 Colombia "Bea" (née Pirolo) Dittamo, of Totowa, New Jersey, passed away May 3, 2023.
Bea was born and raised in Paterson, New Jersey, before she moved to Totowa 61 years ago. Before her retirement, Bea was a Bookkeeper and Clerk for Passaic County Park Department. Bea was a parishioner of Our Lady of Pompei in Paterson, a member of Our Lady of Pompei's Rosary Society, and a member of the Totowa Library Book Club. Bea is survived by her loving husband, Oliver Dittamo, devoted daughters, Cheryl Maguire and her husband, Terrence, and Renee Dent and her husband, Patrick. Bea is also survived by her adoring grandchildren, Christopher Dent, Stephanie DeLorenzis, Erika Kelly, and Shawn Maguire, and cherished great-grandchildren, Cassen Dent and Hudson DeLorenzis. Bea is predeceased by her brother, Charles Priolo. Family and friends are welcome to gather on Sunday, May 7, 2023, from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls, New Jersey. A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, May 8, 2023, at 10 am at Our Lady of Pompei, 70 Murray Avenue, Paterson, New Jersey - please arrive to the funeral home at 9 am.
0 Comments
Sidor, Kenneth P. "Ken", 66, a life long resident of Little Falls, passed away on Sunday, April 30, 2023. Cherished brother of Donald M. Sidor and Christina Dupas and her husband Floyd. Dear uncle of Marcie Dupas. Loving great-uncle of Aubree and Peter.
Born in Paterson, Ken lived in Little Falls his entire life. He was self employed as a carpenter and was a parishioner of Our Lady of the Holy Angels Roman Catholic Church in Little Falls. A Memorial Gathering will be held at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls on Friday, May 5, 2023 from 7 PM - 9 PM. A service will take place at 8:30 PM with Father Frank Agresti officiating.  Shellyann "Shelly" Wilkie (July 8, 1963-April 8, 2023) of Pines Lake, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at St. Joseph's University Medical Center in Paterson, New Jersey, the same city where she was born, with her loving husband of nearly three decades, Giuseppe Guerini, by her side.
Shelly was a dedicated and loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend. Born in Paterson, New Jersey, she grew up alongside her sisters, Kelly and Lois, and brothers, Bill, Vinnie, and Craig. Shelly lived her entire life in New Jersey, moving to Lodi, where she met Giuseppe at the furniture store where she worked as a Sales Rep, letting her sharp wit and silver tongue shine. The couple married in 1994 and welcomed their first son, Cosmo, in 1997, followed by triplet sons, Luca, Giuseppe, and Alessio, in 1999. Shelly dedicated her life to her family, leaving her career as a Dental Assistant to become a full-time mother and homemaker. Her love for children and animals was evident, and her bond with the family cat, Salem, was especially strong. Shelly was a social butterfly, hosting gatherings for friends, family, and acquaintances with warmth and generosity. Her gift for gab and gift-giving spirit made her the favorite aunt to her nieces and nephews, whom she showered with love and attention long after her own sons had grown. Beyond her dedication to her family, Shelly was a cherished friend to many. Her empathetic nature and experience navigating the medical world with her sons made her a valuable support system for those in need. Her boundless love for children and animals will be remembered by all who knew her. A celebration of Shelly's life will be held at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls, New Jersey on Saturday, April 15th from 4 pm to 8 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Helen Keller International, a charity that supports children and families in need across the globe. This organization embodies Shelly's passion for helping others, particularly in the realms of health and well-being. Donations can be mailed to Helen Keller Intl, One Dog Hammarskjold Plaza, Floor 2, New York, NY 10017 or at helenkellerintl.org Envelopes will also be provided by the funeral home during the memorial gathering. Shelly's memory will live on in the hearts of her husband, Giuseppe; her sons, Cosmo, Luca, Giuseppe, and Alessio; her siblings, Kelly, Lois, Bill, Vinnie, and Craig; her nieces, nephews, extended family, and countless friends whose lives she touched with her warmth, compassion, and love. Shellyann Wilkie Guerini will be forever loved and forever missed.  Douglas Mayer, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on March 27, 2023 at the age of 81. He was born in Union City, New Jersey to parents Walter and Edythe Mayer. Doug lived a beautiful life with his loving wife Carol, who he adored for 62 years.
