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May 1, 2026
Louis U. Zazzella, age 100, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 1, 2026, while receiving the loving care of his family.
Born in his parents’ home in Paterson, New Jersey, Louis was the son of Louis and Helen Zazzella and one of two children. At a young age, his family moved to Haledon, where he spent his formative years. Life called him to responsibility early, and he left school before attending high school to help support his family, a decision that would come to define the outstanding work ethic he carried throughout his life.
Louis began working at a local dairy farm in Wayne, New Jersey, and went on to develop a wide range of practical skills. A gifted and entirely self-taught handyman, he had a natural talent for working on cars, especially wiring and electrical systems, as well as fixing anything that required patience and ingenuity.
In 1944, he answered the call to serve his country during World War II, serving in the United States Navy. He served honorably as a Machinist’s Mate Third Class and was awarded the American Theatre Medal, the Victory Medal, and the Asiatic-Pacific Medal I star.
Upon his honorable discharge, Louis began what would become a decades-long career as a truck driver for the Sam Braen stone quarry company in Haledon, later known as Stone Industries. His dedication and steady commitment carried him through more than forty years of service until his retirement in 1990.
Retirement did not slow him down. Louis found joy and purpose in working with his hands through woodworking in his home workshop, building birdhouses, tinkering with electronics and small engines, and tending to his extensive vegetable garden. His property was a reflection of his gardening skills. His lawn was always meticulously cared for. He was also a proud member of VFW Post #9458 in Bloomingdale.
As a young man, Louis served his community as a volunteer firefighter in Haledon. It was there, outside the firehouse, that fate intervened. One day a young woman named Elizabeth Soder passed by. The two started talking and hit it off wonderfully. As fate would have it, they fell in love and were married on January 26, 1952, beginning a partnership that would span more than seventy years until Elizabeth’s passing in 2022.
The couple first lived in Pompton Lakes, where they welcomed their son, Michael, before settling in a home they built together in Wayne. There, they welcomed their daughter, Linda, and created a lifetime of memories. Louis remained in that home for the rest of his life.
A devoted husband, father, and man of deep faith, Louis and his family were longtime parishioners of Our Lady of Consolation Church in Wayne. His Catholic faith was a guiding presence in his life.
Louis was a quiet and private man. He was someone who had much to say but never needed to raise his voice to be heard. He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need.
In his leisure, Louis was an avid hockey fan, proudly supporting both the New York Rangers and the New Jersey Devils.
Louis will be remembered as a truly special man, hardworking, and deeply devoted to those he loved. He was a truly special person who touched the lives of everyone around him. He will be sincerely missed by all who knew him.
Louis is survived by his son Michael Zazzella and his wife Debra of Vernon, NJ, his daughter Linda Zazzella of Wayne, NJ, and several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Elizabeth Zazzella (2022), and his sister Mae Maccia (2007).
Friends may visit with the family from 10am-12pm on Wednesday May 6, 2026 at the Vander May Wayne Colonial Funeral Home. 567 Ratzer Rd, Wayne NJ. A funeral service will be held at 12pm on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at the funeral home immediately following the visiting hours
Interment will be in Christ the King Cemetery, 980 Huron Rd, Franklin Lakes, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Louis’ name to the charity of your choice
If you would like to send a private condolence directly to the family use this condolence section.
May 1, 2026
Louis U. Zazzella, age 100, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 1, 2026, while receiving the loving care of his family.
Born in his parents’ home in Paterson, New Jersey, Louis was the son of Louis and Helen Zazzella and one of two children. At a young age, his family moved to Haledon, where he spent his formative years. Life called him to responsibility early, and he left school before attending high school to help support his family, a decision that would come to define the outstanding work ethic he carried throughout his life.
Louis began working at a local dairy farm in Wayne, New Jersey, and went on to develop a wide range of practical skills. A gifted and entirely self-taught handyman, he had a natural talent for working on cars, especially wiring and electrical systems, as well as fixing anything that required patience and ingenuity.
In 1944, he answered the call to serve his country during World War II, serving in the United States Navy. He served honorably as a Machinist’s Mate Third Class and was awarded the American Theatre Medal, the Victory Medal, and the Asiatic-Pacific Medal I star.
Upon his honorable discharge, Louis began what would become a decades-long career as a truck driver for the Sam Braen stone quarry company in Haledon, later known as Stone Industries. His dedication and steady commitment carried him through more than forty years of service until his retirement in 1990.
Retirement did not slow him down. Louis found joy and purpose in working with his hands through woodworking in his home workshop, building birdhouses, tinkering with electronics and small engines, and tending to his extensive vegetable garden. His property was a reflection of his gardening skills. His lawn was always meticulously cared for. He was also a proud member of VFW Post #9458 in Bloomingdale.
As a young man, Louis served his community as a volunteer firefighter in Haledon. It was there, outside the firehouse, that fate intervened. One day a young woman named Elizabeth Soder passed by. The two started talking and hit it off wonderfully. As fate would have it, they fell in love and were married on January 26, 1952, beginning a partnership that would span more than seventy years until Elizabeth’s passing in 2022.
The couple first lived in Pompton Lakes, where they welcomed their son, Michael, before settling in a home they built together in Wayne. There, they welcomed their daughter, Linda, and created a lifetime of memories. Louis remained in that home for the rest of his life.
A devoted husband, father, and man of deep faith, Louis and his family were longtime parishioners of Our Lady of Consolation Church in Wayne. His Catholic faith was a guiding presence in his life.
Louis was a quiet and private man. He was someone who had much to say but never needed to raise his voice to be heard. He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need.
In his leisure, Louis was an avid hockey fan, proudly supporting both the New York Rangers and the New Jersey Devils.
Louis will be remembered as a truly special man, hardworking, and deeply devoted to those he loved. He was a truly special person who touched the lives of everyone around him. He will be sincerely missed by all who knew him.
Louis is survived by his son Michael Zazzella and his wife Debra of Vernon, NJ, his daughter Linda Zazzella of Wayne, NJ, and several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Elizabeth Zazzella (2022), and his sister Mae Maccia (2007).
Friends may visit with the family from 10am-12pm on Wednesday May 6, 2026 at the Vander May Wayne Colonial Funeral Home. 567 Ratzer Rd, Wayne NJ. A funeral service will be held at 12pm on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at the funeral home immediately following the visiting hours
Interment will be in Christ the King Cemetery, 980 Huron Rd, Franklin Lakes, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Louis’ name to the charity of your choice
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