgefield Park, they welcomed the births of two of their five children, Helen and Carl. In 1967, the family moved and bought a new house on Sears Place in Wayne, NJ.  There, they welcomed their additional three children Jeffrey, Laura and David. While living in Wayne, the family home quickly became a haven for all extended family and friends with weekly Sunday pool parties and barbeques which went on till all hours of the night.  Their weekly Sunday pool parties would almost always end with family games of poker.

After retiring, Carl and Helen moved to Galloway, NJ which was closer to the place they enjoyed spending time at…Atlantic City, NJ.  Carl and Helen cherished playing slot machines and cards, particularly Poker, and Texas Hold’em. In addition, they cherished hosting their children and grandchildren for summer weekends with day trips to the beach and boardwalk in Ocean City, NJ. His grandchildren affectionately called him “Poppa”. One of Poppa’s favorite things was making his famous breakfast for all of his grandchildren before trips to the beach. It was always ready before they even woke up.

Carl was dedicated to his Catholic Faith, he and his family were parishioners of Our Lady of the Valley Church in Wayne for many years, and where all of their children attended grammar school.  For many years Carl donated regularly to the St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause he felt very strongly about.   He coached little league for a few years when his sons were young and was a New York Giants fan.  But aside from all of Carl’s talents, hobbies, and interests, his greatest passion was for his family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Carl than providing for his family and spending time with his grandchildren.  Carl and his wife Helen cherished fifty-five years of loving and loyal marriage together until Helen’s passing in 2012.  He was a devoted father and grandfather, and always had his door open to extended family and friends in times of need.  He was unofficially considered by many family and friends as a type of “Godfather”, always being consulted by for his advice, and help to figure things out.  Carl was a persistent individual who could be a little strong willed at times, but underneath his tough exterior he was a “Gentle Giant” of sorts.  He was an extremely focused individual, tenacious and determined in his opinions and his actions.  Carl was a very special person who touched the lives of many people and will be missed by everyone that knew him.

Carl is survived by his two daughters; Laura Ferry and her husband Thomas of Randolph, NJ, and Helen “Suzie” Anderson and her husband Robert of Wayne, NJ, three sons; Carl M. Gutt and his wife Sylvia of Long Valley, NJ, Jeffery T Gutt and his wife Ashley of Clifton, NJ, and David Gutt and his wife Deana of Hardyston, NJ, fourteen grandchildren; Melissa Alvarez and her husband Dan of Brookline, MA, Jillian Anderson of Hackensack, NJ, Patrick Gutt, Jessica Gutt and Gabrielle Gutt, all of Long Valley, NJ, Jack Gutt and Mollie Gutt of Wayne, NJ, Ethan Gutt of Clifton, NJ, Ryan Gutt, Danielle Gutt, and Alexa Gutt, all of Hardyston, NJ, Nicole Ferry, Thomas Ferry, and Allison Ferry, all of Randolph, NJ.  Carl was predeceased by his wife Helen Gutt in 2012, and by his sisters; Frances Van Erem, and Lucille Gutt.

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

Lucy Ann Marro (formerly Martello), 93, of Wayne, New Jersey passed away peacefully on June 1, 2021.   She will be remembered as a devoted and loving mother, grandmother and friend to all who were fortunate to know her.  She will be missed by so many.  Lucy was born in 1927 and raised on the East Side of Upper Manhattan along the East River.  She lived with her entire family in a large brownstone and shared many stories of her childhood there.  She was one of eight children born to Aniello and Fannie Marro (Ciullo). Lucy loved the East River and told a story of how she got scolded for swimming in it with her two older brothers.  Lucy attended and graduated from Cathedral High School.  She met her husband John Martello and was married in 1950.  Lucy and John moved to Clifton, NJ with their young children Frances and Phyllis. They relocated so that John could be close to his company where he worked as a commercial artist. They then moved to Hemlock Street in Clifton where they became parents to four more daughters: Janis, Louise, Teresa and MaryAnn. After the last child was born they needed a larger home and moved to Mt. Prospect Avenue in the Allwood section of Clifton.  There, Lucy remained until she moved in 1984.   She lived in Passaic Park and Oakridge NJ with her daughter Janis and eventually settled in Wayne where she remained until the end of her life. Lucy was devoted to her large extended family of brothers and sisters, and had large family gatherings on Sundays and the holidays.  She had many close friends and was active in her church community at St Andrews the Apostle Church.  

In 1967 John and Lucy’s youngest daughter, MaryAnn, was tragically brain injured at the age of 10 1/2 Months.  For the next seven years the family cared for MaryAnn at home.   Lucy and John did everything they could to keep MaryAnn at home where she received loving care.  Lucy oversaw a “Patterning” program in which volunteers came to the home to do physical therapy on MaryAnn to improve her condition.  It is here where the family received and befriended many wonderful volunteers.  In 1972, when a wonderful new facility opened, Maryann became one of the first residents of Eastern Christian Children’s Retreat in Wyckoff, New Jersey.  The family was so blessed to have MaryAnn receive the exceptional Christian care and love that they offered her. The family will forever be grateful to them for the peace of mind they experienced because of this. E.C.C.R became Lucy’s second home.

Lucy and John spent the remainder of their lives devoted to their daughter MaryAnn.  Lucy was one of the earliest volunteers at ECCR.  Besides spending much time with MaryAnn she enjoyed helping to do the facilities laundry, one of her talents, with MaryAnn by her side.  She was always greeted warmly by all of the staff who were inspired by her dedication and love as well as her strength and example. MaryAnn predeceased Lucy on February 6, 2021.  

Lucy inspired so many by her independence, intelligence, perseverance, convictions and way of life.  She had many talents including quilting, sewing, crafting, writing and especially cooking. She always enjoyed her excursions to NYC and saw many plays and movies at the Times Square Theaters. Lucy was passionate about her health and became a vegan in her early sixties, which contributed to her longevity. She was disciplined with her diet and spent hours preparing food into her 90’s.   She loved small gatherings and entertaining family and friends with a healthy lunch prepared with love and served meticulously as in a gourmet restaurant.  Her salads were famous.

Lucy was a life-long learner and spent much of her later years studying ancient history and especially colonial history and the founders of our country who inspired her. She especially admired George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, John and Abigale Adams, Jimmy Carter and Barak Obama.  She sometimes reread a book several times, taking notes to study and share the knowledge.  Lucy would say “Live like you are going to die tomorrow and learn like you are going to live forever”.  She was especially proud of her role portraying George Washington in a play in grammar school which sparked her interest and fascination with him.  Her favorite quote of his was “Perseverance and spirit have done wonders in all ages”.  She lived by this belief through the pandemic to remain hopeful.  

Lucy was concerned about protecting the Earth and its ecology and did not waste a thing.  She recycled everything and found a new use for them.  She was very proud of this and shared her ideas.  She was frugal, organized and impeccable with this practice.  She found joy in her last years by keeping organized and living simply.

Most of all Lucy was devoted to the well-being of her daughters. She lived by example to them and found ways to show her love through encouragement, acceptance, patience and great food.  She was famous for her stuffed calamari, applesauce cake, blueberry buckle and the best salads. She said before she passed, “Love is what you do.” Lucy took the best care of herself as not to be a burden on her family. She always did what was best for her daughters. She gave her daughters memorable summer vacations in Long Beach Island, camping on Schroon Lake in the Adirondacks, and the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Each daughter received a beautiful quilt as a last expression of her love.  She was respected and admired by her daughters who were very grateful for everything she did to create a happy childhood.

Lucy was treasured by her three grandchildren: Dylan, Brian and Chelsea who called her Lu Lu.  She inspired them by her example, her wisdom and love through their many interesting conversations.  She is the Great Grandmother to Stella Luna age 2 and Joseph Anthony, age 3 months.

Monetary Donations in Lucy’s’ memory can be sent to Eastern Christian Children’s Retreat, 700 Mountain Avenue, Wyckoff, NJ 07481. If you would like to donate online, CLICK HERE.

Pasquale “Pat” Forte, age 78, of Wayne, passed away on Monday, May 31, 2021.

Born and raised in Jersey City, the youngest of Pasquale and Antoinette (Palermo) Forte’s three sons, Pat was a graduate of Snyder High School with the Class of 1960. His next pursuit was St. Peters College (now University) in Jersey City where he swam on the water polo team, joined the ROTC, was a member of the Cross Keys Honor Society and President of Student Government and, most importantly, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in history in 1964. Wasting no time, Pat attended New York University and earned his Master of Science degree in history in 1965.

While at St. Peter’s College, Pat met the girl he would someday marry. Her name was Joanne Iuliano and she was a student at Jersey City State College, just down the street. Joanne was in a sorority that was planning a dance and wanted to pass out flyers at the all-male St. Peter’s College to invite them to come to the dance. It just so happened that Pat had a cousin who knew Joanne and, since Pat was president of Student Government, his cousin put Joanne in touch with Pat. Joanne must have made a positive impression on Pat because, sometime after the dance, Pat returned to her college in hopes of locating her. They finally reconnected and went out on their first date. They fell in love and eventually, with the anticipation of Pat’s proposal, Joanne was always wondering when Pat would ask. Now Pat had a real love for Cracker Jacks so no one could blame Joanne for one-day ripping open a box of Pat’s precious Cracker Jacks in pursuit of a ring. No ring! The actual proposal of marriage came on an Easter weekend while the two of them were driving down the shore. Pat presented Joanne with a chocolate Easter bunny with the engagement ring tied on a string around the bunny’s neck. Marriage took place on Saturday, September 30, 1967 at St. Nicholas R.C. Church in Palisades Park followed by a wedding reception at the Montammy Country Club in Alpine.

After returning from their honeymoon in Mexico, Pat reported for duty in the United States Army. From 1967 through 1970 his assignments included Fort Gordon in Augusta, GA and Fort Monmouth in NJ before going to the Patch Barracks for assignment with the European Command in Stuttgart, Germany. Pat attained rank of Captain in the United States Army Signal Corps and was Company Commander of the HQ Company. One of the nicest parts of his service was having his beloved wife Joanne accompany him in Germany.  While serving his country, Pat and Joanne got to travel to many places throughout Europe.

Upon their return to civilian life in the U.S.A. Pat and Joanne soon moved to their new home which was being built on Avon Way in the Parlin section of Sayreville, NJ. Pat embarked upon a most rewarding career as Registrar and Adjunct Instructor at Saint Peter’s College and Registrar at the University of Medicine and Dentistry (now Rutgers University Medical School). Until retiring in 2006, over the span of his thirty-six-year career, he served on numerous committees and tasks forces and received many awards and citations. Most importantly, Pat truly enjoyed sharing his love of history with his students. His animated teaching style inspired such sincere interest in his classes that there was always a waiting list to get in.

Pat and Joanne lovingly raised their three daughters, Patricia, Andrea and Lisa, in their home in Sayreville. He loved to learn and share his new-found knowledge with his daughters. When the girls were very young, his wife Joanne recalls how Pat would tell bedtime stories, excitedly spinning adventurous tales of Greek mythology or historical events. With wisdom and guidance, he took a keen interest in each of his daughter’s development. He was always so proud of all that they did.

Pat loved a good restaurant just as much as he loved his wife’s pasta and meatballs. He was also a big fan of Broadway with Man of La Mancha and Les Misérables being his all-time favorites, and he loved the music of Luciano Pavarotti. A faithful Mets fan, he always got a scorebook when he went to a game and he wrote down every play. Pat was well known for his love of Yoo-hoo and chocolate cake.  Pat enjoyed conversing about history and world events. He loved those subjects the most and was known also for being a great New York City tour guide when friends or family came to visit.

Above all else, Pat treasured his family the most. Just ask his daughters how much he adored his grandchildren! When they saw Grandpa, they always greeted him with warm hugs and snuggles. He always kept mints or pretzels in his front shirt pocket for them.  They loved Grandpa and Grandma rooting for them at all their sporting events and the whole family enjoyed the time-honored tradition of trips down the shore.

In 2019, after 48 memorable years in their house in Sayreville, Pat and Joanne decided to move to Wayne, just down the street from their daughters, Andrea and Patty, so that they could be closer to each other. He loved to swing by his kids’ houses to visit.   Every day, Pat would get out of the house for a couple of hours to run some errands. These errands usually involved a quick trip to the grocery store and they always involved socializing. Joanne and the girls would always say “He’s out gallivanting again!”

Pat was a man of infinitely great qualities. He exuded a warmth and friendliness that quickly won the hearts and affections of family, friends and acquaintances. He had a great sense of humor and an infectious smile. He was a planner and a thinker.  There was no task that could not be accomplished without a list. He was a man of integrity, strength, wisdom, and diplomacy.  He was easy to love and was loved by his entire family, including his mother-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Patrick was the beloved husband of 54 years to Joanne (Iuliano) Forte; loving father of the late Patricia Gamez (2019) and husband Byron of Wayne, Andrea Facciolo and husband Rocco of Wayne, and Lisa Voight and husband Chris of North Arlington; cherished grandfather of: Sophia, Rocco, Gianna, and Anthony; beloved brother-in-law, and dear uncle of numerous nieces and nephews. Pat was predeceased by his parents and two older brothers, Dominic and Julius Forte.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Patrick’s name are asked to consider a donation to the Gary Sinise Foundation which honors and serves America’s veterans and their families (www.garysinisefoundation.org) or the Immaculate Heart of Mary School, 580 Ratzer Road, Wayne, NJ 07470.

Kathy Cipoletti, a 35-year resident of Wayne, passed Monday, May 31, 2021.

Kathy was born in Butler, PA. When she was about 15, she moved into a home on Berkshire Avenue in Paterson. She graduated from Kennedy High School with the Class of 1968. Kathy continued her education at William Paterson College in Wayne, where she received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Since moving to NJ, Kathy has lived in Paterson, Totowa, and Wayne.

Through the years, Kathy worked as a Registered Nurse, practicing at Paterson General Hospital. For many years, she worked at the private medical practice of Dr. Jay Choi in Clifton and finally as a School Nurse for the Passaic County Commission, having covered several schools before retiring in 2019.

Kathy met her husband-to-be John “Jack” Cipoletti when she was a teenager. Jack and Kathy met on Berkshire Avenue in Paterson, where they were neighbors. Their first date was to see Johnny Mathis at Seton Hall University, where Jack was going to school. Jack and Kathy fell in love and got married on November 14, 1970 at Saint Gerard’s Church in Paterson. They had a backyard reception at Kathy’s parents’ home and incorporated one of Jack’s work trips to New Orleans into a honeymoon. Jack and Kathy have been married for more than 50 years and were blessed with four children -- Melissa, Beth, Timothy, and Kara.

Kathy was dedicated to her Catholic Faith and for many years attended and sang in the choir of Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Wayne. Most recently she has attended Our Lady of Good Counsel Church in Pompton Plains. She was also dedicated to her community, having volunteered with and served on the board of the Totowa chapter of the Deborah Hospital Foundation as well as having been a member of the Totowa Junior Women’s Club.

