James Robert Kehoe, son of James Robert Sr. and Agnes Kehoe, age 79 of Wayne, died on Friday, December 30, 2011 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson. His family had all gathered at his bedside and his passing was quiet and peaceful.

“Bob”, grew up in Clifton and graduated from St. John’s High School in Paterson. He attended Seton Hall University until he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He was stationed with the 1st Cavalry in Japan during the reconstruction after WWII. Much of his time there was spent in sub-zero temperatures on Mt. Fuji, carrying equipment up the snow covered mountain, skiing down the slopes, and sleeping on the cold ground.

After the service, he finished his bachelor's degree in business, at Seton Hall University, and graduated the Academy of Advanced Traffic School in New York City, in the field of logistics and international freight. He worked for several large multi-national corporations where he specialized in managing international freight. He started with DL&W Railroad, then IT&T where he worked on the Defense Early Warning system in the Arctic, W.T. Grant, Smith Corona Marchant, and JP Stevens textiles. He retired as a manager in 1998 from Rickel’s Home Center.

Bob’s passions in life included his family, his friends, and his faith. He was a founding member of Our Lady of Consolation RC Church in Wayne and remained active throughout the years as an usher. He worked hard to put his children through school at Consolation and was proud to see all three of his boys graduate from DePaul High School, where he supported them in all their athletic endeavors. His family recalls some great summer vacations on LBI. Bob loved to go deep-sea fishing for bluefish and he took the boys on many occasions. Bob was also an avid reader of history and a Yankees fan. He and his brother Jack enjoyed model trains and would go to train shows and exhibits.

Bob and Ona were introduced to each other by dear mutual friends and they were married in 1959. They have enjoyed fifty two years together of a loving and devoted marriage.

Bob is survived by his loving wife ; Ona (Nee Yuskaitis), son; Robert Edward Kehoe of Wayne, son Thomas Joseph Kehoe, wife Laura A., grand children James Ryan and Dylan Thomas of Wayne, son Brian James Kehoe, grand children Annaliese, Tanner, and Jordan, of Colorado, brother, Jack G. Kehoe and his wife Patricia of Arlington, Vermont, his dear in-laws; John Yuskaitis, Dr. Anthony and his wife Beverly Yuskaitis, Mary F. and her husband Jim Schneider, and Joseph Yuskaitis, as well as many loving nieces, nephews, and friends.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to the church would be greatly appreciated. Our Lady of Consolation, 1799 Hamburg Turnpike, Wayne, NJ 07470.

Patrick F. Elwood, age 53 of Newton, passed away on Thursday, December 29, 2011.

Born in Paterson, Patrick grew up in Wayne and attended the Wayne schools. For the past fifteen years or so he has been living at the S.C.A.R.C. group home in Newton, NJ. His fellow residents there were like extended family to him and the staff provided him with excellent care.

Ever since he was a young man, Patrick always loved cars and helped his dad with car repairs, tune ups, changing spark plugs and checking fluids. The highlight of his life was the day he received his driver’s license. Finally being able to drive was a tremendous accomplishment for Patrick. Nothing made him happier than a joy ride in the car and he was truly an excellent and cautious driver. On one occasion he may have gotten a little carried away and found himself lost and out of gas in Manasquan, NJ. The police found him and recognized that he had some special needs. Being courteous, they brought him to the station where they contacted his parents. They had hoped that this experience might scare Patrick a little and make him think twice about driving so far from home. But when they arrived at the police station, they found Patrick eating cookies, cake, and drinking tea with the officers. Things turned out just fine in the end, and recalling that story makes everyone laugh.

Patrick’s earliest driving experience was on his Honda Trail 90 dirt bike. He loved to ride down on the ‘cow path’ in Wayne, along the river by Farmingdale Road, and in the sand pit areas in the woods there. He had a few run-ins with the Wayne Police too, while riding his dirt bike, but they were always kind and escorted him home, reminding his parents that he wasn’t supposed to be riding there. He was a special boy, simply having a little fun. Who could deny him that?

Besides cars and driving, his other passions included music and food, and not necessarily in that order. He was always listening to some kind of music and his preferences ranged from soft rock like the Beatles and ABBA, to Country music and even Gospel at times. His favorite foods were mostly Italian dishes, but he had a special appetite for Burger King Whoppers. At the local pizzeria and Dunkin Donuts, they all knew him by name and enjoyed when he would visit. Surely, they will all miss him too.

Over the years, Patrick had several jobs but his favorites were working at the Father John’s Animal Shelter in Sussex, at Sears Hardware in Newton, and he was currently volunteering at Bristol Glen Retirement Facility. At Father John’s he would tend to the cats and clean their cages. He loved cats and working there wasn’t much like work at all for him. He also worked at the Sears Hardware store in Newton for a few years, where he enjoyed the work as much as the staff and customers enjoyed having him there to help.

Patrick is survived by his loving and devoted parents; Francis and Joyce Elwood of Cedar Crest in Pompton Plains, his brothers; Kevin Elwood and his wife Gerry of Edison and Brian Elwood of Wayne, and his nieces Lauren and Alyssa and nephews Steven and Brett. Patrick was predeceased by his brother Keith Elwood of West Orange in 2008;

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Patrick’s memory would be greatly appreciated. Please consider the SCARC Foundation, 11 US Route 206, Suite 100, Augusta, NJ 07822 or visit their website at www.scarc.org. SCARC has been helping those with developmental disabilities since 1957 and helped Patrick enjoy a quality of life that would have been difficult to find anywhere else. His family is grateful for all that SCARC did for Patrick, and all that they continue to do for others with developmental disabilities like him.

Jeanne E. Kuehm (nee VanWagenen) age 94 of Wayne died peacefully at home on Monday, December 26, 2011.

She was born and raised in Ridgewood having graduated from Ridgewood High School with the Class of 1935 and lived in Wayne for the past fifty-five years.

During WWII Jeanne was a spotter having climbed a tower at the corner of Hamburg Turnpike and Alps Road to watch for incoming aircraft. She had a pair of binoculars and a chart of what friendly and enemy aircraft looked like.

Jeanne was a caring, loving and adventurous woman who loved a good party. She met her husband Edgar when shopping for a Christmas tree. She was waiting in line to be helped and Edgar spied her. He bypassed the next person in line and said “this one’s for me”. They fell in love and married on October 28, 1950 at the Ridgewood Presbyterian Church, had a reception at the Hanson House (now Portobello Restaurant in Oakland), and honeymooned at the Roosevelt Hotel in New York City. The enjoyed fifty years of loving and dedicated marriage until Edgar’s passing in November of 2000. Her memory of their first meeting inspired her to have an evergreen engraved into his monument at the cemetery.

Jeanne had a love for travel and she and Dad traveled often, but her favorite place was their home in Kona, Hawaii.  They spent the winters there and also, traveled there during other times of the year.  Through the years they made many new friends, with the friendships continuing on.  Jeanne was lucky enough to spend time with her family and friends on the Big Island up until 5 years ago.

She was the loving wife of the late Edgar Kuehm(2000); loving mother of Michael Looney and his wife Kristyn of Indianapolis, IN, Carol Connolly and her husband Terry of Clifton, Karen Frederick and her husband Norman of Pequannock, and Lauren Hermann and her husband Nick of Wayne; loving grandmother of ten grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter. She was predeceased by two grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to St. Judes Children's Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-2729 or the Make-A-Wish Foundation of New Jersey, 1034 Salem Road, Union, New Jersey 07083-7058 would be appreciated.

Joseph Labazzetta “Joe” age 87 of Wayne died Saturday, December 24, 2011 at the Veterans Nursing home in Gallatin, Missouri the day before his birthday which was on Christmas Day. His passing was graciously peaceful after at difficult battle with his health.

He was born and named Guiseppi Labazzetta in Brooklyn, New York and spent his childhood years in Newark, NJ and Wayne. He grew up speaking only Italian, he learned English in Catholic School As was the case in those years he had to go to work and help support himself and his family. He left school in the seventh grade and began his work life. His first job, as a teenager, was as in a slip factory and a fedora hat factory in Newark then he went to work for a tailor sewing and ironing men’s trousers. When he lived in Wayne he worked for Strawberry Blossom Farms.

Later he took a job as a stone mason with Ruffalo Brothers in Little Falls until 1958 then at Jon Construction Company in Saddle Brook and was responsible for building many area homes. His tenure at Jon Construction Company was from 1958 till his retirement in 1985 after receiving a very serious knee injury.

He lived on Warren Street in Newark before he joined the Army during World War II and was a member of a Tank and Howitzer Cannon crew. He served under General George Patton in the North African Theater, and later in Europe where Joe fought at the Battle of the Bulge, the Black Forest in Germany as well as taking part in the Normandy invasion. He was often called on to be the camp cook because of his innate Italian cooking skills. He was wounded with shrapnel and carried small metal pieces in his body the rest of his life. He received a Purple Heart. His Army service career spanned from 1943- 1945.

He was a proud gentle Italian man & proud of his heritage, that he passed on traditions to his children. He enjoyed playing the guitar which he played by ear because he never learned to read music.

Joe’s construction experience and ambition over the years, benefited himself as well as other family members as he built his own home and that of his children.

He was gifted with a friendly outgoing nature that was always enthusiastically reaching out to others in their time of need.

After returning from war Joe lived on Ford Street in Wayne and he met this pretty girl named Catherine Anderson, who lived a block away on Newark Pompton Turnpike. Love blossomed and they married on April 30, 1949. They had fifty six years of “loving and devoted” marriage until Catherine’s passing on March 8, 2005.

His children share that he was an “awesome father”, a hard working man and a wonderful provider for his family. He made it a practice to teach his children skills. He was also a talented Italian cook making all of his own sauces and providing Sunday meals at his home for his whole family. When he was not working he would spend his leisure hours sitting in the sun and would always have a wonderful sun tan.

Thanks Dad for being so special in our lives.

Surviving to mourn the loss of this wonderful father, grandfather and great grandfather are one son Dennis Joseph Labazzetta and his wife Ingrid of Gallatin, Missouri; four daughters Catherine Linda Stalter and her husband Gary of Los Osos, California, Joann Landspurg and her husband Randy of Slingerlands, New York, Patricia R. Mastromonico of Sparta and Nanci A. Turner and her husband Barry of Wayne; also survived by ten grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.

He was predeceased by one granddaughter Chrystie Jo Landspurg in 2008 and a great grandchild Karly Ison in 2001.

Sietje Cornelia Hof (VanDerStad) age 110 of Hamburg died peacefully on Friday, December 23, 2011 at home with the comfort of family by her side.

She was born and raised on a small island at the Southern end of the Netherlands called Flakkee. She grew up on the farm and spent much time working in the fields. She met and married her husband, the late Hendrik Hof(1988), in January of 1926 at Stadhuis, Dirksland; they met through mutual friends. The family recalls her talking about having her babies in a wooden crate by her side as she worked the fields. The family moved to the United States in 1948 emigrating through New York City and originally settling in Oak Ridge, NJ. She has lived in Prospect Park, Waldwick, Glenwood, Vernon, Towaco and Pompton Lakes before moving to Hamburg to live with her sister.

Sietje was known for her crocheting skills having made beautiful hankies for just about everyone in the family. She would make special ones for those being married and could carry on a conversation and not even look at her work as she crocheted. She loved to travel and has been to Michigan, Canada at 101, and many return trips to Holland.

Sietje was a considerate, polite, loving, caring, and reserved person. She was also straightforward…you always knew where you stood with her. Whenever she asked you to do something for her she would ask “could you…” in a very non-imposing way. She never wanted to be a burden on anyone and enjoyed wonderful health her entire life.

She was the loving wife of sixty-two years to the late Hendrik Hof; loving mother of the late Hendrika Van Wingerden (2004), and the late Maatje Van Wageningen (2006); loving sister of Klaartje de Waal of Hamburg and Willempje VanDerGroef.

Grandchildren • great-grandchildren o great-great grandchildren

Kaatje (Kathy Van Wageningen) and Bruce Hogan

• Bruce Hogan, Jr.

o Draiden and Memphis Hogan

• Shawn & Heather Hogan

Hendrik (Henry) and Deborah Van Wageningen

• Michelle Van Wageningen (O’Connor)

o Jennifer O’Connor

• Hank Van Wageningen and Jen Bombace

o Sadie Van Wageningen

Jan Van Wageningen

• Jan Van Wageningen, Jr. (Deceased 2009)

o Braiden Van Wageningen

o Olivia Van Wageningen

• Dawn Van Wageningen (Burgard)

o Tyler Burgard

o Jenn Burgard

o Matthew Burgard

• Brian & Lindsey Van Wageningen

• Jeffrey & Crystal Van Wageningen

o Riley Van Wageningen

• Shannon Van Wageningen

• Douglas Van Wageningen

• Dennis Van Wageningen

Johannes John Peter Van Wageningen

• Johannes John Peter Van Wageningen, Jr. (JP)

• Joseph Van Wageningen

Cornelius (Neil) and Wendy Van Wageningen

• Pamela Van Wageningen (Ross)

o Katelyn Ross

o Nicholas Ross

• Daniel Van Wageningen

Cornelia (Corry Van Wageningen) and John Pollara

• John Pollara, Jr.

Tanny Edith (Van Wageningen) and Donald Schneider

• Paul Hendrik Schneider

• Kate Elizabeth Schneider

Peter and Cindy Van Wageningen

• Shawna & Nick Garretson

• Peter Van Wageningen, Jr. (PJ)

David and Irene Van Wageningen

• Adam Van Wageningen

• Jacob Van Wageningen

• Colton Van Wageningen

Hendrika Hof (2004) and Leonard Van Wingerden

Lona (Van Wingerden) and Jacob Nijsse

.Jacob and Tanya

o Rachael

o Esther

o Aimee

o Aaron

o Jessica

o Hannah

. Jolayne (Nijsse) and Larry

o Maria

o Stephen

o Andrew

o Melanie

o Abigail

o Kaylee

o Caleb

. Sharon (Nijsse) and Mark

o Austin

o Breeanna

o Casey

o Josiah

o Lonny

o Karena

Cornelia (Van Wingerden) Kaufmann

. Walter and Ashley

. Cara and Ryan

.Marc and Allison

. Alex

. Briana

Leonard and Donna (Russell) Van Wingerden

. Rhonda

o Lily

o Hannah

. Leonard and Melissa

o Rylie

o Colby

. Daniel

. Brian

Henry Van Wingerden

. Hendrik and Maria

. Desiree

o Daniel

Gertrude (Van Wingerden) Breeman

. Kenneth

. Darleen and Sergio

o Bryelle

Peter Van Wingerden (2009)

Cornelius and Robin (Hook) Van Wingerden

. Shawn

. Brittany

Jacob and Heather (Emerson) Van Wingerden

. Kristen

. Jacob

. Kailey

. Aiden

Alfred and Yvonne (Suiker) Van Wingerden

. Krystal

. Kevin

. Kyle

By Tyler France great-great nephew

110 years is a long time to last,

all of which I hope she had a blast.

110 years is an enormous amount of time,

I highly doubt it was an easy climb.

She was a good mother, she was a good wife,

she did obtain a phenomenal life.

Her years became numbered, although she had plenty,

hated by no one, loved by many.

Crossing every obstacle but without ease,

life for her didn`t come as a breeze.

Two kids and 18 grandchildren were created, three sisters standing,

until midnight this morning she continued withstanding.

Her systems weren`t working, they started failing,

after this her life wasn`t far trailing.

It starts in the feet and ends in the head,

I keep trying to believe she isn`t dead.

We abided by her wishes and did what she said,

none of her words or thoughts were left un-read.

She may have passed away but her soul will never die,

it`s weird how things can change in the blink of an eye.

The memories she left and the love she gave me,

I won`t forget if you knew her you`d agree.

She would`ve turned 111 in 14 days,

"If only, if only," ever hear that phrase?

110 years have zoomed right by,

she was incredibly sweet it could make you cry.

I love her forever I promise I`ll never forget,

nor will anyone close to her I can surely bet.

110 years have peacefully come to an end,

your passing wasn`t so bad I can comprehend.

You passed in your sleep without any pain,

and now a guardian angel I highly hope to obtain. ♥

Tante Kee 1/7/1900 - 12/24/2011. You will forever have a place in my heart, I love you.

‍

Anthony A. Meglio, age 91, of East Rutherford, died on Friday, December 23, 2011 at the Thompson House, Rhinebeck, New York.

Tony was born in Lyndhurst, New Jersey and graduated from Lyndhurst High School with the class of 1938. At twenty years old, he joined the U.S. Navy and proudly served for six years. He was a Gunners Mate First Class, serving in the Pacific, the Atlantic, the Mediterranean and Africa. In December of 1941, his father passed away and Tony was given leave to come home. He was stationed in Pearl Harbor at the time and set sail for home on December 6, 1941, the day before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Tony spoke of his service often and truly enjoyed his experience with the Navy. He remained extremely active with the East Rutherford VFW for many, many years.

At the end of his Navy tour, Tony returned to live in Lyndhurst, New Jersey. Tony married Florence Lillie Vellekamp in May of 1954 and they moved to East Rutherford. They lived there together for twenty two years before moving to Wyckoff, NJ in November of 1976. Sadly, Florence passed away in March of 1977, only a few months after having moved to Wyckoff. Tony remained in Wyckoff, where his mother-in-law, Lillie Vellekamp lived with him until she passed in 1983.

In 1999 Tony moved to Aurora, Colorado to live with his daughter Debra and her family. They had a wonderful 5 and 1/2 years together in Colorado. In mid 2005 Tony returned once again to the east coast to live with his daughter Amanda and her family. Tony enjoyed his 6 years with Amanda and her family and benefited greatly from her physical therapy knowledge and care taking.

During his career, Tony was a stationary fireman, operating high-pressure boilers. Tony's worked at both Inmont in Lodi and Gaines Chemical in Carlstadt, where he retired in 1986. He was a very dedicated and hard worker, often working weeks without taking a day off. He was devoted to providing for his family. Tony was active with his daughters teaching them to ride bikes, fish, and swim! No matter the season Tony would take his daughters for long walks from home to Grammy's house! Tony worked third shift but got up early for many years each spring to coach his daughters' VFW softball team!

Tony was very mechanically inclined and could fix anything. He loved to tinker and was particularly good at fixing cars. He spent a good number of days ( he would say months) under the hood of his daughters 1959 MGA, giving it his best effort to keep the car going. On a few occasions, he even 'gave' some of his cars away to his neighbor boys, after getting them into top-mechanical order, of course. But more than anything, Tony loved animals. He was especially attached to his dogs CJ, Barcleigh and Maggie!

It seemed at times that nothing could put a smile on his face more quickly than a good dish of ice cream or lemon ice (from "Fat Mike's")!

Tony is survived by his loving daughters: Amanda Meglio and her partner Chaia Lehrer of New Paltz, New York and Debra Meglio and her partner Pandora Ray of Lakewood, Colorado; his sister Ceil Luciano of Wayne, New Jersey; three grandchildren: Jacob Meglio of New Paltz, Cori Zaczkowski and her husband Jerod of Thorton, Colorado, Kelly Macnamara and her husband Kevin of Centennial, Colorado, two great-grandchildren: Tyce and Reece Macnamara of Centennial, Colorado, and seven nieces and nephews: Annette Colasurdo, Joan Brucato, Angel Barbado, Margie Parker, Billy Paterno, Michael Luciano, and Donna Daly.

Tony was very fond of animals and in his memory, donations to the Bergen County Animal Shelter would be greatly appreciated. You can mail you donation to 100 United Lane, Teterboro, NJ, 07608, or you can visit www.co.bergen.nj.us/bcas/ to donate online.

Joanne Custer (nee Conklin) age 55 of Pompton Plains died peacefully on Wednesday, December 21, 2011 at home.

She was born in Ridgewood and raised in Oakland having attended Indian Hills High School with the Class of 1974. She later lived in Wayne before moving to Pompton Plains fourteen years ago.

Joanne worked for Budd Vacuum in Wyckoff for ten years, the Kids Stuff clothing store in Wayne and for the last twenty years the Clarins USA Corporation in Orangeburg New York.

She met her husband Ben at Finnegan’s in Wayne and he proposed to her on Christmas Eve in 1989. They married at the Ramapo Valley Baptist Church in Oakland on August 19, 1990 and honeymooned on a cruise through the Caribbean. They have enjoyed a loving and caring marriage for the past twenty-one years.

Joanne was a very giving person who had a strong faith. She was loving, caring person who always put others before herself. For many years she bowled and played on the Bojangles softball team of Wayne. Joanne was a devoted member of the Preakness Baptist Church in Wayne where she was a founding member of the knitting and crocheting group that provided blankets for patients at Chilton Memorial Hospital and for other sick and shut-in’s. Joanne was an avid animal lover and was the mother to Jesse & the late Missy & Zena. She was also the grandmother to cats Bailey and Hunter. She enjoyed helping with animal rescue in any way that she was able.

She was the loving wife of Benjamin Custer; devoted mother of Kimberly Megnin of Pompton Plains, and Christopher Megnin and his wife Andrea of New Providence; cherished grandmother of Ryan and Elena Megnin of New Providence; loving daughter of Barbara (Post) Conklin and the late Abram Conklin; dear sister of Nancy Conklin Dukeshire and her husband Robert of Bloomingdale, and David Conklin and his wife Darlene of Chelmsford, MA; loving niece of Carol Post. Loving aunt of Steven and Ashley Conklin.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Preakness Baptist Church, 1441 Ratzer Road, Wayne, NJ 07470 would be appreciated.

Philip E. Lawler, age 72 of Wayne died on Tuesday, December 20, 2011.

Phil was born in Wilkes-Barre, PA, and had been an accountant in New York City before starting his own accounting practice, “Philip Lawler, P.A.” more than forty years ago. He moved his practice to Wayne thirty years ago.

In 1981, he married Dorothy (nee Anderson) and they moved to Wayne. They have enjoyed a loving marriage of thirty years. Phil was just as devoted to Dorothy as he was to his step-daughter Jennifer, who needed special attention. Phil raised her and helped care for Jennifer many years, and they enjoyed a very special relationship as a result. To all that knew him, Phil was a charming and funny story teller, quick-witted, and very entertaining. Everyone genuinely liked him and he will be missed by all.

Phil is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy, his four step-children; Daniel, Kathleen, Laura, and Jennifer, as well as six grandchildren.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Phil’s name are asked to consider the Wayne Memorial First Aid Squad, P.O. Box 291, Wayne, NJ 07474. The Squad was not only helpful to Phil in recent years, but they were always willing help with transporting Jennifer whenever necessary. Phil’s family is indebted to them and donations in Phil’s memory would be greatly appreciated.

Seymour “Zoom” Fleisher age 88 of Frenchman’s Creek Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Passed away peacefully on December 18, 2011 surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Newark as one of eight children. He received his formal education at Newark grammar school and later at Weequahic High School.

He had lived his formative years in Newark and later in life lived in Wayne, Kinnelon, Fort Lee and Palm Beach Gardens.

Soon after his graduation from High School the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor and a ground swell of patriotism, in American youth, which Zoom was a part of, rose up and wanted to join the military to defend their country. In 1942 Zoom along with two of his brothers, signed up in the Army and were assigned to the Army Air Force which was then a part of the Army. He had always wanted to fly and this gave him a chance to pursue this aviation ambition. It was not long before he had his wings and was trained as a pilot in a large bomber known as a B-29 serving in the 20th Air Force, 315th Bomb Wing. He flew a total of ten missions over Japan and other parts of the South Pacific theatre of the war. His rank was Captain Seymour Fleisher. He often said that his military experience led him to great things.

After his discharge in 1946 he went to the Newark College of Engineering, and graduated in 1951 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering. It was at NJIT that he was given the name “Zoom” for his fast footwork on the basketball team.

He married his sweetheart Estelle and started his own metal manufacturing business which he named Pilot Technologies. His business specialty was precision components and assemblies that served the electronics, telecommunications, aerospace, aviation, medical and utilities industries throughout North America. His shop was impressive with the latest technology in forming and perforating metal for technical completion. As he would take you on a tour of his facility he had saved some older stamping machines and explained to you how he along with Estelle would sit there side by side and work the foot treadles of these machines together. He always said that she had a big part of his success in business.

He had wonderful success in the business world. If you were to evaluate his achievements you would conclude that he always worked at 125% or more and was honest and faithful in his business transactions even to a fault. In the business world he was admired and loved by his customers as well as his employees whom he gave much credit for his successes. He would say it is because of my employees that I am successful and he always considered his customers as the boss.

His favorite saying as written by Mark Twain earlier was : “Always do right, this will gratify some people and astonish the rest.”

Zoom and Estelle were married for fifty-two years until Estelle’s passing in 1997. This man just loved his wife with great intensity and even in her years of declining health his greatest daily concern was his loving wife Estelle. He was as perfect at being a husband as his creator could mold him.

Zoom was admired by many people. He had a way within his personality of reaching out to others in very genuine and loving ways. He simply loved people and if he heard of someone in distress or in need he would reach out to them to help and would want nothing in return. He was generous with money as well as his heart and as a result was admired by many people.

He had many celebrations in life including a very special 85th birthday party at his country club inviting over four hundred guests. These celebrations would be parties that his guests would never forget and they would go home afterwards knowing that this gift of enjoyment came right from Zoom and Estelle’s heart. In one format or another they had to say to themselves what a wonderful friend. When he played he played big but did not do it alone. He wanted all of his friends to join in and he made it happen.

As a family man he also excelled with love and caring for his son Bruce and again with his grandchildren. He loved to be called Grampy by his grandchildren. They indeed were the apple of his eye.

Surviving to cherish the memory of this wonderful man are one son Bruce Fleisher and his wife Ellen of Delray Beach, Florida; two grandchildren Ronni Molinari and her husband Gioel; great-grandsons Luca and Max, grandson Steven and his wife Julie; also survived by four brothers and two sisters and his loving partner Anita Fishbein of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

For those who inclined donations can be made in honor of Zoom to the New Jersey Institute of Technology Building Fund, Administrative Offices, 323 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Newark, NJ 07102.

Seymour “Zoom” Fleisher age 88 of Frenchman’s Creek Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Passed away peacefully on December 18, 2011 surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Newark as one of eight children. He received his formal education at Newark grammar school and later at Weequahic High School.

He had lived his formative years in Newark and later in life lived in Wayne, Kinnelon, Fort Lee and Palm Beach Gardens.

Soon after his graduation from High School the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor and a ground swell of patriotism, in American youth, which Zoom was a part of, rose up and wanted to join the military to defend their country. In 1942 Zoom along with two of his brothers, signed up in the Army and were assigned to the Army Air Force which was then a part of the Army. He had always wanted to fly and this gave him a chance to pursue this aviation ambition. It was not long before he had his wings and was trained as a pilot in a large bomber known as a B-29 serving in the 20th Air Force, 315th Bomb Wing. He flew a total of ten missions over Japan and other parts of the South Pacific theatre of the war. His rank was Captain Seymour Fleisher. He often said that his military experience led him to great things.

After his discharge in 1946 he went to the Newark College of Engineering, and graduated in 1951 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering. It was at NJIT that he was given the name “Zoom” for his fast footwork on the basketball team.