Doug and Carol were residents of Wayne, NJ where they raised their three children, Douglas, Dennis, and Karen. They later moved to Stockholm, NJ and Whiting, NJ. Doug was preceded in death by his eldest son, Douglas Mayer. He is survived by his wife Carol, his children, and nine grandchildren. Doug's grandchildren brought immense joy into his life. They include David, Michelle, Matt, Danielle, Justin, Christopher, and Thomas. He also had two step-grandchildren, Kim and Nicole. Doug was blessed with one great-grandchild, Penny Lane, and three step-great-grandchildren, Leah, Cameron, and William. Douglas was a man of great character and will be remembered for his love of life and his enduring spirit. He was kind and compassionate, and always made people laugh. He had a contagious smile and was loved by all who knew him. He will be dearly missed. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to a charity that was very dear to Douglas, St. Jude Children's Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org Griffin, Tina M., 51, of Wayne, passed away on Wednesday, March 22, 2023. Beloved daughter of Dennis and Kathy Griffin of Woodland Park. Cherished sister of Dennis Griffin Jr. and the late Denise Griffin. Born in Paterson, Tina lived in Wayne all of her life.
The family will receive their friends on Sunday, March 26, 2023 from 4-6 PM at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls. A graveside service will be held on Monday, March 27, 2023 at 1:30 PM at Laurel Grove Memorial Park, 295 Totowa Road, Totowa. Please meet directly at the cemetery. Reverend Jin Kook Kim from the United Methodist Church in Little Falls will be officiating.  Daniel Walicky, 88 of Toms River, NJ, formerly of Belleville, passed away on Saturday, March 18, 2023.
Beloved Husband of Elaine Walicky (nee Nobrega). Loving Father of Daniel Walicky, Jr. and his wife Marisa, Dana Walicky, Dona Fizzarotti and her husband Phil and David Walicky. Cherished Grandfather to Lauren (James) Burdash, Michele Walicky, David Walicky, Jr., Dustin Walicky, Dylan Walicky, Felicia Hahn and Great Grandfather to Emilia, Morgan and Matthew. Daniel is predeceased by his parents Sylvester and Josephine, brothers Robert and Raymond, sisters Ruth, Rose and Marian as well as his daughter-in-law Theresa Walicky. Born in Newark, Daniel lived there most of his life before moving to Belleville in 1982, then relocating with his wife to Toms River eight years ago. He was a member of Operating Engineers Local 825 and worked for Aneiro Concrete for many years before retiring in 1997. The family will receive their friends on Thursday, March 23, 2023 at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls from the hours of 4-8 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 24, 2023 at 9:30 a.m. at Our Lady of the Holy Angels Church, 473 Main Street, Little Falls, NJ. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to the American Cancer Society www.cancer.org and to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital www.stjude.org Envelopes will also be provided by the funeral home during visitation hours.  Juan J. Ledergerber, 76 years old of North Caldwell, New Jersey sadly left us on March 17, 2023. Juan is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sonnia Ledergerber, his three daughters, Lorena Ledergerber, Cecile Ledergerber, and Priscilla Ledergerber-Arango, his four grandchildren, Lucas, Sophia, Peyton, and Ella, and his son-in-law, Michael Arango.
Juan immigrated from Ecuador, S.A., at the age of 18 and served in the army branch of the United States Military. He was an entrepreneur and business owner of Sonnia's Manufacturing Textile Company as well as Plant Manager of Sunweave Corporation. In honor of Juan J. Ledergerber, a mass will be held on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at 11 AM in Notre Dame Church, 359 Central Ave., North Caldwell, NJ 07006.  Edson, Irene (nee Campagna), 69, of Phillipsburg, formerly of Paterson, passed away on Sunday, March 12, 2023. Beloved wife of the late Wayne Edson. Loving mother of John Campagna, Jennifer Crawford and her husband Derrick. Cherished grandmother of her 8 grandchildren. Dear sister of Ray Campagna, Mary Lou Lewis, Louanne D' Pasquale, Robin Redner, Linda Grecco, Karen Joachim, and Georgina Hansen. Irene was predeceased by her two brothers Jimbo and Joey and her loving companion Arthur Chubby Duval.