Kathy was the loving wife of Jack Cipoletti; devoted mother of Melissa (Robert) Keenan of Wayne, Beth (Andrew Birnbaum) Cipoletti of West Milford, Timothy Cipoletti of Bradenton, FL, and Kara (Michael) Everhart of Rockaway; she was the cherished grandmother of Taylor, Dylan, Logan, Evan, Olivia, Collin, Kylie, and Addison; she was the loved sister of JoAnn (Jim) Sallo of Hillsdale and JoDee (Charles) Roach of San Antonio, TX.

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In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Lupus Foundation would be greatly appreciated.

Dieter F. Schmidt, age 76, of Montville passed away peacefully on Monday, May 31, 2021 while receiving the loving care of his family.

Dieter was born in Hammerstein, Germany in 1945 and was one of three children to Horst and Elisabeth Schmidt.  Just before Dieter’s twelfth birthday, he and his family immigrated to the United Stated in search of a better life and the “American Dream.”

Upon arriving in the United States, Dieter and his family settled in Clifton.  The family then moved to Passaic where he attended school.

Dieter owned and operated M&W Truck Repair in Clifton.  In 1981 Dieter bought a Matco Tool route which he operated until 1984.  Dieter opened his own auto body repair facility in Middlesex, NJ, named Lincoln Auto Body.  Dieter owned this business for thirty two years.

While at his body shop in Middlesex, he became interested in dirt track racing and went on to build and own various race cars throughout the years.  His Dirt Track Racing career spanned over a period of thirty years.  Dieter was introduced to his wife Mildred Marella.  Dieter and Mildred were married on June 14, 1975.  

Dieter was a delightfully personable man whom everyone liked being around.  He was extremely hard working, fanatical about details, and meticulously neat and organized. He has been described by many of his family and friends as the epitome of a perfectionist.  Dieter was a truly special man who touched the lives of many people and will be sincerely missed by everyone that knew him.      

Dieter is survived by his wife Mildred Schmidt of Montville, two daughters; Denise Schmidt of Clifton and her daughter Emily Sara Rose Glickman, and Debbie Diamond-Schmidt of Hawthorne, his mother Elisabeth Schmidt of Lake Hiawatha, two sisters; Doris Rose and her husband Robert of Montville, and Ingrid St Jean and her husband Gary of Montville, , three nephews; Anthony Marella, Joseph Marella, and Keith St Jean, three nieces; Sharon Evans, Heather Bott, Jackie Jacobson, as well as two great nieces and three great nephews.    

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dieter’s name may be made to American Kidney Fund, 11921 Rockville Pike, Suite 300, Rockville, MD 20852.

Ann C. Moen, age 84, of Bloomingdale, and a former longtime resident of Pequannock, passed from this life into the presence of God her father, her savior Jesus, and the Holy Spirit on Friday, May 28, 2021. She was in the comfort of her home with loving members of her family present at the time of her passing.

Ann was the daughter of Cornelius Stols and Clara (Casteline) Stols. She was born in Clifton but raised in Paterson at the family home located at 436 East 21st Street. After graduating from Eastside High School, she initially worked as a bank teller for First National Bank and Trust Company in her hometown of Paterson.

Ann grew up attending the People’s Park Netherland Reformed Church in Paterson. Among the other kids in the church that were her age was a young guy named Peter Moen. They began dating as young adults and, after getting engaged in Central Park in New York City during the weekend of Palm Sunday in 1956, they set their wedding date for Saturday, August 30, 1958. That summer day, they exchanged their wedding promises before God, family and friends at People’s Park Church with the wedding ceremony officiated by Reverend Zijderveld. After a reception with 130 guests at the Robin Hood Inn in Clifton, Ann and Pete honeymooned in sunny Florida. Their first home as Mr and Mrs Moen was in a two-family home owned by relatives located at 131 East 2nd Street in Clifton.

Prior to marriage and at Pete’s recommendation, Ann left her job at the bank to go work in the accounting department at New Jersey Bell Telephone Company in Newark because they offered better benefits. One of those benefits was meeting several women who would become life-long friends.  Over the years they would faithfully meet each month until they were all well advanced in years and time took its toll.  She remained with Bell-Tell until the fall of 1961 when the blessing of her first-born son named Peter Jay led Ann into a new role as mother and full-time homemaker. In 1962, Ann, Pete, and Peter Jay moved into a new home that they had built on Jacksonville Road in Pequannock. In the next few years one had to wonder if Ann and Pete were trying to start their own basketball team as they welcomed three more baby boys - first Neal (‘63), followed by Mark (’65), and then Steven (’69).

Ann approached motherhood and homemaking from a very practical philosophy. She scheduled her responsibilities down to a well-oiled routine. At the Moen house, you could always know what night of the week it was by what was served that night because it was the same every week. Sunday dinner enjoyed the time-honored tradition of being after church and, for many years, the menu alternated weeks between chicken and beef, ultimately giving way to a weekly London broil. Ann’s culinary skills were good but it was her baking that put the biggest smiles on her family’s faces.

When all of Ann’s sons reached that age of relative independence, she decided to venture back into work outside of the home. First, Ann worked at Orie Van Wingerden Greenhouses in Pompton Plains, starting plants from seed in early spring. She later took a part-time job working summers at the Farm View Road Stand on Black Oak Ridge Road in Wayne. Her last job before full retirement was at the Pompton Reformed Church in Pompton Lakes. Ann’s husband Pete had previously taken a job there in his semi-retirement as a business manager and head of the church’s cemetery. When a need arose for someone to clean the church, it was Ann who took the job. She kept that church sparkling clean for five years before retiring at age 67.

Retirement for Ann and Pete afforded the adventures of annual trips to Florida to escape the cold winters in New Jersey and to enjoy the company of snow-bird friends. Every summer during the months of June and September, Ann and Pete would stay at their summer home – a bungalow built in 1950 by Pete’s parents –   which was located down the Jersey shore (Exit 82) at Midway Beach in South Seaside Park. After Pete passed away in 2008, Ann remained in her home in Pequannock until 2015 when she joined her son Peter and his wife Donna at their home in Bloomingdale. There she had her own spacious apartment, affording her the independence everyone desires without the heavy responsibilities of home ownership.  As Ann’s acuity decreased over the years due to Lewy Body Dementia, God brought Christian caregivers to Peter and Donna who ministered to Ann and them in providing for Ann’s daily care.

Ann’s number one most enjoyed pastime was reading. She had a penchant for picking books from the Pequannock Library that had any type of beach scene on the cover. It was nothing unusual for Ann to easily tear through two or three books per week! When the town built the new library, Pete and Ann donated funds to support the library expansion due their joint love of reading.  You can find a gold plaque on the brick wall inside the library as a testament to that love.  Ann also loved making puzzles. Her home always included a board on the floor or a table in the sun room of the house with a “work-in-progress” puzzle. It was there for anyone if they wanted to spend a few minutes or a good long sit challenging themselves to assemble one of those 1,000- or 1,500-piece puzzles.

Ann was always up for a visit from one or all of her thirteen grandchildren. They had a nickname for her – “Candy Grandma” because they could count on a plentitude of candy treats generously offered anytime she was around.  Ann cherished spending time with her thirteen grandchildren.  From writing them letters at camp to attending birthday parties, graduations, showers, and weddings.  She always had time to show her support and love.  

A member of the Pompton Plains Reformed Bible Church since November, 1966, Ann loved her church and church family and always came away blessed by Sunday worship and years of learning about God’s truths, promises and guidance for this life. Ann was active in the church as a regular participant in the Monday night ladies Bible study, the weekly prayer gathering, the household ministry, and fellowship committee.  She supported Pete as a Deacon’s wife and later as an Elder’s wife.  Pete and Ann would often host visiting pastors in their home.  Ann loved to sing praises to God too and always looked forward to singing on Sundays in the church choir.

Ann was everything you could ask for from a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend. She was a loving, caring, and compassionate woman. Gentle in sharing the wisdom that came with age and experience, she would never dream of being overbearing or demanding in sharing that wisdom. Her greatest gift was probably her faithful example of Christian love. Thankful for God’s faithfulness and love shown to her, she considered Christ to be the greatest example of how to love her own family, which she always considered one of God’s finest blessings to her.

Ann was the beloved wife of Pete Moen, blessed in marriage for 50 years until his passing in 2008. She was the most loving mother of four great sons: Peter J. Moen and wife Donna of Bloomingdale, Neal E. Moen and wife Daneen of Pequannock, Mark A. Moen and Christine Orozco of Pawcatuck, CT, and Steven S. Moen and wife Suzie of Jefferson; cherished grandmother of: Jonathan Moen and wife Kristyn of Upton, MA, Scott Moen and wife Maya of Pompton Plains, Elizabeth Ann Moen of Piscataway, Heather Speer and husband Jesse of Lincoln Park, Stephanie Ingis and husband Benjamin of Jefferson, Mykaela Moen of Pequannock, Tyler Moen of Pequannock, Alexandria Moen of Dudley, MA, Connor Moen of Niantic, CT, Samuel Moen of Jefferson, Stacy Aubrey and husband Caleb of Granville, NY, Sawyer Moen of Jefferson, and Sierra Moen of Jefferson; and adoring great-grandmother of Camille Moen of Pompton Plains.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Ann’s name are asked to consider Pequannock Township Library or Pompton Plains Reformed Bible Church.

Mask Protocol – While we rejoice that God has brought a reduction of impact of the virus to our land, we continue to be mindful that many are still getting sick. In order to do our part to reduce the spread of disease, we ask that you please wear a mask as you greet us in line to share your condolences and remembrances.

Allen L. Schaefer, age 77 of Riverdale, died Wednesday, May 26, 2021.

Allen had been a warehouse manager throughout his career, working for several companies. He was most recently with BJ’s Wholesale Club Receiving Department in Riverdale. His career ended there in 2017 after he was involved in an accident that fractured his neck. Allen was temporarily paralyzed, but fortunate to have an excellent surgical team who were able to repair his neck, allowing him to walk again.

Allen grew up in Paterson and graduated from Paterson Tech High School. He went on to serve in the U.S. Army during the 1960’s, serving most of his time in Germany. Allen’s favorite pastime, especially during the pandemic, was watching television! He particularly loved old cowboy movies with John Wayne, or watching sports. He was a Green Bay Packers fan, Notre Dame fan, and loved to watch baseball, especially the San Francisco Giants.

Allen married and had two daughters before his wife passed away in 1993, at just forty-six years old. With the help of family, he raised his two daughters as a single dad. In 2006, Allen met Marianne DiGirolamo at a meeting of “Parents Without Partners,” and their love blossomed quickly. Marianne had little desire to get married again, but Allen was charming, kind, and persistent.  They were married on October 10, 2010 (10-10-10), and they enjoyed a family trip to Disney World a short time later to celebrate. Throughout their years together, they’ve visited Disney World eleven times, and it has always been a favorite destination of theirs. It’s no wonder that Allen’s two cats are named Tigger and Pooh!. Allen was a devoted husband to his beloved Marianne, and he was always very good to her. They’ve enjoyed a very loving marriage and she will miss him dearly.

Allen is survived by his wife, Marianne (nee DiGirolamo) of Riverdale, three children; Sandra Hilgemberg and her husband Niv, Kimberly Iovino and her husband Gerard, and Linda Kearney and her husband Kevin, five grandchildren; Alexandria, Nicole, and Rachael Hilgemberg, Logan Iovino, and Marissa Verdon and her husband Andrew, five great-grandchildren; Ariana, Rylin, Briella, Andrew, and Serafina, and one brother; James Schaffer and his wife Patricia.

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

William F. Keenan, age 63, of North Bergen, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 25, 2021.

Bill was born and raised in the Totowa section of Paterson. He loved living there and he knew a lot about the city’s history. One of his favorite sites was the famous Paterson Falls. Back when Bill was young, almost all automobiles had chrome bumpers. Consequently, one of Bill’s first jobs was working for a bumper re-chromer in Paterson. He then moved on to driving cabs which led him to his most recent job he held for many years as a courier with Federal Express. This was his favorite job, and the one he was most proud of. He knew the ins-and-outs of all his routes before GPS existed and often took over-time driving the routes no one wanted to take. Bill was often known to follow the road less traveled.

Bill was truly one the most down-to-earth, unpretentious individual you could imagine knowing. He needed very little this world had to offer and enjoyed the simple things in life. Fishing was one of his most favorite pastimes. If cars could be purchased offering the “fishing pole option” that would be the car that Bill would buy. He always had a fishing pole in the back seat or trunk because he never knew when he might want to stop and wet his line in the water. He fished everywhere and especially enjoyed fishing at Wawayanda State Park at the New York and New Jersey border. It was a hobby he later passed down to his son Maxwell and it holds as Max’s fondest memory and connection to his father. Other hobbies of Bill’s included drawing, collecting rocks and antiques, Crossword puzzles, Sudoku puzzles, and mailing lottery tickets back-and-forth with his sister Rita.

Bill was very kind and extremely thoughtful. He demonstrated a caring heart for people and, taking great interest in their lives, he was known for surprising family and friends with just the perfect little gift or for touching their heart with the thoughtful words he would scribe into a greeting card for all kinds of occasions – birthdays, Christmas, or just to encourage or to say thank you.

Bill was certainly no stranger to hardship in his life. He would be the first to admit to an alcohol and drug addiction and the heartache and pain that it caused for his family and others in his life. After repeated attempts to get sober, in 2014, he was finally able to find peace and sobriety through a ministry called Transformation Life Center or “TLC” in West Park, NY. While finally winning the battle over addiction was so very welcomed, it was winning the war over the power of sin and Satan and finding eternal life through his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ that Bill considered the real victory and the greatest catalyst for sobriety. He was so grateful to TLC for their Christian Discipleship program that helped him to learn how to recover and subsequently manage a new life of hope and freedom of mind, body and soul through understanding and rebuilding his true self-identity and purpose found only in Jesus Christ.

While staying at Transformation Life Center, Bill helped them to start a thrift store – a skill he learned while living for a couple of years at the Salvation Army in Paterson. He eventually finished the program at TLC and moved to Haledon, NJ. While there, he had the pleasure of meeting a gentleman named Al Verduin while visiting New Hope Ministries in Prospect Park one day. Al and Bill hit it off beautifully! Bill started attending Al’s church – Living Word Reformed Church in North Haledon where he was growing in his faith. He was even singing in the church’s chorus. Al became Bill’s personal “Uber driver” by picking him up for Tuesday night choir rehearsals, church on Sunday morning, as well as for taking him to all his doctor appointments. Bill was so grateful for Al’s selfless service, especially for taking Bill to watch his daughter Rilee’s soccer games at DePaul High School in Wayne. One year for Christmas Bill sent Al a card in which he expressed that “every day is Christmas when you know the Lord”.

Since Bill came to sobriety, his life changed dramatically. He enjoyed his new found peace so very much. Because Bill believed that, once this life is over, the only thing that goes on is our relationships with other people, he made it one of his primary missions to do his best to repair the relationships that he so much wanted to be healthy. He did his best to love his children by owning up to his mistakes and by being the best father he could be. He so much enjoyed talking on the phone with his sister Rita and they called each other every day. They also spoke every night at 10:00 PM and were a constant source of love and affirmation for each other. Bill was really a true love! Even the homeless dogs in Paterson were important to him and he showed love to them by regularly buying them dog food. Rest in God’s everlasting, loving peace Bill!