He married his sweetheart Estelle and started his own metal manufacturing business which he named Pilot Technologies. His business specialty was precision components and assemblies that served the electronics, telecommunications, aerospace, aviation, medical and utilities industries throughout North America. His shop was impressive with the latest technology in forming and perforating metal for technical completion. As he would take you on a tour of his facility he had saved some older stamping machines and explained to you how he along with Estelle would sit there side by side and work the foot treadles of these machines together. He always said that she had a big part of his success in business.

He had wonderful success in the business world. If you were to evaluate his achievements you would conclude that he always worked at 125% or more and was honest and faithful in his business transactions even to a fault. In the business world he was admired and loved by his customers as well as his employees whom he gave much credit for his successes. He would say it is because of my employees that I am successful and he always considered his customers as the boss.

His favorite saying as written by Mark Twain earlier was : “Always do right, this will gratify some people and astonish the rest.”

Zoom and Estelle were married for fifty-two years until Estelle’s passing in 1997. This man just loved his wife with great intensity and even in her years of declining health his greatest daily concern was his loving wife Estelle. He was as perfect at being a husband as his creator could mold him.

Zoom was admired by many people. He had a way within his personality of reaching out to others in very genuine and loving ways. He simply loved people and if he heard of someone in distress or in need he would reach out to them to help and would want nothing in return. He was generous with money as well as his heart and as a result was admired by many people.

He had many celebrations in life including a very special 85th birthday party at his country club inviting over four hundred guests. These celebrations would be parties that his guests would never forget and they would go home afterwards knowing that this gift of enjoyment came right from Zoom and Estelle’s heart. In one format or another they had to say to themselves what a wonderful friend. When he played he played big but did not do it alone. He wanted all of his friends to join in and he made it happen.

As a family man he also excelled with love and caring for his son Bruce and again with his grandchildren. He loved to be called Grampy by his grandchildren. They indeed were the apple of his eye.

Surviving to cherish the memory of this wonderful man are one son Bruce Fleisher and his wife Ellen of Delray Beach, Florida; two grandchildren Ronni Molinari and her husband Gioel; great-grandsons Luca and Max, grandson Steven and his wife Julie; also survived by four brothers and two sisters and his loving partner Anita Fishbein of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

For those who inclined donations can be made in honor of Zoom to the New Jersey Institute of Technology Building Fund, Administrative Offices, 323 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Newark, NJ 07102.

Henry R. Bogert age 83 of Woodland Park died Sunday, December 18, 2011.

He was born and raised in Paterson having lived in Woodland Park for the past 40 years. He was a veteran having served in the US Navy.

Henry was an Operating Engineer for Local 825, Newark before retiring in 1990.

He was the loving husband of 61 years to Muriel (nee VanHaste) Bogert; loving father of Debbie Sampat and her husband Vijay and RaeAnn Cheon; cherished grandfather of Ronnie and Christopher Cheon and Justin Sampat; loved brother of Kenneth Bogert and his wife Connie and the late Ann Dowd.

Sandra Mattera, “Sandy”, age 26 of Wayne and New York City passed away on Saturday, December 17, 2011.

Sandy was born in Summit, NJ and moved to Wayne with her family when she was just five years old. She graduated from Wayne Hills High School with honors in 2003 where she had starred in theatre productions, was the marching band drum major and saxophone soloist in many musical ensembles, and participated in FBLA, varsity fencing and the Honor Society. She was an award winning vocalist who loved to sing, especially when her grandpa played guitar and with the St. Mary's youth choir in Pompton Lakes.

After graduating from Wayne Hills, she went on to the Stern School of Business at New York University where she majored in finance and Spanish. She graduated Cum Laude in 2007, making the Dean’s List each of her four years there. She made her family very proud and set the bar high for her four younger siblings.

After graduating from NYU, she worked for Banc of America Securities as an investment banking analyst before joining Canoe Ventures as manager of business planning and development earlier this year. She was a natural and gifted leader.

Since she was a little girl, she had a love for the theatre and took in plenty of Broadway shows over the past few years. RENT was by far her favorite (she saw it 8 or 9 times!) but she really enjoyed them all. Her new job had freed her up on the weekends to begin auditioning once again for various acting parts in New York, and that brought her a lot of happiness.

Sandy had also enjoyed some world travel, visiting many Spanish speaking countries including Argentina, Spain, and Majorca (her favorite!), just to name a few. She told her family a story of her time in Majorca when she had ordered fish at a restaurant. The waiter wanted to be sure she had the freshest fish possible and she waited for the fisherman to come back with his fresh catch before she could eat it. The meal was wonderful, of course, and she dreamed of going back soon.

She was a strong, independent woman. As the oldest of five children, she was the easy-going one that kept everyone together. Her brothers and sister recall how she was always there to protect them, in school, at home, or wherever they were, she would come to their defense. She was the matriarch of them all and she loved each of them very much. They, and many others, will surely miss her kindness, her love, and her support.

Sandy is survived by her loving mother; Catherine Romania of Wayne, her caring father; Nicholas Mattera of Wayne, one sister; Jessica Mattera, and three brothers; Nicholas, Joseph and Thomas Mattera, all of Wayne, her devoted grandparents; Eleanor and Nicholas Romania of Wayne, her uncles and aunts; Dr. Anthony Romania and his wife Linda Talerico of Stonington, CT, Marie Gunn and her husband Joseph of Jupiter, FL, and Candy Romania of West Milford, NJ, and her boyfriend of four years; Joseph Markisz. She is predeceased by her uncle Nicholas Romania.

Memorial donations in Sandy’s honor would be greatly appreciated. Please consider The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, 4370 Tujunga Ave., Ste 330, Studio City, CA 91604 and the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312.

Marie Teresa Tuminello “MiMi” (nee DiChellis) age 87 of Woodland Park died peacefully on Friday, December 16, 2011 at home.

She was born in Paterson and lived her childhood in the Stony Road area of Paterson. She was one of six children in the household including four sisters and one brother. She managed to outlive all of her siblings.

Marie married Anthony Tuminello and took on the job of homemaker, mother, grandmother and great grandmother for the balance of her career. Anthony passed away in 1980.

Surviving are one daughter Michele Campanello and her husband Donato of Wayne; one granddaughter Raven Campanello of Wayne; one grandson Don Campanello of Wayne; one great granddaughter Vanessa Campanello. She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

Helen Eberenz (Bodrogi), age 95 of Wayne, passed away on Wednesday, December 14, 2011 peacefully at home.

Helen was born in Passaic, NJ to Michael and Julia Bodrogi on October 30, 1916.  Helen was a professional dancer (ballerina) before she met her husband David while she was on tour in the Panama Canal Zone. They were married on April 3, 1937 and then returned to the Canal Zone to raise a family. She opened a dance studio where she taught her children as well as the neighborhood children how to dance. Returning to Garfield, NJ in 1957, Helen worked for 20 years as a proofreader for Deluxe Check Printing in Clifton and Caldwell, NJ.

She and her husband David were charter members of Our Lady of Consolation RC Church, Wayne.

Devoted mother of Diane Wilkin and her husband Ted of Garfield, NJ, Sylvia LaCorte and husband Ralph of Wesley Chapel, FL, the late David E. Eberenz and his late wife Diane (Casiello) and the late Michael A. Eberenz. Loving grandmother of Theresa Detrick and her husband Andy, Rachel LaCorte, Ralph D. LaCorte, Jack LaCorte and the late Michael Robert Eberenz. Great Grandmother of Samantha Detrick. Dear sister of the late Michael Bodrogi, Julie Kurz, Elizabeth Csigay and Ernie Bodrogi and aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Memorial donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 would be greatly appreciated.

Elinor Grace “Ellie” Gesner (nee Scheckenback) age 94 of Moonachie peacefully passed into the presence of her creator on December 14, 2011 at Prospect Heights Care Center in Hackensack, New Jersey.

Elinor was born prematurely at her family residence in 1917. Weighing less than two pounds at birth, her family physician declared that there was little hope of baby Elinor’s survival. She was so tiny that her first crib was actually a cigar box. Her family patiently fed their new baby through an eyedropper. In those early days, her mother put her to sleep behind the family’s coal stove to keep her snug and warm in the family’s cold-water flat. Throughout her early years, Elinor suffered through a number of health issues, but as she matured her health gradually improved. History now bears witness that she has long outlived all of her siblings and the doctor who predicted her early demise.

Elinor is predeceased by her sisters Annamae Havecker, Magdeline Donfield, and Viola Spataro.

She grew up in a modest neighborhood in Little Ferry as part of a very loving and caring family. Her father provided for the family well as the driver of a horse-drawn beer wagon. Elinor became a skilled seamstress and obtained a job at the Jonathon Logan Coat Factory where she was charged with the creation of sample clothing.

In 1957, while visiting a neighbor wishing to sell a bedroom set, Elinor met her future husband, Harold Gesner, a decorated World War II veteran who served under General Patton in numerous campaigns. After a brief courtship, they married on April 11, 1959, and had thirty-five years of a good and loving marriage until Harold’s passing in February, 1995.

Although she had no children of her own, a central focus of Elinor’s life was her family, to which she was extremely devoted. Over the years, she helped to love and nurture the children of her extended family and friends. Elinor also enjoyed cooking and, having grown up in a modest background in frugal times, could whip up a good dinner out of almost nothing.

One of Elinor’s greatest gifts in life was that of a wonderful personality. It was easy for her to strike up conversations with others who enjoyed being in her presence. This gift stayed with her to the end of her days as she spent considerable time talking with her great-great nephews and nieces up through the recently concluded Thanksgiving holiday. Until the very end of her life, asking Elinor about events in her lifetime, would elicit detailed, amusing stories about events long forgotten by many, but kept alive in her memory. Until the very end of her life, Elinor lived independently in Moonachie where she had resided for more than fifty years.

Elinor maintained a strong devotion to her Roman Catholic faith, following precepts set down by the early church fathers. She always provided a wonderful example of being a good Christian, living humbly as commanded by Peter in his first letter and embodying the words of Paul in his letter to the Philippians by being content in all the circumstances of her life. Whenever trials and tribulations of life arose, she would often pray, lighting votive candles at home or in church to focus her attention.

Elinor is survived by one niece, Mary Jane Kowalski, and her husband Ronald of Wayne, New Jersey, and one nephew Robert Havecker, and his wife Noreen of Old Bridge, New Jersey, and a considerable number of great and great-great nieces and nephews. All will cherish the memory of their beloved Aunt Elinor. To quote her nephew Ron, “If the world was populated with people like Aunt Elinor, it would be a perfect place.”

Joseph V. Stocus, age 87 of Pompton Plains, formerly of Packanack Lake in Wayne, New Jersey died peacefully on Tuesday, December 13, 2011 surrounded by his children.

He was born and raised in Mahonoy City, Pennsylvania, a coal mining community of mostly immigrants. He went to St. Joseph’s School, where he learned to read, write and pray in Lithuanian. Following his graduation from high school in June 1941, he did whatever odd jobs he could find around town. After the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor, he was too young to enlist, so he went to work in the coal mines for six months before moving to Philadelphia to work in the shipyards.

In February 1943, he was drafted into the army and sent to Hattiesburg, Mississippi for basic training. He served as a Company A 234th Combat Engineer in England, France, Belgium and Germany. He was scheduled to be sent to fight in the Pacific but never ended up going because the Japanese surrendered. He received an Honorable Discharge in December 1945.

After the war, Joe was able to attend New York University and completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting. He was the first person in his family to graduate college, and he always said it would not have been possible without the help of the GI Bill which paid for his tuition.

Upon completing his graduation, he worked at a major public accounting firm in the Audit Division. However, most of his career was spent as a Certified Public Accountant in private practice in Ridgefield and Wayne.

Joe met his wife, Carmel, a school teacher, at the Wayne Luncheonette on a blind date. They were engaged two weeks later, and spent 56 years together before her death last May. They originally settled in Pompton Lakes, then moved to Wayne in 1961, and Packanack Lake in 1967. They raised five children together. They were parishioners at Our Lady of the Valley Church and Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, where for many years Joe was an usher. Joe was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and The Elks.

Joe enjoyed traveling, gardening, billiards and pinnacle. He was an avid angler, and looked forward to his annual fishing trips to Canada with his long-time friends, Benny & Eddie. His family was quite entertained by his pursuit of the squirrels who used to ruin his gardens. Nothing made Joe happier than putting on his green work pants and working around the house on weekends.

Joe was a devoted father to Barbara Holden and her husband Craig of Columbia, Maryland, Richard Stocus and his wife Lana of Kennesaw, Georgia, James Stocus of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, Carolyn Mallahan and her husband Joseph of Seattle, Washington, and Linda Jones and her husband Russell of Wayne, New Jersey; cherished grandfather of nine grandchildren Lauren Holden, Allison Holden Wren, Christopher Holden, Katy Stocus, Brittany Stocus, Irina Mallahan, Masha Mallahan, Sean Jones and Timmy Jones. He is also survived by his brother, Robert Stocus of Pompton Lakes.

He was predeceased by his wife, Carmel Stocus (nee Congilose), a sister Frances Stocus, and a brother Jackie Stocus.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Carol Simon Women’s Cancer Center, Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, P.O. Box 109, Morristown, NJ 07962-1956 would be appreciated.

Albert C. Donofrio, Sr., age 68 of Hackettstown, formerly of Wayne, died Monday, December 12, 2011 at the Morristown Memorial Hospital.

He was born in Paterson, raised and lived in Wayne for many years. He graduated from Wayne Valley High School with the Class of 1962 and learned the Mechanic Trade at Lincoln Technical School in Union. He lived in Harford, PA for a few years, returning to Wayne from 2000 – 2007, before moving to Hackettstown four years ago.

Al was a mechanic his entire working life having originally worked at the D&D Garage in Pompton Lakes and later Wyckoff. He then took a position with the Township of Wayne’s Parks & Recreation Division, as a mechanic, where he worked for thirty years before retiring in 2007. He had a love of working with his hands and fixing just about anything. He was always helping friends, family, and neighbors diagnose problems, get the right parts and fix everything from cars to snow blowers.

He met the love of his life Nancy Keene at Wayne Valley High School. As high school sweethearts Nancy remembers their first date was a row boat ride along the Passaic River. Nancy lived on Peach Way and the Passaic River was just a block away from her childhood home. They fell in love and married on June 24,1967 at Saint James of the Marches RC Church, Totowa. As they honeymooned in Miami Florida, Community Fire Company #1, helped them by knocking down a small home on Park Lane in Wayne and when they returned the purchased a home from Premier Homes in Little Falls. They purchased the four bedroom model on display and Premier built the home on their location. Soon they filled all four bedrooms.

Al was a quiet man with a big heart. He had a dry sense of humor, was extremely patient and tough as nails at the same time. He had a love of the outdoors where he enjoyed his Honda motorcycle, boating, and many years ago a bicycle built for two with a child seat on the back.

Albert was the loving husband of forty-two years to Nancy(Keene) Donofrio; devoted father of Albert Donofrio, Jr and his wife Patti of Spartanburg, S.C., Charles Donofrio of Paterson, Frederick Donofrio and his wife Mary of Wayne; cherished grandfather of five grandchildren; loved brother of Anthony Donofrio of Wayne, Michael Donofrio and his wife Christine of Matthews, N.C., and Anna Marie Basciano of Wayne.

Rachel Zambito (nee Schimenti) age 88 of Wayne died peacefully on Thursday, December 8, 2011.

She was born in Jersey City having been raised mostly in Yonkers, NY, getting married and returning to Jersey City, before moving to Wayne forty years ago.

She met her husband, the late Salvatore M. Zambito(2006), while summering in Marlboro, NY. They fell in love and married on December 23, 1945 during a snowstorm. They honeymooned in New York City and Florida.

Rachel was dedicated to her Catholic faith and a member of Our Lady of the Valley RC Church, Wayne for many years.

Rachel was a dedicated and loving wife, mother, grandmother and

great-grandmother. In her younger years she loved to dance, even entering a

dance competition in the 1939 World’s Fair in New York City with her brother.

She derived much satisfaction and joy from seeing the accomplishments of both

her children and grandchildren. For many years, Rachel enjoyed having the family together at her house for dinner on Sunday afternoon. Her special touches of pasta with gravy meat; lamb shanks and pastina will be dearly missed. For a good portion of her life, Rachel also enjoyed playing bridge with her friends and reading as part of a club.

She was the loving wife of sixty years to the late Salvatore M. Zambito (2006); loving mother of Theresa Pisano and her husband Dominic of Berkeley Heights, Mary Carla Hofsommer and her husband Kenneth of Pompton Plains, Michael Zambito and his wife Debra of Parsippany, Salvatore Zambito and his wife Diane of Livingston, and Matthew Zambito and his wife Nancy of Wayne; cherished grandmother of eleven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; loved sister of five brothers and one sister all who predeceased her.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Alzheimer’s Association - Greater NJ Chapter, 400 Morris Ave., Suite 251, Denville, NJ 07834 would be appreciated.

Edward Joseph Martin age 89 of Fort Lauderdale, FL, formerly of Wayne

Edward Joseph Martin age 89 of Fort Lauderdale,Florida passed away peacefully with his companion, Phyllis Paul at his side on December 5, 2011 at Holy Cross Hospital in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Ed was born in Falkirk, Scotland, came to the United States at age five where he settled in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn along with his parents and eight brothers and sisters; Ed was a decorated US Army veteran who served in World War II and was proud to serve as an Amphibious Duck landing craft operator in the Anzio Beachhead assault.  He was also a member of the American Legion posts in Wayne and in Fort Lauderdale as well as a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Ed and his wife Frances of 25 years, built a home in Wayne, NJ where they raised their four daughters.

They were devoted parishioners at Our Lady of Consolation Church and were both active in the founding of this parish in the 1960s; Ed became a widower in 1975 and continued to raise his family in Wayne, while working as a union carpenter in Local 608. Music was his passion and he was an accomplished drummer, playing in the Rhythmaires with his brother, Frank.  He'll be remembered for his sparkling blue eyes, a love for life like no other and a generous heart that knew no boundaries.

After retiring he moved to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida where he became a member of The Blessed Sacrament RC Church. He continued to enjoy his music and looked forward to visits from his daughters and their families.

Surviving are his loving companion, Phyllis Paul of Ft. Lauderdale and her children, his devoted daughters Regina and her husband John of Staten Island, Denise of West Caldwell, Patricia and her husband Harry of Wayne, Deirdre and husband Andy, also of Wayne. Eight grandchildren: Michael, Jenna and her husband Joe, Nicholas, Alexandra, Mark, Jake, Jovanna and Drew. Three great grandchildren, Sean, Samantha and Lia.

Daisy V. Swintek, a loving and cherished mother and grandmother, died on Saturday, December 3, 2011.

She was 89. Daisy was born in Bedford, Massachusetts to the late Joseph and Valborg Ashby. Daisy enjoyed a lifelong career devoted to the catering and restaurant business before retiring in 1992. Before moving to Vernon in 1999, Daisy and her late husband of 50 years, Joseph J. Swintek (1993), were longtime residents of the Lakeview section of Clifton. Daisy's love for crocheting, ceramics and friends brought her to the Vernon Senior Center where she became very active with the organization. There she met Frank Macherone and the two of them have enjoyed an endearing relationship for the past eleven years.

Daisy is survived by her three loving daughters; Sandra Andriulli and her husband Ronald of Arizona, Shirley Swintek of Paramus, JoAnn Parr and her husband Joseph of Vernon, a step-daughter Diana Rezza of Paramus, four grandchildren; Ashleigh and Joseph Parr of Vernon, Ronald Andriulli Jr. and his wife Jennifer of Florida, Ryan Andriulli and his wife Natalie of Arizona, two great-grandchildren, a brother Joseph Ashby and his wife Anne of Lincoln Park, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Robert Anthony Gilman, “Gil”, age 52, of Wayne died peacefully on Thursday, December 1, 2011 at the Chilton Memorial Hospital with the comfort of family and friends by his side.

He was born in Paterson at St. Joseph’s and raised in Wayne. He played football and ran track at Wayne Valley High School and graduated with the Class of 1977.  He enjoyed rebuilding cars, particularly Thunderbirds and his beloved 1963 Corvette.

He married Nancy Stellingwerf, on September 28, 1986.  He always called her “his beautiful wife” and loved her very much. Rob and Nancy moved from Butler with their two kids, Kelsey and Derek, to the home in Wayne that he grew up in.

Rob most recently worked for Donnelly Industries in Wayne as many things including a service foreman and mechanic. Prior to that, Rob owned and operated his own mechanical contracting company for over twenty-five years.  Every friend, family member, and neighbor relied on him for fixing anything and everything, and he was always happy to do it. Nancy’s father told her that he was very happy that he could rest assured that she was marrying a man that was more than capable of handling anything that came along with her home, her car, and most importantly her well-being.  There wasn’t one thing he couldn’t do.

Rob is infamous in the best way possible amongst family and friends.  He was an amazingly loyal person and never pretended to be someone he wasn’t.  He was very fun loving – always the life of the party. Rob was a funny guy and always his own best audience. We loved to watch him laugh at his own jokes and sometimes laugh along with him. He loved his music, his home and yard, his late German Shepherd “Augie Dog”, and most of all his family. He beamed with pride every time he spoke about his children.

Gil was the loving husband of 25 years to Nancy (Stellingwerf) Gilman; devoted father of Kelsey and Derek Gilman; cherished son of Robert and Gilda (Blois) Gilman; much loved brother of Patricia Glen and her husband Peter, Kevin Gilman and his wife Mary, Cynthia Bizzozzaro and her husband Michael, and Keith Gilman and his wife Colleen. He was loved by many cousins, nieces and nephews, and friends.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, 383 Main Ave, 5th Floor, Norwalk, CT 06851 (www.themmrf.org) or The Jimmy V Foundation, 106, Towerview Court, Cary, NC 27513 (www.jimmyv.org) would be greatly appreciated.

Goran Stevanovic, age 43 of Totowa, died tragically on Thursday, December 1, 2011.

Born in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Goran came to America nearly twenty years ago with his wife Milka and they had lived in Paterson before settling in Totowa. He worked for Dobco, Inc. for several years and enjoyed his work, especially driving trucks.

He loved his family very much and would talk about his children all day long with his coworkers. He coached basketball for several seasons with the Totowa PAL and was so proud watching his kids play. He had a huge heart and was a very caring person towards others. He will be sadly missed by all.

Goran is survived by his devoted and loving wife Milka (nee Vidakovic), his daughter; Danijela, his two sons; Aleksandar and Danijel, and two sisters; Jadaranka Vasilic and her husband Novak of Wayne and Dusanka Jovic and her husband Slobodan of Bosnia.

Gertrude “Tootsie” Van Beveren (nee Densel), age 89 of North Haledon, and formerly of Wayne and Clifton, died peacefully on Wednesday, November 30, 2011 at the Holland Christian Home.

“Tootsie”, as everyone knew her, was born in Passaic and enjoyed her childhood there, graduating from Passaic High School in 1940. She began working for Western Electric and worked her way up through the ranks during her career of more than 40 years there. She was a foreman, supervising electrical engineers who were designing telephone equipment. She retired from there in 1987. She moved to Siena Village in Wayne in 2001 and then in 2009 she moved to the Holland Christian Home in North Haledon.

She met her husband Martin and they married in 1959. They enjoyed a fun and loving marriage for thirty one years before Martin’s passing in 1990. She was a wonderful caregiver, taking care of not only her husband, but his parents, her nieces and nephews, and just about anyone else who could use her care. She was full of joy and always grateful for the many blessings bestowed upon her in her life. She seemed particularly grateful for many of the things that often go by unnoticed such as the sun, the rain, and the seasons. She was simply grateful for everything around her. She had a wonderful singing voice and joined the Chennaniah Choir at several area churches. She was also a member of the Dorcas Guild. Her faith in Jesus was the foundation of her life and she was a member of the Netherlands Reformed Congregation of Clifton for many years.

Family was where her heart was. She adored her nieces and nephews and would visit with them as often as she could. Holidays, such as Christmas, would be extended over a few days so that she could spend time at each of their homes. She was always there for them, whatever they needed and whatever she could provide. She was devoted to all of them as if they were her own children. She loved them all very much and she will surely be missed dearly by each and every one of them.

She is survived by her nephew Richard Densel and his wife Ruth of Pequannock, four nieces; Margaret Johnstone and her husband James of Pompton Plains, NJ, Cornelia Sellito and her husband Anthony of Spring Lake Heights, NJ, Joanne Holcomb and her husband Jeffrey of Branchville, NJ, and Margaret Garza and her husband Frank of Butler, NJ, two sister-in-laws; Joanne Densel of Pequannock and Pauline Tedesco of North Carolina and her children; Emmett Tedesco and his wife Linda of Virginia, Joanne Hinesley and her husband Thomas of Massachusetts, and Lori Tedesco of London, UK, as well as many great nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Martin in 1990, as well as two brothers and one sister.

As expressions of sympathy, if friends so wish, donations may be made in Tootsie’s memory to the Holland Christian Home, 151 Graham Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508.

Josephine “Jo” Dillon (nee Dwyer) age 99 of Wayne passed peacefully at home on Tuesday, November 29, 2011.

She was born in Edina, Missouri where she was raised on the family farm. She and her brother Glennon would ride a pony to the one room schoolhouse where the teacher taught all grades.

At the age of 17 Josephine’s family sold the farm and came to New Jersey in search of work. She worked as a telephone operator for the Bell Telephone Corporation in Hackensack for many years before retiring in 1984. After retiring she lived in St. Petersburg Florida and lived in Hasbrouck Heights New Jersey before moving to Wayne in 1996 to live with her daughter Rita. Rita and Jo were mother and daugher but were blessed with being best friends as well.  Rita could always be heard calling Jo "Sweetie Pie".

Josephine was always happy, had a smile and a little twinkle in her eye. She was kind and considerate, generous to a fault, patient and loving with a deep commitment to her Catholic faith. She was exceptionally graceful on the ballroom dancing floor, was a great cook and even better baker. Jo's pies were always homemade with fruits of the season, a result of growing up on the farm,  and delicious.  She enjoyed day trips with several Bergen County Seniors Clubs and playing Canasta and Poker. Her grandchildren will always remember her tickling their feet and playing "this little piggy" with them.

She was the loving wife of the late John Dillon; loving mother of Rita Nardozza of Wayne and the late Patricia Best(2003); cherrished grandmother of twelve grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren; she was predeceased by six siblings and is survived by her brother Glennon Dwyer and his wife Mickey of Beaver, Pennsylvania.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to AutismSpeaks.org Autism Speaks, 1060 State Road – 2nd Floor, Princeton, NJ 08540, or St. Judes Children's Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-2729 or Eva’s Kitchen, 393 Main Street, Paterson, NJ 07501 would be appreciated.

Janet Birdsall Bance, 93, of Toms River passed away peacefully November 28, 2011 at Sunrise of Wayne, NJ.

She was born in Brooklyn, NY and raised in Bronxville, NY. She was the daughter of Amos Glentworth Birdsall and Helen Brant Birdsall. She attended the Northampton School (for Girls) in Massachusetts and the Packer Institute in Brooklyn. Janet later attended Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, NY, where she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Art.