Born in Paterson, Irene lived there most of her life as well as worked in Paterson at the Chicken Supreme. She moved to Phillipsburg three years ago. The family will receive their friends on Monday, March 20, 2023 from 6-8 PM at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls.  Rocco Agostino Sr. passed away at home with his family on March 11, 2023. Rocco was born to Inez and the late Elio Agostino in Paterson, New Jersey on March 22, 1972. Rocco was treasured by his mother Inez, children Christine, Rocco Jr., and Ian, and his grandchildren Zelda and Storm. He was also loved by his sister Virginia Fillare, late brother-in-law Robert Fillare, brother Elio Agostino, sister-in-law Cindy Agostino, late sister Inez Peia and brother-in-law Joseph Peia. His nephews Joseph Peia and Matthew Fillare will miss him greatly, along with his aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Since he was young Rocco was gifted with his hands and a sharp mind. He started working at AAMCO transmission at the age of 13 as a car mechanic. Eventually he met Janice Agostino who he went on to marry and have 3 children with, Christine, Rocco, and Ian. Shortly after Ian was born they split up and he became a single devoted father of 3. Everyone knew Rocco could fix anything, as he helped his loved ones whenever they needed assistance with their cars or homes. He used these gifts in various jobs throughout his life as a mechanic, a maintenance director of an apartment complex, a building superintendent, maintenance director at nursing homes, maintenance director at hospitals. He did so many different jobs, at many different places and they all required helping people. He also really enjoyed making people laugh, he liked to call people silly names and joke around. There was never a dull moment with Rocco. He could light up any room with his presence. He was sociable and could adapt to any environment which made him extraordinarily efficient at relating to people. At the time of his passing Rocco proudly worked at the Home Depot, where he made lots of friends who he was happy to have in his life and he excelled at assisting customers and his co-workers with anything they needed. During his life Rocco lived in both New Jersey and Florida, eventually returning home to Clifton where he spent his days devoted to his mother Inez and his late father Elio and all his children. He was happiest during the simple times, watching movies with his children, sitting at the kitchen table laughing with his mother, kids, and siblings, or out walking around his town. He loved to stare at the sky and look at the moon and stars at night. He loved the ocean and could lay on the beach for hours and loved watching the sun set from the shore. In his life Rocco's family and friends knew him above all as a man loyal to those he cared about. Even with his personal battles and demons his FAMILY as always #1 in his heart. He would do anything for his mother or his children. Everything Rocco did he did for his children and his mother. Rocco was a one-of-a-kind man to all who were lucky enough to know him; he will be dearly missed by his memory will live on in all of us. The biggest gift we can give Rocco is to let him live on through us. Our love. Our memories. The joy he brought us. We should never stop speaking his name so he can live forever in our hearts. Visitation will be on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 from 9 am - 11:30 am with "Remarks of Remembrance" at 11:30 am. Interment to follow immediately after at Crest Haven Cemetery, Clifton, NJ.  Moore, Marilyn M. (nee Probst), 76, of Montville, formerly of Woodland Park, passed away on Wednesday, March 8, 2023. Devoted mother of Greg Moore and his wife Natacha. Beloved grandmother of Samantha Moore. Cherished sister of Ruth Trudeau and her husband Edmond. Loving aunt of nephew Danny Trudeau. Dear friend of many years to Gene Kulick.
Born in Paterson, Marilyn was a resident of Woodland Park for 49 years. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Little Falls. Marilyn was a legal secretary working for DeYoe Law offices in Wayne for 50 years. Marilyn will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 from 4-8 PM at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls. A funeral service will take place at the funeral home on Thursday, March 16, 2023 at 12 pm. Please arrive at the funeral home at 11:30 am. Reverend Jin Kook Kim officiating. Interment to follow at Laurel Grove Memorial Park, Totowa, NJ.  Frank G. Barbetta, Jr. passed away in his Little Falls home on March 5, 2023 at the age of 74. Frank was born June 3, 1948 in Jersey City, NJ. He grew up in Saddle Brook, NJ and was a 1966 graduate of Saddle Brook High School. Frank earned a B.A. in 1970 from Pennsylvania State University where he studied Russian and print journalism. His early career began in the general press as a news reporter and feature writer for local NJ and NY newspapers. From 1975 until 2007, Frank spent his long and rewarding career as a journalist in the technology and business industry reporting, writing, and editing for newspaper, newsletter, monthly magazine, and daily website news and feature publishers. Although his initial work focused on consumer electronics and semiconductors, his long-term specialty became covering the domestic and international voice telecommunications and computer/data networks for publications such as Electronic News, Probe Research, Business Communications Review, and Access Intel's Telecom Web. He also worked as a freelance journalist writing for publishing companies and research analysis groups until his retirement in 2010.