Bill is survived by his two dear daughters and two dear sons: Madison Keenan, Rilee Keenan, Maxwell Keenan and William Latham. His dear sister Rita Bracco and husband Jimmy of Roxbury; and his niece and two nephews: Chrissie, Brian and Michael. He was predeceased by his parents: Emett Francis Keenan and Elizabeth (Daly) Keenan; his sister Bernice DeGroot; and his two nephews: Thomas and Jay.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Bill’s name are asked to consider Living Word Reformed Church, 21 Pleasant View Drive, North Haledon, NJ 07508 or The Salvation Army in Paterson, 541-545 W. Broadway, Paterson, New Jersey 07509. Click Here to Donate Online.

A Live-Stream of the church service will be available Wednesday 10 AM at https://www.facebook.com/OLCWayne/.

Tricia McCall, age 55, of Wayne NJ, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly from a brain aneurism on Tuesday, May 25, 2021.

Tricia was born in the Bronx, New York to the late William and Andrea Conroy and was raised in Suffern, New York. She attended Sacred Heart Elementary School, Albertus Magnus High School, and completed her senior year at Suffern High with the Class of 1984. She played sports and was involved in various clubs and activities.

Tricia worked at McDonald’s in Suffern during her high school years. After college, she worked at Datascope of Montvale NJ, where she met her future husband and love of her life, Eddie McCall. She took time off to raise her beloved children, Danielle and Christian. In 2012, she re-entered the workforce at the Ready Set Grow pre-school in Wayne and worked alongside her best friend, Alicia Disteso. Following this, Tricia’s passion for cooking led her to pursue a career at Wegmans Grocery in Montvale NJ, where she has worked for the past four years.

Tricia was an avid reader of mysteries, drama, murder mysteries and her favorite author was Tom Clancy. When it came to going to the beach, she had to have a hardcover book and when driving she was always listening to an audiobook. Tricia McCall was a selfless woman and always put the needs of others before her own. She was a dedicated and devoted wife, mother, sister, daughter in-law, co-worker, and friend. She will be lovingly remembered as a big Star Trek Fan, thrill seeker, and a great cook who was willing to cook or eat any new recipe. She was very social and loved going out for a Girl’s Nights with her best friends. Tricia loved spending time with these friends and enjoyed activities like ceramics, having a wine night, painting, or even a trip to Atlantic City.

Tricia loved to travel, and her favorite destinations included the Caribbean and especially St. Lucia. For the past fifteen years, the family made annual President’s Day week trips to St Lucia where many family memories were made. Anyone who knows Tricia will tell you she was going to be late. She always set her clocks 15 minutes fast to ensure that she was only 30 minutes fashionable late. Tricia will be remembered for being her children’s biggest (and loudest) fan at their sporting events. Whether it was football, lacrosse, or soccer, she didn’t miss a game and was always dressed in the appropriate jersey or shirt to show her team support.

After Tricia and her husband Ed met while working at Datascope, he decided to take her out on a date. After their first date at the Capitol Grill in Paramus, they fell in love. They married on December 12, 1998 at The Estate at Florentine Gardens in River Vale. They then honeymooned for three weeks on the French Polynesian Island of Bora Bora in the South Pacific. Tricia and Ed have enjoyed a loving and devoted marriage of twenty-three years that was blessed with two children and endless memories and laughter.

Tricia was a longstanding member of Our Lady of Consolation and taught Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (CCD) for several years. Her devotion to others is exemplified by her organ donation with the New Jersey Sharing Network. Tricia was a registered organ donor, and this resulted in the continued life of three strangers. She selflessly gave gifts to also help over one hundred individuals in need. Tricia has, is, and always will be our HERO.

She was the loving wife of Edward McCall; devoted mother of Danielle and Christian of Wayne, NJ; she was the dearly loved sister of Lynda Kelly of Airmont, NY, Kathleen Mallon of Harriman, NY, and Michael Conroy of Suffern, NY. Tricia was a family woman and a loving daughter-in-law to Angela and Charles McCall and sister-in-law to Michael and Suzanne McCall, and Annamaria and Tom Reilly. Tricia loved her 9 nieces and nephews.

Those contemplating a memorial donation are asked to consider The Sharing Network https://www.njsharingnetwork.org/contribute.

Haido Siris age 81 of Riverdale, New Jersey passed away peacefully on Monday, May 24, 2021 while receiving the loving care and in the presence of her family.  

Haido was born and raised in Etea Greece and was the middle child of three children to Elias and Katina Tsonos.  Haido and her family immigrated to the United States in 1954 in search of a better life and the “American Dream.”  Upon arriving in the United States, the family settled in Washington Heights, NY in a predominantly Greek community.  While living there, Haido attended George Washington High School where she won first place in a dance contest and eventually earned her high school degree in 1958.  Following her graduation from George Washington, Haido worked for a short time as a beautician in a local beauty salon.  The following year in 1959, a close family friend introduced her to her future love, a handsome and ambitious young man by the name of Prodromos Siris.  The two hit it off wonderfully and started dating.  As fate would have it they fell in love and were married at the St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church in Washington Heights, New York City on May 8, 1960.  After getting married, Haido stopped working at the beauty salon and devoted the rest her life to supporting her husband’s restaurant career and being a homemaker.

Haido and Prodromos stayed in Washington Heights after getting married and while living there they welcomed the births of their two sons William in 1962 and Leo in 1963.  The family remained in Washington Heights until 1974, and with a lot of hard work and determination, they moved across the river to Palisades Park, New Jersey.  After two years living in Palisades Park and again with a lot of hard work Haido and her family bought their first home in Wayne, New Jersey in 1976.  In 1981, they moved again to Lincoln Park and then several years later to Riverdale, New Jersey.  

Haido was not only devoted to her family, but also to her Orthodox Faith and was a member of St Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Wyckoff for many years.

One of the family’s favorite pastimes was travel.  Haido and Prodromos traveled to many different and exotic destinations including the Bahamas, Aruba, Barbados, and the Grand Cayman Islands.  They also visited their homeland of Greece as well as Italy, California, Las Vegas, and Florida.  The beaches of the Caribbean islands was where Haido was most happy.  The family also cherished yearly vacations locally at the Jersey Shore.  

Haido’s life was very much centered around the life of her husband and was a large part of his success. She was often seen helping him at the different restaurants they owned through their lives. She and her husband were Restaurateurs, and enjoyed trying new food and seeking out new destinations to dine.  The couple were avid party hosts throughout their lives.  They treasured hosting family events, where at times their home would be filled with one hundred people or more.  They also frequented a variety of Greek restaurants in Astoria, New York as well.  

Haido was a social butterfly and loved to mingle and meet people.  She was compassionate and outgoing.  She was a wonderful cook and was famous for her Greek Cookies at Christmas time.  Aside from all of Haido’s talents, hobbies and interests, her greatest passion was for her family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Haido than spending time with and providing for her husband and two sons.  Haido and Prodromos treasured fifty-two years of loving and loyal marriage until Prodromos’ passing in 2012.  Haido was a very special person who touched the lives of many people and will be missed by her family and friends alike.

Haido is survived by her two sons; William Siris and his fiance Sonia of Boonton, and Leo Siris of Lincoln Park, two brothers; Drosos Tsonos and his wife Tasia of Washington Heights, and Kyriakos Tsonos and his wife Linda of Florida, 4 nephews and many cousins and extended family.  She was predeceased by her husband Prodromos Siris in 2012.

Your presence at the visiting hours and/or the funeral services is greatly appreciated and would be truly comforting to Haido’s family.

Maureen “Mo” Amoia, age 60, formerly of Little Falls and Bayonne passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 23, 2021 while receiving the loving care of her family and after a long and courageous battle with cancer.  

Maureen was born and raised in Jersey City, New Jersey and was one of three children to Jack and Jeanette Amoia.  Growing up in Jersey City, Maureen attended Dickerson High School where she graduated with the class of 1978.  Following her graduation from high school, Maureen worked a variety of jobs for several years until getting married when she was about twenty-five years old.  After getting married, Maureen settled in Bayonne where she welcomed the births of her two children, Gina and Joseph.  She and her family remained in Bayonne for twenty-five years. She then moved to Little Falls where she lived for about six years until moving to Wayne with her daughter in 2021.  Over the years, Maureen’s family and closest of friends affectionately referred to her as “Mo.”  

Maureen made the decision to become a full time homemaker when her children were born.  After about ten years of being a full-time homemaker and when Maureen’s children were in school full time, she decided to re-enter the workforce. Maureen found work quickly and accepted a position as a teacher’s aide for children with special needs.  

After several years as a teacher’s aide, Maureen made a career change and took a job as a Medical Secretary.  Maureen was employed as a Medical Secretary for more than fifteen years, most recently working for Northeastern Spinal and Rehab in Woodland Park, NJ.  Maureen kept her position as a Medical Secretary until approximately three years ago when her illness prevented her from working.  

Maureen loved to watch movies and TV, some of her favorite shows being Big Bang Theory, Jeopardy, Friends, and Grey’s Anatomy.  One of Maureen's favorite past times was traveling.  Wherever Maureen traveled, there was sure to be a beach.  Relaxing on the beach was where Maureen was most happy.  She and her family treasured taking day trips to Bradley Beach at the Jersey Shore and vacationing to such destinations as Bermuda, the Bahamas, Aruba, and Jamaica.  Maureen was an avid gardener and cherished spending time on the properties where she lived, making sure that her landscaping was immaculate. Her favorite flower was the rose, and although she didn’t grow them, she always incorporated the flower as part of her home décor, be it pillows, paintings, candles, or table decorations.  She had quite the "green thumb,” having plants in her home that were more than thirty years old.

But aside from all of Maureen’s interests, talents, and hobbies, her greatest passion was for her family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Maureen than providing for and spending time with her children and grandchild.  She truly cherished gathering together with friends and family.  She was a wonderful cook, always looking forward to hosting holidays, and took great pride in her pasta sauce.   Throughout Maureen’s life, she made many friends.  She had a contagious sense of humor and loved to laugh.  She was wonderfully organized and strictly routined.  She had a place for everything and everything was in its place.  Another special part of Maureen’s life were her dogs; Crystal, Benny, and Jazzy.   Maureen was a very special person who touched the lives of many people and will be missed by everyone that knew her.

Maureen is survived by her daughter Gina Segali and her husband Michael of Wayne, her son Joseph Rutigliano and his wife Katelyn of Little Falls, two sisters; Barbara Amoia of Pompton Plains, and Patricia Amoia of Jersey City, her mother Jeanette Amoia of Toms River, one granddaughter Siena Segali of Wayne, and one granddaughter “on the way”, one nephew Matthew Shindle of Lake Hopatcong, and one niece Vanessa Shindle of Pompton Plains.  She was predeceased by her father Jack J Amoia in 2004.

Donations in Maureen's name may be made to the American Cancer Society, NJ Chapter, PO Box P, 2310 Route 34 Suite 1D, Manasquan, NJ 08736.  http://cancer.org

Craig F. Smith (Bedford), 78, of Big Pine Key, Florida and formerly of Packanack Lake in Wayne, died on Friday, May 21, 2021 after a prolonged illness. He was affectionately known as “The Big Guy.”

Craig was born in Teaneck, NJ and graduated from Hackensack High School in 1960.

A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Craig served on the U.S.S. Fort Snelling, then three tours in Vietnam on the U.S.S. Enterprise. On one occasion while home on temporary leave from service, Craig visited a tavern where his Uncle Charles Loughman was bartender. In came this tall, beautiful young lady who was attending grad school up the street at Fairleigh Dickinson University. She certainly caught Craig’s eye and, as luck would have it, Uncle Charlie knew her and was able to introduce her to Craig. Her name was Marguerite “Marge” Siersma and, to say their relationship got off to a great start would have to be the understatement of the 20th century. This encounter in the tavern occurred on a Friday afternoon and two days later – a mere 48 hours, they eloped to Fairfax, Virginia, and got married at the Fairfax United Methodist Church on Sunday, May 1, 1967. They would have married in New Jersey but there was a three day waiting period to get a marriage license and Craig and Marge didn’t want to wait that long.

Newly married, Craig and Marge lived for the first eight years in Hanahan, SC where Craig was stationed with the Navy. Besides those three tours to Vietnam on the U.S.S. Enterprise, Craig also served a tour on the U.S.S. Skill. It was the last tour for that ship and Craig had the honor of de-commissioning it. It was around this time that Craig’s father-in-law passed away. His mother-in-law called and offered Integrity Enterprises, the family-owned pool liner manufacturing business, located in Fairfield, to Craig and Marge. Very soon after, in 1973, Craig was honorably discharged from the Navy. For his thirteen years of service to his country, Craig was awarded the Navy Unit Commendation, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Upon return to civilian life, Craig and Marge relocated to the Packanack Lake section of Wayne where they purchased the home located at 46 Oakwood Drive. Some years later, they moved to the other side of the lake, to the home located at 75 Alpine Drive. During over thirty years as residents in Packanack Lake, Craig was active in the community, including serving on the Board of Governors for the Packanack Lake Golf Club.

Craig and Marge were blessed with two great children – their son William “Bill” and their daughter Marguerite. With a father like Craig, life in the Smith house was interesting to say the least. When they were little, Craig was known for saying crazy stuff to them like “Hey kids, I hear a truck coming. Why don’t you go play in the street?”  Bill and Marguerite will always have fond memories of traveling with Dad and Mom and camping in the Carolinas. There was always lots of singing on those trips and Craig would say things like “Oh! Look kids, there’s a Burger King! Oh, too bad, there it goes.”

Craig and Marge always had an ‘open door’ policy at their home, welcoming everyone. If you walked through their door, you were treated like family, and they were even known to let friends move in and stay for a while when necessary. Their pool parties were the stuff of legends and regularly featured karaoke with the likes of Craig himself flipping up his collar and doing his best Elvis impersonation. Pool parties were only topped by the unforgettable, Christmas Eve celebrations at the Smiths house! The house would be overflowing with friends, mountains of food, plenty to drink, and Santa would always arrive bearing gifts for all the kids. It was consistently an incredible time for all of their guests, and the laughs would last for weeks. Craig and Marge unwittingly caused a bit of a crisis for many of their friends when they retired to Florida in 2004 and the Christmas Eve parties ended! Some friends called them that first Christmas and said “we’ve been going to your party for so many years and we just don’t know what to do with ourselves now!”

Who would have thought that two people, marrying 48 hours after meeting each other, could have such a blessed marriage? Well, that’s exactly what Craig and Marge had. For their 50th wedding anniversary they renewed their wedding vows and had a party at the Cosmopolitan on Route 23 in Wayne. Craig liked to joke that Marge robbed the cradle but, truth be told, she was only two-and-a-half months older than him.

They traveled to many domestic and foreign pool conventions and after trips with Eileen and Bob Malahame of Pennsylvania and their children, Matthew and Jennifer. Craig and Marge were very fortunate to be able to travel around the world with their dear friends, the O’Connor’s, the Silk’s and the Hatolski’s. They had so many laughs together!  For example, when making reservations for dinner, they would always book the reservation under the name “O’Smilks” which was a little bit of each of their last names put together. During all their travels, Craig and Marge, visited every continent except Antarctica. Craig would always come home with incredible stories about their trip, some of them so incredible that he’d have to tell you “…true story, kiddo. True story!” Craig was a funny, crazy, happy and super outgoing human being. It was very common for Craig to say something like, “Hey Pal, gotta minute? Can I tell you a story?”  He will be dearly missed by countless friends and all of his loving family.