Janet worked in New York City for Union Carbide in graphic design and advertising layout. During World War II, she worked for American Airlines in Washington, D.C., where she met her future husband Harrison, and they married in 1944. After the war, they moved to Toms River where he managed the Brant Lumber Company for nearly 20 years and together they raised their family.

Janet was an avid athlete in her youth and enjoyed competitive high diving and water sports. As a volunteer Red Cross Water Safety Instructor she later brought her love of teaching and swimming to many communities in Ocean County during the summer. She worked for 10 years teaching art to the students of Brick Township High School, in Brick, NJ.

Janet was passionate about environmental causes and the community. She conducted successful fundraising campaigns for the March of Dimes and the American Red Cross. As a descendant of some of the earliest settlers in Ocean County, she was proud of her Brant and Birdsall heritage. She will be missed for her keen intellect, and her love of life and nature.

She was predeceased by her husband Harrison in 1994, and two younger sisters, Cornelia Boudiette and Marion Hobart Butler. She is survived by her son, Keith and his wife Charlene of North Wales, PA; and daughters, Shelley of Woodstock, NY, Jane and her husband George Homick of Coventry, CT; her grandchildren, Jeffrey and Jessica Bance, and Spencer and Bryce Homick; a niece and three nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial service on Saturday, January 14th, 2012 at 11AM at the Anderson Campbell Funeral Home at 703 Main St, Toms River, NJ.

V. A. “Victor” Pastore, age 86 of Wayne and Beach Haven, NJ, slipped away peacefully into the arms of the Lord on Wednesday, November 23, 2011.

Victor was born in Orange, New Jersey, the sixth of seven children. He graduated from Orange High School with the class of 1943. His mother wouldn’t allow him to sit idle and she insisted that he find a job immediately after his graduation. He took a position at Union Camp, starting out at the bottom as a ‘Flyboy”; catching hot sheets of freshly printed paper as they came flying off the printing press. He built a career with Union Camp of more than fifty four years, and worked his way up the company ladder the old fashioned way; with hard work. At one point, he was managing three plants for Union Camp. He retired as a Strategic Planning Manager in 1997.

It was at Union Camp that Victor had the good fortune to meet Dolores (nee Cerbone), who was his secretary there. Their romance was only eclipsed by a deep and profound friendship. They were married in 1963 and moved to Wayne in 1965.

Victor was inspired by his faith which, in turn, inspired his family life. Each week began with Sunday Mass followed by dinner with family. In the 1970’s, he built a house in Beach Haven on Long Beach Island. Summer vacations at the shore were wonderful and Victor loved being there with his wife and daughters. He was a great dad to his four girls and they will all tell you how good he was at keeping a secret, how much he inspired them, and how much he really meant to each of them. He would do anything for his girls and one particular summer, he built a play house for them in the back yard. The girls didn’t have any idea because they had been away at the shore for the summer while he toiled away, building this house. When they saw it for the first time, they were ecstatic, and they will never forget what their dad did for them.

Victor is survived by his devoted wife of forty eight years; Dolores of Wayne, four daughters; Janice Hurlbutt and her husband Dr. Thomas of Allentown, PA, Elise Rossbach and her husband Richard of Wayne, Alane Lynch and her husband James of Allentown, PA, and Joyce Towey and her husband John of Pompton Plains, NJ, and nine grandchildren; Paige, Steven, and Michael Hurlbutt, Jeanette and Richard Rossbach, Kate and Grace Lynch, and John Victor and Joseph Towey.

Jacqueline “Gramzee” Zuber age 78 of Wayne passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, November 23, 2011 at home.

She was born in Passaic and spent her childhood years in Garfield. She received her formal education at Garfield Grammar School and at Garfield High School graduating with the Class of 1950. After graduating from High School she worked at the Passaic General Hospital office doing clerical work.

Jacqueline’s parent’s home was full of music. Her mother was a self taught pianist playing many musical selections by ear. Both her parents were part of a musical group. Jacqueline inherited her music ability becoming a saxophone and piano player. Music was a big part of her home atmosphere. She and her older sister, Phyllis shared many special occasions. They talked on the phone daily and enjoyed each other’s company whether it was shopping or vacationing together. They were best friends throughout their lives.

One day she was in a jewelry store and met Michael Zuber. They dated for two years and joined their hearts in marriage on a snowy November 19, 1955. Michael and Jacqueline had five wonderful children. They were married just short of fifty years until Michael’s passing on March 26, 2005.

She was a great mother who was not judgmental. She was a rock for those who depended on her and a calming influence in all of her children’s lives. When her ten grandchildren came along she applied her strong motherly love to them. Grandchildren where the greatest joy of her life. Her home was the center of most holiday gatherings as well as a relaxing place to get together with family.

All through her life journey her children and her grandchildren enjoyed her cooking, and sharing stories about the family. The very favorite specialty was Gramzee’s minestrone soup and macaroni salad. That salad was referred to within the family as “The Recipe”. Sitting around playing Apples to Apples and Catchphrase was a holiday tradition after the table was cleared.

Mom/Gramzee thank you for making life so special for all of us.

Jacqueline was truly dedicated to her Roman Catholic faith and passed that dedication on to her family. In her church life she was a member of the Adoration Society and went to Mass every week

Surviving are two daughters Patricia Zuber-Walmach of Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania, Ellen Donnellan and her husband Joseph of Hillsborough; three sons Jeffrey Zuber and his wife Victoria of Rockaway, Thomas Zuber of Wayne, and William Zuber and his wife Debra of Wayne; one sister Phyllis Haitmanek of Woodland Park; ten grandchildren Rosemary, Jeffrey, Gregory and Allison Zuber, Lee, Sara and Jonathan Walmach, Chris, Lauren and Taylor Donnellan. She was pre-deceased by two grandsons Kevin and David.

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Gloria Mania (nee Beshada) age 81 of Wayne, died at home on Saturday, November 19, 2011 after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Gloria was born in Sayerville, NJ and grew up in Paterson and Clifton. In her childhood, you were likely to find her climbing trees and digging up worms; she was always doing something. As a young lady, she began working at the Gencraft factory in Paterson, making window treatments, and it was here that she met her husband, Carman, in the 1940’s. The two of them were married in 1951 and together they raised their family in Paterson. Carman’s mother began to teach Gloria how to cook and she became very good at preparing traditional Italian meals for her family. Even her calamari was excellent, which she couldn’t stand to eat herself, but her husband loved it. She was also very handy around the house, enjoyed crafts and was good with her hands, and an excellent seamstress. She was skilled at working with ceramics, an accomplished painter on canvas, and a voracious reader.

Gloria was one cool lady. She was feisty, physically strong and she wouldn’t take any guff from anyone. As her children recall, she could throw a shoe (her first choice when necessary) with speed and pin-point accuracy, like no one else. She was a great mom; stern and caring. Her kids also recall how she was so caring to the little baby pigeons that they used to raise, bringing them into the kitchen near the heater, and nursing them until they were big enough. She and Carman had racing pigeons and they bred them at home. Gloria also always had a dog in the house and considering how kind and nurturing she was to her pets, you would almost think she liked animals more than she did people. Of course, once her grandchildren began to arrive, you knew just how much she loved her family.

Gloria loved her grandchildren so very much and they completely changed her. They could do no harm or foul while she was around, and she would let them get away with just about anything. They each gave her the strength to battle her Parkinson’s disease and to enjoy as many days as she could with them. She now holds a special place in each of their hearts.

Gloria is survived by her loving husband of sixty years; Carman of Wayne, three children; Carman Jr. and his wife Jayne of Lodi, Diane Baskinger-Petrolino and her husband James of Coral Springs, Fl, (formerly of Wayne), and Michael and his wife Gail of Wayne, six grandchildren; Matthew Baskinger of Wayne, NJ, Corey and Kelsie Mania of Wayne, and Jenna Lynn, David, and Hannah Mania of Lodi, one sister; Barbara Tajerian and her husband Jack of Paterson, and one brother; Leo Beshada of Newton, NJ. She was predeceased by her sister Pearl Pagliaro.

Dorothy “Dot” Nigra age 93 of Little Falls died peacefully on Tuesday, November 15, 2011 at the Arbor Glenn Care Center, Cedar Grove.

She was born in Newark and moved to Little Falls to live with her Aunt Jenny and Uncle Bogurt Appledorn at the age of thirteen. She worked at the Beattie Carpet Mill in Little Falls as a knot tier. She married Arthur H. Nigra in 1937 and they owned and operated the A&A Valley Service Station on Main Street in Little Falls together for many years. In their retirement Dorothy and Arthur traveled extensively and almost finished their quest to travel to every State of the United States.

Dorothy was a “tough cookie” and ran a tight ship. Her home was immaculate and organized. Although tough on the outside she was really a loving and caring person on the inside. If anyone in the family suffered from any ailment or illness, they made their way to Dorothy’s house where she would nurse them back to health with all her love.

Dorothy dedicated much her life to caring for her daughter Janice and helping her with her struggle with Multiple Sclerosis. Even as Dot struggled with dementia in her latter years, her motherly instincts never faltered in her care for Janice.

Dorothy was the loving wife of sixty-six years to the late Arthur H. Nigra (2004); loving mother of the late Jon A. Nigra(2002) and Janice Nigra of Little Falls; sister of the late Jeannette Markle(2009) and the late John Markle; cherished grandmother of Tracey Rice of Jersey City; loved great-grandmother of Samantha Rice.

Eleanor Lina Seifert-Forgett, age 77 of Upper Greenwood Lake, formerly a resident of Wayne, died Monday, November 14, 2011 at the Hospice of NJ, Wayne.

She was born and raised in Clifton having raised her family in Wayne before moving to her beloved lake home in Upper Greenwood Lake in 1997.

Eleanor was a paralegal secretary for several area attorneys before retiring in 1997.

She was a professional artist specializing in oil painting. An artist at heart she also enjoyed sewing and arts & crafts.

She was the loving wife of the late Robert Lubarsky(1998), and the late Valmore Forgett (2002); companion of Richard Seigel; loving mother of Robert Lubarsky and his wife Jennifer of Wayne, Keith Lubarsky of Wayne, and Lisa Lubarsky of Hewitt; cherished grandmother of Max, Nicolet, Keith, Maryanne and Emily Lubarsky; loved sister of Albert Seifert of Mystic, CT.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Upper Greenwood Lake Ambulance Corps, PO Box S, Hewitt, NJ 07421-1766 would be appreciated.

Americo S . Tirri “Deak” age 87 of Wayne, died peacefully on Monday, November 14, 2011.

He was born and raised in Paterson having moved to Wayne over thirty years ago.

Americo was a US Army Veteran of WWII having served in Naples-Foggia, Rome-Arno, North Apennines and the PO Valley. He received the European-Africa-Middle Eastern Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal and the WWII Victory Medal for his service. He was a member of the Riverside Vets, Paterson.

One of his recollections was driving an Army Jeep down the Spanish Steps in Rome. The monumental stairway of 138 steps was built in 1723 and said to be the largest set of stairs in all of Italy. He served his commanding officer as a driver and language interpreter with the locals. His happy, loving, crazy personality caused him to be a very brave risk taker. Those steps were very steep and his passengers held on for dear life. He was a member of the Riverside Vets, Paterson.

Deak was gifted in life with a wonderful personality coupled with a great sense of humor. Add to those attributes of personality charming and a true ladies man. The girls just loved him.

He worked for the Red Carpet Inn in Paramus, and various dye houses in Paterson before worked for the Wayne Board of Education as a custodian for ten years before retiring in 1986.

He was the loving husband of the late Norma (Luciano) Tirri(1972); devoted brother of Adolph “Tuffy” Tirri of Wayne and Helen Thomas and her husband Charles of Wayne, brother of the late Carmela Tirri(1985), the late Pat Tirri(1996), the late Fred Tirri(2007); he was the cherished uncle of many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Wayne First Aid Squad, PO Box 2004, Wayne, NJ 07470 would be appreciated. For a photo and more information visit www.vandermay.com.

Maria C. Neurouter (nee LaTorraca), age 81 of Wayne, died at home on Sunday, November 13, 2011. Her husband Bill was at her side.

Born in Newark, Maria graduated from Barringer High School in 1948. She began working for Bell Telephone, as most young women of that era did. She moved to Wayne with her first husband in 1958, where she raised her family. She began her second career in 1977, working at the Wayne Township Tax Assessors office, retiring in 1993 after sixteen years of service.

Maria met Bill Neurouter in the mid 1970’s and the two of them enjoyed a lengthy courtship. Previously, Maria had been friends with Bill’s brother Henry for many years. She used to make lunch for Henry and slip him little notes in his sandwich. Somehow, though, Henry never seemed to get the notes – presumably having eaten them along with the sandwiches. Bill on the other hand, realized what a sweetheart Maria was and when they began dating, Henry warned his brother ‘don’t break her heart or else.’ Bill wasn’t planning on breaking any hearts and instead, the two of them enjoyed more than thirty years of a fun, loving, and exciting marriage together. They exchanged their vows at Wayne Town Hall on April 27, 1981 and enjoyed a reception in the tax assessor’s office with all their friends and coworkers joining in the celebration.

Maria was appreciated for her candid sense of humor, and “tell it like it is” attitude. She could tell a story like no one else and she always kept you wondering “what’s she going to say next?” Throughout her lifetime, Maria was blessed with many wonderful friends who she loved dearly. Her most important dedication in life however, was being a wife, mother, and grandmother. She was always in constant contact with her family and loved them all very much. They will surely miss her captivating stories and the love she so generously shared with each of them.

Maria is survived by her husband William of Wayne, her son Mark Nordhausen of Butler, her daughter Barbara Pfeffer (nee Nordhausen) and her husband Thomas of Mooresville, NC, three grandchildren; Thomas J. Pfeffer, Jade Alexa Pfeffer, and Luke Pfeffer, all of Mooresville, NC, her sister; Yvonne Saiya and her husband Sal of Cape Coral, FL, and three nieces; Judy Saiya-Derr and her husband David of Montville, NJ, Janet Santiago and her husband Richard of Cape Coral, FL, and Jacqueline Saiya and her husband Jason Snyder of Cape Coral, FL.

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

Thomas J. Dowd age 85, of Wayne for over thirty-five years, died Friday, November 11, 2011 at the St. Josephs Wayne Hospital.

He was born and raised in West Paterson and worked for the Bogue Electric Company in Paterson as a machinist before enlisting in the US Navy. Tom served in the Navy from 1944 through 1946 and received the American Ribbon and the Victory Medal. After being discharged took employment with the Curtis Wright Corporation in Teterboro. After several years he began working for the Singer Kearfott Corporation first in Clifton and later in Wayne. He worked for Singer Kearfott for over twenty years before retiring in 1987.

Tom enjoyed doing yard work and tending to his tomato, zucchini and pepper garden. Family celebrations were always held in his yard with big barbeques where his hotdogs with chili sauce and french-fries were enjoyed by all. Many, including the Wayne Police, will remember his large garage sales where he would tie up traffic on Ratzer and Valley Roads.

Tom was the loving husband of Carmella “Candy” Gamberalle; devoted father of Thomas John Dowd, Jr. and his wife Donna of Smithville, Joanna Lee Osbun and her husband Lewis of Stockholm, and Brian Douglas Dowd and his wife Betsy of Little Egg Harbor; cherished grandfather of Lori White and her husband Brian, Erin Santoro and her husband John, Jenna Dowd and Tyler Dowd; much loved great-grandfather of Brianna White and Kaitlyn White; dear brother of Joseph Luke Dowd of Paterson, and John Dowd and his wife Nancy of Lanoka Harbor.

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

Olanda “Ann” Seitz age 92 of Wayne died on Thursday, November 10, 2011 at home with her family by her side. Ann was a resident of Wayne since 1957.

Ann was born on the Ausland family farm near Risor Norway to Karsten Norman and Klara (Pedersen) Ausland. Her mother passed away after giving birth to her brother Karl and Ann stayed at the farm and lived with her grandparents as her father looked for work in the United States. Six years later, when Ann was nine years old her father returned to Norway to bring Ann, her sister Christine, and her brother Karl back to the United States. They sailed on the Bergensfjord to New York and lived on City Island. She graduated from Evander Childs High School, Bronx, NY with the Class of 1938. Ann met her husband to be Richard “Dick” Seitz at a YMCA dance in New York City. They hit it off that evening and over the ensuing months they corresponded frequently. Upon his return from the War, they married on November 23, 1946 and initially settled in Pennsylvania before moving to New Jersey in 1955. They purchased their home in Wayne in 1957 and have enjoyed sixty five years of loving marriage together.

She was an active member of the St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church, Wayne and a member of the Sons of Norway, Nor-bu Lodge 427 in Rockaway.

Ann was an excellent cook and her special touch on Krumkake, Norwegian Christmas Cookies, will be truly missed. In her more senior years she enjoyed traveling with her husband Dick. They bought a custom van and traveled all around the United States. They also made many trips back to Norway and other European countries. Fostered by her father’s work in boatbuilding both in Norway and New York Ann enjoyed sailing.

She was the loving wife of the late Richard E. Seitz(July 2011); loving mother of James and his girlfriend Jean of Highland Lakes, NJ and the late Donald Seitz(2008) and his surviving wife Susie Seitz of Arvada, CO; cherished grandmother of Valerie, James Jr., and Jaclyn Seitz; one great-grandson; Tyler James Seitz, all of PA; loved sister of the late Christine and Karl and late half sisters Miriam and Doris.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Passaic Valley Hospice, 783 Riverview Drive, Totowa NJ 07512 would be appreciated.

Ann's Krumkake Cookie Recipe

3 eggs

½ cup sugar

6 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted

½ teaspoon ground cardamom

½ teaspoon lemon extract

2/3 cup all-purpose flour

Whipped Cream(optional)

In mixer bowl, beat eggs with electric mixer till slightly thick, about 1 ½ minutes. Gradually beat in sugar. Add butter or margarine, cardamom, and lemon extract. Blend in flour till smooth. Heat a seasoned 5 or 6 inch krumkake iron over medium heat till a drop of water sizzles. Open iron and brush lightly with additional melted butter. For each cookie, spoon about one heaping tablespoon batter into center of iron; close and scrape off any batter that runs out. Bake over gas flame or electric element 1 to 1 ½ minutes on each side or till golden brown. After removing hot cookie, leave flat, shape into a cone, or roll into a cylinder. Cool on rack. Serve plain or filled with whipped cream.

Makes 1 1/2 dozen.

John William Voyce, age 75 of Wayne, died on Thursday, November 10, 2011 at the Wayne View Nursing Home with his family by his bedside.

John was born on a farm in Brooklyn, New York; the last farm to exist in Brooklyn. An only child, he sadly lost his father when he was a young boy and was raised by his mother and stepfather. Among his earliest jobs, John used to go up to Sheeps Head Bay on the north shore of Long Island and work on the fishing boats there. He loved to be on the water and any day he could spend fishing was a good day for him.

After graduating from high school in Brooklyn, he began taking classes at Brooklyn Polytech. Before he could graduate, his stepfather fell ill and passed away, leaving John to take over the family business; a Sunoco station with a repair garage in Brooklyn. He excelled as an auto mechanic and continued to run the Sunoco station until selling it in 1966. At that time, he moved to Wayne and co-owned a diagnostic center in Glen Ridge, N.J. with his long time friend Wes. Later his career changed as he began selling automotive diagnostic equipment and tools. He worked for several industry leaders over the years including; Sun, Marquette, and Bear, just to name a few. One of his last projects was up-fitting all the New Jersey DMV inspection stations with diagnostic computers and dynamometers, as well as training the staff in their use. He retired in 2001 after a lengthy and diverse career.

John continued to enjoy his passion for fishing over the years. He spent as much time as he could up in Vermont, on Lake Champlain, fishing for Bass and Northern Pike. His best memories were made on the water, with a fishing rod in his hand. He also enjoyed racing and was an avid Indy and Nascar fan. In his younger years, he helped out some of his friends as a mechanic, working on ¾ midget cars. In 1975 he took his family on a cross country adventure for eight weeks, with not much more than a pop-up trailer, camping along the way. He has left his family and friends with a trove of memories to be cherished for their lifetimes.

John is survived by his three children; William and his wife Janice of Tewksbury, NJ, Bart and his partner Tony of Phoenix, AZ, and Lynn Duerst of Lyndhurst, NJ, and seven grandchildren; Nicole (Ivovich) and her husband Daniel of Columbia, MD, Steven Voyce of Union, NJ, Zachary Voyce of Marietta, GA, Anna Voyce and Marykate Voyce both of Tewksbury, NJ, Samantha Duerst of Lyndhurst, NJ, and John W. Voyce II, “JJ”, of Phoenix, AZ. He leaves behind many close friends and family.

Ninety-five year old Madeline Giacopino died peacefully on November 9, 2011 after living a long and happy life.

Madeline was the loving wife of 67 years to the late Frank Giacopino (2009); loving mother of Lorraine LaShell and her “favorite son-in-law” Bill of Wayne, NJ; cherished grandmother of Bill Jr. LaShell of Fair Lawn, NJ, David LaShell and Amanda Lawson of Florham Park, and Nancy Spencer and her husband David of San Diego, CA; beloved great-grandmother of Nicholas and Alexander LaShell of Florham Park, NJ, and Eowyn and Crystar LaShell of Summit, NJ; beloved sister of Helen McAllister of Flushing, NY; devoted aunt of Kevin McAllister and Catherine McAllister of Flushing, NY, RoseMary Omanoff and her husband Bill of Woodbury, NY, Cheryl Naclerio of Kent, England, and Lorraine Sing of Morristown, NJ. She was predeceased by both her brothers, Michael Naclerio of the Bronx, NY and Louis Naclerio of London, England.

Madeline was born and raised in the Bronx, NY. After emigrating to America from Italy, Madeline’s parents opened a grocery store in the South Bronx. The whole family worked at the store, often taking their horse and wagon to buy supplies and sundries. The store was a neighborhood favorite.

Madeline was a shy girl. She and Frank met at a reunion of their parents who were from the same village in Italy. Frank pursued Madeline until she agreed to marry him.

In 1962 Madeline and Frank bought a home in Flushing, Queens, not far from Madeline’s sister and her family. They spent 24 happy years in Flushing before relocating to Leisure Village West in Lakehurst, NJ. The years at Leisure Village were some of her best as she made wonderful friends and enjoyed an active social life. In 2005 Madeline and Frank moved to Wayne to be closer to their family.

Besides her family, Madeline’s greatest passion was cooking and her hobby grocery shopping; she loved to cook and bake, mostly traditional Italian meals, cookies and muffins. She would often cook for her friends and family and host large dinners at her home.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Madeline’s name are asked to consider a donation to Eva’s Village, www.evasvillage.org.

William C. Abner, age 78 of Wayne, died on Saturday, November 5, 2011 at home, with his family by his side. He has been a resident of Wayne since 1960.

Bill was born and raised in Gibson, Georgia and graduated from Bastonville High School. Gibson was a land of cotton and tobacco plantations, with a very traditional Southern lifestyle. After high school he joined the U.S. Army and was stationed, of all places, in Moonachie, New Jersey. While in the Army, Bill started a band with some of his fellow soldiers called the “GI Playboys”. Bill was a self-taught and very talented guitar player and they played at local events all around the Moonachie area. Their band was rather popular and Bill could sing well, play the banjo and guitar. He had a lot of fun performing in those days.

On one particular night out, Bill met Shirley Dressler of Hasbrouck Heights. The two of them hit it off and were married in 1955 at the Corpus Christi Parish in Hasbrouck Heights. Shirley recalls how Bill was terribly nervous and pacing back and forth at the church before their wedding. Little did he know then that there was nothing to worry about, as they have since enjoyed fifty seven years of a loving marriage together. Bill took Shirley to Georgia to meet his family shortly after getting married. Upon driving into Gibson, Georgia, they were pulled over by the police and the officers arrested Bill, stating loudly “we’ve been looking for you for ten years!” as they put him into the patrol car. Poor Shirley was a wreck, wondering who she had married, only to find out that it was all a joke staged by Bill’s family to startle his new bride. It worked, but thank God Shirley has a sense of humor.

Shortly after getting married, Bill’s new father-in-law helped him get a job with Local One of the International Elevator Constructors Union. That began a career spanning forty one years with Otis Elevator Company in Fairfield, NJ. Bill’s son Robert also joined his father at Otis and continues to work there today. Just recently, Bill’s grandson Daniel, was also hired and became a member of Local One, becoming the fourth generation of the Abner family in elevator construction. They announced this to Bill shortly before he passed away and it brought a smile to his face to know that his grandson would be carrying on the legacy.

Bill has always been an avid golfer and since retiring, he plays typically three times per week. Farmstead in Lafayette, NJ was his favorite haunt and he’s played more rounds of golf there than anyone cares to count, and he would have golfed more if he could. He simply loved the game and loved being out on the course with all the good friends he had at Farmstead. He also loved to cook and grille, although he usually left a trail of dirty dishes around the kitchen whenever he did so. The food was always delicious, his steaks cooked perfectly, so in the end the dirty dishes could usually be excused. Bill was a JETS season ticket holder for many years. He truly loved the tailgating parties in the parking lot, always in 17A, where he made some wonderful friends over the years. Sometimes the parties were so good that they didn’t get into the stadium until the second quarter, and other times they left the game at halftime to go back to the tailgate party outside. Although he was a devoted fan since they were the NY TITANS, Bill predicted he would never see the JETS make it to the Super Bowl again in his lifetime, and sadly he was right. Bills other passion was his lawn. He toiled endlessly to keep his lawn looking beautiful and lush. His kids were restricted from playing on it, or even walking on the lawn, for fear that they might damage it. His yard in general was always important to him, and it always looked fantastic.

Bill is survived by his wife of fifty seven years; Shirley (nee Dressler) of Wayne, three sons; John and his wife Karen of Vernon, Robert and his wife Luann of Pequannock, and Jim and his wife Michelle of Point Pleasant, six grandchildren; Kyle and his wife Lauren of Jacksonville, FL, Kelly Abner of Vernon, Jennifer and Daniel Abner of Pequannock, and Summer and Dawson Abner of Point Pleasant, and two sisters; Maggie Abner Montgomery and Janis Russell Kitchens, both of Georgia.

Janice M. Moore (nee Cupit) age 84 of the Pines Lake Section of Wayne died peacefully on Saturday, November 5, 2011 with the comfort of her husband by her side.

She was born in Passaic and lived in Clifton, having graduated from Clifton High School early due to an accelerated course load with the Class of 1944.

Janice, during her high school years, worked at the Western Biscuit Cookie Factory in Passaic with the “odd shift”. The company had an “odd shift” so high school students could work at the factory during WWII as their was a labor shortage.

After high school she continued her education at the Woods Secretarial School, New York City. She later graduated from William Paterson College (now William Paterson University) cum laude, with a degree in business; she was a member of the Beta Chi Chapter of Pi Lambda Theta honor society for business and education.

Janice entered the workforce and soon had a job as an office clerk at the Trow Bridge Conveyor Company in Clifton. She wasn’t fond of this job and soon moved on to become the Secretary to the President of FADA Radio in Belleville. She later worked as the secretary to Alan B. Dumont, president of Dumont Industries in Clifton. Alan B. Dumont was an innovator in the television industry and she enjoyed this work very much. Janice later worked for the Edwards Engineering Company in Pompton Plains as an office manager after which she left the workforce for 18 years to raise her family. After raising her family she found employment with William Paterson University in Wayne where in 1994, after 19 years of service, she retired as assistant to the Dean of the Department of Education.