Frank was an esteemed colleague of many in his field, as well as a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. Frank is survived by his wife Rena of 44 years, son Paul and his wife Erica, daughter Michelle, daughter Lisa and her husband Kevin, grandchildren Thomas and Annabella, sister Christine, and predeceased by brother Michael. Viewing will be held on Thursday, March 9, 2023 at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls, NJ from 5 pm-8pm. Funeral Services will be held March 10, 2023 at Our Lady of the Holy Angels Church, 473 Main Street, Little Falls, NJ at 9:30 am. Please meet directly at church. Burial will follow at Laurel Grove Cemetery, Totowa, NJ.  Marie Carroll Halachik Nunes passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loved ones on February 28, 2023 at the age of 81.
Born in 1941 in Little Falls NJ, Marie was the daughter of the late Michael and Eva Halachik of Cedar Grove. She attended Passaic Valley High School and held a Bachelor of Arts from Boston University with a Master of Education from UMASS. Marie was a lifelong career educator. She began her teaching career at Cedar Grove High School and later retired after more than forty-five year tenure as a SUNY Professor in Cobleskill NY. She inspired countless students to pursue their dreams and achieve their goals. She was a gifted educator who had a profound impact on the lives of those who were fortunate enough to learn from her. She was well known as "the hard grader" and held her students to very high educational standards. She married Joseph Nunes in 1971 with whom she raised two sons, Eric and Jonathan. She was a devoted mother who instilled the importance of education, strong work ethic, integrity, kindness, and compassion in her children. Marie will be remembered for her unwavering kindness, gentle spirit, and generosity. Marie is predeceased by her beloved brother Michael Halachik. She is survived by her husband Joseph, her two sons, Eric (Maria) of Cedar Grove, and Jonathan (Melissa) of Manhattan, and her two grandchildren (Gianna and Michael) whom she adored. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, former students and colleagues, but her memory will live on through the countless lives she touched during her time on this Earth as both a mother and an educator. Viewing will be held on March 5, 2023 at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls, NJ from 3 PM - 7 PM with Parastas at 6 PM. Funeral Services will be held on March 6, 2023 at 9:30 AM at St. John the Baptist Russian Orthodox Church, 29 Weaver Street, Little Falls, NJ. Please arrive at funeral home at 8:30 AM. Burial will follow at East Ridgelawn Cemetery, Clifton, NJ. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her memory to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or www.donate.cancer.org Envelopes will also be provided by the funeral home during visiting hours for your convenience.  Anthony John "Duke" Balady Sr, of Durham, North Carolina, and previously of Wayne, New Jersey, died peacefully at his home on February 27, 2023. He was 64. The sixth of eight children, Duke was born on May 23, 1958 in Paterson, New Jersey, to Michael and Sadie Balady. He attended St. George's Elementary School and Dom Bosco Technical High School in Paterson, graduating in 1976.