Craig is survived by his beloved wife, Marguerite “Marge” Smith of Big Pine Key, FL, two children; William ‘Bill’ Smith and his wife Tammy of Kinnelon, Marguerite Kabula and her husband Curt of Wayne, four grandchildren; Brett and Brandon Smith of Kinnelon, and Trent and Maggie Kabula of Wayne, two brothers; Harry Bedford and wife Jana of Hewitt, NJ, David Bedford and wife Linda of Myrtle Beach, SC, and two sisters; Barbara Newman and husband Fred of Louisburg, NC, and Joann Nicoletti and husband Ralph of Port St. Lucie, FL.

Joseph G. Kent, age 87 of Pompton Lakes, died peacefully at home on May 20, 2021 with his family gathered at his bedside.

Joe is survived by his wife Jean (nee Baumgartner), sons Steven and Michael, and daughter Janet Kent Peterson, grandchildren; Jackie Laurice and her husband Ryan, Steven Kent Jr. and his wife Krystle, David, James and Nick Kent, and four great-grandchildren.

Donations in Joe’s memory would be appreciated to the Salvation Army.

Monica B. Fengya (nee Quinn), age 88 of Wayne, died peacefully at home on Tuesday, May 19, 2021 with her loving family gathered at her bedside.

Monica was born in Newark and grew up in the Roseville section. A graduate of Barringer High School, she loved Irish dancing, ballet, playing piano, and sewing. Monica met her husband, Henry, on a blind date with several other couples. They enjoyed themselves, and she told Henry that he was the nicest dressed out of them all. Their love blossomed and Henry mustered the courage to propose. They were married on December 12, 1953 at Blessed Sacrament Church in East Orange, NJ, followed by a honeymoon to the Poconos.  They settled in Little Falls before moving to Wayne in 1964. They have enjoyed a devoted and loving marriage for sixty-seven years.

Monica loved her home, and especially her kitchen. She was an excellent cook and an even better baker. Her family recalls that everything she made was exceptional, and you never left her home hungry. She was happiest when her family was gathered at her home, and nothing really brought her more joy than that. She raised five children in their home, and she was instrumental in the lives of her nine grandchildren. She was very proud of them and felt truly blessed by them all. Living in Packanack Lake, Monica was a member of the Packanack Garden Club, the Tennis Club, and she walked around the lake often, making several laps daily. She had a magnetic personality and was very sociable, yet she enjoyed her privacy as well.

Monica was a devoted Catholic and parishioner of Immaculate Heart of Mary RC Church for decades. She taught religious education there for nearly forty years, prayed the novena on many occasions, and faithfully attended mass. As her grandchildren came along, she began to attend mass with them in their church, taking an active role in their religious education as well. In recent years, she became a parishioner at Annunciation RC Church in Wayne. Her strong faith was the foundation for her marriage and her family, and she was very grateful for all the blessings God allowed her to enjoy in this life.

Monica is survived by her beloved husband, Henry, or Wayne, five children; Bruce Fengya and his wife Donna of Clifton, Kathleen Gunning and her husband Harold of Mantua, NJ, Monica Johnson and her husband Keith of Jefferson, NJ, Brian Fengya and his wife Mary of Wayne, and Kevin Fengya of Wayne, nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Clare Kathleen Gellene (nee Ryan), 90, of Wayne, passed away on Tuesday, May 18 in the loving care of her family.

Clare was born August 22, 1930 in Paterson and grew up in Clifton, the second daughter of Thomas Ryan, a self-taught machinist, and Martha (McCoy) Ryan, a homemaker. Clare always spoke with pride that her father’s skills were high in demand, allowing him to stay employed during the worst depths of the Great Depression.

Clare attended St. George’s Elementary School and St. John’s High School, both in Paterson. As a teenager, she enjoyed the music of her favorite singer, Frankie Laine, and was a member of St. John’s varsity cheerleading squad. After graduating from high school in 1948, Clare went on to learn secretarial skills at Katherine Gibbs College, excelling to land a prestigious executive secretary position with Philip Morris in Manhattan.

She married her husband of 59 years, John Francis Gellene, on April 25, 1953 at their home parish of St. George’s Roman Catholic Church in Paterson. Though John went to St. Peter’s Prep in Jersey City, he attended dances at St. John’s, hoping to catch the attention of Clare, whom he first met in grade school. Their first official date was at the Jersey Shore, where Clare, a friend, and her friend’s family were invited for dinner at the Belmar summer home of John’s parents. When dinner was finished, John took Clare to the movies to see “Great Expectations,” leaving everyone else behind.

Soon after her marriage, Clare left her job at Philip Morris to raise a family. They moved in 1957 from Paterson to a newly built home in Wayne, where they raised their six children and lived the rest of their lives.

Throughout her life, Clare was guided by her deep Catholic faith. She and John were founding members of Our Lady of the Valley R.C. Church in Wayne. They passed along their faith to their children, sending them to Our Lady of the Valley School and DePaul Catholic High School. She and John attended Baptisms, First Holy Communions and Confirmations of their grandchildren, whether they were in New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Texas, Indiana, Massachusetts, or California. Clare prayed the rosary nightly and attended or watched Mass daily. For many years, she participated in Bible study and taught CCD, devoting hours each week to preparing students’ lessons. She was a member of the Adoration Society Chapel, committing herself to serving several hours every week. She also prepared meatballs at home to feed those in need at Eva’s Kitchen in Paterson.

Clare was an avid collector of stuffed bears, including one dressed as a New York Yankee stationed near the television set when she watched the team play. She was skilled at knitting and embroidering, making sweaters and other gifts for her children and grandchildren. An enthusiastic gardener, she spent many happy spring afternoons filling her flowerbeds with colorful petunias and impatiens, and tending to her prized azaleas, rhododendrons, and peonies.

Clare was quick with a smile, loved to laugh, and had a special ability to laugh at herself. One family tradition at gatherings was a competitive pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey game, the highlight of which was Clare’s hilarious effort to pin the tail in the vicinity of the picture. Her home was always immaculate, and in her later years, whenever her adult children visited from out-of-state, she was sure to stock their favorite breakfast cereal, as well as a supply of ground coffee, which she didn’t drink herself.

Throughout her life Clare was proudest of her family. In 2015, 52 members of her family gathered in Belmar to celebrate her 85th birthday. In 2020, during the height of the pandemic, family members throughout the United States celebrated her 90th birthday on a Zoom gathering.

Clare was preceded in death by her husband, John, and a sister, Nora Ryan Bailey.

Clare is survived by her children Denise Gellene Bates (James) of Arcadia, CA, John G. Gellene (Jean) of New York City, Gregory Gellene (Deborah) of Lubbock, TX, Lisa Gallagher (Eugene) of Mahwah, David Gellene (Ellen) Yorktown, VA, and Matthew Gellene (Beth) of Needham, MA; cherished grandmother of 19 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; sisters Patricia Lyness of Toms River and Janet Sabeh of Edison.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Clare’s memory to Eva’s Village, the successor to Eva’s Kitchen, 393 Main St., Paterson,  N.J. 07501.

Horst Kajah, 86, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 17, 2021 with his wife of 64 years by his side.

Horst was born in Seehausen, Germany, and experienced life as a refugee in Denmark with his widowed mother, twin sister, and two younger brothers before settling in Pinneberg, Germany, after the war. A few years later, he met Magda and after marrying, the two decided that moving to the United States would offer them what war- torn Germany could not. They were sponsored by Pastor Hüssmann and the congregation of Immanuel Baptist Church in Woodside, NY, a German community that became their family in this country. Horst, Magda, Angela, Christine and Stephan moved to Pompton Lakes in 1965, where Marion Court became their home for the next 56 years. There, Thomas was born and Horst was able to practice some of his most treasured hobbies: keeping chickens, growing his garden, and buying live Christmas trees each year to plant in the backyard. When he wasn’t outside, he could be found building, fixing, or tinkering with any number of items - from grandchildren’s karaoke machines to a friend’s carburetor - at his work bench. Horst’s work ethic was one of the most marked parts of his personality, and it aged well with him. He loved to work and did so retiring from his career as a machinist at the age of 82, while working at Dikeman Laminating, Clifton, NJ, at the time. At one point the only Billhöfer machinist in the United States, Horst was flown all over the country to repair the machines he first learned as an apprentice in Pinneberg, Germany.

Horst will be remembered for his jokes, long stories, and playful demeanor, always ready for a conversation with a stranger, neighbor, or friend. He and Magda participated actively in their church community at Jacksonville Chapel in Lincoln Park, NJ, where Horst proudly served as an usher for many years, as well as serving with Magda in the church’s Disabilities Ministry. Anyone who knew him, even as an acquaintance, knew the great pride Horst had in his German heritage, which he very intentionally instilled in his family. Horst, Magda, and their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren have spent years maintaining German holiday traditions, participating in German heritage festivals, and attending the Steuben Parade in New York quite religiously. Horst’s passionate character will live on in his family, as most of them have been blessed with his quick temper and fire, making them fiercely loyal and defensive of those they love, just as he was.

Horst was predeceased by his children, Angela Winters, 2018, and Stephan Kajah, 2006. He is left by his wife, Magda, of Pompton Lakes, his son-in-law, Brian Winters, of Bloomingdale, daughter, Christine Pallo, and her husband, Steve, of Pompton Lakes, son, Thomas Kajah, and his wife, Marcy, of Londonderry, VT, and his grandchildren, Rebecca Peller and her husband, Jason, of Pompton Plains, Courtney Laurente and her husband, Michael, of Wayne, Sarah Hout and her husband, Jonathan, of Forest, VA, Kerstin and Heidi Pallo of Beverly, MA, Devan and Lily Kajah of Londonderry, VT, and eight great-grandchildren, Liam, Noah, Luke, and James Peller, Caleb, Hannah, and Daniel Hout, and Charlotte Laurente.

George Halas, age 90, of Wayne, passed away on May 16, 2021. George was the son of first-generation Hungarian immigrants, John and Mary (Nyikos) Halasz, the beloved husband of Rosemary and father of five children: John, Karen, Kathleen, Maribeth and Thomas.

Upon graduating from Passaic High School, Class of 1947, George served our country following World War II and during the Korean War in the U.S. Navy. During his tour of duty, he served as a machinist mate aboard the USS Antietam CV-36, the USS Maddox DD-731 and the USS Merrimack A037. After being discharged from the Navy in 1953, George earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Applying his experience from the Navy and his formal education, he began his career as a detail and layout draftsman at Curtiss-Wright Aerospace.

Soon after, George found his true calling, education. He returned to school, earning a Master’s degree from Montclair State University and a school administrator’s certificate from Rutgers University. There he was a member of the Phi Beta Kappa academic honor society and Epsilon Pi Tau honor society, respectively.

George went on to enjoy a 39-year career at Passaic County Technical Institute in Wayne where he impacted the lives of countless students and staff. During his tenure at Passaic County Tech, he served as a drafting instructor, counselor, guidance director, vice principal, and acting principal of technical and vocational instruction.

His involvement in the Passaic Boys Club and the leadership opportunities he received as a Camp Ocawasin counselor, shaped his life and sparked his love for the great outdoors. His great passion was fly fishing.  He spent many a day trout fishing in the Big Flat Brook in Stokes State Forest and in the running waters of the Ramapo River.  He was also a member of the PasClif Ski Club where he not only spent time enjoying the slopes, but met his lifelong love and devoted wife of 59 years, Rosemary. Throughout their marriage, they both shared their love for the outdoors with their children and many grandchildren.

George, and his wife, Rosemary, are two of the founding members of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Wayne. As an active church member, George served for many years as a lector, trustee, pastoral council member, chairman of the church directory, chairman of the annual church picnic committee and vice president of the Annunciation Prime Timers Club. He was also a Fourth-Degree member of the Knights of Columbus Council 11943, serving as its treasurer for 20 years.

George was an avid fan of the New York Mets. He also had immense pride for the "Red Team", Rutgers University athletics. He loved to watch and root for his favorite teams alongside his wife, who adopted his love of sports over the years. He also enjoyed spending time with his beloved Labrador Retriever, Mandy, who was always at his side. George was also an avid gardener and woodworker, spending many days tending to his yard and building many personalized decorative pieces.

For 56 years, George resided in Wayne, where he and his wife, Rosemary, raised their five children. George is survived by his devoted wife, Rosemary, and their 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. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Paige, Derek, Aiden and Mason Halas, William and Bradley Fern, Zachary and Ryan Shoztic, and Jackson, Emma, Avery and Brady Hastings.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in George's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Way, Memphis, TN 38105-9959 or to Annunciation Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 45 Urban Club Road, Wayne, NJ 07470.

Jeffrey Peter Grifo, age 64, of Little Falls, passed away peacefully at home, in the presence of loving family and after a short illness, on Saturday, May 15, 2021.

Jeff was born in Paterson and raised in Glen Ridge. He graduated from Glen Ridge High School with the Class of 1975 and during his high school years, he was the captain of the football team and golf team. After graduating from Ripon College in Wisconsin with a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics, Jeff came home to New Jersey and worked various jobs in New York City’s Garment District before returning to his first love – golf. He settled into a life-long career as a caddie master for Maplewood Country Club and, currently with Crestmont Country Club in West Orange. He was always a hard worker who took his work seriously and took great pride in serving the golfers well.

Jeff met the love of his life, Laura Lynskey on a blind date with his two sisters and their boyfriends at the Brass Rail in Hoboken. That blind date turned on the love-light for both Jeff and Laura. Marriage came on February 28, 1984 in Hoboken. It turned out that the year they married was a leap year and Jeff wanted to get married the next day on the 29th so that he would only have to remember his wedding anniversary once every four years. After a honeymoon in Jamaica, the newlyweds started married life in an apartment in Hoboken. Soon after, they were blessed with the birth of a beautiful baby girl which they happily named Jennifer. Shortly after, Jeff, Laura and Jennifer moved to a home located at 142 Main Avenue in Passaic Park. They remained there for thirteen years then bought a home at 107 Wilson Avenue in Wayne. Tired of raking leaves, they moved one more time, this time to Little Falls in 2010, and have remained there to the present.

Needless to say, Jeff was one of those rare individuals who liked to spend his days off where he worked. His days off were his chance to golf and boy-oh-boy, Jeff golfed a lot – both at the country clubs where he worked as well as other courses. Jeff also had the travel bug. His love of travel started right after high school when he spent the three months of summer backpacking throughout all of Europe with his best buddy from High School. Throughout their marriage, he and Laura enjoyed trips to Greece, Bermuda, Cabo, Arizona, San Francisco, and many visits to California including Carmel, San Diego to name a few. Laura and Jeff’s last trip in December, 2019, was a cruise to The Bahamas with four other ladies besides Laura which Jeff was fine with since he grew up with six sisters.