Janice was an active member of the Preakness Reformed Church in Wayne and was involved with the Brown Bags & Bibles, Koinonia Group and Book Nook.

Forward thinking, she will be remembered for her graciousness, intelligence, and quick wit. She always put others needs before her own and was someone family, friends, and neighbors could confide in. Her quiet, caring way, and ability to help others with compassionate advice, for their troubles and worries will be greatly missed.  She also had a love of animals that has been embraced by all her children as well. As her children were raised there were always dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters and all kinds of other creatures in their home.

She met her husband to be Kenneth E. Moore several times even before they ever dated. Ken lived in Passaic and Janice lived in Clifton and both were out and about one Sunday afternoon. Ken was walking down Main Street in Clifton and spied and cute blonde girl with long shapely legs while looking into a sweet shop window. His friend said “I know her” and introduced them. Two years later Ken once again saw Janice while he was working at the Western Biscuit Factory in Passaic they said hello to each other and once again were separated for years. Ken served in the US Army Air Corps in the Marianas during WWII and when he returned home they bumped into each other once again while both were riding a bus in Passaic. Ken and Janice both got off at the same stop and Ken finally pulled the trigger and said “I’ll call you soon”. The rest is history. Two years after this third chance encounter they married at St. Paul’s RC Church, Clifton on July 30, 1949. Their reception was held at Janice’s home at 9 Burgh Ave., Clifton and they honeymooned at the Chateau Laurier in Ottawa Canada.

Janice enjoyed travel and has been taken her family to all of the states within the Continental United States. She has travel extensively with her husband to Ireland, England, Alaska, Hawaii and many other destinations.

Janice was the loving wife of sixty-two years to Kenneth E. Moore; loving mother of Kim M. Moore and her fiancé William Deichmeister of Oakland, NJ , Darin K. Moore and his wife Kari Osaki Moore of Laguna Beach, CA, and Heidi W. Moore and her husband George B. McAuliffe, III of New York City and six grandchildren, Ryan and Alexis Moore, Brooke Eyer, Camilla, Nicholas, and Julian McAuliffe; she was predeceased by her brother Robert Cupit in 2003.

Those inclined to make a memorial donation are asked to consider the Hospice of NJ, 400 Broad Acres Drive, 1st Floor, Bloomfield, NJ 07003 or the Alzheimer’s Association ALZ.org.

Francis E. Kelly, MD, age 87 of Wayne died Saturday, November 5, 2011peacefully at home with his family gathered at his bedside.

Frank was born in Brooklyn, NY, the son of the late Francis and Helen (Redden) Kelly. Sadly, his father passed when he was just three years old and he was raised by his mother in the Bay Ridge/Fort Hamilton section of Brooklyn. Frank's uncle and grandfather were both New York Police officers and they taught him how to shoot and hunt at a young age. When he was just ten years old or so, he would roll up his rifle into a blanket, hop the ferry to Staten Island and go hunting to bring home food for the family. One day he learned that in Texas, ranchers would pay a handsome bounty to anyone who could kill mountain lions which had been devastating their livestock. So at fifteen years old, with his family desperate for income, Frank hopped a train to Texas one summer with little more than a blanket and his trusty rifle. He hunted mountain lions in Texas for three summers, earning more money each summer than his mother could make all year in Brooklyn. He knew the true meaning of hard work, sacrifice, and the value of family, from his earliest years as a young boy in Brooklyn.

Upon graduating high school, Frank was drafted in to the US Army. He served for forty one months in New Guinea, enduring extreme conditions, intense combat, and frequent bombings. He was a member of the "Jungleers", with the 41st Division, 162nd Infantry, serving under Major General Fuller in New Guinea. He was awarded the European-African-Middle Eastern Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, and the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal. He was an American hero.

Upon returning from the Army, Frank enrolled in college on the GI Bill. He graduated from St. Francis College and then from the NY Medical College at Flower and 5th Avenue, New York. He completed his residency at St. Mary's Hospital in Philadelphia and returned to the Brooklyn Veterans Hospital as an anesthesiologist. He later started his own practice, Dr. Francis E. Kelly, M.D., in Fairfield, NJ, where he practiced for twenty five years before retiring in 1995. He was a diplomat of the American Board of Anesthesiology. He was also on the staff of St Joseph's Hospital, Paterson, East Orange General, St Barnabas Hospital, Livingston, and Mountainside Hospital. He was a member of the Paterson Rotary Club, and a Physician member of the American Medical Association (AMA) for over fifty-nine years.

Frank met his wife Sheila (nee McDonnell) while they were both working at St. Joseph's Hospital in Paterson. On their first date, Frank took Sheila to dinner, and then to an archery range where he taught her to shoot a bow and arrow. They hit it off, and were married on November 7, 1959. After a honeymoon in Miami Beach, they settled in Wayne in 1960 and raised their family. Frank loved to be with his family and spending time at home. He was an excellent ballroom dancer however, and even enjoyed camping on a few occasions. He was also a truly gifted artist; drawing and painting. He created some wonderful treasures for his family to cherish many years to come.

Frank’s children recall how their father always made them feel safe. Frank grew up in Brooklyn. He was always concerned for his families safety and well being and his children always felt safe with their dad around. He took his family camping, taught them how to fish and to always be prepared for the unexpected. With their dad as a doctor, they received all their stitches and wound-care right at home, in the kitchen. On one family vacation in Canada, Frank’s nephew cut his hand, including the tendon. Upon reaching the local hospital, the doctors there were incapable of making the repair, so they let Frank into their operating room and he taught the Canadian doctors how to properly reconnect a tendon. After that, who wouldn't feel safe on vacation with Frank?

He was the loving husband of fifty two years to Sheila C. Kelly of Wayne; loving father of Francis Kelly and his wife Dana of Wayne, Michael Kelly and his wife Tara of Greenwood Lake, NY, John Kelly of Wayne, and the late James Pierce Kelly (1990); cherished grandfather of James and Rebecca Kelly.

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

Theodore "Ted" F. Morro age 90 a fifty-five year resident of Wayne died peacefully at home on Sunday, October 30, 2011.

Ted graduated from Eastside High School, Paterson with the Class of 1939. After high school he began working for the Wright Aeronautical in Paterson where he would inspect motors and parts for the aircraft industry. In 1944 he enlisted in the US Navy and served and was discharged as an Ordinanceman 3rd Class in 1946. He received the Asiatic Pacific Theatre Ribbon, American Theatre Ribbon, WWII Victory Medal and the Aircrew Insignia.

After his service in the Navy Ted worked for the Ribbon & Ticket Paper Company, Paterson as a salesman from 1946 through 1950. In 1950 he established an office supply company that offered office equipment, typewriter repair, and stationary. As the years progressed the company became known as Matas Finaly & Morro Office Supply in Paterson which he owned for forty-two years before retiring in 1992.

He was a founding parishioner and active volunteer at Our Lady of the Valley RC Church, Wayne. He was also a dedicated member of the Wayne Elks Lodge 2181 where he was Officer of the Year 2008-2009, Trustee, and in charge of the Leisure Timers.

Ted was a competitive bowler for over sixty years and although career and family didn't afford much time for it he also loved the game of golf, having caddied at North Jersey Country Club in Wayne as a young man.

He met the love of his life Frances "Fran" Waddell at the Anchor Club, a social club in Paterson comprising graduates of Eastside High School. Soon after meeting Ted enlisted in the US Navy and was shipped out to Florida. He sent Fran a love letter saying he would like to marry her. She accepted and they married on Tuesday, March 13, 1945 as Ted was on leave for a few days. They married at St. Josephs RC Church, Paterson and honeymooned in New York City. Soon Ted was deployed to the Pacific Theatre of the war but just as he got to the South Pacific the war ended. Upon his return home the young couple moved in with Fran's mother and soon got an apartment in Paterson. They bought a house in Totowa where they lived briefly before selling the house and moving temporarily(four years) to Elmwood Park; in 1956 they purchased a home in Wayne and raised their family.

Ted will be remembered as a loving man who had a welcoming way about him. He naturally made people feel comfortable around him and because of this he enjoyed many friendships.

He was the loving husband of Frances (nee Waddell) Morro; loving father of Dianne Redner and her husband William of Stamford, CT, Janice Erwin of Hoover, AL, and Robert Morro and his wife Odalisa of Wayne; and cherished grandfather of Alyson Courtney and Jillian Redner, Stephen, Lauren and Kaitlin White, and Micayla and Stephanie Morro.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Wayne Elks Lodge 2181, 50 Hinchman Ave., Wayne, NJ 07470 or Our Lady of the Valley RC Church, 630 Valley Rd., Wayne, NJ 07470 would be appreciated.

Theodore “Ted” F. Payne, Jr. age 80 of Wayne died Thursday, October 27, 2011 at home, peacefully and with the comfort of his family by his side.

He was born and raised in Passaic and Clifton having graduated from Passaic High School with the Class of 1950. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University – Rutherford with the Class of 1954. He and his wife Jackie moved to Wayne fifty years ago to raise their family.

Ted worked in the paper industry his entire career having first worked for the Lowe Paper Company, Ridgefield and later the Elish Paper Company, NYC where he became a partner. He retired in 1996.

He volunteered much of his time and was a Past President of the Wayne PAL, where he also served as Football Commissioner and coached both football and baseball. He loved the New York Yankees and the New York Giants. Ted enjoyed hunting, fishing, and boating on his beloved boat “Thumper” out of Ocean City. He looked forward to spending every summer at the jersey shore with his family. He took great pleasure and pride in watching his children’s, and more recently his grand children’s sporting events.

Ted met the love of his life Jackie Thompson and shared their first date ice skating in 3rd Ward Park in Passaic. Always the gentleman he proposed marriage to Jackie’s parents first. They married on August 22, 1953 at St. Nicholas Church, Passaic and had their reception at Gene Boyles in Passaic. They honeymooned in Florida.

He was the beloved husband of fifty-eight years to his High School sweetheart Jackie Payne; loving father of Cathy Payne, Jim Payne and his late wife JoAnn(2001), Barbara Hageman and her husband Gary, Teddy Payne, all of Wayne, Nancy Agel and her husband Charlie of Clifton, Jackie Greer and her husband Rob of Oak Ridge, and Debbie Wierciszewski and her husband Ronnie of Lyndhurst; cherished grandfather of six grandchildren, Jimmy Payne and his wife Dana, Patrick Payne, Kellyn and Taylor Hageman, and Bobby and Allie Greer, and two great-grandchildren Madison Brock and Jordyn Payne.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Juvenile Diabetes Assoc., Northern NJ Chapter, 560 Sylvan Ave, Englewood, NJ 07632 would be appreciated.

Gloria Budesa (nee Mancuso) age 72 of Wayne died peacefully on Thursday, October 27, 2011.

She was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. She lived in Jersey City and Clifton before moving to Wayne forty-four years ago.

Mother of two children. She was an outgoing, assertive, and determined person who enjoyed shopping and her frequent walks to Shop Rite in Wayne.

In lieu of flowers memorial donaitons to: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place , Memphis, TN 38105, 1-800-822-6344 http://www.stjude.org would be appreciated.

Antolin P. Alvarez age 73 of Wayne passed Monday, October 24, 2011.

He was born in Cuba and came to this country in 1965 settling in Florida having lived in Paterson before moving to Wayne. As a young man he worked for the RCA Corporation and learned the trade of television repair. He worked nights and weekends repairing televisions and was very disciplined at saving his money. He eventually opened his own business called Brown Appliance in 1980. He sold this business three years later and opened Casper’s Home Center on Main Street in Paterson. The company eventually changed names to Casper’s Galleria, 315 Main St., Paterson and is still run by his son today.

Antolin is best described as a person with a strong will, determined, intelligent, dedicated to his family and business.

He is the loving father of Javier Alvarez of Wayne and Hildana Ciser of Dania Beach, FL.

Joanne G. Linck (nee Vander May) age 82 of Green Pond passed into life eternal on Monday, October 24, 2011 at the Saint Clare’s Hospice in Dover. Her passing was quiet and peaceful while receiving the loving care of her family who were at her bedside.

She was born in Little Falls and lived her formative years there. Joanne received her formal education at the Little Falls Grammar School No. 1 and then at Passaic Valley High School graduating with the Class of 1946. She then went on to study at Cedar Crest College in Allentown, Pennsylvania where she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1950. She was an active participant in the Cedar Crest College select choir called the "Madrigals."

In the 1960's her family joined Dr. Freed's First Presbyterian Church of Pequannock and she was actively involved in its founding and development. She had a strong faith in God and Christ which provided support, guidance and comfort to her throughout her years.

Joanne’s most important dedication in life was being a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and sister. She simply loved her role in her family life.

She loved to watch her children/grandchildren participate in sports especially football, swimming, baseball and track and was always on the sidelines to cheer for the team. Her favorite football team was the New YorK Jets her favorite baseball team the Yankees.

She was gifted with music talents in her persona, playing the marimba in her high school orchestra, and as a vocalist performing with the Masterworks Choir at Carnegie Hall.

Joanne had a summer romance at Green Pond, NJ for six years with a handsome fellow by the name of Robert Linck. They married on January 19, 1952 and had fifty-nine years of loving and adventurous marriage. They retired to Green Pond in 1987 to be close to the lake and community she loved. Robert has said he “married the best girl in the whole world.”

Surviving to mourn this wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and sister are her husband Robert Linck; two daughters Beverly Farrand and her husband George of Green Pond, Karen Matheny and her husband Timothy of Ringoes, NJ; two sons Robert Linck and his wife Bonnie of Little Falls and Grant Linck and his wife Jayne of Riverton, Wyoming; her sister Shirley Green of Montville; ten grandchildren - Amanda, Brigham and Cole Farrand , Meghan and Catherine Linck, Adam Linck and his wife Meggan, Aimee Linck Nimo, Andy Linck and his wife Tiffany, Kenzie and Kevin Matheny.

Her sisters Ruth Van Tatenhove and Doris Kent predeceased her.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Joanne Linck’s memory are asked to consider the Green Pond Volunteer First Aid Squad, PO Box 251, Newfoundland,NJ 07435.

May God’s love and Mercy be with all of us today, as we honor the memory of a great man, and remember his life with so much love and gratitude.

George Iskander Zalat age 76 of Paterson passed away on Saturday, October 22, 2011 in his home. His passing took place peacefully while surrounded by his loving family praying at his bedside .

He was born in Damascus Syria, and spent his early years in the town of Aleppo, Syria. George lost his father when he was one year old, he was raised with his only sister Houda by his Mother Clemontine Ayoub. Raised to have faith, live a respectful life, and provide for his family. Under his mom's caring and loving wings, George grew up to be a gifted and bright student, loved by all who met him. He completed his formal education in Aleppo schools, then soon after, recognized by his teachers, he was offered a job to teach in his high school, which he took to become one of the youngest teachers in his time. In the mean time, while supporting his family and himself, he wanted to become a lawyer, so, he attended the Law University of Aleppo at night, and he graduated in 1967 with honors. He then -adhering to his mother's will- obtained a job in the banking industry, and was soon after promoted to be the vice president of one of the five National Banks of Syria, and held his position with high honor and integrity for 40 years until retirement. George ‘s high principals, integrity, and seriousness came to be known by so many who worked with him and for him. He was known to be very respectful and honest, allowing no deviation from what is true, and what is right. He was respected and honored for that by so many in return.

At age 35, after the marriage of his sister Houda, and the passing of his mother, George met a pretty young girl by the name of Yvette (nee Kharsa), who was the daughter of Fouad Kharsa and Berta Batikha, one of the most loved and respected families in town. And after a six months courtship they married on January 10th, 1971. George and Yvette's marriage was blessed and fruitful, they had four daughters, Carla, May, Yola, and Maria Berte. George and Yvette loved their family so much, they soon with the grace of God, made their sole purpose in life to raise their daughters to know the same faith, standards, and principles they both knew all their life.

In 1998, George came to the US with his family, to spend his retirement life with his only sister Houda, who had been here for 30 years with her family, and to provide his daughters with an opportunity of a better life. George, was indeed a family man, and a great son, great brother, great husband, and a great devoted father.

Thank you Dad, you were one of a kind, irreplaceable soul, and a man with a golden heart. You will always be in our hearts and your touch, your voice, your advice, your hugs will always be remembered with so much love.

As we loved you and cared for you, and honored you during your life, so, shall we honor your memory for the rest of our lives.

Our faith allows us to believe that although you left us in body, your loving soul will always be with us. You will enter eternal life to now be in the merciful hands of our Mother Mary, and in the glorious presence of our loving Lord Jesus Christ. May all their love, mercy and forgiveness be yours, and may your soul rest in peace.

Surviving to cherish his memory are his wife Yvette Zalat; and his daughters, Carla Selimian and her husband Harout of Clifton, May Gerdak and her husband Nabil of Little Ferry, Yola Selim and her husband Hagop of Little Ferry, Maria Kouyoumjian and her husband Harout of Little Ferry; four grandchildren Sarah Ann Selim, Michael and Natalie Gerdak and Leo Arthur Kouyoumjian.

Celeste F. DiCanio, age 87 of Lincoln Park, died on Saturday, October 22, 2011.

She was raised in Passaic and lived there before moving to Lincoln Park in 1954. She was a teacher in West Paterson for her entire career before retiring in 1984.

Celeste was active with the Lincoln Park Senior Citizens and the St. Joseph’s Church Warming Bee Club. She enjoyed a “fabulous, as good as it gets” marriage of almost fifty three years to her husband Nicholas until his death in 2001.

Celeste is survived by her loving sons; James of Winter Park, CO, and Peter of Little Falls, NJ, and many dear nieces and nephews.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Celeste’s name are asked to consider the Lincoln Park Lions Club, PO Box 501, Lincoln Park, NJ 07035.

This note was added here by Victor's family after the conclusion of his services. The complete obituary is below.

From the Family of Victor Felano:

There is a saying from educators, “You will never know how many lives you have touched.” I have just witnessed it myself.

On Friday, Oct 21st, my husband, Victor Felano, passed away. He was a teacher, driver education instructor, athletic director, coached many teams and was an athlete himself.

For many students, Victor was a father figure. To all his students, he was a good teacher, stern and fun. To Victor’s colleagues and everyday friends, a little bit of everything.

When we had his viewing we realized how many lives he touched or had been a part of. The outpouring of visitors was beyond what anyone would have imagined. People waited in lines for 2 hours or more, sharing their stories with each other at both viewings. Everyone was in awe. Our family, friends and neighbors were outstanding and very uplifting.

Victor went out exactly how he wanted: surrounded by family & friends. The church was packed and all his favorite songs were sung. To top it off, there was a veteran send-off with a flag ceremony and taps. Victor always seemed to get his way, even to the end. He will be missed by many…

My family & I want to thank all who came, sent cards, thoughts, prayers, flowers and plants. The best part was just being there to say good-bye to a great man. He will always touch our hearts.

Sincerely, Flo Felano

Victor P. Felano, age 81 of Wayne, died on Friday, October 21, 2011. He was born in Paterson where he lived his formative years before moving to Wayne in 1962.

Vic received his formal education first at Paterson Eastside High School graduating with the Class of 1949. He then went to Panzer College in East Orange where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Education and Health Sciences. Later he studied at Montclair State University and received a Masters Degree in Education.

In June of 1953 he enlisted in the Army and was stationed at the Pentagon in Washington DC. He was a photography specialist and was a picture analyst. While in the Army he participated in Army Track Sports and played softball on an Army team. He also played Soccer with the Lido International Soccer Team. While representing the Army in sports competition, he was awarded the “All Army” for athletic excellence.

He was employed by the Paterson Board of Education for thirty years as a Physical Education Instructor and Sports Coach and Athletic Director, first at Paterson Central High School and later at Kennedy High School. He retired in 1985.

He leaves his family with many fond memories of a very loving husband, father and grandfather who was very family-oriented. He especially enjoyed having Sunday dinners together, with all of his family around him.

Victor and Florence met at Panzer College and married in 1954. They had, as Florence said, an “adventurous and loving marriage”, and as Victor said himself; a “fantastic marriage” together for fifty seven years.

Surviving are his loving wife Florence (nee Conforti) Felano; two daughters Denise Felano of Wayne and Karen Viglione and her husband Michael of Brick; three sons Skip Felano of Wayne, Steven Felano and his wife Carol of Jefferson and Thomas Felano of Riverdale; ten grandchildren Nicole and Stephanie Quinn, Gabrielle Felano, Andrea and Derek Felano, Joseph, Andrew and James Felano, Anthony and Michael Viglione.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Victor’s memory are asked to consider New Jersey Special Olympics, PO Box 747, Ringwood, NJ 07456.

Joan D. FitzGerald (nee Drake), age 79 of Sparkill, NY and formerly of Wayne, died on Friday, October 21, 2011.

Joan had worked at William Paterson University in the Sociology Department for nearly twenty years before retiring in 2008. It was at that time that she moved from Wayne to Sparkill, NY to be closer to her daughter.

Joan grew up in Rutherford, NJ and graduated from Rutherford High School in 1950. She went on to graduate from Grove City College in Pennsylvania in 1954. It was at Grove City College that Joan met Edward FitzGerald, a fellow classmate, whom she fell in love with. They were married in 1956 and enjoyed a honeymoon together in Florida. When Joan revealed several years later that she really didn’t enjoy her honeymoon destination all that much, Ed made it up to her and they had a second honeymoon in Puerto Rico, which they both enjoyed much more. Sadly, Ed passed away in 2002 and Joan was never quite the same. She had been devoted to him throughout their marriage and has missed him dearly ever since.

Joan and Ed moved to Wayne in 1962 and settled in Packanack Lake in 1972. They raised their three children there with a firm foundation at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish. She was a devout member there and all of her children attended school at IHM. Joan was very active in the church, including as a Eucharistic minister. She rarely missed Sunday Mass.

Her children recall fun times with their mom, especially summer vacation. They went to the Jersey Shore just about every summer and made many wonderful memories. She was always a supportive mom; their biggest fan. She was also the one who taught them most of their ‘handy’ skills. Not only was she capable in the gardening, but she also wallpapered, laid bricks for a patio, and did most of the home repairs. She loved music and stayed loyal to the big-band sounds of the 1940’s and 50’s. She was also very thoughtful and considerate of others. She never missed a birthday or anniversary and was always punctual with her greeting cards. Christmas was her favorite holiday and she loved having her family all gathered around, with a big meal, and all the traditions that go along with the holiday. Those memories and special times will be cherished throughout their lifetimes.

Joan is survived by her three loving children; Jody Ricevuto and her husband Anthony of New City, NY, Patty Kampmann and her husband Richard of San Francisco, CA, and Ted FitzGerald and his wife Susan of Farmingdale, NJ, six grandchildren; Julie and Daniel Ricevuto, Jack and Ricky Kampmann, and Kayla and Rylee FitzGerald.

Joan was always supportive of St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital during her lifetime and her family would appreciate donations in her memory be directed there. St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 322 N. Lauderdale St., Memphis, TN, 38105-2729.

Marie (nee DeFino) McVeigh – Woelkers age 76 of Wayne died Thursday, October 20, 2011.

She was born and raised in Paterson having graduated from Eastside High School with the Class of 1953. She has been a resident of Wayne for thirty years.

She had a lifelong career as a bookkeeper with several area companies having worked for the Kirker Chemical Co., Paterson for over ten years before retiring in 1997.

Marie was dedicated to the Elks and served as Auxiliary President of the Passaic Valley Elks Lodge #2111 from 1995 – 1996 and Treasurer of the Wayne Elks Lodge #2181 from 2000 – 2011 and was voted Past Officer of the Year. She had a personal dedication to the Special Children’s Committee of the Wayne Elks. She was also a member of the Irish Heritage.

Marie was the loving companion of Pat Maselli of Wayne; devoted mother of Jim McVeigh and his wife Marianne of Howell,  Carolyn McVeigh of Clinton, Billy McVeigh and his girlfriend Carolyn of Paterson; cherished grandmother of James, Kyle, Christopher, and Dylan McVeigh and loving great-grandmother of Logan, Linsleigh, James III, and Emily McVeigh.

Norman H. Strauss, age 64 of New York, NY and formerly of Upper Greenwood Lake, NJ, died on Tuesday, October 18, 2011 after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer.

Norm was a U.S. Army veteran, having served during the Vietnam War. Upon being discharged he went right to work for AT&T in New York City and remained there for over thirty years as a technician. He made many wonderful friends there over the years, including his wife Deirdre (nee Anderson) who he married in 2010. Norm retired from AT&T in 1997.

Norm was an avid “Vanner” and would attend ‘Truck-in’s” all across the country. “Vanners” are custom van enthusiasts and Norm would attend rallies and events all across the country with his custom van. He was a member of the New Jersey Van Council and he attended the New Jersey events religiously. He loved the camaraderie, the great parties, and all the wonderful friends he made over the years as a vanner.

In 2008, sadness struck Norm’s life when he lost his wife Catherine (nee Monsees) after just nine years of a very loving marriage. Norm had known Cathy since they were thirteen years old and they married when Norm was fifty. Two and a half years later, Norm married again to Deirdre whom he had known for many years while working at AT&T. He had always remained close with Deirdre over the years and they were married on August 9, 2010. They too enjoyed a loving relationship together and Norm easily made the transition from living in rural New Jersey to Manhattan, after marrying Deirdre. The two of them just celebrated their first anniversary this past August.

Norm had a huge heart and was always there to help anyone in need. All those who knew him; friends, coworkers, family and fellow vanners, knew that Norm was generous, kind hearted, and the most dependable friend you could ask for. Just a few weeks ago, with Norm’s grim prognosis looming, his family threw him a party and many of his dear friends showed up. Norm was so happy when the evening was over, having listened to all the stories about him that people shared, and he was truly moved by the experience. As his brother drove him home to New York City later that night, Norm cried the whole ride. He was so grateful for all the wonderful friends he was blessed with during his lifetime and was very happy to have enjoyed that evening with so many of them.

Norm is survived by his wife Deirdre of New York, NY, Catherine’s son; Travis Petrowski and his wife Julie of Indiana, two brothers; Richard Strauss and his wife Arlene of Old Bridge, NJ, and Nicholas Strauss and his wife Joanne of Wayne, one sister; Valerie Strauss of NJ, two grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and countless dear friends.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Norm’s name are asked to consider The Lustgarten Foundation, 1111 Stewart Avenue, Bethpage, NY, 11714.

Elaine Fay Radhuber, “Lyn”, was born in 1924 in Union City, NJ, in a “cold water flat” as the second daughter of Warren F. and Helen E. Marshall, a career state Republican Party official for over 40 years.

Lyn graduated from Union Hill High School in 1942. She answered the patriotic call of wartime by enrolling in nurse’s training school, Christ Hospital, Jersey City, NJ. She would form many lifetime friends from this experience. She was capped as a Registered Nurse in 1943. In 1945, she married her high school sweetheart, William Radhuber, Jr., who was a graduate of Stevens Institute of Technology and a Navy Ensign. They were divorced in the 1980’s.