Being the sixth born, Duke learned to be independent at a young age. He spent many days of his youth playing stick ball in the street and bowling at the Bowl O Mat in Paterson, honing his skill to become an accomplished bowler and a member of the Professional Bowlers Association. He competed in many bowling tournaments and was the proud winner of the Golden Pin in 1993. Duke also established himself as a sharp, disciplined poker player, and he regularly traveled to Las Vegas and Atlantic City to play the tables. In 1981, on an otherwise uneventful day at the Bowl O Mat, Duke met the love of his life, Patricia Ann "Pati" Lacatena. From that point on, Pati was Duke's biggest fan, cheering him on at the Bowl O Mat and at tournaments throughout the country. Duke and Pati married in 1986. Three children- Anthony Jr, Jessica, and Cynthia- were soon to follow. Duke had a long, successful career with the Passaic Valley Water Commission, where he was known for his outstanding work ethic, quick wit, and sense of humor. Duke's big-hearted personality led him to develop close bonds with his co-workers. He made a number of life-long friends who were never more than a phone call away. Through the course of his career, Duke learned how to do pretty much everything involving construction and maintenance. Duke developed a particular affinity for painting, and his benevolent spirit led him to share his skills with friends and family. Duke took great pride in helping his children with any number of projects as they grew older and bought homes of their own. After retiring from the water commission in 2012, Duke and Pati moved to North Carolina to be closer to the kids. Over the years, the family continued to grow- Jessie married Ryan, Cindy married Willson, and Anthony married Hilary. In 2019, Duke became a grandfather to Jessie and Ryan's son, Owen Balady Bostian, and in 2022 to Cooper James Bostian. Duke's immense love for his children and grandchildren was clear to anyone who spend time around him. He loved spending time with Owen and Cooper, and most recently developed a new hobby- hand painting vintage toy cars and trucks for Owen. Since that day at the Bowl O Mat, Pati never strayed from Duke's side. This paid off in 2022, as Duke surprised Pati with her dream car for her 60th birthday- a red Lexus convertible. Duke loved his family and friends with all of his heart. He was an amazing father, grandfather, brother, colleague, and friend. He touched the lives of countless people. Duke will truly be missed, and he will never, ever, be forgotten. In addition to his wife, Pati, Duke is survived by brothers Mike Balady (Cathy) and Sam Balady (Darlene); sisters Diana Ferughelli (Paul), Linda Salerno, Judi DeRosa (Jim), Karen Jasterzbski (Tom), and Bernadette Scarano (Joe); his son, Anthony John Balady Jr. and his wife, Hilary Merica; and daughters Jessica Lynne Balady Bostian, and her husband Ryan Archer Bostian and Owen and Cooper; and Cynthia Jeanne Moss, and her husband, Willson Joseph Moss. Duke is predeceased by his father Michael Balady, mother Sadie Balady, brother-in-law Joe Salerno, and adored family dog, Teddy. A viewing will be held on Friday, March 3, 2023 from 6PM -9 PM at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls, NJ. A mass will be held on Saturday, March 4, 2023 at 9 AM at Our Lady of the Holy Angels Roman Catholic Church, 473 Main St., Little Falls, NJ. Please meet directly at church. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Duke's favorite charity, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org Envelopes will also be provided by the funeral home during visiting hours for your convenience.  August 8, 1938 - February 17, 2023
Anthony Statuto, 84 of Boonton, NJ, peacefully began his journey with the angels on Friday, February 17, 2023, reuniting with his parents and siblings. Tony was born and raised in Paterson, NJ, to Joseph and Jennie Statuto. Tony was a loving father, brother, uncle, and friend to all. He enjoyed spending time with his friends, family, and neighbors, and never missed a good party or cook-out. He was extremely hard-working, had a great sense of humor and a heart of gold. Tony was a loyal and devoted employee of Manheim- Skyline Auto Auction, retiring after dedicating 30 + years of service. After retirement, Tony was missing his work life and later accepted a position at Dover Dodge. He is survived by his daughter, Kimberly Licari (Statuto), and her husband Salvatore, sister-in-law, Carmella Statuto, nephew (s) Joseph Statuto and his wife Bonnie, Paul Statuto and his wife, Elizabeth, niece Cynthia Statuto along with many other nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his "adopted" families, Dawn and Paul Flores, and the Compolo Family. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 1, 2023, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Gaita Memorial Funeral Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls, NJ 07424. (973)256-2224.  Ann "Pudgy" Shark (nee Mirowsky), 79, formerly of Little Falls, NJ, passed away on Saturday, February 11, 2023 in Melbourne, Florida.