At home Jeff enjoyed the finer things of life like putting on the chef’s apron, rolling up his sleeves and creating a delicious meal. Laura loved his breakfast omelets – always fluffy, slightly browned with just the right tasty ingredients. His daughter Jennifer claimed that his Italian meatballs were her favorite. They must have been amazing because when Jeff and his siblings talked about having a meatball making competition which they were going to call a “meatball-off’, his sisters ultimately didn’t follow through because they knew Jeff’s would win hands down. Of course, when one is creating in the kitchen, there’s nothing like a bit of nice jazz music playing to inspire and make the mood pleasant. Jeff had that front covered in a giant way. He was a huge jazz music aficionado who possessed literally hundreds of vintage vinyl records, all, of course, in perfect condition. He was especially a fan of John Coltrane and also liked to listen to the blues. Even as he was ill at home these past couple of months, the music continued to play.

Jeff was the soft-spoken type but lots of fun and he possessed a great sense of humor. He was a softy by nature. When his daughter Jennifer was still living home, she wanted to get a dog. Jeff wasn’t high on the idea but, wanting to be a good dad, they got a little Yorkshire Terrier which Jenn named Bella. Well Bella won Jeff’s heart, so much so that, when they recently had to put her down, there was no one more heart broken than Jeff.

Jeff was the dearly beloved husband of Laura (Mary Lynskey), blessed in marriage for 37 years. He was the most loving father of Jennifer Marie Grifo-Villee and husband Bryan of Pequannock; adoring grandfather of Julian Villee; cherished son of June Grifo and the late James Grifo (2017) of Mendham; awesome brother of his one brother and six sisters: Jamie and wife Anne Borsch Grifo of New York City, NY, Shelby and husband Michael Swayze of Philadelphia, PA, Suzanne Grifo of Montclair, Stephanie and husband Joel Botwick of Randolph, Stacy and husband Joseph McClutchy of Cedar Grove, Sandra and husband Mark Montimurro of Montclair, and Sheila and late husband Glenn Fredericks of Mendham; dear brother-in-law of the late Richard Lynskey and wife Eleanor, the late Michael Lynskey, and Brian and wife Leanne Lynskey; and uncle of numerous nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

Francisca Posada, age 88 of Jacksonville Beach, Florida passed Saturday, May 15, 2021.

CarolAnn Chiesa, age 66, of West Milford, went home to her Lord in heaven on Thursday, May 13, 2021.

The second born of Irvand and Valerie (Majikas) Mazujian’s five children, Carol was born in East Orange, spent the first four years of her little life in Kearny, and then moved to 34 Woodstock Drive in Wayne where she grew up during her formative years. From the time she was just a young girl, Carol displayed a true athletic spirit. During her high school years at Wayne Valley High School she was a very competitive member of the track team but her real sport was field hockey which she played in high school, college, and on various club teams well into her fifties.

After graduating from Wayne Valley High School where she was President of the Class of 1973, Carol started college at Montclair State College where she majored in physical education. Later in life while raising two children and working full time, Carol earned her Master’s degree by attending classes on weekends, and she even had thirty credits under her belt towards her doctorate degree.

Carol’s first job out of higher education was with Ridgefield Public High School where she taught physical education and health classes. She also coached the boys track team and actually held the honorable distinction of being the first female coach of boys track in all of Bergen County.

When the opportunity to be part owner of a health club in Fort Lee presented itself, Carol couldn’t resist. The club, called Five Star Fitness, offered two floors with racquetball, one floor with weight machines, and yet another floor dedicated to dance and aerobics classes. With Carol’s drive and by working with her business partners, Five Star Fitness enjoyed success and even enjoyed the honor of having a pain reliever medication commercial filmed in the club featuring none other than famous New York Yankee Mickey Mantle. In time, a large corporately-owned fitness club opened up down the street. In the end, Carol’s club didn’t have enough resources to compete and closing the business became the prudent move to make. Carol returned to teaching physical education and health, this this time with Teaneck Schools. For the next thirty-plus years, she taught at the districts Benjamin Franklin campus until retiring fully in 2018.

In all of her days of teaching and coaching, Carol always strived to keep the education experience fresh and interesting – especially in an effort to inspire her students who were not natural born athletes. While on staff at Ben Franklin School she applied for a national grant to bring a roller blading curriculum to the school. Awarded to only two schools in each state, out of all the schools in New Jersey, Carol won the grant for her school. She kept the roller blading program going for many years and, as the roller blades aged and needed repair, she conducted fundraisers to pay to get them fixed, and even taught herself to do some of the repairs. She also started an annual track event with the objective being to inspire eighth graders moving up, to choose the value of healthy competition by getting involved with track and field at the high school level. For the next twenty years, this annual event inspired many students to do just that. Carol did a great job of promoting this event in the local newspapers to build up a lot of support and excitement. Throughout her teaching career, Carol enjoyed the respect and admiration of her fellow staff. She was celebrated in her profession for being a real go-getting trailblazer. Consequently, she was called upon to be a frequent keynote speaker at both state and national teacher’s conventions. With a fire in her spirit, balanced with gentleness and approachability, Carol was successful at providing a consistently rich and rewarding learning experience for the countless students she had the honor and pleasure of teaching and mentoring.

Carol met the love of her life at a party. Their first official date was at her brother Harry and sister-in-law Ruth’s wedding. One could not imagine a better way to start a loving relationship than at an occasion celebrating love in the first place. As Tigger from Winnie the Pooh would have said, “They hit it off splendiferously”! After a season of dating, Gary popped the question one night at his parent’s house. With a whole-hearted “Yes” from Carol, they headed off to Charlie Browns Restaurant to celebrate and started dreaming about the details of the wedding. They chose Saturday, November 7, 1981 for the big day. When it actually came, it was a mixed bag weather wise – freezing cold, windy, a little bit of sun which eventually gave way to a bit of snow which made Gary’s friend quip that he always told Gary it would be a cold day in hell when Gary got married. Carol and Gary exchanged their wedding promises to one another at Our Lady of the Valley Church in Wayne, then enjoyed a great reception at Samaras on Route 23 in Wayne. Samaras would later become the former Fuddruckers Restaurant complete with its little amusement park including a merry-go-round for children. In later years when Carol and Gary took their own children there for a hamburger, there slightly confused son and daughter would express how cool they thought it was that their parents had a merry-go-round at their wedding reception. After honeymooning in St. Martin Carol and Gary moved into the second floor apartment above Gary’s grandmother at 1179 Cumbermeade Road in Fort Lee. From there they moved to 363 Griggs Ave in Teaneck where they were blessed with two children – first Matthew and then Kristen. Eventually, they moved one more time, this time to West Milford where Carol lived to the present.

When thinking about Carol, think “Energizer Bunny”. She’d just keep going and going and it seemed like “her batteries” would never run out of power. Every morning began with an hour on an elliptical exercise machine. Then she was off to work to teach classes, coach, and speak at the occasional teacher conference. Her days would wind down with preparing dinner for her family, helping her children with their homework, and grading tests, quizzes, and other papers. On Sunday mornings Carol could be found on the field competing in a game of field hockey. In between she made sure to spend some time with God by faithfully attending mass at St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church in West Milford and by serving her church parish in various capacities. Loving to be together with family and friends, she hosted every other Christmas and many birthday parties, made all the cakes for those occasions and always more food than anyone could possibly eat. She made all of the Halloween costumes for Matt and Kristen and always tried her best to make their birthday parties extra special, like when she planned a baking party for Kristen and all her friends. Each girl got to help bake the cookies and each received an apron they could keep to make the baking party a memorable occasion. Parties for the kids usually included themed T-shirts that she’d have the kids make. They were always a hit and a clever and easy way for Carol to keep tabs where all the kids were when having roller blade parties or go-cart parties. Five years ago, Carol was blessed with their first grandchild and from the moment she got to hold baby Burton for the first time, she was on top of the world!

Carol loved people. She made friends easily! For example, when she took Kristen for her wedding gown fitting, Carol met another mom who was there with her daughter for the same reason. Carol quickly made friends with the woman and they even kept in touch after that chance encounter. She will always be loved for her caring, kind, loving and generous spirit. She possessed a great wit which overflowed from her warm heart. She was a true independent with a can-do attitude. Not your stereotypical phys-ed teacher; she was always her students biggest cheerleader assuring them that “You can do it! She will be truly missed but her family finds some comfort in knowing that she is at peace and with the Lord in heaven.

Carol was the beloved wife of Gary, blessed in marriage for 39 years. She was the most awesome mother of Matthew Chiesa of Sparta, NJ and Kristen and husband Benjamin Smith of Harrisville, PA; grandmother of her adored grandson Burton; and dearly loved sister of: Harry and wife Ruth Mazujian of Flemington, NJ, Diane and husband Michael Lee of Neptune City, NJ, Mark Mazujian of Dover, NJ, and Drew Mazujian and wife Beth of Oakland, NJ: and dear aunt of numerous nieces and nephews.

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

The Michael J. Fox Foundation, Donation Processing, For Parkinson’s Research, P.O. Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5014

Click Here to Donate Online  Donate by Phone: 1-800-708-7644  or American Cancer Society, NJ Chapter, PO Box P, Manasquan, NJ 08736  Click Here to Donate Online  Donate by Phone: 1-800-227-2345

Patricia A. Slevin, age 88 of Hutchison Island, FL and formerly of Wayne, NJ passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 while receiving the loving care of her family.

Patty was born in Montclair, NJ, raised in East Orange and was one of five children to Peter and Alice Dunigan.  While growing up in East Orange, Patty attended Clifford Scott High School graduating with the class of 1949.  “Academic Acceleration” was awarded to Patty which allowed her to graduate a year early.  This was due to her academic talents and throughout her life, was something she was very proud of.  Shortly after graduating, Pat found work at Dow & Symmers Law Office in Manhattan and she commuted to the city with her sister Maureen.  She worked there for a few years until she met the love of her life James V. Slevin.  The couple met at a dance and as fate would have it they fell in love and were married on June 12, 1954.  Immediately after getting married, Patty made the decision to become a homemaker and dedicated her life to caring and nurturing her four children.  This was Patty’s true calling and where she flourished.  As Patty’s family started to grow, they moved to Wayne in 1963.  In 1975 tragedy struck Patty and her family’s lives when her daughter Maureen passed away very suddenly in an automobile accident at the age of 20.  Patty’s strength as a person, their love as a family, and her Catholic faith gave her the power to overcome and move forward with her life.    

Over the years, the family cherished spending their summers upstate in Long Eddy, NY and their winters at their home in Hutchinson Island, FL. Patty treasured hosting large family weekends “Up the Country” in Long Eddy, NY.  She was also an avid golfer and skilled left-handed tennis player.  Patty and her family were parishioners of Our Lady of Consolation Church in Wayne for many years as well as Holy Cross Church in Callicoon, NY and St. Mark’s in Fort Pierce, FL.

Nothing in the world meant more to Pat than providing for and spending time with her family.  She was a truly devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and aunt.  She and her husband James cherished forty-six years of loving and loyal marriage until James’ passing in August of 2000.  Patty was proud of her Irish heritage and will always be remembered for her generosity, congeniality, grace, sense of humor and her warm spontaneous smile. She was a truly special person who touched the lives of many people.  She will be sincerely missed by everyone that knew her.          

Patty is survived by her two sons; James Slevin and his wife Elizabeth of Wayne, NJ, and Thomas Slevin of San Francisco, CA, one daughter Gayle DeNicola and her husband Dante of Wayne, two sisters Maureen Palumbo of Millington, NJ, and Bette Laverty and her husband John of Millburn, NJ, one brother John Dunigan of Spring Lake, NJ, six grandchildren: Michael Slevin and his wife Jessica of Wauconda, IL, Lori Slevin of Wayne, Daniel Slevin of San Francisco, Kylie Slevin of San Francisco, Katelyn Slevin of San Francisco, and Justine DeNicola of Wayne, and two great grandchildren; Jameson and Havilah.  She was predeceased by her husband James Slevin (2000), her daughter Maureen Slevin (1975), and her brother Peter Dunigan (1975).

In lieu of flowers, donations in Patty’s name may be made to St. Benedict’s Preparatory School, 520 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Newark, NJ 07102.  https://www.sbp.org/

Joan M. Fattell, age 85 of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 11, 2021. She was a resident of Wayne since 1963.

Joan was a loving wife to her late husband Ed, a wonderful mother to her 3 children and a caring grandmother to her 7 grandchildren.

Joan grew up on Glover Avenue in Paterson, New Jersey. Her family parish was St. Bonaventure’s Roman Catholic Church on Ramsey Street. Joan received her grammar and high school education at St. Bon’s. After high school, Joan worked at the telephone company. Joan and Ed Fattell, the love of her life, met as young children when Ed visited his aunt & uncle who were next door neighbors to Joan’s family. Joan & Ed were high school sweethearts and maintained a strong relationship while Ed attended college and then served in the army. They married on September 12, 1959 at St. Ann Melkite Catholic Church on Marshall Street in Paterson. A honeymoon in Florida followed. They flew to Miami Beach, staying at the famous Fontainebleua Hotel. Upon their return, they settled in Clifton. When the children came, Joan dedicated herself to being a full-time mom. They moved to Wayne in 1963 where they raised their family.

Joan & Ed worked hard and saved their money. They were fortunate enough to be able to buy a family house at the Jersey Shore over 40 years ago. Even better, the shore house was right next door to Ed’s parent’s house and many cousins. The ever-growing family would gather each summer at the shore house where countless memories were made. In fact, we recently learned that the original name of the house was “Memories.” For Joan’s 85th Birthday she was presented with a sign that says “Memories.” Joan proudly displayed this sign on the house for all to see. This was more than a house, it was a place we all call home, always filled with lots of love.

Joan deeply loved her husband Ed. They did everything together. Every morning they sat and had breakfast together. Having a cup of coffee and eating a piece of Entenmann’s crumb cake, they played a hand of Gin Rummy… or two… or three. They kept score with a running total, but there was never a winner or loser.

Joan was happiest in the presence of her family.  She lovingly prepared everyone’s favorite meals.  Joan was known for the special cakes she’d bake for each person’s birthday.  Family was very important to Joan. She took great pride in her children and grandchildren.

Joan is survived by her three children; Donna Beckum and her husband Todd of Eagle, CO, Karen Horey and her husband Kevin of Pittsford, NY and Edward Fattell of Pt. Pleasant Beach, NJ, seven grandchildren Tyler, Bailey and Carley Beckum of Eagle, CO, Ryan, Meaghan and Colin Horey of Pittsford, NY and Edward IV of Wayne, NJ. Joan was predeceased by her loving husband Ed in 2016, her grandson Matthew James Beckum in 2000, by her father & mother Frederick & Mary Diese and her brother Fred Diese in 2013.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested a donation be made in Joan’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org.

Anthony “Curly” Russo, age 84, of Bloomingdale passed on Tuesday, May 11, 2021.

He was born in New York City to Thomas and Christine Russo.  He and his siblings grew up on 21 Spring Street in New York City. Curly met the love of his life Frances Vizzio when they were just kids.  They married on September 27, 1959 at St Patrick’s Cathedral Little Italy in New York City. After marrying they moved to 21st Ave and 78th Street in Brooklyn where they established their home. They then moved from New York to New Jersey where they lived for fifty years, and had a loving, caring marriage of 61 years.