Lyn moved from Union City to Wayne, NJ in 1953. After the birth of her children, Keith in 1947, Karen in 1952, and Craig in 1954, she returned to nursing. During this time, she enjoyed ballroom dancing and enrolled in Dale Carnegie public speaking courses.

Lyn was frustrated by the irregular hours of private duty nursing. In the late 1960’s, Lyn applied for and won the newly created position of Director of Utilization at St. Jospeh's Medical Center, Paterson, NJ.  She oversaw the administration of the then recently legislated Medicare program and was instrumental in creating many procedures that would be adapted state- and nation-wide. Lyn retired in 1989 after valuable contributions to the growth of St. Joseph’s, and the administration of Medicare.

Lyn moved to Cobb County, Georgia in 1994. She was active in the Cobb County Senior Center, and particularly enjoyed the church services at Due West which were punctuated by elaborately produced spirituals. She moved back to New Jersey in 2008 and resided at the Chelsea in Tinton Falls, where she battled the onset of dementia in her later years. She passed away weeks before her 87th birthday.

Lyn is survived by her three children; Keith Radhuber and his wife Janice of Tinton Falls, Karen Siepe and her husband Kim of Effort, PA , and Craig Radhuber of Union City, NJ, five grandchildren; Keather, Kourtney and Kacey Siepe and Grace and Mary Radhuber, and two great grandchildren.

Dorothy Ellen Wall, age 61 of the Packanack Lake Section of Wayne, passed peacefully at home on Sunday, October 16, 2011.

She was born in NYC and has lived in Wayne for the past fifty-five years having graduated from Wayne Valley High School with the Class of 1968. She continued her education at St. Leo’s University, St. Leo, FL and also at the Caldwell College in Caldwell, NJ.

Dorothy previously worked at the Anne Taylor store in the Willowbrook Mall, Wayne and later in the Accounts Receivable Dept. of Valley National Bank in Wayne.

She was a parishioner of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Wayne.

Dorothy was a quiet, loving and caring person who always put others before herself. She loved to dance, enjoyed Jazz music, and also loved her late German Shepherd “Hamptie”.

She was the loving daughter of Dorothy(nee O’Malley) and Robert Wall; much loved niece of Robert and Eileen Barrett both of TX; loving cousin of Geri Rock and her husband Barry of NH, Tara Edwards of VA, and Blair Edwards of OH.

Felicia Carini (nee Pezzuti) age 89 of Wayne died, Saturday, October 15, 2011, peacefully at the Atrium At Wayne.

She was born and raised in Paterson having graduated from Central High School, Paterson with the Class of 1939. After high school she worked as a bookkeeper at a shoe manufacturing company in New York City having commuted by train and going through Grand Central Station every day. After her children had grown, she returned to the workforce as a bookkeeper for Leonard’s Photography Studio, Totowa and eventually purchased the company. She ran Leonard’s Photography until she sold the business in 1982. After selling the business she worked as a bookkeeper for Bridal Manor, Totowa before retiring in 1987. Never one to sit still she started a new career as a babysitter for her grandchildren.

She met her husband Salvatore Carini having been set up by family and friends. Although they lived just a few blocks apart in Paterson they had never met. They married on May 15, 1955 at Our Lady of Lourdes RC Church, Paterson and honeymooned in Cuba. After they married they lived in a family owned two family home on Putnam Street in Paterson. In 1964 they moved to Wayne as their family grew. They had a loving and dedicated marriage until Salvatore’s untimely passing in 1977.

Felicia was independent and had many interests, but she dedicated herself to home and family as they were her priorities. Felicia was a gregarious and generous friend to many, always with a positive outlook and kind word. Felicia enjoyed bowling throughout the years and was awarded “Most Improved Bowler” at the T-Bowl Senior Leagues at age 88. Felicia was a dedicated parishioner of Our Lady of the Valley RC Church, Wayne, and a member of their Council of Catholic Women, and a member of the Annunciation RC Church of Wayne Primetimers senior group.

She was the keeper of family traditions who is best described as having a quick wit, a vibrant personality, and was blessed with good health and a clear, alert and up to date mind. Just the night before she passed she was still alert enough to joke with her family. An excellent cook her special touch on Chicken Soup, Beef Ribs and Gravy, Chocolate Pudding Pie, Lasagna, and Egg Omelets will surely be missed.

She was the beloved wife of the late Salvatore Carini (1977); loving mother of Maria Pizza and her husband Ron of Wayne, Joseph Carini and his wife Joan of Kinnelon, and Sue Piombo and her husband Albert of Wayne; cherished grandmother of Nicole George, Gina Hascup, Ron Pizza, Jr., Eric Ciappio, Albert Piombo, Jr., Melissa Piombo; and her four great grandchildren Sophie and Ethan George, and Gavin and Benjamin Hascup; loved sister of the late Alfonse and Daniel Pezzuti, Antoinette Gennarelli, Adele Magno, and Molly Gillick.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to St. Judes Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 would be appreciated.

Vincent “Jimmy” Madonia age 82 of Wayne died suddenly on Thursday October 13, 2011 having the comfort of his wife Mildred by his side.

He was born and raised in Passaic having moved to Wayne in 1963.

Jimmy’s very first job was helping his dad on his milk route. He would run the bottles to the door and bring back the empty bottles. He later took a job as a yarn boy delivering yarn to worker at a textile mill in Passaic. In 1951 he graduated from the US Army Marine Diesel Engine Mechanic Course at Fort Eustis, VA. This training gave him the tools for a career as a Diesel Mechanic. After his discharge from the Army he took a job at Carlton Hill Trucking, East Rutherford where he worked for twelve years. He then took a job with Eastern Freightways, Carlstadt where he worked for ten years. In 1976 he got a job with Ward Trucking in Little Falls before retiring in 1988.

Jimmy was a US Army Veteran of the Korean War. He received the Distinguished Service Medal and the Korean Service Medal. He would talk of his service in the Pacific and how he only got seasick twice…once was during a Typhoon. After his service he received the State of NJ Distinguished Service Award from then Gov. Donald DiFrancesco and the NJ Korean War Commemorative Medal.

He was a member of the Our Lady of the Valley RC Church, Wayne, the Wayne Elks Lodge (elected Elk of the Year 1985/1986), American Legion, Wayne, and the Golden Age Circle of Wayne.

Jimmy met his wife Mildred (Ferraro) at a dance in Passaic on October 29, 1949. Their first date was to a Halloween Dance also in Passaic. They fell in love and married on January 7, 1951 at Sacred Heart RC Church, Lyndhurst - during a terrible ice storm. They honeymooned at the Split Rock Lodge in the Poconos. They were married just two months before Jimmy entered the US Army. Mildred lived with her parents in Lyndhurst for a while and when Jimmy finished Boot Camp, she moved to Virginia to live with him before he was deployed to the Philippines. She again lived with her parents until Jimmy was discharged on March 3, 1953. At this time they moved into Jimmy’s parents two family home in Passaic before moving to Wayne in 1963.

He is best described by his family as being in constant motion, always a project or endeavor of some kind. Even at age 81 they found him taking down a 30 foot tree, by himself, in the backyard. He enjoyed salt water fishing and cherished the days he spent on the water with his grandson by his side. He enjoyed cooking and could be found in the kitchen at the Wayne Elks cooking away. He even cooked for his son Jim and daughter-in-law Wendy’s wedding. Again he could never sit still and started his own office cleaning business called VJM Cleaning which he ran for several years.

He was the loving husband of sixty years to Mildred (Ferraro) Madonia; loving father of Janice Flaherty and her husband Tom of Aberdeen, and Jim Madonia and his wife Wendy of Little Falls; cherished grandfather of Matthew, Samantha, Alex and Nick Madonia; one sister Mary LaMarco of Passaic.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Wayne First Aid Squad, PO Box 291, Wayne, NJ 07474 would be appreciated.

Susan Joyce Lempke 56, of Wayne, NJ, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2011 from complications of neuropathy.

Susan was born in Easton, Pennsylvania, in 1955, and raised in Packanack Lake, Wayne, NJ. She was a graduate of Wayne Valley High School and William Paterson College (B.A., 1978), where she majored in Political Science, with a minor in (and lifelong love of) Art.

After college, Sue’s sense of adventure and artistic muse led her to France, where she lived for a year. On her return home, in her professional life, she worked in New York City as a supervisor at Mutual of New York and, after leaving the City, held various retail positions, which often complemented her sense of style.

Those who knew Susan will remember her boundless sense of humor and artistic talents. Susan had a rare ability to make others laugh, and never let a predicament or quandary pass without extracting some humor from it. Her family and friends reveled in her gift of laughter, whether it came wrapped in wordplay or slapstick. Susan’s occasional impromptu tap dances were an over-the-top delight for all, and will never be forgotten. While her youthful performances in local stage productions did not lead to a life in the footlights, they left her with an everlasting flair for the theatric.

Born an exceptional artist, Susan developed her own identifiable – and beautiful – graphic style throughout her school years, and practiced her craft to the end. Every Christmas, Easter and Halloween, Susan would paint a water color or create a pen-and-ink card capturing the holiday, or some distilled element of it, as a feast for the eyes and a gift from the heart. Susan’s slightly askew slant on the world was always on display, and made her works instantly recognizable. No matter the theme, beneath the whimsical play of line, color and composition, they were always a true and loving reflection of the artist, and treasures for the lucky recipients. Susan’s beautiful smile, laughter, and generous nature will be missed by all.

Susan is survived by her three sisters; Elizabeth Cochrane and her husband William of Wayne, Cynthia Clarke and her husband Benjamin of Wayne, Meredith Lempke of Lynn, MA, her one brother, Richard Lempke of Wayne, her nephew Ernest Clarke of New York, NY, and her niece Elizabeth Cochrane of Wayne.

In Susan’s honor, the family encourages donations be made to Eva’s Village, 393 Main Street, Paterson, NJ 07501.

Theodore Basil Talis “Ted” age 92 of Wayne, formerly of Caldwell, passed into life eternal on Monday, October 10, 2011 at home with his loving wife Trudy at his bedside.

He was born and spent his childhood in Newark and received his formal education at Barringer High School and Upsala College.

His first job in life was delivering groceries and those years were very difficult times financially. He would give his salary to his mother to help support the family and then kept the tips he received for his own use.   He knew difficult times and would speak of his early years in Newark living and being raised in a cold water flat apartment.  As a youngster he always was looking for ways to improve himself and he had more than twenty-one jobs striving always to be the best he could.  Starting from his first job forward he found himself gifted with an upbeat sociable personality and a personality bent toward what it took to be a genuine achieving entrepreneur.   He was unstoppable in trying to improve his business life.  All throughout his life he was the “go to guy” to accomplish whatever needed to be done.

Much of his Army service was in Hawaii as a Staff Sergeant and he would take every opportunity to achieve gainful self employment along with his Army service.  He would share stories with his family of providing cars for sale to fellow Army officers and he did quite well.   In Hawaii he also ran a Coca Cola Bottling distributorship. He was discharged from the Army in 1945. The first real job he had in the states was for the American Gas Company and also had a side entrepreneurial effort of establishing his own “Talis Fancy Box Business.”

Ted was also gifted with a kind and gentle personality and had a special devotion to his family.  In 1947 he met  Joan Harbecke and after a two year courtship they married in 1949 and had a “madly in love marriage” until Joan’s passing in 1983.  He remarried in 1992 to a beautiful woman named Trudy Tanis and had nineteen years of very happy marriage together.

His principal occupation in life was for International Telephone and Telegraph commonly known as IT&T located in Nutley as a Mechanical Engineer. His work was in several divisions of IT&T but his favorite was Avionics where he became instrumental in the American Space Program.  Being inventive by nature he helped develop the Black Box for space shuttles.  In his work he had the highest top secret clearance for the very sensitive work he was engaged in for the defense department.

Known to his family as "PopPop" his original games were plentiful, mostly involving his brown vinyl, swivel easy chair.   There were hours of the highly anticipated stories of The Little Mouse which could get quite frightening at times and always ended with being tickled into hysteria.  The ever intriguing Button Game where his children and later grandchildren sat on his legs holding his hands and pressed a particular button for a change in the ride they would receive (normal trotting, super fast racing or hobbally- ho splits) Another game he invented was Ta Da!  This was a fabulously fast yet artistic combination game of running and jumping up on his knees as he would “spot” his kids and they would then strike an outstanding pose usually involving arms up or out and on one foot. He was also cherished by his step children and step grandchildren with whom he had many wonderful family times. They loved to hear his stories and many jokes, no matter how corny. He had a great influence on their lives and loved them like his own. He was a great example of being a father and husband showing his love for his entire family.

Rose Zamponi, age 81, of Wayne passed away on Monday, October 10, 2011 at the Regency Gardens Care Center, Wayne.

She was born in Rochelle Park, spending her formative years in Passaic, where she lived before moving to Wayne in 1957.

Mrs Zamponi was a technical assembler, and served in several other capacities, for IT&T Corporation in Nutley for twenty-five years before her retirement in 1980.

Following the death of her husband in 1984, Rose was suddenly on her own, but she was gifted with a very special determination, and entered a new phase of her life, supported by her two children, Lynda and Michael.

Her devotion to motherhood was very strong, and gave her great joy, and she was determined that hard work and much love was the formula to raise her family. Looking back, she made many personal sacrifices.

Rose’s motherhood was infused with a tremendous amount of love and caring, and she was always enthusiastic about her two children’s endeavors, providing great support and encouragement throughout their lives. She was always concerned about their wellbeing, even as they became adults. She leaves her children and grandchildren with many wonderful memories of a very loving mother figure.

Rose’s children recall her wonderful Italian cooking, her baking, including the best apple pie in the whole world, and the beautiful vegetables and flowers that she lovingly cultivated, which were in her home garden for everyone to enjoy. Despite all of her work, both to earn a living and around the home, she still enjoyed reading novels, watching movies, and listening to music - you could describe her as the Energy Mom. During her retirement, Rose discovered the joys of travel, visiting her daughter Lynda in England, and touring all of the historic sites and the coastal areas of the southeast. She also greatly enjoyed visiting with her son Michael, his partner John and their children, and delighted in many wonderful family occasions at their home.

Thank you, Dearest Mom, one more time, for being such a wonderful part of our lives, and for all your love and devotion.

Surviving and cherishing the wonderful memories of a very special mother are one daughter, Lynda Zamponi, and her partner Bettina Posner, of London, England; one son, Michael Chiaramonte, and his partner John Chiaramonte, of Wayne; one sister, Eileen Dillon of Hillsboro; one sister-in-law, Clara E. Zamponi of Little Falls; one brother, Sal Faillace, and his wife Carmen, of Hillsboro; and three grandchildren, Lauren, Olivia and Reese Chiaramonte.

Mary Patricia VanVooren, age 82 of Wayne, died peacefully on Saturday, October, 8, 2011. Her family was gathered at her side, offering peace and comfort, when she passed.

Born in Mobile, Alabama, “Pat” sadly lost her mother when she was just seven years old. She was raised by her aunt and grandmother, along with some very strong ‘Southern’ traditions, to be a brave, courageous, and independent woman. At just eighteen years old, she moved out of her father’s home, taking her two younger siblings, Billy and Jackie, with her. At such a young age, she worked hard to raise them all to adulthood before moving to New Jersey when she was twenty three years old. She lived in Paterson briefly, and Little Falls, before settling in the Pines Lake section of Wayne in 1963.

Over the years, Pat maintained a close relationship with her brother Billy and sister Jackie, in Alabama. She would visit them at least once a year, sometimes twice, and they would always talk on the phone. Pat loved and cared deeply for them during her entire life.

Pat raised four children in Pines Lake and decided to go to college while her youngest children were still in high school. She graduated from William Paterson College and later went on to earn her Master’s Degree there as well. She began teaching English at the Ramapo High School in Franklin Lakes and stayed there for about twenty years before retiring in 1993. She loved her career and made many lifelong friends at Ramapo. The staff of the English Department all became close friends and they would often meet for lunch and they remained socially active right up to current times. Pat was a dedicated teacher, fastidious, and very bright. Her children recall how their mother would come home from work and stay up to the wee hours; preparing her lesson plans, grading tests, and organizing her paperwork. She loved her students and her career.

In 1987, Pat met Ed VanVooren, one of her neighbors who had sadly lost his wife recently. As a gesture of sympathy, Pat had cooked him a pot roast which she delivered to his home. Sometime later, Ed thanked Pat for the meal and he invited her out for dinner. The two of them ‘clicked’ almost immediately and a wonderful relationship blossomed. They courted for about four years before getting married and they loved each other dearly. Together, they travelled to Italy, Greece, and France just to name a few destinations. Sadly, Ed passed away in 1995 after an all-too-short, but wonderful love affair.

Throughout her life, Pat never stopped challenging herself. She enjoyed crossword puzzles and would compete with her son-in-law to see who could finish them faster. She loved to play Bridge and was very competitive, playing with the Pines Lake Seniors and the Wayne Area Seniors. She loved oil painting and was artistically talented. She worked painstakingly over her garden and could always find something to trim, prune, or manicure. She was also a wonderful cook.

Pat is survived by her loving children; Jan Neilan and her husband Tom of Kinnelon, Chris Herold and his wife Ann of Wanaque, Marcella Carney and her husband Rick of Mendham, and Lee Santaromita and her husband Nate of Hillsborough, eight grandchildren; Danny, Katie, and Emily Neilan of Kinnelon, Kasey, and Matthew Herold of Wanaque, Patrick Carney of Mendham, Kim and Analee Santaromita of Hillsborough, her brother Billy Hanlon of Mobile, Alabama, her sister Jackie McAleer of Birmingham, Alabama, and her dear sister-in-law; Rita Ruffing of Sea Girt, NJ. She was predeceased by her husband Ed VanVooren in 1995.

Donations to “Danny’s House” would be greatly appreciated. Pat’s grandson Danny is autistic and suffers from Down Syndrome. His long term wellbeing was always a concern of hers and in her memory, “Danny’s House” is being established to provide a home for Danny and other autistic adults just like him. Please make your donations payable to “Danny’s House” and mail them c/o Vander May Funeral Home, 567 Ratzer Road, Wayne, NJ 07470. Thank you.

Frank Thomas Semeraro, age 88 of Wayne died peacefully at home on Thursday, October 6, 2011. Born in Paterson, Frank moved to Wayne in 1964.

He was proprietor of Frank Semeraro General Contractors since 1980, and prior to that he was put to work out of high school, and had been partners with his brother, Michael. Frank was extremely hard working and was known for his tough demeanor and ‘get it done’ attitude. He was proud to have brought his sons up in the business and today they carry on his legacy as they continue to run the family business.

Frank proudly served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was among those brave men who landed on the beach at Normandy, France during the D-Day invasion. He was awarded the Distinguished Unit Badge, Victory Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the European-African-Middle Eastern Ribbon with a Bronze Arrowhead.

Frank met his wife Lucy (nee Lobosco) in their Stoney Road neighborhood of Paterson, NJ, while they were in high school together. They have enjoyed 63 years together since getting married in 1946. One of Frank’s true passions was gardening, where he did the growing and Lucy did the cooking. Although Frank’s health got the better of him in his later years, he loved the visits from his family and especially his grandchildren.

Frank is survived by his wife Lucy, his four children; Angela Capo and her husband Mike of Ortley Beach, Maryann Lang and her husband Bill of Salem, NY, Charles F. and his wife Fran of Wayne, and Frank Jr. and his wife Fran of Wayne, his nine grandchildren, Michael, Chris, Frank, John, Donald, Matthew, Donna, Jenna, and Jessica, one great-grandchild Ella, one brother; Michael Semeraro of Wayne, four sisters; Lucrecia Terlizzi of FL, Lea Caramalis of FL, Cathy Cole of FL, and Rose Kelly of Riverdale, NJ. He was predeceased by his sister Antoinette Matits.

Memorial donations in Frank’s honor to the Wayne Memorial First Aid Squad, P.O. Box 2004, Wayne, NJ 07474, would be greatly appreciated.

Josephine Marie Smith “Dolly” (nee Luzzi) age 91 of Wayne passed into life eternal peacefully on Monday, October 3, 2011 with her loving family at her bedside.

She was born in Jersey City and lived her formative years there where she received her formal education at Saint Aeden’s Parochial School and at Lincoln High School.

Josephine grew up in a household with seven children and at an early age she determined to strike out in her own, independent way. Her first job was as a waitress at Betty's Sweet Shop and later at Schraft’s Restaurant. It was at this job that she met this handsome fellow by the name of Charles Smith and, after a short courtship, they tied the knot of marriage on August 25, 1945. The final result was Charles and Dolly had thirty-nine years of “adventurous and loving” marriage together until Charles’s passing in 1984.

As a couple they enjoyed getting in the car and just going for a ride looking for new vistas and nice places to stop and eat. This was pretty much their Sunday routine and they had many favorite spots to enjoy meals. They also enjoyed golfing and lots of laughter together. Charles had a wonderful sense of humor which he readily shared with others.

Josephine will always be remembered by her family as being an excellent mother and a better grandmother. She would share with others that the next time through life she was going to skip parenting and jump right into being a grandmother.

Dolly was very dedicated to her Roman Catholic Faith with a special devotion to Mary.

She was gifted with a spontaneous self assured outspoken personality that made others take notice and admire her.

Surviving to mourn the loss of this very special mother and grandmother are one daughter Susan Marie Donnelly and her husband Mark of Wayne; one son Charles Dean Smith Jr. and his wife Eileen of Toms River; two sisters Irene Gilchrist of Wyckoff and Doris Morse of Franklin Lakes. Four grandchildren Mark and Stacy Donnelly, Julie Halka and Patrick Smith.

Enis Y. DeVito (nee Mele) age 82 of Kinnelon, formerly of Weehawken passed Sunday, October 2, 2011 at the NY Presbyterian Hospital.

She was born and raised in West New York, NJ and lived in Weehawken before moving to Kinnelon five years ago. She was a bookkeeper /insurance adjuster for Markel Service in New York City and then dedicated herself to raising her family. After her children got older she took a position as a Podiatric Assistant for Dr. Anthony Grieco in Hoboken before formally retiring in 1985.

Enis met the love of her life Ralph DeVito at a local community dance in Hudson County and they were married on Easter Sunday, March 28, 1951 at Our Lady of Libera RC Church, West New York. They enjoyed twenty-six years of a loving, dedicated, fun, marriage that could easily be equated to “Lucy & Ricky” of the famous I Love Lucy program.

She will be remembered as a lady who was: stylish, compassionate, generous, always putting others first, matter of fact, honest, sincere, spiritual and a cornerstone of family traditions. Her special touch on historical family recipes including Easter Pie, Easter Bread, and especially her Ricotta Cheesecake will be greatly missed.

Enis was never an animal person until she moved in with her daughter Joanne and her husband Anthony. She developed an immediate bond to the late Lana, a Bichon Frise, and to two rescued Chihuahua’s Buddy and Mimi.

She was the devoted wife of the late Ralph DeVito(1977); loving mother of Ralph John DeVito and his wife Elizabeth of Long Valley, Joanne DePalma and her husband Anthony of Kinnelon; cherished grandmother of Christopher, Gregory and Stephen DeVito, and Anthony and Gianna DePalma; loved sister of Anthony R. Mele and his wife MaryAnn of Woodcliff Lake, and the late Filomena and Ortenzio Albanese, Madelyn and Joseph Cinque, and Ralph J. Mele and his surviving wife Gloria of Paramus; loved sister in law of Lena Conrad of Wanaque and her husband John.

Memorial donations to the Lupus Foundation of America, PO Box 418629, Boston, MA 02241-8629 or the American Heart Assoc, 1 Union St., #301, Robbinsville, NJ 08691-4183 would be appreciated.

A.J. (Alan) Mendez age 16, a lifelong resident of Wayne, passed tragically on October 2, 2011.

He was a student at Randall Carter Elementary School, George Washington Junior High School, and was currently in his Junior year at Wayne Valley High School with the Class of 2013.

A.J. just got a new job at Journeys Shoes at Willowbrook Mall and had previously worked for A.V. Services in Fairfield as a technician.

He is best described as a fun, loving, polite, friendly, prankster who loved being outdoors, and really enjoyed being with his friends. BMX bike riding, skateboarding, electric guitar (heavy metal/rock), and playing XBOX for hours on end were all passions of his.

He was the loving son of Rod and Karen Mendez of Wayne; devoted brother of Deanna Mendez of Wayne; cherished grandson of Pat (Stecklein) Alter of Kew Gardens Queens, NY and the late Stuart Alter, Anne (Fiedler) Mendez, and Joseph Mendez; much loved by many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Flowers are appreciated, or for those inclined to make a memorial donation,  please consider the American Red Cross, 209 Fairfield Rd., Fairfield, NJ 07004.

Here is a compilation of poems and thoughts put together by some of AJ's friends:

Never forget AJ Mendez

“Have fun, scouting out the new territory…’til we can join you later.”

“Do not stand at my grave and weep, I am not there; I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow; I am the diamond glints on snow; I am the sunlight on ripened grain; I am the gentle autumn rain. When you awaken in the morning’s hush, I am the swift uplifting rush of a quiet bird in circles flight. I am the soft star that shines at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry, I am not there; I did not die.”

“When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.”

“When I am gone, release me, let me go I have so many things to say and do. You mustn’t tie yourself to me with tears, be happy we had so many years. I gave you love. You can only guess how much you gave me in happiness. But now it’s time I traveled on alone. So grieve with me, if grieve you must, then let your grief be comforted with trust. It’s only for a while that we must part, so bless the memories within your heart. I won’t be far away, for life goes on. Though you can’t see or touch me, I’ll be near and if you listen to your heart, you’ll hear all of my love around you soft and clear. And then, when you must come this way alone, I’ll greet you with a smile and say; “Welcome Home!”

“Instead of just counting your blessings, make your blessings count”

“Isn’t it interesting that…when we are born, we are crying and the world is laughing and happy…but when we die, we are laughing and happy and the world is crying.”

“When you are sorrowful, look again in your heart, and you shall see that, in truth, you are weeping for that which has been your delight.”

NEVER FORGET. 10/2/11

Richard O. Ullman, age 70 of Windermere, Florida, died on Thursday, September 29, 2011 at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital in New York City. Dick had lived in Wayne, New Jersey most of his life before moving to Windermere five years ago.

Dick was born in Plainfield, Vermont, to Arthur Albert Ullman (who had a degree from Syracuse University and further studied at Harvard University) and Anne Marie (Hinken) Ullman, where his dad was Landscape Architect with the Civilian Conservation Corps. They moved to Springtown, PA when he was just a baby and in 1945, when he was only four years old, they settled in Preakness, NJ which ultimately became a section of Wayne. The move to Wayne was prompted by the passing of grandpa Hinken; the family settled into 910 Hamburg Turnpike to better take care of grandma Anne Marie (Tweitmann) Hinken. Preakness was popular among horse racing enthusiasts at that time because of an annual race there, called “The Preakness”. The race track eventually closed, but the famed “Preakness” race was moved to Pimlico race track in Maryland, where it famously still runs today as part of the Triple Crown. As a kid, Dick undoubtedly attended some of those early horse races at Preakness.