Beloved wife of the late Raymond Shark and daughter of Paul and Anne (Danilack) Mirowsky. Devoted mother of Steven and his wife Christy, Michael, and Andrew and his wife Christina. Cherished grandmother of 9 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Also survived by her loving brother-in-law Leonard and several nieces and nephews. Born in Wilkes-Barre, PA, Ann moved to Little Falls, NJ and then to Melbourne, Florida where she resided for 53 years. She worked at University Park Elementary School for many years. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Russian Orthodox Church in Singac, NJ. She is predeceased by her husband Raymond (1986). Her brothers Paul (1997), Myron (2009) and Lawrence (2022) and sisters Dora Dzama (2008) and Helen Marshall Sanagorsky (2015). There was a visitation held in Florida on Thursday, February 16, 2023. Visitation in New Jersey will be held on Thursday, February 23, 2023 from 5-7 PM at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls, A Funeral Service of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, February 24, 2023 at 10 AM at St. John RO Church, 29 Weaver Street, Little Falls, NJ. Please meet directly at church. Interment to follow at Laurel Grove Memorial Park Cemetery, Totowa, NJ. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. John the Baptist RO Church, 29 Weaver Street, Little Falls, NJ 07424 would be appreciated. Envelopes will also be provided by the funeral home during visiting hours.  Adolph David Bracho, 65, of Edison, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on the afternoon of February 10, 2023.
David was an avid outdoorsman. He was a member of a biking and hiking club, enjoyed the beach, and walking along the boardwalk of Asbury Park. David had an ear for music. He used to be in a band, where he played the bass guitar and sang. David was a car enthusiast who enjoyed storytelling and making jokes. Most importantly, David was a proud father. He would express to anyone who would listen about how happy he was for his two children and their accomplishments. David is survived by his loving children, Gabriella Bracho and Maximillian Bracho. Caring brother of Kathy Kayran and her husband, Zeki, Alice Aran and her husband, Jose “Pepe”, Sally Bracho and her husband, Ray Castle, Rudy Bracho and his wife, Rosemary, and Paul Bracho and his wife, Patty. David is also survived by many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. A Memorial Gathering will be held on Saturday, March 11, 2023 from 9:00 am – 11:00 am at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls, New Jersey 07424. A Memorial Service, beginning at 11 am, will immediately follow the Memorial Gathering at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations in David’s memory may be made to the The Raptor Trust, a bird rehabilitation and education center where David and his children often frequented together. Donations to The Raptor Trust may be mailed to 1390 White Bridge Road, Millington, New Jersey 07946 or online at https://theraptortrust.org/  Joyce DeMattia, 89 passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Thursday, February 9, 2023. She was born on November 20, 1933, in Paterson, NJ to Julie and Ignatius Unger.
She graduated from St. Mary's High School in Paterson, NJ, and married John DeMattia, a Paterson Firefighter in 1956. They moved to Totowa, NJ in 1963 where they raised their family. She is survived by her two sons, John Steven DeMattia and his wife Gretchen of Wilton, CT, and Alan Anthony DeMattia and his wife Sandra of Little Falls, NJ. Joyce is also survived by her three sisters, Margaret, "Marge" Minchin, Carole Unger and Grace Taurus. Her greatest accomplishments were her three grandchildren, Morgan Taylor DeMattia, Alexandra Nicole DeMattia and John Leo DeMattia. Joyce was a loving mother, wife, mother-in-law and an active dog mom. She was a voracious reader, loved to travel and a true Jersey girl who loved walking on the beach collecting shells and sea glass. She could not pass up a tag sale or a Macy's excursion. A private memorial ceremony will be held at a later date.  Scielzo, Ronald J., 76, of Clayton, Delaware (formerly of Little Falls) passed away on Thursday, January 26, 2023. He is survived by his wife Moira Goletz; his loving daughters Joanne Scielzo and Nicole Frangoulis and her husband Kosta; and the mother of his children Josephine Recchione. Ronald was the proud grandfather of three grandsons, Anthony Scielzo, Jonathan Frangoulis, and Nicholas Frangoulis.
Born in Paterson, New Jersey Ronald lived and raised his family in Wayne. He later resided in Little Falls for 15 years before moving to Delaware five years ago. Ronald was an automotive teacher for special needs children for 40 years. He began his career in education at Don Bosco and then spent most of his career teaching special needs automotive instruction at Passaic County Technical Institute in Wayne where he made a difference in the lives of many students. The family will receive their friends on Wednesday, February 1, 2023 from 4-8 PM at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls. A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, February 2, 2023 at 10 AM at the funeral home. Entombment will directly follow at Calvary Cemetery, 58 McLean Boulevard, Paterson. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate donations to St. Jude Children's Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org Envelopes will also be provided by the funeral home during visiting hours for your convenience. Freed, Robert E., 76, of Totowa Boro, passed away on Tuesday, January 24, 2023. He was the beloved father of Danielle L. Matthaei and her husband Michael J. Matthaei. Cherished grandfather of Jessica Matthaei and Michael B. Matthaei. Robert was predeceased by his three brothers Peter, Joseph, and Richard.