As a young man out of high school Curly did anything he could to make a living.  He often hustled two different jobs at the same time.  Before retiring in 1995 he owned Ruggero’s Restaurant on Grand Street in the Little Italy section of New York City, he also owned and operated a 1Hour Martinizing Dry Cleaners for about twenty years.

He was a parishioner of Our Lady of Consolation Church, Wayne for many years.  He and his wife Frances regularly attended the Saturday 5 PM Mass.

Curly will be remembered for his sweet, loving, and selfless way. He was generous to a fault, made everyone laugh, and had a caring heart. To know him was to love him and he will be dearly missed. When it came to sports he liked the NY Yankees, NY Islanders, and he loved the Miami Dolphins. He made many fond family memories at his summer home in Toms River where he loved to go out on his boat.  In his later years he spent a lot of his time boating with his son Tom and family on the Hudson River. For most of their lives he and Frances enjoyed wintering in Hallandale Beach, Florida. Most of all Curly enjoyed being with his family.  He took great pride in seeing the accomplishments of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and had a special way of making them feel loved.

Curly is survived by his beloved wife Frances (Vizzio) Russo, son Thomas and wife Nancy Russo of Wayne, daughter Roxanne and husband John Capra of Closter. Cherished grandfather of Roxanne (Jason) Hartman, Tonianne (Mike) Tubman, Anthony Russo, Carissa (Rob) Wojehowski, and John Capra. Dearly loved great-grandfather of Dominick and Jason Hartman, and Ariela Wojehowski. He was the much loved brother of the late Joseph, Peter, and Mary Russo. Curly was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend to all.

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

Angela “Angel” M. Mendillo (nee Cannata), age 90 of Wayne, died at her home in Wayne on Tuesday, May 11, 2021 surrounded by her husband and loving family. She grew up in Paterson, the youngest of eight children and  lived in Wayne since 1958.

Angel is survived by her beloved husband, Alan A., of Wayne, and their six children; Mrs. Angel Cassera and her husband Anthony, Mr. Joseph Mendillo and his wife Sandy, Mr. Alan J. Mendillo and his partner Kim Landoline, Mr. James Mendillo and this wife Toni, Mrs. Donna Fauerbach and her husband Kurt, and Mrs. Michelle Catalioto and her husband Anthony, seventeen grandchildren and five great grandchildren.  Angel was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, Aunt and friend to all.

Angel graduated from Eastside High School in 1948. Upon graduating high school, she wanted to go to college but was unable to financially.  Angel did secretarial work until she and Al started a family, then Angel stayed at home to raise her six children. After her youngest was in eighth grade, she decided to attend William Paterson College and graduated in 1997 at the age of 66.  Angel was an inspiration to all that she met and her goal to be a college graduate since she was younger and the ability to achieve it at a later age was just one example of her work ethic.  If you asked Angel what her greatest accomplishment was, it would certainly be that she raised a close-knit family which she loved spending time with, whether it was at Chestnut Grove or one of her children’s houses or at home in Wayne playing Uno with them.

After college Angel worked in a bank for nine years, Automotive Week for nine years and at GSI Sales for nine years; upon retirement Angel volunteered at Wayne General Hospital.  Angel’s hobbies included reading, cooking and dancing with her husband, Al.  Angel was famous for her delicious meatballs (and macaroni) and her Friday night homemade pizza.  If you were a visitor at Angel’s house, she always made you feel welcome and you never left hungry! Besides her volunteer work at Wayne General, she and Al were very active at OLV, whether it was heading pre-cana, ushering in parishioners at the Saturday 5:00 mass or being class Mom at OLV, which all of her children attended.  Angel was truly an angel and will be greatly missed by all.

Thomasina L. Martellacci “Tommie”, 85, of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 10, 2021.

The third of Rocco and Lucille Verniero’s four children, Thomasina was born and raised in Newark, NJ. She graduated from Central High School with the Class of 1953 and was proud to be a cheerleader for the Central High Blue Devils.

After graduation, Tommie worked as a secretary for ITT. It was there that she met Gene Martellacci. They soon fell in love and married on December 1st 1956. Tommie and Gene’s first home as husband and wife was in an apartment in Paterson. While there, they welcomed their firstborn - a son who they named Gene. Soon after, Gene’s work necessitated a move to Illinois and while there, they welcomed their second child – a daughter who they named Lucy. When able to relocate back to New Jersey, this growing family moved to Waldwick where the family grew a little bit bigger with the arrival of child number three – another son which they named John. In 1965, the whole family moved one more time, into a brand new home in Oakland.

Tommie divided her duties between caring for her children and being Gene’s right hand sidekick in a plastics packaging business they started together called TOMA Plastic Packaging. The business began in their garage at home and, once established, moved it to Jefferson.

They say that you can take a person out of Newark, NJ but you can’t take Newark out of the person. Well, that saying fit Tommie perfectly! While Gene would affectionately refer to Tommie as “Tootsie” her three children had a different name for her – “Tough Tommie” – because she loved and protected them like a mama bear protecting her cubs. She was the greatest mom a kid could ask for and loved her family with great devotion. When her children were young, Tommie accompanied them to all their sporting events and even volunteered as an Oakland Rec coach and selling refreshments at the concession stand. The family enjoyed annual summer vacations to Wildwood Crest where Tommie loved the sun and surf. Tommie was the finest cook in the world. With fresh grown zucchini, tomatoes, eggplant and other vegetables from her gigantic backyard garden, she made family favorites including pepperoni and sauce and chicken with olives, but the truth of the matter is that everything she cooked was delicious. She loved to host all the big holidays too, and the house always spelled so delicious from the holiday treats she enjoyed baking.

Tommie’s faith in God was a cornerstone of her life. For many years while living in Oakland, she was a faithful parishioner of Our Lady of Perpetual Health Parish. In more recent years, after her husband Gene passed away and she moved to Wayne, she had been a regular parishioner at St. Mary’s Church in Pompton Lakes.

Tommie was a sweet, kind, caring and compassionate person who will be dearly missed by her family and friends who were blessed to have shared life with her.  

Tommie was the beloved wife of Gene, blessed in marriage for 53 years until his passing in 2010. She was the loving mother of Gene and wife Linda Martellacci of Sussex, Lucy and husband Jim Hogan of Wayne, and John Martellacci and fiancé Michelle of Vernon; adored grandmother of: Joey and wife Amy, Gina, Michael and wife Ashlee, James, Justin, and Lucas; and cherished great-grandmother of Vincent and Ivy. Tommie was predeceased by her one sister and two brothers: Dan Verniero, Sam Verniero, and Carmella Muranti.

Thomas “Doc” Fedor, age 77, of Wayne, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, May 9, 2021.

Tom was born in Passaic to Thomas and Mary Fedor.  He was raised at the family home in Clifton and graduated from Clifton High School with the Class of 1961. During his high school years he was an athlete on the Cross Country, Track and Field, and Baseball teams.

Tom received his undergraduate degree from Seton Hall University with the Class of 65.  His first two years were spent in the Pre-Med program at Seton Hall where he received the nickname “Doc”.  Tom continued his education by completing his Master’s Degree in Guidance and Administration from Montclair State College.

Tom began his career in public education as a high school History teacher and on to Guidance Counselor,  Elementary School Principal,  High School Principal, and Acting Superintendent during his fourty-four year career with the Elmwood Park Board of Education. He retired in 2010 with fond memories of his colleagues, families and the many students he taught, advised, and supported through the years. His strong dedication to children and community is further evidenced by his over twenty year dedication to the Clifton Boys and Girls Club where he served as the Director of Camp Clifton in Jefferson Township.

Tom was known for his vibrant, friendly, and spirited demeanor, always looking to gab. He loved music, classic literature, college basketball and vacationing at the Jersey Shore with friends and family.   Tom was an exceptional cook and thoroughly enjoyed entertaining and hosting with Ann by his side. Tom was generous, a man with integrity and loved the simple pleasures of life.

Tom was the beloved husband of Ann Fedor for 51 years; loving father of Eric Fedor (Karen) of Wayne, and Alison Leschinski (Michael) of Needham, MA, cherished grandfather of Ashley McConnell (Hunter), Olivia Leschinski, Ryley Fedor, and Charlie Leschinski, dearly loved great-grandfather of Shay and Jordan McConnell, adored brother of Bob Fedor (Rosemary) and lifelong friends to Bob, Zim, and Mac.  He will be treasured by his many nieces, nephews, friends, students, neighbors, and campers.  

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton, 181 Colfax Ave., Clifton, NJ 07013 would be greatly appreciated.

Edgar (Ed) Francis Pass, age 92, of Wayne passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 8, 2021 while receiving the loving care of his family.

Ed was born and raised in Passaic NJ and was the middle child of Paul and Ruth Pass.  He attended Passaic High School and graduated with the class of 1945.  After graduation, Ed worked at Botany Worsted Mills.  Ed was at Botany Mills for about five years when he enlisted in the United States Army in 1950 with an honorable discharge in 1953.

After his discharge, he went to work at Singer Kearfott in Little Falls. He worked as a Budget Manager for 33 years, until his retirement in 1989.  While working at Kearfott, he earned his Bachelor’s Degree at Fairleigh Dickenson University.

In 1953 he met the love of his life Marianne Caluori.  They married in June of 1955 at St. Claire’s Church in Clifton NJ.  Ed and Marianne settled in Clifton after first getting married.  They welcomed the birth of their first son Ed Jr I 1956 and their second son Bobby in 1959.  They moved to Wayne Township in 1961 and lived there most of their life.  After his retirement in 1989, they moved to Jupiter Florida for 26 years, returning to Wayne in 2015.

Ed enjoyed traveling with his family and friends.  He also loved fishing, golf, and gardening, and also was a stamp and coin collector.  Ed was a big music fan with his biggest passion being for the Big Bands, but he also liked the Beatles.

Ed was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He was not only devoted to his family, but also to his Catholic Faith.  Ed and his family were founding parishioners of Our Lady of Consolation Church.

Ed was a special person who touched the lives of many people and will be truly missed by everyone that knew him.

Ed is survived by his wife Marianne (nee Caluori) of Wayne, two sons; Ed Pass, Jr. and his wife Kim of Winter Garden, FL, and Bob Pass and his wife Kathy of Wayne, NJ, three grandchildren; Eddie Pass III, Ashley Hawthorne and her husband Stanton, and Todd Pass and his wife Kelly, five great grandchildren; Micah, Ava, Jack, Hawk, and Remy.  He was predeceased by his two sisters Natalie Bruning and Adelaide Desiato, and by his great grandchild Baylee Pass.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Edgar's name may be made to Our Lady of Consolation Church, 1799 Hamburg Tpk, Wayne, NJ 07470.  https://olcparish.org/

George Rusling Sloan, age 79 of Piseco, NY and formerly of Green Pond, NJ, died on Friday, May 7, 2021. His wife and loving family were all gathered at his bedside when he passed.

George grew up in Glen Rock and graduated from Ridgewood High School with the class of 1958. He attended NYIT for engineering and became a Project Manager. His career spanned more than forty years and he had worked for Allen Electric, Modern Electric, and Hatzel & Buehler, before retiring from Torcon Electric. He was highly skilled and respected among his coworkers.

George’s favorite place was Green Pond, NJ. He had spent summers there since birth, living on Sunnyside Lane. After marrying his wife, Doris, in 1967, they bought a home in Green Pond and moved there year-round. He was eventually able to acquire a property right on the water’s edge where he and Doris built their family home. George was a determined man with seemingly boundless energy and he did much of the work himself building their waterfront home. George was an active member of the Green Pond community, and a thirty-four year member of the Green Pond Volunteer Fire Department, where he served in all the ranks, including Chief. He was also a member of the Green Pond Yacht Club and he loved boating and sailing. He especially loved spending time with his family and being together with them all meant the world to him. In 2009, George moved to his second favorite lake, Piseco lake, in the Adirondacks. He enjoyed snowmobiling there in the winters with his family, and they all have countless memories of great times riding with George. They will all miss him dearly.

George is survived by his wife of fifty-three years; Doris Sloan (McCarthy) of Piseco, NY, his two children; Richard G. Sloan of Green Pond and Piseco, and Doreen Lynn Sloan Newell and her husband Scott of Green Pond, NJ, six grandchildren; Tanya D. Newell of Oak Ridge, NJ, Brandon P. Newell, Tyler C. Newell, Nathan S. Newell, Sarah M. Sloan, and Sydney R. Sloan, all of Green Pond. George was predeceased by his parents; Thelma Rusling Sloan and Nathan Hoffman Sloan, by his sister; Janet DeJonge, and by his brother, Jack Sloan.

In lieu of flowers, donations in George’s memory would be appreciated to the Green Pond Volunteer Fire Department, and mail donations to 10 Dump Rd., Newfoundland, NJ 07435.

Joseph R. Berecz, age 77 of Bloomingdale, passed away Tuesday, May 4, 2021 with his family gathered at his bedside. He has lived in Bloomingdale since 1977.

Joe was born in Hungary and lived on the shores of Lake Balaton where he often explored the vast forests near his home. Living under Soviet occupation in Hungary after World War II, Joe's grandfather taught him to fish as a young boy, and he developed a lifelong love of fishing and nature as a result. Joe’s family was able to escape Hungary after witnessing the revolution in Budapest. They passed through Western Europe, and eventually into The United States. As a 12 year-old, Joe had already learned to appreciate simple things in life, that one might otherwise take for granted.

Joe's family settled in The Bronx, where he learned English, and graduated City College with a degree in Political Science. Joe was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1968, and served two years stationed in Alaska.

During his time in the Army, he met Linda Stamboulian. They exchanged letters almost daily while he was in Alaska.  They were engaged after he returned from service, and married on June 9, 1974 at St. George’s Church in Paterson. After a honeymoon in Cape Cod, they began living in Clifton, NJ before buying a home in Bloomingdale.

Joe adored Linda, cherished his children, and was always an encouraging father. He especially adored his grandchildren. He was impressed and amazed by everything they did, and they each brought him immeasurable happiness. Despite struggling with his health during his final months, Joe always maintained a smile and stoic resolve with his family. They will all miss him very much.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Linda of Bloomingdale, his two children; Keith Berecz and his wife Allison of South Orange, and Dawn Turrin and her husband Reed of Butler, four grandchildren; Lily and Mia Berecz, and Blake and Faye Turrin, a sister; Veronica Sandor of Arizona, a niece; Emese Sandor, and a nephew; Lazlo Sandor and his wife Courtney and their children.

Donations in Joseph’s memory can be sent to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital or St. Leon Armenian Church in Fair Lawn.

Violetta Zablocka, age 65, of Lincoln Park, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 2, 2021.

The daughter of Franciszek and Helena (Mischker) Niklewicz, Violetta was born in 1956 in Bydgoszcz, Poland. Up until 1994, she spent her life living in Bydgoszcz.