He attended elementary school at the now historically preserved Preakness School House in Wayne. Dick would sometimes tell the story of how he would watch planes fly in and out of the Murchio Airfield that used to exist right across the street from his elementary school. One day he interrupted his teacher and said “I just saw a plane crash”. The teacher quickly reprimanded him for daydreaming and making up the story only to find out later that, in fact, a plane had tragically crashed and Dick was among the few witnesses. That grass airfield, which has since been developed into homes, is all that separates his elementary school from the historic Preakness Reformed Church, where his funeral service will be held on Tuesday. Dick went on to graduate high school in 1959 as the first class to attend the newly constructed Wayne High School for four years, from Freshman to Senior.

A graduate of Brooklyn College of Pharmacy, Dick began his career filling prescriptions at the Preakness Pharmacy in Wayne. He often said that the reason he became a pharmacist was because “He could get a job filling prescriptions anywhere in the country and support his family.” He grew to love the industry and made monumental contributions during his career. He helped design the very first prescription benefit plans in the 1970's, and was proud of having the longest continuous experience in that industry, in the nation. He went on to become a successful entrepreneur first founding National Prescription Administrators, Inc. which he built into the largest privately held prescription benefit manager in the nation with over 1,500 employees. He later founded Benecard Services, Inc., a prescription benefit facilitator, headquartered in Orlando, FL with offices in Clifton and Lawrenceville, NJ and Mechanicsburg, PA. He was very proud of his business accomplishments and particularly happy to have done this with his two sons, Kenneth and Richard, working by his side.

Dick also believed strongly in ‘giving back’. For many years he was co-chairman for the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian in New York City. He was also a member of the Board of Trustees of Long Island University, on the Advisory Board of the Valley National Bank, Wayne, NJ, as well as several other philanthropic endeavors.

Dick, who was a devoted family man, had many passions included a love of cars. As a young man, he never drove the same car for very long and was always looking for another project car that he could repair or fix-up into something better. He simply loved his cars; fixing cars, driving cars, and he turned this passion into a lifelong hobby, building a wonderful collection over the years. He also loved golfing, which he played as a member of Isleworth CC in FL and Upper Montclair CC in NJ.

Dick was a man of strong faith and a member of the Preakness Reformed Church in Wayne, NJ and the Presbyterian Church of the Lakes in Windermere, FL.

Dick is survived by his loving wife Barbara Marcin Ullman of Windermere, FL, his three children; Kenneth and his wife Nadine of Naples, FL, Richard A. and his wife Lisa of Franklin Lakes, NJ, and Jennifer Royall and her husband Walker of Dallas, TX, seven grandchildren; Devin, Zachary, Jacob, Jordan, Davis, Walker, and Drake, one brother; Arthur Ullman Jr. and his wife Judy of Irving, TX, and two sisters; Erika Leal and her husband Ron of Palm Coast, FL, and Gretchen Ullman of Pompton Lakes, NJ, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Nina A. Wetzler (nee Giattini), age 86 of Ocala, Florida and formerly of Wayne, died on Thursday, September 29, 2011 in Ocala.

Born in New York City, Nina grew up in Queens and became a Registered Nurse. During her early career, she was treating injured World War II GI’s at the Veterans Hospital in Brooklyn, New York. She fell in love with one of her patients, Bill Wetzler, and they married on October 4, 1952. They first settled in Queens, living on the Little Neck Parkway, before moving to Wayne in 1961. Together, they enjoyed nearly sixty years of a “wonderful, loving, caring marriage” that her whole family feels blessed to have been able to share. Ironically, Bill was one of her first patients, and also one of her last. Nina had been caring for him over the past few years as he struggled with the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. She gave him the best care he could have ever dreamed of, and they loved each other very much. As a result of Bill’s illness, Nina became active with a local Alzheimer’s group and found comfort in aiding others who were going through the same struggle.

After moving to Wayne in 1961, Nina began working as an RN at the Chilton Memorial Hospital and remained there treating patients until her retirement in 1980. She devoted her life to caring for others and countless patients benefited from her love and compassionate care.

Nina became affectionately known as “Aunt Nina” to just about everyone. Her son recalls how she was everybody’s mom, and how his friends all adored her. Nina had a huge heart and she found joy in sharing her love and kindness with everyone. She was also a great cook and enjoyed gathering with family and friends, especially around the Holiday’s.

After retiring, Nina and Bill moved to Ocala, Florida to enjoy their autumn years, and they did so with vigor. They bought a boat and would cruise around all the rivers and lakes throughout the Ocala area and northern Florida. They loved being on the water, exploring all that the area had to offer. Nina was also an avid swimmer and loved being in the water, either at her pool or the ocean. She had been swimming just a few weeks ago, before she fell ill. She and Bill also traveled during their retirement, taking several road trips across the county. They’ve taken the southern route, the central route, the northern route, and just about every other route in between. They loved to travel and visit their friends. They’ve been everywhere and they had a lot of fun along the way. For many years, Nina was involved with the Disabled American Veterans Ladies Auxiliary, where she often ran the Bingo events. She was also an avid card player and especially enjoyed Canasta.

Aunt Nina is survived by her loving husband of sixty years; William J. of Ocala, FL, sons Herbert of Highland Lakes, NJ, Andrew and his wife Debbie of Bloomingdale, NJ, James and his wife Rose of Vallejo, CA, her daughter Rosemarie MacPhee and her husband Craig of Pepperell, MA, six grandchildren; Verity, Kelly, Russell, Amelia, Rachel, and Alex, one brother; Joseph Giattini and his wife Kathy of Broomfield, CO.

Memorial contributions in Nina’s honor would be greatly appreciated. Please consider the Monroe Regional Medical Center-ICU Unit, Ocala, Florida, or Alzheimer’s and Dementia Alliance of Florida, PO Box 5946, Ocala, Florida 34478.

Elizabeth “Betty” Rubiski, age 79 of Haskell, died at home on Wednesday, September 28, 2011 with her family gathered at her bedside. She fought a courageous two year battle with cancer.

Betty was born in Paterson, NJ and graduated from Central High School with the class of 1950.

Betty had been a teller at Wayne Savings for several years in Wayne and at PNC Bank on Hamburg Turnpike. She retired from there in 1995.

On one day in the 1950’s, Betty had been out with her brother at the J&J Tavern in South Paterson when she caught the attention of Joe Rubiski. They hit it off that night and decided to go out to a club in Newark for their first date. That date proved to be a success and they were married on September 26, 1959 at St. Agnes Church in Paterson. They took a honeymoon together to Virginia and toured Washington, D.C. as well. Her family treated her to a Bermuda cruise for their fiftieth wedding anniversary and they celebrated their fifty-second wedding anniversary just a few days ago.

Betty’s heart was in her home and she loved taking care of her family. She was very organized and had her way of keeping everyone else organized too – even if it meant ‘bossing’ them around a bit. She lived in Haskell for more than fifty years and would have large family gatherings at her house, especially around Thanksgiving and Christmas, with so many people they didn’t all know where to sit. But her family members all have great memories of those good times spent together. She was also very active in her children’s lives; attending all their school events and she helped found the Boy Scout Troop 132 in Haskell where she served as Secretary and Treasurer. She was also very influential with her children’s Catholic education, always being sure that they made it to church. Her family included a few four-legged members as well. There was Pudgy, Lady, and Mandy, who all passed away, and currently they have Crystal. Each of her dogs were as much a part of her family as anyone else and she loved them all dearly. While she was ill, Crystal would jump into bed with Betty and snuggle, bringing her comfort. Crystal has been wondering around the house, as if searching, ever since Betty passed away on Wednesday.

Betty is survived by her devoted husband Joseph, five children; Joseph S. Rubiski and his wife Sharon of Vernon, Diane Lane and her husband Robert of Vernon, Leslie Vitale of Haskell, Carl Vitale and his wife Jackie of Kinnelon, and Michael Vitale and his wife Irene of Haskell, six grandchildren; Alicia Rubiski of Vernon, Christina Thompson and her husband Richard of West Milford, Sean Gallanthen of Haskell, and Michele Vitale of Haskell, Carl Vitale of Texas, and Melissa Coats of Indiana, three great-grandchildren; Clay, Lauren, and Reigan, a sister; Rose Rolando of Haledon, a brother; Hugh Townsley of Haskell, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by three brothers; John, Ed, and Vince Townsley.

Donations in Elizabeth’s memory to either the American Cancer Society, 20 Mercer Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601 or the Bloomingdale Animal Shelter, 23 Brandt Lane, Bloomingdale, NJ 07403 would be greatly appreciated.

Carol A. Baten (nee Cababe) age 70 of Old Bridge died on Thursday September 29 while surrounded by her loving family.

Carol was born in Clifton and lived in Pompton Plains and Oakland before moving to Old Bridge about 6 years ago. She graduated from William Paterson University and became a teacher. She taught in the Oakland Public School System for over 40 years until her retirement about six years ago. Carol and her husband Samir cherished 47 years of loving marriage and was devoted to her immediate and extended family. She was parishioner of St Ann Melkite Church in Woodland Park and was devoted to her faith. Her sons remember her as being the strength of their family and would never turn anyone away who needed help.

Carol is survived by her husband Samir Baten of Old Bridge; two sons Lewis of Freehold, and Mark of Pompton Plains; three brothers Greg Cababe of Las Vegas, NV, Phil Cababe of Ormond Beach, FL, and David Cababe of Monroe NY.

William Robert Hecht, Sr., age 87 of Wayne, died on Wednesday, September 28, 2011 at home, while receiving the loving care of his family. His passing was quiet and peaceful.

“Cowboy Bill” as he was known to many, was born in Paterson and moved to Wayne as a young boy. Growing up during the depression era, Bill learned to work at a very young age. One of his earliest jobs as a boy included milking cows at the Old Barn in Wayne. He attended elementary school at the Preakness School House on Church Lane and graduated from the Paterson Vocational High School as a machinist. He went on to join the U.S. Army and served with the Air Corps during World War II. He was a belly gunner aboard a B17 bomber named “Lil Chapel” and flew countless bombing runs over Germany and Europe with the 351st Bomber Group.

After returning home from the war, Bill went back to work at Lexington Chevrolet in Clifton where he had been a mechanic. He stayed there for forty four years before retiring in 1986. In his retirement, ‘garage sales’ became his hobby. He would drive around to dozens of garage sales trying to find bargains, and when he had collected enough stuff, he would have a garage sale of his own and try to sell everything. It was relaxing and enjoyable for him and he always loved finding a good deal. He was a unique guy, truly one of a kind with his flannel shirts, cowboy boots and hat.

One of the most fulfilling endeavors Bill participated in was helping others in need, particularly those who were alcoholics. Bill was proud to be sober twenty eight years and he was a sponsor to many others at A.A. It seemed at times like he was operating a taxi service with so many people he was driving around each day to meetings all over the area. Bill didn’t mind it; he enjoyed it. By helping others, he found the serenity that he had been seeking, and the courage to change what he could.

William met his wife Lena (nee Speroni) in 1971 while dancing at a club. The two of them fell for each other that evening and a whirlwind romance began. They were married later that same year and honeymooned in Florida. They have enjoyed forty years together. Bill was always her ‘anchor’ and she was his ‘honey’; a good man and very loving.

William is survived by his devoted wife; Lena of Wayne, two sons; William Jr. and his wife Cathy of Bloomingdale, NJ, and Timothy and his wife Denise of Vernon, NJ, six grandchildren; Maggie Hecht of Pompton Plains, Katie Hecht of Pompton Lakes, William R. Hecht III and his wife Tara or Wayne, Timothy Hecht and his wife Nicole of Vernon, Christopher Hecht of Vernon and Robert Hecht of Bloomingdale, and three great-grandchildren; Hailey, Cole, and Mason. He was predeceased by his son Robert in 1990.

Donations in William’s memory to the American Cancer Society, 20 Mercer Street, Hackensack, NJ, 07601, or to your local A.A. group, would be greatly appreciated

Rosemary “Roey” Uhl (nee Brennan) age 51 of Dingmans Ferry, PA, died Sunday, September 25, 2011, after a long and courageous battle with breast cancer, with the comfort of her family by her side.

She was born in Paterson and raised in Riverdale having graduated from DePaul High School in Wayne with the Class of 1979. She later lived in Haskell before moving to Dingmans Ferry, PA twenty-two years ago.

She has worked at the Llanfair House in Wayne and Lincoln Park Nursing Home as a dietary aid, Lakeland Cold Type, Wayne and the Suburban Trends newspaper as a paste-up artist. In 1989 she found out she was pregnant with her son William and dedicated her life to caring for her family.

Roey had a huge soft spot in her heart for any animal, insect, even rodents. When her son was 10 months old he was attacked in the yard by a rabid skunk thinking it was a “kitty cat”. She eventually caught the skunk in a milk crate and was trying to give it food and water. Her loving heart also extended to the bug and rodent world. If she saw either in the house she couldn’t kill it, she would do her best to catch and release them.

She was also a very talented artist. One of her paintings was in consideration for a State of Pennsylvania Trout Stamp. She brought another to a furniture store to ask if they would display and sell it. It sold the very same day. Although she possessed much talent she was also very humble. She didn’t want to draw attention to herself and didn’t even like to wear jewelry. Roey had a great sense of humor and could also be very stubborn in her ways.

While at a young adult group meeting at St. Marys Church in Pompton Lakes she spotted William L Uhl. On April 12, 1980 they went to the Powderhorn Mill in Riverdale and later went to the Meadowlands Race track to see the Trotters. They fell in love and married on August 28, 1983 at St. Marys Church in Pompton Lakes, and went to Disney World for their honeymoon.

She was the loving wife of twenty-eight years to William “Bill” L. Uhl; devoted mother of William A. Uhl of Dingmans Ferry, PA; cherished daughter of the late Andrew and Dolores Brennan; loved sister of the late John Brennan(4/25/2011) and his surviving wife Sharon of Highland Lakes; Andrew Brennan of Haledon, Maureen Tencza of Riverdale, Richard Brennan and his wife Nancy of Pine Brook, and Joseph Brennan and his wife Beth of Doylestown, PA; much loved aunt to nine nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to St. Judes Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 would be appreciated.

Florence “Florrie” Lattimer (nee Koch) age 78 of Wayne died peacefully on Sunday, September 25, 2011 with her family by her side.

She was born and raised in Boston, MA and graduated from Notre Dame Academy in West Roxbury, MA. After attending Boston Teachers College in Boston for two years Florrie enlisted in the US Navy. She served most of her time in the military at the US Naval Base in Philadelphia, PA where she was given the National Defense Medal. She then dedicated herself to raising her two daughters. As her children matured she worked for Meyer Brothers, Wayne and later for Castrol, Inc. in Wayne as an accounts receivable clerk before retiring in 1997.

Florence was a dedicated parishioner of Annunciation of the Blessed Mary RC Church, Wayne.

She loved to travel and has been all around the world. Some of her many destinations include: Egypt, Israel, France, Amsterdam, Ireland, Hawaii (twice), several cruises, Disney World in Florida for many years in a row when her children were young, and Disney World was once again her destination of choice for her 60th birthday wish. Florrie will be remembered as being outgoing, sociable, funny, caring, and most of all a proud mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

She was the loving mother of Judy Lattimer and her husband Stephen Whitney of Ramsey, and Diane Stemper and her husband Chris of Little Falls; cherished grandmother of Trevor Whitney and his wife Kim, Nick and Junko Stemper, and Adrian Stemper; much loved great-grandmother of Patrick and Luka Stemper.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Eagle Rescue Squad, 60 Wilmore Road, Little Falls, NJ 07424 would be appreciated.

Madeline Brookman (nee Balmer) age 96, of Naples, FL and Wayne, NJ passed away on September 22 at Regency Gardens in Wayne.

Born in Paterson, NJ she was a graduate of Central High School. She resided in Elmwood Park, NJ for 50 years, where she raised her family. She and her late husband Elmer retired to Delray Beach, Fl and then to Naples, FL. They summered for over 50 years at their house in Ocean Beach, NJ. While at Ocean Beach they enjoyed many trips to Atlantic City, which they loved.

Prior to retirement, she was employed in the offices of Grand Union.

Madeline was the wife of the late Elmer Brookman(2006) with whom she shared almost 70 years of marriage. She is survived by her loving daughter Joan Haussmann and her husband Robert. Beloved grandmother of Karen Johnson and her husband David Poyda. Dearest great grandmother of Robert Johnson. She was predeceased by her son Thomas (1979). Madeline was a very caring, wonderful person who adored her family and dear friends.

Relatives and friends may visit with the family at Vander May Wayne Colonial Funeral Home, 567 Ratzer Road, Wayne on Sunday, September 25, 2011 from 2-5 PM.

Madeline Garofalo spent her 92 years of life in a very limited geographical area, but she didn’t really yearn for more. She was perfectly satisfied in her small home.

Surrounded by those she loved and who loved her, Mom’s biggest worry was to be sure that “everyone was all right”. Content to see the members of her family often, she would spend the days with her beloved sister Edith…and go to her favorite local stores : Shoprite, Bradlees and Kmart…and then the diner where she would “only have a bagel.” Evenings she regularly enjoyed Lawrence Welk, the Golden Girls, and the Food Network…believe it or not she even enjoyed Imus in the morning….maybe it’s because he was the only person who was up as early as she was.

Often feisty, she loved to tease and be teased by her sons and grandchildren. A woman of strong religious conviction and an unwavering moral compass, our mother clung to her deep rooted beliefs and traditions. Although she considered herself to be “old fashioned” as she often reminded us “this is the way my mother did it”; she hastily embraced the 1970s style of wearing pantsuits, especially when she found out my father in law liked them. She bravely got her driver’s license at the age of 59, and in the 1980s enthusiastically purchased a microwave which was much used. The installation of central air conditioning in the 1990s, finally made home a heaven for her in the hot weather…

In the past 4 years as we watched her become less and less of the person we knew, it was possible to lose sight of the person she had always been: devoted wife and mother who idolized her husband and her “boys“; a loving grandmother who adored each and everyone of her grandchildren, a great-grandmother who eagerly awaited the arrival of her great-grandson, a thoughtful helpful mother in law who was a sympathetic listener and a wonderful shopping companion…a loving sister…a fun loving cousin…a compassionate aunt. She saw no faults in those she loved. Madeline Romano Garofalo: mother, grandma, great grandma, sister, aunt, cousin, friend… lived a life which daily showed her way of doing small things with great love: the family gatherings, the cookies, cakes and breads she baked, the meals she cooked, the professionally ironed shirts, and the many many blankets she gave to family members and friends…all the gifts of loving hands.

Our mother died as she lived, surrounded by her loved ones in the hands of a loving God. In thinking of her, may we always call to mind the many good days and happy experiences. Mom you are dearly loved; you will be sorely missed.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Wayne Memorial First Aid Squad, PO Box 291, Wayne, NJ 07470 would be appreciated.

James Appaluccio “Jimmy” age 82 of Wayne passed into life eternal on Wednesday, September 21, 2011 at home. His loving family were continually at his bedside and he passed very peacefully.

He was born in Paterson and lived his formative years on Murray Avenue in the Stony Road area of Paterson. Jim received his formal education first at Paterson Grammar School #7 and then Central High School graduating with the Class of 1946.

One of his first jobs was at a horse stable: cleaning stalls and grooming horses and where he developed a love of horses. Ambition was part of his persona and even in his youth he sought extra work to help support his family. In those days, the great depression had impacted everyone as well as did World War II.  Jim's efforts were needed to help his family. He worked at the Vitromar Piece Dye Works on First Avenue in Paterson.

He joined the Army in 1952 during the Korean crisis, however he spent most of his service time in Italy as a squad leader doing vehicle maintenance.

When he was discharged from the Army he worked in the Paterson silk industry for a while and then applied to work for the United States Postal Service. He worked at the Post Office in Paterson first and over the years held many positions in his thirty-four years of service. Among his many postal jobs, he was acting postmaster in Pequannock and Elmwood Park.  He retired as a postal inspector in 1995.

Jimmy was a parishioner of Our Lady of Consolation RC Church in Wayne and was devoted to his Catholic Faith. His early catholic training was at Our Lady of Pompeii RC Church in Stony Road area of Paterson.

Jim had an entrepreneurial ambition that was built into his work ethic.  He held many jobs simultaneously besides the postal service and would keep himself active doing landscaping and any job he could to provide for his family.  One of his many jobs which he loved was driving a van for Skyline Auto Auction to return auto delivery drivers to their home base.  He did that for fifteen years before retiring in March of 2010.

A legacy is what we inherit and this families finest legacy is a super work ethic.  They follow to this day their fathers "can do" ways as they carry out their life journey.  Thanks Dad for teaching us this ambitious work ethic way in our lives.

Soon after high school he was at the Polish Home Dance Hall in Passaic and he met a beautiful Scottish girl named "Betty". Her gift of personality includes a Scottish twinkle in her eye that is evident when you meet her.  Jim and Betty courted for two years and married on Nov 7, 1954.

They had 57 years of a busy loving marriage together and had six wonderful children.

Surviving are his loving wife Elizabeth " Betty" Appaluccio, two sons  Mark Appaluccio of Pompton Lakes, and David Appaluccio of Wayne; four daughters Jamie Blitzstein and her husband Paul of Newfoundland, Lori Hon of Inverness Florida, Carol Albano and her husband Joseph of Wayne and Jaclyn Sexton and her husband Michael of Wayne: one brother Jerry Appalccio and his wife Ann of Kunkletown, Pennsylvania. Nine grandchildren: Jared Blitzstein and his wife Kate, Justin Blitzstein and his wife Colleen, Billy Hon, Alyx and Nicolette Albano, Nicholas Appaluccio, Sydney, Riley and Gavin Sexton.

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Those planning an expression of sympathy in Jim's memory are asked to consider a donation to Valley Hospice, 15 Essex Road, Paramus, NJ 07652.

Frances A. Hanania (nee Kelly), age 64 of Pompton Lakes passed away on Wednesday, September 21, 2011. “Frannie”, as she was known to most, was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother.

Frannie grew up in Paterson and graduated high school from Mary Help of Christians Academy in North Haledon with the class of 1964. Upon graduating, she immediately started nursing school at the St. Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson. She became an X-ray technician and took her first position at the St. Barnabas Hospital in Livingston. After more training, she moved to the Morristown Hospital and began working as a Nuclear Medicine Technician. She advanced to become the Assistant Head Technician at Morristown before retiring in 2009. She absolutely loved her work and all the people she was able to help, but her grandchildren proved to be too irresistible and she retired to spend as much time as she could with them.

Frannie had a huge heart and devoted herself to helping others not only in her career, but throughout every aspect of her life. She often volunteered at the Shepherds Haven in Pompton Lakes and the food bank at St. Mary’s Church in Pompton Lakes. She would also take in just about anyone who needed help into her own home. Her two sons recall how it wasn’t uncommon to have other people living in their house with them, due to whatever circumstances, and Frannie was always willing to help them. She was also involved with her church, Holy Resurrection Orthodox Church in Wayne in several capacities, including with the choir, elderly assistance, and where ever they needed help. She was a kind and very caring woman, always helping those in need.

Frannie met her husband Albert in Clifton at a Drum and Bugle review. They were each getting lunch at a hot dog stand and struck up a conversation. They married in 1967 and have enjoyed forty four years together. They took a family vacation to Disney World this past April and Frannie never stopped smiling. It was a wonderful time spent with her husband, children and grandchildren, with memories they will all cherish for a lifetime.

She is survived by her beloved husband of forty four years; Albert of Pompton Lakes, her two sons; Christopher of Pompton Lakes and Matthew and his wife Louise of Pompton Lakes. She was the devoted grandmother to Samantha and Nathan Hanania of Pompton Lakes, and of course; her dog Maura and her cat Calpurnia.

Louis B. Ricci age 87 of Wayne died on Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at the Valley Hospital in Ridgewood. His passing was quiet and peaceful while he received the loving care of his wife and daughter who were at his bedside.

 He was born in Ambridge, Pennsylvania where he spent his youthful years. He received his formal education at Ambridge Grammar School and at Ambridge High School graduating with the Class of 1942.

Shortly after graduating from High School he received his draft notice to serve in the United States Army. He signed up in Pittsburgh and was trained as an antiaircraft gunner. His specialty was skills at using an Azimuth Instrument to get accurate bearing on airplanes for his antiaircraft gun installation. He served in the Western Pacific known as the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of the War. Lou received the Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon with one Bronze Star and the World War II Victory Medal.

In 1946 he attended a cousins wedding in Paterson, NJ and met a beautiful girl by the name of Rose Balistrieri and after a three year courtship he was talking to her on the telephone and he popped the question "will you marry me?". He got a positive reply and on June 27, 1948 Lou and Rose tied the knot in marriage. The end result was that they had sixty-three years of "good and loving marriage".

He was one of nine siblings and in those days everyone had to find a job and help with the greater family. Louis started his work life as a youngster partnering with his brother Pat Ricci. Somehow he learned an early lesson finding out that his brother kept the money earned.

After his Army service he went to a trade school in Pittsburgh and learned the skills of a machinist. He then moved to Paterson where he obtained a job with the Morrision Machine Company as a lathe operator. He spent thirty-five years on that job and finally retired in 1981.

Lou was gifted with a quiet and reserved personality and became more outgoing in his senior years.

Perhaps the finest dedication and joy in his life was maintaining a garden patch of vegetables and flowers at his home. He simply loved his garden and spent many hours of enjoyment there. He also enjoyed bowling.

Surviving him are his loving wife Rose (nee Balistrieri) Ricci; one daughter Barbara Van De Giesen and her husband Nick of Albrightsville, Pennsylvania; Two granddaughters Lauren Marks and Alyson Davis and her husband Terry; three great grandchildren Alexandra and Reed Marks and Amelia Davis. Two sisters, Anne Gerardi from Bayville, NJ and Josephine Ricci from Ambridge, PA.

He was predeceased by his brothers Edward, Tom, Patrick, Herman, Anthony and Franklin Ricci.

Thomas R. D’Alessio age 86 of Rockaway, formerly of Wayne, died peacefully with family by his side on Monday, September 19, 2011 at home.

He was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY having lived in Wayne for over forty years before moving to Fox Hills in Rockaway ten years ago.

He was a Marine Corps Veteran of WWII having attained the rank of Corporal.

Tom was a professional drummer having played with the Ed Caso Miami Beach Orchestra in Brooklyn, NY for many years, and most recently for the Fox Hills Combo in Rockaway, NJ.

Tom was a bookbinder having worked for Benzinga Brothers in Brooklyn, and Tappley/Rutter Co, Moonachie before retiring in 1986.

He was a parishioner of Annunciation RC Church, Wayne where he was a devoted member of the Knights of Columbus Council 11943 for many years.

Tom met his late wife Grace though his brother Louie as he dated Grace’s sister. He would relate a story about him riding the Steeplechase with Grace and having to wrap his arms around her to save her from falling off the ride. They married on July 3, 1949 at St Finbars Church in Brooklyn, NY and honeymooned at Miami Beach, FL.

He was happy, friendly, the peacemaker in the family, who never had a bad word to say about anyone and was loved by everyone who came in contact with him.  He was known to everyone simply as "Grandpa".  