Born in Passaic, Robert lived in Totowa Boro for the past 48 years. He is a veteran of the United Stated Army having served his country in the Vietnam War. Robert worked in the lead mailroom for McGraw Hill publishing company in New York City. He was a member of the American Legion Post 227 out of Totowa and the Veterans Club in 417 Roe Street in Haledon. Funeral arrangements for Robert were private to the family.  Diorio, Harry N., 89, of Caldwell, passed away on Friday, January 20, 2023. He is survived by his family and many loved ones; his two daughters Christina Del Russo and her longtime partner Dio Franco, and Cynthia Pacillo and her husband Gerardo; their mother Thelma and her husband Glenn, who was also Harry's dear friend. He was the beloved grandfather of his granddaughters Danielle and her fiancé Edwin, Gabriella and her husband Fred, and Julia and her partner Anthony. He adored his great-grandson Gianni. Harry was also survived by his older sister Silvia Diorio Settanni. Harry is survived by his many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Harry Lewis Diorio and Anna Dorsi and his older brother Joseph Harry Diorio. Harry loved spending time with his grand dogs and cats.
Born in Jersey City and raised in Newark, Harry also lived in Little Falls, Toms River and most recently Caldwell. He was a retired tool and dye maker and started a career in Real Estate later in his life. Harry had a love for bowling, the beach, and being with his family. He was known to be able to fix or build anything. Harry will be greatly missed. The family will receive their friends on Wednesday, January 25, 2023 from 5-8 PM at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls. A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, January 26, 2023 at 10 AM at Our Lady of the Holy Angels Church, 473 Main Street, Little Falls, NJ. Please meet directly at church. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to your favorite charity in Harry's loving memory. Van Putten Vink Sr., William, 67, a lifelong resident of Clifton, passed away on Tuesday, January 3, 2023. Devoted husband of the late Mary Van Putten Vink (nee Radosti) who passed on September 15, 2020. Loving father of William Van Putten Vink Jr. and his wife Jennifer, Vincent Van Putten Vink and his wife Lauren, Melissa Di Napoli and her husband Tom, Catherine Van Putten Vink, and the late Keith Van Putten Vink who passed away June 26, 2014. Adored grandfather of his five grandchildren William Van Putten Vink III, Kendall Van Putten Vink, Michael Van Putten Vink, Chase Van Putten Vink, and London Van Putten Vink. Dear brother of John Van Putten Vink.
Born in Passaic, William lived in Clifton all of his life. He was employed as an auto mechanic and worked for Brogan Cadillac and the Passaic County Sheriff Department for 25 years. William retired from the Passaic County Sheriff Department two years ago. A Memorial Gathering will be held on Sunday, January 8, 2023 from 2-4 PM at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls.  Terpak, Mark A., 60, passed away on November 26, 2022. He was the beloved son of Charlotte (nee Perri) Terpak and Michael Terpak Sr. Dear brother of Michael Terpak Jr. and his wife Elizabeth and Scott Terpak and his wife Adrienne. Mark was the cherished uncle of his three nieces Sara, Ashley, and Sami Terpak.
Born in Paterson, Mark lived most of his life in Little Falls. He was an electrician for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 102 out of Parsippany. Mark was a parishioner of Our Lady of the Holy Angels Roman Catholic Church in Little Falls. He was a proud member of the IBEW Local 102 labor union. The family will receive their friends on Thursday, December 1, 2022 from 4-8 PM at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls. A funeral mass will be held on Friday, December 2, 2022 at 10 AM at Our Lady of the Holy Angels Church, 473 Main Street, Little Falls. Please meet directly at church. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to St. Jude Children's Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org. Envelopes will be provided during visiting hours for your convenience.  D'Amore, Irma, passed away on Sunday, November 20, 2022. She was born in Queens, New York. After high school Irma worked at MET Life Insurance in New York City. While vacationing on a cruise, she met and married the love of her life Michael D'Amore. They married and welcomed two daughters and settled in Woodland Park, New Jersey.