Violetta was the beloved wife of Edward Zablocki. They met on a blind date set up by a mutual friend who along with Edward were Olympic trained rowers for the Polish national team. That date and subsequent ones went very well and, as fate would have it, they fell in love. Desiring marriage, Violetta and Edward began searching for a day for the joyous occasion. They did not want to wait very long and found that the church was available for the marriage on Friday, July 13, 1979. Apparently that date was available for one simple reason– human superstition. Clearly, the average couple did not want to start their marriage on Friday the 13th because of its association with bad luck. Not only would most never choose that date, they also would not have chosen the only available time – one-o-clock. You see, Poland goes by the 24-hour clock where one-o-clock is considered 13:00!

Going against the norm, Violetta and Edward fearlessly booked the date and exchanged their wedding promises before God, family, and friends on that day at Sw. Antoniego z Padwy Church in their hometown of Bydgoszcz. After a honeymoon to the shore along the Baltic Sea, Violetta and Edward went on to enjoy almost 42 years in a happy and devoted marriage and forever confirmed how ungrounded the fear of superstition actually is. In fact, the number 13 went on to become their lucky number.

After the wedding and honeymoon, Violetta and Edward continued to live in the city of Bydgoszcz. Soon they welcomed two sons – Igor in 1980 and Peter in 1982. Unbeknownst to others (including Violetta), when Edward visited his cousin in the United States in the early 1990s, he entered into a lottery for a green card.

Soon an envelope from the U.S. Consulate informed Violetta and Edward (now back in Poland) that they and their children were granted permanent resident status in the United States. So, in 1994, after careful thought and much soul-searching, Violetta, Edward, Igor, and Peter decided to take a pause from life in Poland and give life a try in the United States. After arriving at Newark Airport, the family moved into a studio basement apartment in Clifton, NJ and embarked on a difficult journey towards assimilation. After a year of hardships and much deliberation – and the door still open for a return to life in Poland – Violetta and Edward decided that it would be best to remain in the U.S. and raise their two sons here.

A dream of home ownership was realized in the late 1990s when they purchased a dilapidated house in Lincoln Park – tore ninety-nine percent of it down and rebuilt with their own hands. As months of construction saw friends and family showing up to help, Violetta always kept the volunteers well nourished with her cooking. This hospitality continued to this day as Violetta made the finished house a warm, inviting home for her family and friends whom she hosted with her amazing cooking on all holidays, birthdays, and gatherings. Her family especially loved her Polish Bigos (hunter’s stew), and tomato soup. You also always knew when she was making Veal Bitki (bitki is polish for beat or tenderize) because you could hear her beating the veal in the kitchen to tenderize it.

Violetta loved getting together with her girlfriends for bake-a-thons or to practice yoga. She was often described as a ‘classy lady’. While she loved dressing up, getting her hair styled and nails painted pretty, she was never flamboyant or pretentious about it and was just as happy with her hands and knees in the dirt while working in her beautiful flower garden. She was a truly talented gardener who enjoyed taking cuttings from her plants to propagate new ones which she’d delighted in giving away as little gifts. She loved chamomile tea and considered it a cure for anything that ailed you. She was known for her many wives’ tales but was also a real glass-half-full woman who always assured those faced with a dilemma, that everything would be ok.

Above all else, Violetta’s family was her greatest treasure on earth. She was a fearless lioness always tending to and protecting her cubs, Igor and Peter. Countless hours spent making sure the boys are both studious as well as safe in their lives’ adventures. She was extremely proud of them and joyous when they found their wives Kasia and Deidra, and eventually giving her one of the greatest gifts mother can get…grandkids of her own. As Lucas, Landon and Damian’s grandmother, “Babcia” as they called her, she was always glad to take care of her little grandchildren when need be. Spoiling them with toys was a regular habit; and seeing that big smile that would light up their faces when she slipped them a twenty-dollar bill was worth every penny. She loved the ocean and family vacations, both to the shores of the Baltic Sea in Poland and to Cape May in the U.S. These shore trips became time-tested traditions and her boys always found it humorous that Mom gravitated to the full sun while Dad retreated to the full shade of an umbrella.

To Violetta, her dog Bari, a cute little Beagle given to her by her sons when they got married and moved out, was as much a part of the family as her husband and boys. In fact, the men in her life sometimes wondered if little Bari was maybe a notch above them on her hierarchy of importance. Bari lived longer than the average pooch, surely because of the special pampering Violetta poured upon him. In one example, Violetta would put water bowls all over the house so Bari would not have to walk too far to get a drink.

Graced with a generous heart and a grateful spirit, Violetta would give you the shirt off her back. If you came to her house on a regular basis, you eventually learned not to make a compliment about anything that she had because, if you did, she would insist that you take it for yourself. Violetta would have made the perfect nurse. If a family member or a friend was sick, she would be right there by their bedside attending to all their needs.  

Violetta was an extraordinary woman. She was the beloved wife of Edward. She was the most loving mother of Igor Zablocki and wife Katarzyna of West Caldwell, and Peter Zablocki and wife Deidra of Denville, as well as an adoring grandmother of Lucas, Landon, and Damian.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy in Violetta’s name are asked to consider St. Peter’s Orphanage in Denville N.J. – 170 Diamond Spring Road, National Kidney Foundation at kidney.org or Chilton Medical Center Foundation at www.atlantichealth.org/patients-visitors/donate-volunteer

Franco Geremia, age 77, of Oak Ridge, formerly from Wayne, passed peacefully at home on Saturday, May 1, 2021.

He was born in Rivarolo Mantovano, Italy to Primo Pietro Geremia and Linda Mattioli. Franco was raised in Mantovano where he started his life-long career in the food service industry. As a young man he worked as a waiter in some of the best restaurants and hotels across England, Switzerland and Italy. He continued his career on the USS Oceanic as a waiter sailing out of New York to ports across the Caribbean Islands and met the love of his life Patricia Klement. The fell in love and married on June 6, 1972 in Rivarolo Mantova, Italy in a double ceremony. Franco married Patricia and his sister Cecilia married Maurizio Spaggiari.  As a young married couple, Franco and Patty settled in Mestra, a small town just outside of Venice, Italy where Franco worked running a restaurant with his aunt and uncle.  He and Patty returned to the United States by crossing the Atlantic aboard the Michael Angelo and settled in an apartment in Hawthorne where he found work at Macaluso’s Restaurant.  They started a family and welcomed their first daughter Theresa, followed by her sister Linda a few years later.

Franco started his career as a restaurateur when he opened his first business, Ristorante Mantova in Wayne. He then opened and for many years successfully ran Franco’s Restaurant on Hamburg Turnpike in Wayne, and semi-retired after owning Spasso’s Restaurant located on Forest Avenue in Paramus. Franco semi-retired at the Jersey Shore and worked as a Maître De at the El Giardino Sul Mare Restaurant in Forked River. Franco and Patty returned to Northern New Jersey in 2012 to be closer to their daughters Terry and Linda, son-in-law Ken and grandchildren.

Franco will be remembered for his dedication to his love of family, incredible work ethic and determination to be a successful entrepreneur. He came from humble beginnings and devoted himself to providing a wonderful life to his wife and children. After losing his father to cancer when he was just sixteen years old, Franco became the man of the house and ensured his cherished mother and sister were well taken care of and purchased a brand new apartment in his home town for his family.

While Franco left home to work and settle in the US, he had a fierce love of his home in Italy where his sister still lives with her husband and daughter, Cinzia and her family. He was a well-known son of his town in Rivarolo and had many cherished friends and extended family members there till this day. Franco had an amazing sense of business and when it came to his restaurants he ran everything and made it look easy. At his restaurant he treated everyone like they were family. He would greet you by name with a big welcoming hello and knew your usual menu choice before you ordered. Franco had little down time but when he did you could either find him tending to his garden or fishing. He was affectionately known as “Farmer Franco” as he grew radishes, tomatoes, incredible amounts of cucumbers, string beans, and peppers. Not only could Franco grow all these things but he was an amazing chef that knew how to prepare them to perfection as well. One of Franco’s traditions was to prepare a lobster dinner for his family at the end of each summer. No story about Franco would be complete without mentioning his love of fishing. It seems ironic that a man who at times did not have the utmost patience had a passion for fishing. He shared this love with his daughter Linda and spent not nearly enough time fishing Barnegat Bay at the Jersey Shore and at Islamorada, Florida. Franco loved seeing his grandchildren, Alexandra Camile, Peter Franco and Emma Patricia grow and blossom into the wonderful young adults they have become. He may have been a man of few words but his pride in them was evident. Franco also had a special relationship with his dog Honey. They were attached at the hip and Honey accompanied Franco around the house, inside and out, as if she was his shadow. Franco was loved deeply and will be truly missed every day.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Friends of Wayne Animals (FOWA), PO Box 3701, Wayne, NJ 07470 or through their website at fowarescue.org would be greatly appreciated.

Anne Graziano died peacefully at home Saturday, May 1, 2021. Anne was born in Paterson, New Jersey to Jerry and Teresa, immigrants from southern Italy. She grew up with her two sisters Lena and Josephine and her brother Thomas. Since her parents were native to Italy, they also taught her and her siblings to speak Italian. Growing up she appreciated music and developed a lifelong love of tap dancing. As a junior and senior at Central High in Paterson, she was cheerleading co-captain and enjoyed cheering for football and basketball. Through the years she continued to vigorously belt out the Central High cheer at family get togethers. She was also known to be a great baton twirler! It was clear to see how much she loved school and cheering, and her family loved her enthusiasm. While a senior in high school, she took a part time job at Woolworth as a salesperson and after graduating remained at Woolworth full time as a manager. After a couple of years, she moved on to First National Bank of Passaic as a manager in the loan department.

During this time, she met the love of her life, Joe Graziano, after being introduced by friends. The two were married June 2, 1957. At that time Joe was still in college and Anne was the couple’s sole breadwinner. Later on, she stopped working when she was 6 months pregnant as it was company policy that women were not allowed to work beyond that point. The couple welcomed the first of their three daughters (Joanne, Sharon and Dawn) and moved to their forever home in Wayne a few years later.

After leaving work at the bank, Anne became a dedicated homemaker. She was a wonderful cook and her family enjoyed Italian specialties like macaroni and meatballs, chicken parmigiana, lasagna, stuffed peppers, chicken livers and onions, broccoli rabe and, of course, sausage and peppers. She also took pride in her home and enjoyed decorating it and keeping it neat and clean. She was a wonderful mother, involved in fun activities with her daughters like playing jacks on the kitchen floor, coloring and playing dolls and games, watching favorite TV shows together, and dancing to a variety of music. She also enjoyed sharing her Roman Catholic faith with her daughters by attending church with them on Sundays.  

As they grew older, she served as an incredible role model--an empathetic, giving person that was kind to everyone, a mother that every child would be blessed to have and a loving wife to her husband Joe that she adored. Her natural warmth, compassion and the depth of her love were always felt in her hug. Her hug could melt away a thousand worries and fill your soul. Her daughters endearingly saw her as the sunshine in their every day. She would often say to them “I love you more than you’ll ever know.” They loved her just the same.

She and Joe loved their life together. They were a traditional Italian couple that treasured their home life with their girls and really enjoyed having family over for barbeques and to hang out on the patio and by the pool. Anne would enjoy telling jokes and stories as the family gathered around her on the patio. In addition to the backyard barbecues, she loved mid-afternoon Sunday dinner and holidays that were filled with love, laughter, and plenty of antipasto, lasagna and ham. She and Joe could be seen every day holding hands, whether they were sitting at their kitchen table, on the couch in the family room or outside sitting on their patio. Their love for each other was endearing and precious. It grew more tender with each passing year of their life together. Through their more than 60 years of marriage, Joe and Anne enjoyed family vacations to the Jersey Shore, Florida and the Poconos. Later in life, she and Joe enjoyed trips to Atlantic City, especially with her sister Lena and brother-in-law Dom, and her brother Tom and sister-in-law Pat.

Anne had a keen mind for politics, could discuss a broad range of issues and was a C-span junkie. She also was a stickler for English and when her daughters would ask how to spell a word, she sent them right to the dictionary to look it up. She often tested their knowledge of words and their use. Her daughters all received A’s in English. Her three daughters are also happily married and are good cooks, thanks to her excellent guidance and example. Her youngest daughter is a doctor, practicing internal medicine, her middle daughter is a sign language interpreter, working with the deaf and blind, and her first born runs a soup kitchen, feeding the poor. Her daughters collectively embody their Mom’s qualities, talents and aspirations.

Anne’s husband Joe passed away earlier this year on January 20, 2021. Anne is survived by her daughter Joanne Bleecker and her husband Earl of Flanders, NJ, her daughter Sharon Snyder and her husband Dave of Branchburg, NJ and her daughter Dawn Chung and her husband Ed of Clemmons, NC, four grandchildren Kyle Lowery-Graziano, Katelyn Lowery-Graziano, Jordan Snyder and Nicole Chung and a sister Lena Duva of North Haledon, NJ. The family is deeply grateful for all the care provided in the past four years by their Mom’s live-in caregiver Val.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Brain Foundation, at 201 Chicago Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55415. They work to research and cure various conditions and diseases like Dementia, Alzheimer’s and other neurologic disorders. Or donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. They work to research and cure childhood cancer.

Incredibly loved wife and mother Virginia Caparso Corrado, of Totowa, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 30, 2021.

Virginia was the third-born of Alberto and Maria (Mariani) Caparso’s four children and, unlike her two older brothers born before her, she was the first to be born in America when her parents and brothers emigrated from Pacemtro, Italy, just three months before she was born. Virginia grew up in Paterson and attended Kennedy High School where she had great fun being a majorette in the school’s marching band. One of her favorite classes in high school was Decca where her natural-born creative gifts really shined as she competed with students in other schools in retail store merchandising and window display design.

After graduating from Kennedy High School with the Class of 1974, Virginia enrolled in Capri Institute of Hair Design in Clifton. She loved the profession she was pursuing and went on to excel in her craft for many years as a hair stylist with various hair salons including Anthony DeNuccio’s in Fair Lawn, Salon East 216 in Ridgewood, Gisu Salon and Spa in Wayne, and, most recently at the Loft Salon in Wayne where she helped out while concurrently working as a fashion consultant at Talbot’s Women’s Clothing and Apparel in Upper Montclair.

While Virginia was working at Salon East 216, the owner hired a new assistant by the name of Keith Corrado. It happened to be a time in Virginia’s life when she was particularly concerned about her father who was ill and her younger sister Ann Marie who was suffering with Cerebral Palsy. One day, while kicking back and taking a lunch break, the new guy Keith sensed a bit of heaviness in Virginia’s heart and quietly approached her see if she was ok. Virginia was usually a fairly private person but Keith’s gentle, sensitivity helped her open up and proved to be a true encouragement. As they got to know each other a bit more, Virginia accepted Keith’s offer for a night out for dinner. When Keith came to Virginia’s home to pick her up, he noticed that he recognized some of her relatives in the family photos in her apartment. Much to his surprise, the people he saw in the photos turned out to be some of his clients at a salon he formerly worked at. Talk about a small world! One of those clients was Virginia’s niece who would tell Keith, “I have a nice aunt that I could introduce you to.” Wrongly picturing an older woman, Keith politely dismissed Virginia’s niece’s offer. As he looked more at the photos, the light bulb in Keith’s mind lit up as he suddenly realized that Virginia was “the aunt” that her niece was trying to set Keith up with. Looking back, Keith and Virginia would often laugh about that. Well, for that first date they enjoyed an evening together at Mt Fuji Japanese Steakhouse just over the border in Hillburn, NY. Many dates after that ultimately led to a spontaneous proposal of marriage from Keith that Virginia excitedly accepted. They invited family and friends to witness the exchange of their wedding promises on Sunday, August 29, 1999 at St. Mary’s Church in Pompton Lakes. After a two week honeymoon in Hawaii, this newly married couple started life together formally as husband and wife in an apartment in Wayne. Six months later, they purchased the former home of Keith’s grandparents in Totowa where they’ve been ever since.