Tom was the loving husband of the late Grace (nee Ferrando) D’Alessio(1985); devoted last love of Agnes Laste of Rockaway; loved father of Thomas D’Alessio, Jr. and his wife Victoria of Hackettstown, Barbara A. Morano of Butler and her late husband Robert(2004); Robert L. D’Alessio and his wife Julie of Montville, and Joseph F. D’Alessio and his wife Arlene of Wyckoff; cherished grandfather of eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of NJ, 1034 Salem Rd., Union, NJ 07083 www.wish.org or the American Cancer Society, 20 Mercer Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601 would be appreciated.

Lauren Sue Smernoff (nee Kiefte), age 36 of Sparta died on September 19, 2011 after a courageous battle of more than four years with brain cancer.

Lauren grew up in the Lion’s Head Lake section of Wayne and graduated from Wayne Hills High School with the class of 1993. She first went to work at the Wayne Lincoln-Mercury car dealership in Wayne and later moved to Malcolm-Connor Dodge where she was the office manager. She eventually joined Enterprise Rent-a-Car in Wayne, working in their payroll department.

Lauren and Rich were married in October 17, 1998 and honeymooned in the Cayman Islands. Their honeymoon was extended a bit when a hurricane hit the island and they were unable to evacuate in time. They spent the duration of the storm seeking shelter on the third floor of their hotel while the storm raged through. They made it without a scratch and waited a few extra days before they could fly home. It was a memorable honeymoon, to say the least.

In 2001 her husband Rich was transferred to Jacksonville, Florida and they moved down there. The lifestyle suited them both well and they loved it there. Rich was able to get a boat and the two of them loved to go fishing together every chance they got. Fishing was their favorite mutual hobby and wherever they went, they would always bring their fishing tackle. In 2004, Rich was transferred back to New Jersey and they settled in Sparta. They were blessed with their first daughter; Alexis in 2004 and then Emily in 2006. Lauren was devoted to her husband and especially so to her daughters. She was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer in 2007 and has been battling ever since. Lauren has been extremely grateful to all of her dear friends and family who have helped her so generously over these difficult years. She often commented on how fortunate she was to have such a great community of friends to help her care for her family, make it to doctor appointments, and do all the things that many of us take for granted. She extends once again, a big heart-felt “Thank you” to all of them.

Lauren is survived by her loving husband; Rich and her two wonderful daughters; Alexis and Emily, her parents; Barend and Suzanne Kiefte of Wayne, her sister Sharon Tammen and her husband Jeffrey of Washington Township, her brother; Dan Kiefte and his wife Janet of Wayne, nephews Kyle and Jack Tammen of Washington Township, NJ, Henry and Shannon Kiefte of Wayne, her in-laws; Richard and Agnes Smernoff of Greenwood Lake, NY, brother-in-law Chris and his wife Lisa Smernoff of Connecticut and their children; Isabella and Christopher Smernoff, and many more loving family and friends.

Memorial donations to the American Brain Tumor Assoc., 8550 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Suite 550, Chicago, Ill 60631 or the Bridgeway Community Church, 381 Haledon Ave., Haledon, NJ 07508 would be greatly appreciated.

Henry J. Ossi, age 84 of Wayne died on Friday, September 16, 2011 at the Chilton Memorial Hospital in Pompton Plains. Henry has been a Wayne resident since 1955.

Mr. Ossi was born and raised in Clifton. He had a fun childhood, together with his older brother Florio, and perhaps a little bit too much fun on a few occasions. Henry’s brother used to like to sneak their fathers car out of the garage and roll it down the street a few blocks then start it up. Henry was always right there with him and they would go for joy rides around town. The joy rides were fun, but the punishment from their father upon being caught, that was not so much fun. When it came time to go to high school, Henry’s parents realized that his older brother wasn’t the best influence and they sent Henry to boarding school; Don Bosco Preparatory High School in New Rochelle, New York. Henry excelled in his academics there and revealed that he had a very high IQ. Upon graduating in 1944, he was accepted to the Fordham University Pre-med program, but he chose to join the U.S. Army instead. He served proudly during World War II and the Korean War.

Henry was a ‘take charge’ kind of guy and marched to his own drum. He was a very hard worker and truly lived for his work. He was President of Henron Contracting Co., Inc. for many years and also owned Henron Properties, LLC. He was a former member of the North Jersey Country Club and the Building Contractors Association of NJ. He was still doing construction estimating just a few months ago for another firm. He was a fighter and didn’t want to quit. Recently, while he was in the hospital, he was taking the names of every staff member that entered his room, letting them know that he was in charge. When a nurse at the hospital recently asked him, “What do you need, Henry?” he quickly replied; “A funeral director.” Clearly, he never lost his sense of humor, and he lived life on his own terms.

Henry is the beloved father of Carol Fitzpatrick of Wayne, Linda Miller of Naples, Florida, and Henry B. Ossi of Pompton Plains, his five grandchildren; Terry Fitzpatrick of Barnegat, New Jersey, Samantha Heffner of Gainesville, Florida, Charlie Miller of Naples, Florida, Jennica Marie Ossi of Pompton Plains, and Derrick B. Ossi of Pompton Plains, and five great-grandchildren; Ethan, Emily, and Elisabeth Fitzpatrick of Barnegat, New Jersey and Abigail Ryan Heffner and Jack Lindan Heffner, both of Gainesville, Florida. Henry was predeceased by his brother Florio.

Memorial donations in Henry’s honor should be directed to; Don Bosco Preparatory High School, 492 North Franklin Turnpike, Ramsey, NJ 07446-2811 and would be greatly appreciated by the family.

Henry “Hank” F. Wilczewski age 78 of Wayne died peacefully at home on Thursday, September 15, 2011.

An open letter from Hank's son Rich:

July 1, 2011

Dear Dad

I am proud of you. I am proud the way you got up every morning and went to work to earn a living for us. I know that on many of those days you hated to go and would much rather have stayed with us.

I am proud of the way you lead people. I never let on but every time your district beat last years sales or beat out other districts I was immensely proud. I was proud of you at the last Lions’ meeting. I knew my father could do anything. And that belief in you was the foundation for the belief I later came to have in myself. I was your son and I could do anything too.

I apologize for all the grieve I gave you. You did not deserve it. I am sorry for all the names I called you when we fought. I am sorry I fought so hard. You taught me that too. One time I said you were “a bad person.” Although I did not use those exact words. Please forgive me for that. You are a wonderful person.

I am proud of the way you used to make peace in the family. How you would put your self out there when there was a divide. How you would pull both sides together to make the peace.

Speaking of fighting you also taught me how to fight for what I believed in, how to take a stand, and when to take a stand, and when to back down. You also taught me how to back down with honor. You taught me that wining is not always the goal. That personal success should often take a back seat to a higher purpose.

You taught me how to apologize when I was right. And with that you taught the power that apology has to heal broken hearts. Being right is not that important but staying close to one another is.

You taught me what it means to be a man. You taught me that we are bound by our choices. We are more than our mistakes, more than our accomplishments. We are who we are not just what we have done.

You often said “That when all was said and done more is said than done. “ To me that means be a man of your word. Do what you say you will do and remember actions speak louder than words.

And your actions Dad, your actions have defined for me what is means to be a man, what it means to be a fighter, a warrior, a leader, a conqueror of fear, a defender, a protector, a peace keeper, a peace maker, a story teller, a hero, an honest man, a father, and an example for others.

And now it’s time for me to say good bye, because you have gone home.

I love you

You’re Son Rich

EULOGY BY: PAUL WILCZEWSKI

SAID AT MASS FOR HIS FATHER

ON SEPTEMBER 20, 2011

ONE DAY AT TIME...

For those of you that do not know this was my Fathers favorite song.  One day at a time was also my Father's favorite phrase.  For all of us that knew my Dad he was always there to help.  You could always call him for advice or help with anything he would always say "One day at at a time" and "This too shall pass".

It is hard emotionally to say "Good Bye" to my Father and my Best Friend.  Through the faith in God I know he has been called to a better place.

Many years ago I made I promise to my Dad that I would call him every day.  I did call him but to be honest, I missed a few days of talking to him.  I can only hope that he has forgiven me for the undue aggravation I put on him.

I love you Dad, and I am sure you love us also.

Now for your unconditional love that you have given us all.

* For you loving Grandchildren: I know you have asked God to bless them and keep them safe always.

* For your children: I know your wish is that we will be full of Love and Joy. That we will continue your outstanding love and personal friendly character with one another, as well as all others that are in our lives.

* And for you loving Wife (our Mother): It is an amazing Bond of Trust and Love you shared with each other.  That must have been blessed by the “Spirit of God”

It is now that I can believe that God has called you for a new and better adventure.

By now I am sure you are socializing and showing a sense of humor with all. This is one of your personal characters that you will be always remembered by.

I am sure that you will be the next “President of the Lions Club” in heaven.

Dad, we love very much.

We all will miss you....

God Bless

Obituary:

Henry “Hank” F. Wilczewski age 78 of Wayne died peacefully at home on Thursday, September 15, 2011.

He was born and raised in Jersey City having graduated from Dickinson High School, Jersey City with the Class of 1951. Hank lived in Belleville, Worcester, MA, and Lester, MA, before moving to Wayne over forty years ago.

Hank went to a picnic in the town of Fairview, NJ where there were many people. As he stood toward the front of a long line to get a drink a young girl tapped him on the shoulder and asked if he would buy her a soft drink. This chance meeting on September 16, 1951, led to a marriage on October 4, 1952 at Saint Valentines RC Church, Bloomfield, a honeymoon at Mount Airy Lodge in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania and a loving and dedicated marriage of fifty-nine years.

Hank’s first job was for the WR Kellog-Flagg Brothers Shoe Store in Jersey City. After a few months and upon learning that Hank was of draft age they let him go. When he left he took a position with the Thom Mcan Shoe Store in Newark. Soon thereafter he was called by his former boss as they realized their sales at the store had dropped dramatically once Hank had left. Hank refused the job offer as he felt if they fired me once they’re bound to do it again. He stayed with Thom Mcan and worked his way to District Sales Manager having worked for them for forty-two years before retiring in 1993.

He was a dedicated parishioner of Our Lady of the Valley RC Church, Wayne where he served as an usher, past president of the Holy Name Society and served with the funeral ministry. Hank was a proud member and a past-president of the Wayne Lions Club, Wayne.

He was the beloved husband of fifty-nine years to Theresa “Terry” (Kohan) Wilczewski; loving father of Rich Wilczewski and his wife Susan of Mt Laurel and Paul Wilczewski of Wayne; cherished Dziadzi of Kathleen, Christopher Brian, and Olivia Wilczewski; loved brother of the late Emily Pacholec, John and Joseph Wilczewski; adored uncle of Barry, Ray, Lenny, Dianne, and Jackie.

Friends may visit with the family on Sunday, September 18, 2011 from 2-6 PM at the Vander May Wayne Colonial Funeral Home, 567 Ratzer Road, Wayne.

Funeral services will be held Monday, September 19, 2011 8:30 AM from the funeral home then to Our Lady of the Valley RC Church, 630 Valley Road, Wayne where at 9:30 AM a Funeral Mass will be offered.

Entombment will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Wayne Lions Club, 600 Valley Road, Suite 101, Wayne, NJ 07470 would be appreciated.

Here is a eulogy by Jim Sandford of the Wayne Lions Club:

Hank Wilczewski’s Eulogy

From the Wayne Lion’s Club

Written By: Mr. Jim Sandford

As I have thought about hank during the past few months, I asked myself “Why do I like Han so very much?” Therefore, I have written a few remarks that I wish to share with you now.

Hank Wilczewski was a man that was as straight forward as someone could be while not appearing offensive to other people.

I first met Hank sometime in 2004 at a Holy Name Society meeting of Our Lady of the Valley Parish. I remember that meeting well because I liked the directness with which Hank expressed himself. This immediately attracted my attention and from there we became good friends.

As I already was a member of the Wayne Lions Club, I believed that Hank could be a wonderful Lion. But Hank played “hard to get” by resisting my invitation saying that he would not consider it until he knew more about the Lions Club. After attending Lions fund raisers for over one year with me, Hank said he was ready to join the Lions Club. I was overjoyed and Hank became a Lion in 2006. Hank quickly became a favorite with all Lions.

I do think that Hank was predestined to be a leader in the Wayne Lions Club. He was a master in communication skills. Hank was clear in his thoughts, was reasonable, positive, optimistic, energetic, cooperative, flexible, motivated, and persuasive. Most people do not exhibit many of the mentioned characteristics that Hank possessed. Also, Hank had a great sense of humor in which he easily applied to most any situation or conversation. We could easily laugh together about many things, whether trivial or serious.

Hank would always listen to the opinion of others and would incorporate it into his thinking. He believed in “Fairness” and always wanted to be treated fairly. This enabled him to adhere to his convictions when making decisions. One of Hank’s favorite comments, when he was being persuasive, was to say, “You may be wondering where I am going with this conversation and I will tell you in a moment”. Another one of Hank’s favorite comments was, “Maybe I should not say what I’m thinking, but I’m going to say it anyway!”

As our Lions President for two years, Hank demonstrated his leadership abilities and friendships with all Lions and the result was to set high standards for our club to follow. In summation, I leave you with the following;

Hank was an honest friend!

Hank was a trusted friend!

Hank was my friend!

May the Lord rest Hank’s soul!

William “Bill” R. Cooke, age 83 of Wayne died peacefully on Wednesday, September 14, 2011.

He was born and raised in Jersey City and graduated from Dickinson High School in Jersey City with the Class of 1946.

At the age of twelve he moved in with his aunt Lilly and worked for his Uncle John at the Aacon Contracting, Inc. in the Red Hook Section of Brooklyn, NY. He met the love of his life, Edith Laffan, who was working at the ice cream parlor just around the corner from Aacon Contracting.  The story goes, that there was a young kid that hung around Aacon and mentioned to Bill that "If you want to meet the best looking girl in Brooklyn, she works at the local ice cream parlor." He took a chance and went and met who would become his future bride. He often told us he asked her if she would like to go for a malted. He would often tease her how she could not have said "yes" fast enough. The rest is history. They were married on December 12, 1949 at St Paul of the Cross RC Church in Jersey City. They lived in Jersey City before moving to Wayne in 1957.

Bill started the New Jersey Valley Amusements Company in 1954 and was very proud of a successful family business that is still flourishing today. He was a strong, honest, dedicated, caring, hard working man that thought with his heart. He loved his trips to Florida and to Saratoga, NY.

Bill was a parishioner of Our Lady of the Valley RC Church, Wayne.

He was the beloved husband of sixty-two years to Edith (Laffan) Cooke; devoted son of the late Charles and Helen (Eckert) Cooke; loved father of William Cooke of Wayne, the late Robert Cooke(2008) and his surviving wife Donna of Wayne; Edith “Honey Bun” Miller of Wayne and her late husband Sammy(2002); Gary Cooke of Wayne, the late Linda Cooke(1963); Brian Cooke and his wife Judi of Wayne, Nancy Spetz and her husband Charles of Oak Ridge, Marilyn Gabriel of Wayne and her late husband Albert(2009), John Cooke of Wayne, and Jennifer Cooke of Wayne; cherished Grandfather to Vanessa Cooke, Terence Cooke, Donna (Cooke) Macrone and her husband Gabe, Aimee Cooke, Katie Cooke, Meghan Cooke, Natalie and Albert Pelosi, Nicholas Miller, Edie Mae Miller, Linda Miller, Jennifer Jones, the late William Cooke (2005), Nancy Spetz, Heidi Spetz, Charlie Spetz, Sara Spetz, John Spetz, Steven Spetz, Gwendoyln Spetz, Alexa Gabriel, and Lily Gabriel and three great grandchildren Juliet Cooke, Natalie Pelosi, and Destiny Mcpherson; loving brother of Charles “uncle cookie boy” and his wife Maggie Cooke of Long Island, NY, and Gloria Mayer and her husband Bob of Cape Coral, FL.

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In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Wayne Fire Company #2, Myrtle Ave, Wayne, NJ 07470, Wayne First Aid Squad, PO Box 2004, Wayne, NJ 07474, Wayne Foundation for the Handicapped, 30 Woodridge Terrace, Wayne, NJ 07470, or the ALS Association, Development Dept., 27001 Agoura Rd., Suite 250, Calabasas Hills, CA 91301 would be appreciated.

Mary Elizabeth Pavlak-Bernowich (nee Pavlak) of Washingtonville, NY passed away on Tuesday, September 13, 2011 surrounded by her loving family at St. Josephs Regional Medical Center, Paterson.

She was born in Paterson and graduated from DePaul Catholic High School, Wayne, NJ. She received a Bachelor Degree from the College of Mt. St. Vincent Riverdale, NY and a Masters Degree from Seton Hall University. Mary was employed by St. Josephs Regional Medical Center, Paterson, NJ as a Registered Nurse.

Wife of William Bernowich of Washingtonville, NY; daughter of Chief Donald Pavlak - ret.(Wayne P.D.) and Dolores (Walsh) Pavlak of Wayne; sister of Sgt. Don Pavlak – (Wayne P.D.) and his wife Barbara of Wayne; aunt of Samantha and Katie Pavlak both of Wayne.

Mary traveled to Ireland while a high school student to study Irish Culture with the NJ Irish Cultural Society. She was Past President of the Wayne Cancer Society, a member of the Wayne Historical Commission,  and a member of the League of St. Joseph’s Hospital. Mary was an avid reader and loved summers at the Jersey Shore.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the St. Josephs Regional Medical Center, 703 Main Street, Paterson, NJ 07503 would be appreciated.

Lillian Villee (nee Longson) age 94 of the Packanack Lake Section of Wayne died peacefully on Sunday, September 11, 2011.

She was born in Upper Gornal, England in 1917 and her family moved to the United States in 1919 having settled in Hawthorne, New Jersey as her aunt owned several homes there. Lillian was raised in Hawthorne and graduated with the Class of 1935, the first graduating class, from Hawthorne High School.

Just out of high school Lillian got a job with the Internal Revenue Service assisting people with filing their taxes. While on a lunch break and sitting outside reading a book, a Mr. Richard Villee, from upstairs in her building, took the book out of her hands and said “you have to talk to me today”. They soon fell in love and married on June 6, 1940 at the Presbyterian Church in Hawthorne and honeymooned in the Smokey Mountains of West Virginia. Richard was soon called into the military during WWII and Lillian moved back and forth between her parents and Richard’s parents homes. In 1945 Richard was discharged from the US Navy and the young couple soon moved to Wayne, NJ and started their family.

Lillian left her job at the Internal Revenue Service and had her first son Richard “Rick” and soon thereafter she had a daughter Valerie. After her children were in high school she got a job with the NJ Bell Telephone Company in the accounts receivable department. After a few years she went to work for the Standard Metal Corporation on Route 23 in Wayne before formally retiring.

Lillian was very active in her community. She was a member of the Packanack Community Church, the Packanack Golf Club where she golfed with a group of ladies known as the “fun bunch”, and was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Packanack Lake Fire Company #5.

Lillian was the loving and devoted wife of fifty-four years to the late Richard Villee(1994); loving mother of Richard “Rick” Villee of Wayne, and Valerie Carlin and her husband Ray of Fresno, TX; cherished grandmother of Bryan Villee, Chris and Tracy Carlin; loved sister of the late Ethel Schwamm (2002).

Dorothy “Dot” Tweer age 81 of Wayne died peacefully on Sunday, September 11, 2011.

She was born and raised in South Paterson where she attended School #9 and later Central High School, Paterson with the Class of 1948. Just one month before graduating from high school her mother took her out of school so she could get a job to help support the family. Her first job was as a switchboard operator for New Jersey Bell, Paterson. After having her children she returned to NJ Bell in Paterson as a keypunch operator. In 1965 she took a job as the switchboard operator for the Wayne Board of Education where she worked for twenty-nine years before retiring in 1994.

Dot met the love of her life, George Tweer, at the Lakeview Presbyterian Church in Paterson. After George was discharged from the U.S. Navy, they enjoyed their first date bowling at the church. Dot would relate that her friend Sarah was actually interested in dating George, but George had eyes for Dot’s pretty legs. On more than one occasion she told him to “get lost”. Eventually George won the battle and he proposed to Dot at the Broadway Highway movie theatre in Fair Lawn. They married on September 10, 1949 at the Lakeview Presbyterian Church and honeymooned in Lavallette, NJ. Immediately after they married they moved to Minns Avenue in Wayne and have lived in Wayne where they had a loving, feisty and pleasantly normal marriage for sixty one years.

Dot was a founding and devoted member of the Wayne Presbyterian Church, Wayne.

She will be remembered as a friendly, sociable, stubborn person who was a great baker. Her special touch on apple, blueberry, lemon meringue, pumpkin pies and all types of deserts will be greatly missed.

She was a member and trustee of the Wayne Golden Age Circle having planned many bus trips, member of the Wayne Elks Lodge 2181 Ladies Auxiliary having often assisted with the Bingo for Vets in Paramus, and a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Preakness Fire Company #4, Wayne. In her younger years Dot was an avid dancer having taken classes, with George, at Walkers Dance Studio, Pompton Plains, a bowler in the leagues at T-Bowl Lanes, Wayne and a member of the Wayne Volley Ball League.

Dot was the loving wife of over sixty years to the late George Tweer (2010); loving mother of Dorothy “Dottie” Nazzaro and her husband Rocco of Kinnelon, George Tweer and his wife Aileen of Butler and Susan Hargreaves and her husband Marc of Lakeland, FL; cherished grandmother of Rocco George and David Nazzaro, Jennifer, John and Brian Tweer, Marc, Steven, and Ryan Hargreaves; loved sister of the late Thomas and Rudolph Kingma.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Wayne Presbyterian Church, 1200 Alps Road, Wayne, NJ 07470 would be appreciated.

On September 9, 2011 at JFK Memorial Hospital in Atlantis, FL.

BAILLIE, Elizabeth Clapperton died on September 9, 2011 at JFK Memorial Hospital in Atlantis, FL.

Liz was born in Pittsburgh, PA and lived most of her life in Wayne, NJ, retiring to West Palm Beach, FL in 2007.

She was a graduate of Radford College where she earned a BS in Physical Education, and Montclair State College where she earned her M.A. She was certified by the state of New Jersey to teach Physical Education, Health, the handicapped, and as a supervisor. She taught in the Clifton Public School System for 30 years.

Liz was predeceased by her husband Ralph J. Baillie of Wayne. A graveside service will be held 10:30 AM, Oct. 19, 2011, at the Pompton Reformed Church Cemetery, Hamburg Turnpike, Pompton Lakes, NJ.

Memorial gifts may be made to the Clifton Teachers' Association Philanthropic Fund, c/o Public School No. 15, 700 Gregory Avenue, Clifton, NJ 07011-3798.

Eileen Caffrey (nee Jones), age 81 of Paterson, died on Friday, September 9, 2011. Eileen was a lifelong resident of Paterson and also enjoyed vacationing for many years at Marco Island, Florida.

Eileen was a good hearted, kind person, with an ‘old fashioned’ streak in her. She never moved out of the neighborhood where she grew up, and she avoided most modern conveniences as long as she possibly could. She never had more than seven or eight channels on her TV until the recent switch to digital, which she was not fond of at all. She also never had an answering machine and refused to have a modern telephone with speed dial or any of those features – she just needed a plain phone, with a cord going to the wall, and that was it.

Eileen was married to her beloved husband William for more than fifty years before he passed away in 1997. They were inseparable and did everything together. They led a very social lifestyle, attending many parties and often eating out on the town. For the past fourteen years since Bill passed, Eileen has certainly been living with a broken heart, never quite the same. Surely now, the two of them are happily reunited in Heaven once again.

She is survived by her loving brother Harold Jones and his wife Helen of Barnegat, NJ, her sister; Florence Gregory of Clifton, and many nieces and nephews. She was also predeceased by her brothers; Donald, Alfred and William Jones.

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

Edward Deraney, age 81 of Wayne, died suddenly on Thursday, September 8, 2011.

Ed was born in Gloversville, New York and lost his father at just four years old. His mother moved their family back to her homeland of Lebanon where she raised her children. While growing up in Lebanon, Ed always had a deep sense of American Patriotism. During World War II, Ed asked his mother for an American Flag for his birthday. Of course, none were available in Lebanon, so his mother and sister made one themselves. Ed proudly flew that flag at their home in Deir-el-Qamar, Lebanon, and it raised quite a commotion in the area as it was the only American flag around. Some of their neighbors even thought the American Ambassador had moved in. Regardless, Ed flew his flag proudly and dreamed of the day he could once again return to America.

In 1946, when World War II had ended, his dream came true and the family moved back to America. They settled in the Bronx and Ed entered high school. Although he couldn’t speak English, his math and reading skills were superior and he was fluent in French and Arabic, so he graduated in short order. He was able to pick up the English language very quickly and had no trouble adapting to American life. He soon began working as a bookkeeper in lower Manhattan while putting himself through college at Columbia University.

His education was interrupted when he was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1951 during the Korean War. He served most of his military tour in Paris, and after being discharged, he completed his education and graduated from Columbia University. He took a position with the National Security Agency, and while interviewing for the position with the NSA, Ed was surprised that they already knew all about him – the boy with the American flag flying at his home in Lebanon many years earlier. As it turned out, that flag was so out of place in Lebanon that it had piqued the interest of the U.S. intelligence community and they knew who he was. Once with the NSA, he completed his Masters Degree at George Washington University and proved to be a valuable asset as a cryptoanalyst due to his fluency in three languages. Among his many accomplishments with the NSA, he was particularly proud to have earned a Congressional Citation for his key role in thwarting an assassination plot against King Hussein of Jordan. He left the NSA in 1960 and returned to Fair Lawn, New Jersey to join his brother in starting a new business.

Ed and his brother started Deran Water Conditioning, which they built into one of the largest businesses of its kind in the northeast. They operated the company together until 1984 when his brother retired. Ed continued to run the company until 1989 when he sold it. He stayed on as a consultant for a few years before retiring in the early 1990s. During retirement, he did enjoy his leisure time especially with his dog Neika, a Husky-Akita mix. One of Ed’s favorite times with Neika was when they would get in the car together and go through the Wendy’s drive thru, each getting a hamburger. They'd find a parking space and eat them right there in the car together. When they were finished, they would drive up Rt. 23 to Curly’s Ice Cream where Ed would get two cups of ice cream, go back to the car and eat – with Neika having her own cup of ice cream right there in the car, while Ed enjoyed his. They were the best of pals.

Ed met his wife Pam through a chance encounter with her brother-in-law that turned into a blind date. Their first date was to dinner and a play in New York City and that’s all it took for Ed - he was smitten. He was persistent with his request for a second date and from then on, the rest is history. He and Pam were married in 1967 and settled in Wayne. They were blessed with a marriage full of fun, laughs, respect and lots of love. They simply adored each other, and their children realize the gift that their parents gave them by having a home full of love and compassion for each other. He was a wonderful husband and father.

Ed is survived by his loving wife of 44 years; Patricia “Pam” of Wayne; his three children, Danielle Palumbo and her husband Tony of Oakland, Rod Deraney and his wife Mayumi of Newtown, CT, and Edward Deraney of West Hollywood, CA; five grandchildren, Tony Palumbo of Oakland and Priya, Brayden, Kade and Trooper Deraney all of Newtown, CT; his sisters, Renee Baddoura of Pompton Plains and Nadia Martin and her husband John of Cranford; his sister-in-law, Georgette Deraney of Wayne; and many nieces and nephews.  Sadly, his dear cousin with whom he was very close throughout his life, Dr. Maurice Deraney of Midland Park, also passed away just a couple of days later, on September 10, 2011.

Barbara Ann Descarfino (nee Levich), age 61 of Forest Lakes in Byram Township, New Jersey died peacefully on Thursday, September 08, 2011.

Barbara grew up in Clifton and graduated from Clifton High School with the class of 1967. It was right around that time when one of her school mates saw her at the Dairy Queen in Garfield and invited her to join him at the Clifton High School football game. Phil Descarfino felt like the luckiest guy in Clifton that day, as he cruised to the game in his Pontiac GTO with his new girlfriend. They were married on April 13, 1969 and enjoyed a honeymoon at Elbow Beach, Bermuda. There were more than three hundred newlywed couples there, all of which had been waiting for Lent to end so they could get married, including Barbara and Phil.

They first settled in Lyndhurst, then Clifton, before moving to Forest Lakes in Byram Township in 1977. Together they raised their daughter Christine there. Their family was complete with the addition of their faithful cats; Mugsy and Daisy.

Barbara had worked for Nabisco in East Hanover for a period of about ten years, retiring in 1988. She had been a secretary there, and also worked in the retail shop.

During their marriage, Barbara and Phil vacationed regularly to the Bahamas, Florida, Puerto Rico, St. Croix, St. Thomas, and many more fabulous destinations. Barbara’s favorite place to visit, above all the others, was the Stroudsmoor Country Inn in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. With her Parkinson’s Disease advancing in recent years, the Stroudsmoor Inn was one of the few destinations she could still travel to and each time she left to come home, she would shed a tear imagining that it just might be her last time there.

Barbara enjoyed her home too and she was an excellent cook of both Italian and Slovakian foods. Her husband was a skilled gardener and he kept her supplied with plenty of fresh ingredients. On a few occasions he grew so much zucchini that she baked zucchini bread until it seemed to be up to their ears, but it was delicious none the less. She would always be feeding her family well and at Christmas time she would bake her famous cookies to share with everyone.

Her life changed with the arrival of her granddaughter, Emily Rose. Emily brought endless smiles to Barbara’s face and Barbara spoiled her at every turn. She simply adored her beautiful Emily Rose and there’s no question that her granddaughter brought her much needed strength and energy during her long struggle with Parkinson’s. Emily Rose was truly the light of her life for the past several years and brought her much needed joy.

Barbara is survived by her loving husband of forty two years; Philip, her daughter; Christine Bradford and her husband Brian of Oak Ridge, NJ, her granddaughter Emily Rose Bradford, two brothers; Thomas Levich of Wayne and Robert Levich of Las Vegas, Nevada, her aunt Marge Potosnack of Clifton, three devoted sister-in-laws; Joanne Gross and her husband Steven of Florida, Maryann Descarfino of Clifton, and Deborah Sessa and her husband Richard of Roseland, and her nephews and niece.

Donations in Barbara’s memory to support Parkinson’s disease research would be greatly appreciated. Please consider the National Parkinson Foundation, Gift Processing Center, PO Box 5018, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5018 or visit www.parkinson.org

Timothy A. Dolan age 55 of Wayne, NJ passed into life eternal on Saturday, September 3, 2011 at the Chilton Memorial Hospital in Pompton Plains. His passing was quiet and peaceful while he received the loving care of his family who were at his bedside.

He was born in Hoboken and lived in Clifton before moving to Wayne where he has lived since the age of seven.

Tim’s first job was doing landscaping at the Preakness Pool in Wayne then later on to the job that would become his passion, working for the family business Dolan & Traynor, Inc. in Wayne with his father Bernard Dolan , brothers Mike and the late Brian Dolan working his way to the position of Vice President.

He received his formal education at Don Bosco Prep in Ramsey and then went to DePaul High School, Wayne having graduated with the Class of 1974. He went on to Mount Saint Mary’s University, Emmitsburg, Maryland having graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business and Finance with the Class of 1978.

Tim was very dedicated to his family and the community in which he lived. He was always extremely involved in sports around town and coached many soccer, basketball, indoor soccer and baseball teams with the Packanack Lake Athletic Association, Wayne PAL, and the Wayne Boys and Girls Club. For twelve years he has run the golf outing dubbed the Dolan Cup for the Packanack Lake Athletic Association and was recently inducted into their Hall of Fame for having given more than just his time.

Tim served on the advisory councils of several plumbing industry associations and was also a member of the American Society of Plumbing Engineers for many years.

He was the loving husband of Lynn (Peters) Dolan; devoted father of Peter Dolan of Fort Lauderdale, FL and Timothy Jeffrey Dolan of San Diego, CA, step-son Justin Lipman of Bronx, NY,  cherished son of the late Geraldine and Bernard "Buzz" Dolan; loved brother of Bob Dolan and his wife Mary Ann of Toms River, the late Brian Dolan (2003) and Brian’s wife Jeanette of Barry Lakes, NJ, B. Michael Dolan and his wife Lynn of Wayne, Patrick Dolan and his wife Carol of Glen Rock, Mary Dolan-Majeski and her husband Richard of Princeton, and Thomas Dolan and his wife Cary of Minneapolis - St. Paul, MN; cherished uncle of many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers those wanting to make a donation to honor Timothy Dolan’s memory are asked to consider the Packanack Athletic Association, 52 Lake Drive West, Wayne, NJ 07470 or the Wayne PAL, 1 PAL Drive, Wayne, NJ 07470.

Angela E. Brancato (nee Mindardi), age 94 of Kinnelon, died on Wednesday, August 31, 2011 while receiving the loving care of her daughter and family.

Angela was born in Ragusa, Sicily and came to America in 1960 to be close to her daughter. She arrived in America with her husband Salvatore (1985) aboard the SS Cristoforo Colombo, sister ship to the famed SS Andrea Doria. They first settled in Hackensack, then Paterson and then Pompton Plains where she lived from 1974 until moving to Kinnelon.

Angela worked for Buitoni Pasta Company back in the 1960’s and later as a cook at a local nursing home. Although she found the work very fulfilling, she chose to be a full-time homemaker when they moved to Pompton Plain in 1974. She was superb at preparing traditional Italian dishes and insisted on making everything from scratch; her pasta, ravioli, focaccie bread, and all of her sauces were homemade. On one occasion when her son-in-law Michael visited, he was amazed to find her stirring an enormous pot full of sauce, over a wood fire she had started in the yard – truly authentic, and the flavors were like nothing you’ve had before. Her ingredients were always fresh and home-grown. Her home had adequate property to keep a garden that was almost ½ an acre in size, full of fresh vegetables and herbs. Cooking and her garden were her true passions in life and she often dreamed of opening a restaurant someday. Had she done so, her menu would have surely been a hit with even the most discriminating critics.

Angela was a proud and fearless woman. She loved her family, and her eyes would light up when her grandchildren and great-grandchildren came to visit. She leaves them all with many fond memories to cherish for the rest of their lives.

Angela is survived by her loving daughter; Pina Rudolph and her husband Michael of Kinnelon, a son; John Brancato, grandchildren; Debbie Meli and her husband Richard Ragucci of Lakewood, NJ, Kim Simpson and her husband Michael of Pompton Plains, and Stacey Bernhardt-Meli and her husband Christopher Bernhardt of Pompton Plains, NJ, and three great-grandchildren; Julian, Isabella, and Angelina.

Mary C. Barbera (nee Keating) age 91 of Wayne closed her eyes while reading her prayer book and died peacefully at home on Sunday, August 28, 2011. Besides her loving husband of sixty-eight years, Edward, Mary leaves her children Ellen Barbera, Middlebury, VT, Lois Eddeh and husband, Jess, of Pequannock, Steven Barbera and his wife Louanne, of Wayne andThomas Barbera and his wife Melissa of Hawthorne. Cherished grandmother (NANA) of six: JoAnn, Tommy, Michael, Danny, Stevie, Chrissy. Cherished great grandmother (GREAT NANA) of six: Jordyn, Andrew, Mitchell, Andie Claire, Russell and Aven. She leaves a loved sister, Mildred Accardo. She was predeceased by her sister, Evelyn Kleiber and by her brother, Paul Keating

She was born in Ridgefield Park, NJ and raised in Hawthorne. Mary graduated, and was a cheerleader at Hawthorne High School, Hawthorne, NJ, Class of 1937.

She continued her education at Sherwood School of Business, Paterson.

Her first job was with the Hearst Publishing Corporation, New York City. She then was employed as a secretary at VanVlandren Machine Company, Paterson, where she met Edward. Their first date was to the Palisades Amusement Park, where it is rumored that Edward didn’t do so well on the roller coaster. They were married in St. Anthony’s RC Church, Hawthorne on October 17, 1942 while Edward was on leave from the US Navy. They honeymooned at Niagara Falls, NY. When Edward completed his service, they lived in Hawthorne where had their first two children. They moved to Wayne in 1952. After having two more children Mary accepted a position with the Wayne Board of Education where she worked for nineteen years, most of which as a secretary at Lafayette School.

Upon moving to Wayne the young family joined Holy Cross RC Church in Mountain View and then became founding parishioners of Our Lady of the Valley RC Church in Wayne in 1960.

As their first daughter, Ellen prepared to marry, Mary and Edward took ballroom dancing lessons at the Herb & Sally Walker Studios in Pompton Plains which inspired them to continue ballroom dance for many years. Mary’s special loving touch with chocolate chip cookies will be sorely missed by friends, family and neighbors alike. Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, backyard porch and pool parties at the family home will be cherished memories for many years to come.

The family would like to thank caregivers Marge, Marie and Rosemarie for their loving, nurturing, compassionate care of our mom. They truly became members of our family!

In lieu of flowers donations to the Alzheimer's Assoc., 400 Morris Ave., Suite 251, Denville, NJ 07834 or Meals-on-Wheels, 1312 Route 23 North, Wayne, NJ 07470 would be appreciated.

Marilyn Ann Fitzpatrick (nee Murphy), age 71 of Wayne, died on Friday, August 26, 2011 at the Chilton Hospital in Pompton Plains with her family beside her.

Marilyn was born in Plainfield and grew up in Elizabeth. She graduated from St. Mary’s High School in Elizabeth with the class of 1957. She began working as an executive secretary with Prudential in Newark. After raising her children, she began working part time at Atkins Chevrolet in Wayne, and then with the Wayne Township Tax Collectors Office, retiring in 2004.

It was at Prudential that Marilyn met Peter Fitzpatrick. Their relationship sparked a courtship and they were married in 1961 at St. Mary’s Church in Elizabeth. After their honeymoon in Miami, they settled in Kearny before moving to Wayne in 1964.

Marilyn naturally established herself as the matriarch of her family. Her home was always full of people, so much so that her children grew up thinking that everyone’s house was always full of cousins, and friends, and travelling relatives living with them for a few weeks or months at a time. Marilyn had a huge heart and would greet anyone in need with open arms and she was happiest if they stayed awhile. When family would visit from Ireland or England, it was always at Marilyn’s home that they would stay. She was a sort of surrogate mom to many as well, and would open up her heart to help those in need. Fortunately for all those people in her home, Marilyn was also a great cook. She could make better Italian dinners than most Italians, and her apple pie was the absolute best you could find anywhere.

On several occasions she traveled to Ireland and England to visit with family, and they vacationed in the Catskills and at the Jersey Shore frequently. Marilyn’s favorite destination was always Point Pleasant Beach where she would take the kids to Jenkinson’s and enjoy the boardwalk and beach. Just a few years ago she enjoyed a grand European tour with her husband, visiting Holland, Germany, Switzerland as well as several other destinations, and she loved it.

Marilyn is survived by her devoted husband of fifty years; Peter Fitzpatrick of Wayne, her son; Peter Fitzpatrick and his wife Eileen (Shea) of Far Hills, NJ, her daughter; Julie Fitzpatrick and her fiancé Steven Singer of Robbinsville, NJ, three grandchildren; Shea Julia, Peter Murphy, and Kelly Marie Fitzpatrick, all of Far Hills, one brother; Jim Murphy and his wife Sheila of Brick, NJ, her sister Joan Murphy of Linden, and two sister-in-laws; Kathleen Murphy of Westfield and Joan Murphy of Ohio. Marilyn was predeceased by two of her brothers; Fred Murphy of Westfield and Jack Murphy of Ohio.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Marilyn’s memory are asked to consider Eva’s Village, 393 Main Street, Paterson, NJ 07501.

Thomas Ackershoek, age 85, of Ortley Beach NJ and Barefoot Bay Fl, died August 21, 2011 in NJ.

He was born in Paterson NJ. Tom is survived by his sister Matilda (Til) Dunning and brother Tunis, sister-in-laws Irma and Margaret and many nieces, nephews and great and great great nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Nellie and Tunis Ackershoek and brothers and sisters, Len, Kryn, Nick, Ed, Trina and Margaret and his lifelong friend, Anita LeenHeer.

Tom Ackershoek attended Paterson Public Schools and William Paterson and Montclair State University. He was a principal of School 6 and Martin Luther King School in Paterson NJ. He retired to Ortley Beach after his successful career. He traveled between NJ and Florida for many great days at the beach.

Ackershoek served our country in the Philippines in World War II. He returned there in 2005 with the members of the GI Gospel Hour. He met yearly with the GI Gospel Veterans who continue to support the seminary they began in the Philippines in WWII. Last September, Tom attended the 65th Anniversary reunion in Detroit MI with SEND International.

Ackershoek has been battling cancer since 2006 and is thankful for the care he received from his niece Lois Neun in Florida. He recently was on a clinical trial program at MD Anderson Hospital for Mantel Cell Lymphoma in Orlando.

Tom loved the Lord and was a member of People’s Park Reformed Church in Paterson NJ and attended the Union Church of Lavallette in NJ and Calvary Church in FL. since his retirement. He left Florida this July and traveled to Michigan and Ortley Beach to sit on the deck of his shore house and to visit friends. He loved the ocean and he loved life. He enjoyed visiting his family and was in North Jersey at Chilton Hospital when he died.

He will be remembered by all his friends and family because he loved us all and we all loved him.

In lieu of flowers donations be made to the SEND Intl., PO Box 513, Farmington, MI 48332 please be sure to include Thomas Ackershoek Memorial Donation/GI in the memo of your check.

Margaret “Marge” K. Smeilus age 69 of Lakewood, NJ died on Thursday, August 18, 2011 in Toms River.

She was born in Queens, New York and had lived in Wayne for thirty-one years before moving to Lakewood in 1997.

Marge received her formal education at Richmond Hill High School in Queens, New York graduating with the Class of 1958.

Mrs. Smeilus was a Special Education Para Professional for the Wayne Board of Education at the Ryerson School before her retirement in 1997.

She was gifted with a wonderful singing voice and sang in Grammar School, High School Choral Society, as well as in churches.

Erhard and Margaret Smeilus were married for forty-three years in a ‘best friend and loving marriage” together. Marge saw their relationship as a balance of shared strengths and weaknesses that complimented them both in many wonderful ways. Erhard predeceased her in 2004.

The arrival of grandchildren in to her life was a very special highlight and she simply adored them with all of her heart.

Surviving are one daughter Debby Greenberg and her husband Bruce of Butler; one son Paul Smeilus and his wife Debra of Butler; five grandchildren: Jared, Jordan, Marissa, Katie and Ethan.

Donations for Lou Gehrig’s Disease Research would be greatly appreciated. Those planning and expression of sympathy in Margaret’s name are asked to consider The ALS Association, Development Department, 27001 Agoura Road, Suite 250, Calabasas Hills, CA 91301.

Pauline Lazzara (nee Pirolo) age 98 of Wayne formerly of Paterson. She passed into life eternal on Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at the Saint Josephs Hospital in Wayne. Her passing was quiet and peaceful while receiving the loving attention of her sons who spent much time at her bedside.

She was born in Paterson where she lived her formative years as well as much of her adult life. She later moved to West Paterson. When her late husband Joseph retired in 1986  from the family business known as Lazzara’s Bakery located in Paterson. They moved to West Palm Beach, Florida to enjoy their retirement years and then returned to Wayne, New Jersey in 2002.

Pauline’s finest focus in life was her family. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Sunday dinners where a regular family ritual and her superb cooking was enjoyed by all.

Her children recall returning from school and having special treats prepared by this special mother, for their enjoyment.

Pauline’s brother introduced Pauline to Joseph Lazzara and they tied the knot in marriage.   The end result was that they had a “good and loving marriage” until Joseph’s passing in July of 2010.

Thank you mother for being so special in our lives.

Surviving to cherish her memory are two sons Edmund Lazzara and his wife Ruth of Wayne and Joseph Lazzara and his wife Veronica of Brick; six grandchildren Nicholas, Douglas, Alicia, Alexis, Althea and Scott.; seven great grandchildren Jack, Ava, Olivia, Noah, Mylia, Sidney and Skyler.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Pauline Lazzara’s memory  are asked to consider St. Jude's Children's Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN   38105

Nesmer V. Calzolari, age 84 of Wayne, died on Tuesday, August 16, 2011. He was a resident of Wayne since 1960.

Born and raised in Paterson, Nesmer graduated from East Side High School with the class of 1944. He joined the U.S. Navy while he was still just seventeen years old, needing his parents to sign for him. He proudly served during World War II aboard the USS Mispillion AO-105, a fleet oiler, in the North Atlantic.  He was discharged in 1946 and took advantage of the GI Bill, attending Fairleigh Dickinson University in Rutherford. At the time, Fairleigh Dickinson was only a two year school, so he continued his education at Oklahoma A&M, which later became Oklahoma State. He later earned his Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering at Steven’s Institute of Technology here in New Jersey. He enjoyed a lengthy career as an engineer with the U.S. Postal Service, first in Secaucus and then in New York City, retiring in 1990.

During the time he attended Fairleigh Dickinson, Nesmer was part of a carpool of students from Paterson who rode together to class each day. He became friendly with one of the other riders, a nice girl named Jean Andrisani. They dated for a few years before marrying in 1952 at St. Anthony’s RC Church in Paterson. They lived in Paterson for eight years before moving to Wayne in 1960, where they have lived ever since.

When he wasn’t working, Nesmer enjoyed tending to his traditional garden; tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and lettuce, along with the usual herbs. He loved being out there keeping everything neat and growing well, especially his roses. He was always active in his kid’s lives too, including plenty of Cub Scout events and meetings. When it came to meal time, he would often use one of his old Navy clichés at the dinner table: “take all you want, eat all you take”, making sure they wasted nothing. The family also enjoyed their vacations together just about every summer at Wildwood Crest, where Nesmer was content with his feet in the sand, simply relaxing, while the kids played. More recently he’s been happiest as a grandfather, teaching his grandchildren how to play games and even how to play cards. He and Jean would occasionally take a road trip out to the Denver area to see their son and grandkids, meandering their way out there. He loved to sightsee, stopping at various places to explore, and he almost always stopped at Oklahoma State to get a new garment or souvenir from his Alma Mater. They would drive along to Houston, Texas as well, visiting more grandchildren, before working their way back to Wayne. He truly enjoyed those road trips and especially loved visiting with his children and grandchildren.

Nesmer was adored by many Wayne area residents while serving as the movie ticket collector at the Clearview Cinema in Preakness Shopping Center. He took the position about ten years ago, needing something to keep himself out of trouble during his retirement. He greeted untold numbers of movie goers with a smile and “enjoy the show” as they entered the theatre. He was a fixture there and will surely be missed by all.

Nesmer is survived by his devoted wife Jean (nee Andrisani), four children; Thomas and his wife Christine of Nazareth, PA, Gary and his wife Elizabeth of Longmont, CO, Ron and his wife Judy of Houston, TX, and Patricia Calzolari of Wayne, one uncle; Foster Pericciuoli of Inglis, FL, and eight grandchildren.

Nesmer was always fond of the work done by the Salvation Army, therefore if you would like to make a donation in his memory, please consider the Salvation Army, 4 Gary Rd., Union, NJ 07083.

Vincent Mazzoccoli age 54 of Wayne died Monday, August 15, 2011.

He was born and raised in Paterson having moved to Wayne in 1973. Vincent graduated from St Anthony’s Parochial School, Paterson and went on to Paterson Catholic High School to graduate with the Class of 1974. He continued his education at the New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark where he received his degree in Industrial Engineering with the Class of 1978.

His first job, at the age of sixteen, was working in a lamp factory in Paterson. After receiving his college degree in engineering he secured a positing at the Presto Lock Company, Elmwood Park. After a few years Vincent got a job in the Fire Systems industry having initially worked for Syntron in Cedar Knolls and most recently for the Kidde Fire Corporation, Montvale where he has worked for the past twenty years.

He was the loving son of Angiolina (Simmarano) Mazzoccoli and the late Angelo R. Mazzoccoli(2008); loving brother of Elizabeth DeNichilo and her husband Nicholas of Wayne; devoted uncle of Deanna and Nicole DeNichilo both of Wayne; and was loved by many cousins.

Vincent was a parishioner of Our Lady of the Valley RC Church, Wayne and a member of the Men’s Cornerstone Ministry.

An avid sports enthusiast Vincent often played basketball with friends and was a dedicated New York Yankees Fan. He also loved music and enjoyed listening to The Beatles.

Margie (Kuiper) Densel, age 86, of Wayne died peacefully at the home of her daughter Meg on Monday, August 15, 2011.

Born in Hoogeveen, Drenthe, The Netherlands, Margie came to the United States in 1930 with her parents and six siblings, settling in Wayne where she lived her entire life.

She is predeceased by Cornelius W. Densel, her husband of 56 years and all of her brothers and sisters. She is survived by two daughters, Cornelia (‘Connie’) Sellitto and her husband Anthony of Spring Lake Heights, Margaret (‘Meg’) Johnstone and her husband James of Pompton Plains, four grandchildren Timothy Prol, Kimberly (Johnstone) Brennan and her husband John, Matthew Johnstone and Michael Sellitto. She also leaves a step-grandson Anthony Sellitto III and many nieces and nephews.

She was a lifelong member of the Free Reformed Church of Pompton Plains, and a founding member of Ora et Labora, their ladies’ society.

Margie attended Wayne schools and graduated from the Pompton Lakes School of Business. She was a secretary and office manager for the Rice Accounting firm in Paterson, NJ until she left to devote herself fulltime to her husband and family.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Free Reformed Church Mission Fund, 160 West Parkway, Pompton Plains, NJ 07444 would be appreciated.

A more detailed obituary will be posted soon.  Please check back.

John Joseph Ponce II, age 81 of Wayne, died on Saturday, August 13, 2011 with his family gathered at his bedside.

John was born at home in Millwood, New York and was raised there. He graduated from Chappaqua High School with the class of 1948 and then from Manhattan College with a degree in Civil Engineering in 1952. He continued his education at Stevens Institute of Technology where he earned his Master’s Degree in Business.

He began his career in the building materials manufacturing industry with Western Electric, GAF, and Flint Kote before taking a position with the New York Economic Development Corporation where he reviewed contracts for public construction projects. He retired from the EDC in 2007.

John was, for the most part, a private man. He was meticulous, as an engineer might be, in everything he did, always focusing on the details. He loved his NY Yankees, Rangers, and especially so the NY Giants. Most of all, he loved his family. His children recall family vacations to various destinations such as Vermont, Virginia, and of course; the Jersey Shore. In order to enjoy the true ‘Jersey Shore’ experience, he had to have a house right on the beach so that he could be fully immersed in the sights, sounds, and smells of the beach.

He also had a deep devotion to his faith and the Catholic Church. John was committed to his church and celebrated Mass each week, as well as all of the Holy days at Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, in Wayne, which was like a second home to him. Surely it was his faith in Jesus that carried him through the tragedy of losing his son Johnny just four years ago to Melanoma. Understandably though, John was never truly able to recover from losing his son and he’s carried a very heavy burden on his heart ever since.

During his waning days, as he lay in bed, John prayed that Jesus would accept him and understand that he truly believed in Him. He asked his children to pray and in one of his final lucid moments he said “I gotta get out of here…”, and shortly thereafter he did just that. Free from pain, he is surely enjoying his reward in Heaven now, side-by-side with his son Johnny.

John is survived by his two daughters; Jeannine Missbrenner and her husband Andrew of Pompton Plains, Alison Ponce of Paterson, his sons; Kevin Ponce and his wife Kim of Ringwood, and the late John J. Ponce III who passed in 2007, five grandchildren; Kaylin and Kassidy Ponce of Ringwood and Andrew, Christopher, and Kathryn Missbrenner of Pompton Plains, one sister; Claire Passman of Connecticut, three nieces; Christine Lent of Connecticut, Lee Camuso of Massachusetts, Laura Murphy of New Hampshire, and one nephew; John Passman of Kentucky.

The Ponce family would be grateful if memorial donations would be made to the Melanoma Research Foundation, 1411 K St, NW #500, Washington, DC 20005 or by visiting www.melanoma.org.

Providenza “Enza/Nancy” DiMaggio (nee Graziano)  age 75 of Ponce Inlet, Florida died on Friday, August 12, 2011 at the Halifax Health and Hospice Center in Port Orange, Florida.  Her passing to life eternal was quiet and peaceful with her loving children gather around her bedside.

She was born in Palermo, Italy and came to America in 1961 seeking a better life.  Upon arrival she settled in  Passaic and later lived in Garfield  and River Vale for thirty years moving to Ponce Inlet, Florida six years ago.

Her first work as a child was being a seamstress in Italy and she continued that endeavor in America working for Garfield Sportswear in Garfield for fifteen years until her retirement at age 59.

One day going to work on her bicycle in Italy she met a handsome fellow by the name of Michael DiMaggio and love set in.  Michael soon after meeting Providenza moved to America but those phone calls and letters kept them in close contact.  They married in 1961 and shortly thereafter Providenza and Michael headed for New Jersey.  The final result was that they had 43 years of  “ two peas in a pod loving” marriage together until Michael’s passing in 2003.

Providenza was gifted with an outgoing and very sociable personality that loved life and caused her to have many friends.  She was truly a “any excuse for a party” lady that was a delight to be with.  In Florida she very much enjoyed the card game canasta and her fellow players made her Vice President of the Ponce Inlet Towers Canasta Club.

Her finest dedication in life was to her husband, children, grandchildren, brothers and sisters.  She was a wonderful loving person who cherished her family.

Providenza was a very devout Roman Catholic and had been active at Saint Andrews RC Church in Westwood for many years.

Surviving to cherish her memory are one daughter Francesca DiMaggio-Grose and her husband Russell of Riverdale, one son Anthony DiMaggio and his wife Christine of West Milford; four grandchildren Richard Pellosie, Cassidy and Julia DiMaggio and Samantha Grose; four sisters Madeline Vitrano of Edgwater, Florida; Anna Giammona of Wayne, Carmela Maglifiore and Cathy Saputo both of Edgewater, Florida; three brothers Anthony Graziano of Maywood, Frank Graziano of Paterson, Ignazio "Andy" Graziano of Paramus.

She was predeceased by her husband Michael DiMaggio in 2003, her brothers Giussepe and Salvatore Graziano also predeceased her earlier.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in Providenza’s DiMaggio’s  memory  are asked to consider The Halifax Health Hospice, 3800 Woodbriar Trail, Port Orange, Florida  32129.