Two years after the wedding, Virginia and Keith’s son Brandon was welcomed into this world with open arms. Virginia’s life was changed forever. With assistance from Keith and God himself, Virginia considered Brandon her greatest accomplishment and her new life purpose. A special bond quickly developed and continued to flourish throughout Brandon’s formative years to the present. Virginia was always Brandon’s greatest cheerleader!

Virginia, Keith and Brandon cherished lots of happy memories together. They loved taking trips to Cape May, Wildwood, and Lavallette – ironically usually choosing to sit poolside at a hotel rather than venture into the unknown waters of the Atlantic. There was a special trip to Newport Rhode Island where they stayed in one of the famous mansions and occasional ventures into the city for a walk in Central Park or an evenings on Broadway to catch a show.

If “most creative” was an Olympic event, Virginia would probably have won the most gold medals in every category. Blessed with enviable creative gifts, everything her magic hands worked on became a thing of beauty. As a young woman, she enjoyed competing in ballroom dancing competitions. To Virginia, her home was a palette and she the artist. She loved decorating and her special touch was everywhere in the Corrado’s house. She also took cooking to a new level of artistry and, though her culinary repertoire was extensive, husband Keith especially loved her homemade gnocchi and son Brandon her delicious soups. One might ask, what fun is a welcomingly decorated home and sumptuous food if it’s not shared with others. Virginia had that covered too. In fact, every year she looked forward to the big holidays and hosting family and friends at her home. She was the unofficial family florist for events both big and small and she had “sew” much fun as a seamstress. As he was growing up, Virginia made all of Brandon’s Halloween costumes and continued to make them for his many recent acting performances. One year while she and Keith were working together at Gisu Salon, she got the great idea that all the staff should dress up for Halloween like the characters from the Wizard of Oz. Virginia made every one of the costumes. Keith was the Scarecrow and she was none other than Dorothy herself.

Virginia built her life on the foundation of her love for God. Until becoming too sick to attend mass, she was a faithful parishioner of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Wayne where she also taught CCD classes. She lived life in a spirit of gratefulness for all the blessings she enjoyed and found great joy in showing love and blessing others. Side-by-side with her hubby, she loved hosting haircutting cut-a-thon fundraising events for worthy causes, and cooking for the down-and-out.

Virginia and Keith were so blessed to share life together. Keith adored her and when asked for words that described his wife, the first words that came to his mind were “beautiful in every imaginable way.” As she became increasingly ill, Keith lovingly and faithfully assisted Virginia as best he could. If you see Keith walking around with holes in the knees of his pants they got there from kneeling down so often to lovingly feed her.

Virginia was beautiful – a real lady with an unassuming sense of modesty. Her zest for life was contagious. She was a true example of genuineness, love and consideration. Her imprint on many lives will serve as a continuous legacy she has left behind.

Virginia was the most beloved wife of her devoted husband Keith Corrado, blessed in marriage for twenty-one years; adoring mother of her son Brandon of Totowa, dear sister of Sam Caparso and wife Diane of Toms River, Joseph Caparso and wife Maryann of Toms River, and Anna Marie Caparso who passed away in 2002; and dear aunt of numerous nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind her faithful pooch Connor who was always by her side.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Virginia’s name are asked to consider St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105-9959 (www.stjude.org).

Adriane DeVries, age 42, of Bloomfield, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Friday, April 30, 2021.

The fourth born child of Peter DeVries and Cathie (Stafford) Dorrance, and described by her mom as “a beautiful baby”, Adriane was born in Paterson and raised during her formative years in West Milford where she enjoyed typical childhood activities like swimming in the family’s pool and going to Girl Scouts. She lived life adventurously and never shied away from a challenge no matter how big or small. While attending high school in New Mexico, she worked part-time for a Walgreens Store in the city of Albuquerque and ultimately worked her way through the ranks to the position of store manager. Upon return to residence in New Jersey, and because of a great love for young children, she enrolled at Passaic County Community College and studied for licensure as a Registered Nurse. She excelled in her studies and after graduating, she began her nursing career in pediatrics at Hackensack University Medical Center. Adriane loved her work and was a great encouragement to the hospitalized children she was given the honor to serve. Her sensitive and caring spirit, was such a blessing to the children whose care she was charged with extending.

Known to just pick up and take off, Adriane enjoyed trips to Mexico with friends and rides on her late boyfriend Ronnie Rios’ (2007) motorcycle. She was a bit of a fashionista who was very adept at putting sharp looking ensembles together and she loved striking just the right atmosphere by filling a room with lots of warm glowing candles. Adriane adored her nieces, nephews and God-children. She took great pride in claiming that it was she who came up with the name Brianna for her God-child and she was always spoiling all of them with gifts. (Lucky kids!) In fact, Adriane’s generous heart frequently inspired her to spontaneously give gifts to family and friends.  

While Adriane adored traditional pets like her beloved pet Pitbull Jayden, she also possessed an attraction for the more exotic. She loved sea turtles and swimming with the dolphins and one time, while at the zoo with her family, she somehow snuck away and got in to the attraction and pet a tiger. That was a close call! As a child, she was a member of the 4H Club where she learned how to ride horses. It was an experience she continued to enjoy throughout her life.

Unfortunately Adriane’s strong-willed temperament and fear of seemingly nothing lead her into some dangerous situations in her life. Sadly, like so many others today, she struggled with drug addiction. She wanted so much to move beyond their pull and regularly attended Narcotics Anonymous meetings and was hoping to one day become a certified counselor to help others in the same predicament which caused so much pain in her own life. She desperately wanted to tell others “Don’t do it!”

From the time she was just a little child, Adriane’s father Peter said she could talk the paint off of the walls. She was funny and feisty and would pull no punches with respect to how she felt. She would tell it like she saw it and, while principled in her convictions, she had a heart of gold. She was loyal beyond imagination and was known to frequently say “I love you” even if, at the moment, she was mad at you.

Adriane was the much-loved daughter of Peter DeVries of Greenwood Lake, NY and Cathie Dorrance of Rio Rancho, NM; adored sister of: Jessica and husband George Slider of Wayne, Melissa Cerniglia and late husband Joseph (2010) of Pompton Plains, Peter and wife Cindy DeVries of Caldwell, Joshua Dorrance of Phoenix, AZ, Nicole DeVries and fiancé Greg McClamroch of Cape Coral, FL, and Chase DeVries of Greenwood Lake, NY; and cherished aunt of: Kayla, Lexi, Evan, Michael, Brianna, Nicholas, Lyndsay, Savannah, Mya, and Lilah.

In lieu of flowers, in Adriane’s memory and at her request to help others suffering from addiction, donations would be appreciated to:

Turning Point

ATTENTION:  Stacy Green

680 Broadway, Suite 104

Paterson, NJ 07514

A donation can also be made online at:

www.turningpointnj.org/donations

A Memorial Service will be held for Mark on Saturday,  May 1, 2021 at Holy Cross Church Wayne, NJ at 11:30 AM.

Mark Barisonek, loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on April 28, 2020, his 63rd birthday.

Mark was born in Jersey City before moving to Wayne with his family. He played defensive end and offensive tackle on the Wayne Valley football team. After graduating in 1975, he attended Upsala College in East Orange, NJ, before moving to Boca Raton, FL, where he fulfilled his passion for scuba diving by opening a scuba shop and becoming an instructor. Mark then returned to Wayne where, along with his wife, he raised his five children in his childhood home. He was the owner of Sonic Catering before becoming a dedicated employee of the TSA (an Officer of the Department of Homeland Security, as he liked to say!) where he worked for the past sixteen years.

While he was tough on the football field, he was a gentle giant off the field. To Mark, a stranger was just a friend you hadn’t met yet. Those who knew him will miss his love of people and his ability to show everyone a good time. Whether he was snapping pictures on his camera or mixing one of his famous Mark-A-Rita’s, Mark was making everyone feel welcomed and happy to be around him. He loved taking annual trips to Saratoga, trying out breweries across the country, playing a good game of darts, and rooting for the New York Giants. Mark was also a man of tremendous faith who kept God in his home and in his heart. However, his absolute greatest joy in life was being with his children and grandkids of whom he was extremely proud.

Mark was predeceased by his parents, Henry and Adeline. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Suzanne; his children, Kirsten (Patrick) Discepola, Jeana, Daniel, Michela, and Mark; his granddaughters, Giuliana, Addison, and Peyton; and his brother, Robert.

On Wednesday, April 28th, 2021, Laura Donaldson, loving sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at age 46 after battling a neurological disease for decades and lived her life with grit and grace.

Laura was born on July 6, 1974, in Hartford, CT to Sarah and Kenneth Donaldson. She attended college at UNC Greensboro and spent much of her life in Wayne, NJ with her family.

Laura had a keen memory for birthdays and special occasions and enjoyed spending time with her family celebrating, always bringing laughter to those near her. Her life was an inspiration for us to live each moment to its fullest, and find moments of joy in the simple things.

Laura was preceded in death by her mother, Sarah. She is survived by her father Kenneth, her brother Glen and her sister Lisa.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking donations be made in Laura’s honor, to the ALS Association, 42 Broadway, Suite 1724, New York, NY 10004, or click her to donate online.

Evelyn Florit (nee Hoogmoed), age 71, of Prospect Park passed away peacefully on Sunday April 25, 2021 while receiving the loving care of her family.

Evelyn was born in Passaic and was raised in Hawthorne, NJ and was one of five children to Walter and Evelyn Hoogmoed.  Evelyn attended Hawthorne High School and graduated with the class of 1968.  Following her graduation from high school, Evelyn immediately enrolled in a vocational nursing school in Wayne which at the time was affiliated with St Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson.  Evelyn, upon receiving certification as a Licensed Practical Nurse, accepted a position at Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson where she was assigned to the Pediatrics Department.  Evelyn remained employed at St Joseph’s Hospital in the Pediatrics Department and was a respected and loved member of the staff for more than forty-four years.  Evelyn retired from her work with St Joseph’s Hospital in 2014.

Apart from living in Hawthorne, Evelyn also lived in Haledon where she welcomed the births of her three beautiful children, Thomas, Dawn, and Daniel while married to her first husband.  Later, Evelyn moved to Prospect Park where she fell in love and married her second husband Michael Florit on October 12, 1994.  Evelyn and Michael remained in Prospect Park for the rest of their lives together. Evelyn was always dedicated to her work in the field of pediatrics, and she was also dedicated to her Christian Faith as well.  However, aside from all her interests, her greatest passion was her family.  Nothing in the world meant more to Evelyn than spending time with and providing for her family.  Her favorite events were barbeques at her home surrounded by friends and family.  Evelyn always felt the need to “touch her babies.”  She once made her husband Michael drive from Florida to New Jersey so that she would be able to give her son Thomas a hug on his birthday.

Growing up, Evelyn was always a little timid and shy, but as she got older she “came out of her shell,” so to speak and felt a growing concern for others.  She was always willing to help those in need and always did so with a smile on her face.  She never had a bad word to say about anyone and could constantly find positive outlooks on all situations and good in all people.  She donated regularly to a variety of different charities including Disabled American Veterans, St Jude Children’s Research Hospital and many others.  Throughout the years she enjoyed spoiling her children, her grandchildren, and her pets including her Parrot, Chihuahua, and her Great Dane.  Evelyn was a truly special person who touched the lives of many people and will be sincerely missed by everyone that knew her.

Evelyn is survived by her husband Michael Florit of Prospect Park, her son Thomas McGillis and his wife Christina of Sparrow Bush, NY, her daughter Dawn Marie Baker and her significant other Michael of Hamburg, her son Danial McGillis and his wife Jennifer of Paramus, four grandchildren; TJ McGillis currently attending Alfred University, James Baker, Abigail McGillis, and Kayla McGillis, one sister Marie Tenkate and her husband David of North Haledon, three brothers Walter Hoogmoed of Riverdale, Richard Hoogmoed and his wife Nancy of Hawthorne, and Arthur Hoogmoed and his wife Patricia of West Milford, one step-son Michael Florit and his wife Kim, two step-grandchildren; Shane Florit, and Christian Florit.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Evelyn’s name may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital Memorials Processing 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105-9959 or Disabled American Veterans, 8 Veterans Plaza, Bergenfield, NJ 07621.

Donna Lee (Ross) Persh, age 81, passed away on April 25, 2021 at her home in Wayne, NJ. She was born on November 7, 1939 in Republic, PA and raised in Perryopolis, PA. She was preceded in death by her parents; John and Anna (Mazzocco) Ross and by her loving husband of twenty-five years; Ben A. Persh.

Donna is survived by her two daughters; Penny Mandara and husband Gary, Tracy McCann and former husband John McCann, three grandchildren; Sam, Brandon, and Daniella Mandara, a sister, Lenora Guesman and her husband John, nieces; Terri (Andrew) Foster, Jill (Chris) Standley, and four great-nephews; Ian and Declan Foster, and Connor and Spencer Standley.

Donna graduated from Perry-Lower Tyrone High School in 1957 and California University of Pennsylvania in 1960, from which she earned a bachelor’s degree in speech arts, dramatics and English. In 1962, she received a master’s degree in speech/language pathology from West Virginia University. Post graduate studies at Montclair and William Paterson Universities earned certifications in learning disabilities and special education.

Donna’s work experiences have been varied and extensive, including teaching drama and public speaking at Beatty Junior High School in Warren, PA and serving as a speech pathologist in Berrien County, Michigan and Passaic and Paramus schools in New Jersey. After twenty-two years, she retired from this full-time position with the Morris Hills Regional High School District, having served as a speech pathologist, a public speaking, English, and special education teacher. Many part-time jobs followed, including instruction at William Paterson University Speech Clinic, providing early intervention, working at the New Jersey Developmental Center, the Cerebral Palsy Center in Clifton, and for Visiting Nurses of Morristown. In 2020, she finally retired at age eighty, from the New Jersey DCF School in Totowa, NJ.

Traveling was one of Donna’s great joys in life, along with spending good times with family and good friends. Donna was blessed with loving family members and with loyal caring friends. Many friends were made through active membership in the American Association of University Women and the various places where she was employed. The simple things in life gave Donna the most joy, such as driving back to Perryopolis, PA to visit with her sister and brother-in-law, attend class reunions, and visits with old friends. She also enjoyed pampering her two rescued cats, Spider and Mouse, along with being pampered by Dana Polito-Corry, her very loving home health aide.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the ALS Foundation, 1300 Wilson Blvd., Suite 600 Arlington, VA 22209.