Being a homemaker for many years, she became fully invested in her daughters' passions, creativity, and education; but most importantly, she instilled a strong family bond for which they are so grateful for. Once her daughters attended middle school, Irma returned to work in the Wayne public school system as a lunch aide. To say that Irma loved her grandchildren was seemingly an understatement. Throughout her life, "Nonny" helped raise and care for her six grandchildren. Her daughter, Michelle, would return home from work and find her mom on the floor playing with trucks...the kids bathed, fed, and a piping hot dinner on the table waiting for her. She attended school plays, dance recitals, sporting events (especially ice hockey). She was her grandson TJ's biggest fan. Her compassion, spirit and generous acts of kindness were gifts to this world. Irma brought love, light, and HUMOR on a daily basis into the lives of all who were privileged to know her. She leaves a legacy of many lifelong and recent special relationships, treasured memories, and made a difference in people's lives. Irma was the beloved wife of Michael D'Amore, who passed away in 2019. She is survived by two daughters, Maria Schweighardt and her husband Tom, Michelle Ponzo and her husband Frank; six grandchildren, Kristen and her husband David, Katelyn and her husband Maxx, Michael, Jonathan, Nicole Joachim and Thomas (TJ), two step grandchildren, Candace and her husband Stephen and Dillon Ponzo; her great-granddaughter and the love of her life Kennedy, step-greatgrandchildren Parker, Ashton, and twins Bryce and Julian. She was the much-loved aunt of her many nieces and nephews. Irma was predeceased by her parents Louis and Rose Trozzo and her beloved sister Maria Greco. Family and friends may visit with the family from 3-7 PM on Friday, November 25, 2022 at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls, NJ. A Funeral Mass will be held at the Holy Angels Roman Catholic Church, 473 Main Street, Little Falls, NJ on Saturday, November 26, 2022 at 9:30 AM. Please meet directly at church. Irma will be laid to rest at Saint Gertrude Cemetery, 53 Inman Avenue, Colonia, New Jersey. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Irma's name to: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959. Envelopes will be providing by the funeral home during visiting hours. You can also donate online at www.stjude.org  Born September 14, 1938, Patricia Margaret Wardrope grew up in Wayne along the Passaic River with older brothers, Richard and Robert and younger brother, Daniel. As a teen, she met Patsy DelleCava from across that same river and their love story began.
Pat graduated from Wayne Valley High School in 1957 and married Patsy during a blizzard on February 15, 1958. She became a mother to Susan, then Patrick, followed by twins, Robert and Rose and then by Lisa. Pat and Patsy made their home in Little Falls for 64 years. With five kids running around, Pat created a warm, fun-loving, welcoming home and raised her children to be kind, considerate and hard working. Pat welcomed sons and daughters-in-law into the family and was blessed with 11 grandchildren! The joys of her life were Jimmy, Joey, Maggie, Patrick, Max, Nicholas, Jack, Veronica, Sophie, Anthony and Claudia and recently added granddaughters-in-law, Katey and Bianca. She had many nieces and nephews that she stayed close with and was always happy to hear from. Pat was an open and loving person. She was genuinely interested in everyone she met. She listened. She cared. She loved to laugh and hear your stories. Her family became her friends, and she loved her friends like family. Generous to a fault, it was impossible not to love her. Everyone came away from a conversation with her feeling better than before. A devoted Grammy/Mimi, she wanted the best for her grandchildren. She enthusiastically cheered them on in life and at sporting events, dance and music recitals, school plays and bar room gigs. She loved going on vacation with them to Wildwood and enjoyed years of Sunday dinners with them. She enjoyed her many friends made throughout her life, from high school and William Street to name a few. Pat and Patsy loved their yearly vacations to St. Maarten with their group of friends. After raising her family, Pat worked for a temp agency for a few years. then as a real estate agent in Little Falls where she helped her children find their first homes. An active member of Holy Angels Catholic Church and The Little Falls Woman's Club, she was always involved in charitable causes. Patricia's warm and generous spirit took flight on November 19, 2022. She leaves behind heavy hearts but will joyfully reunite with loved ones she's missed for so long in this world. Pat is survived by her loving husband, Patsy DelleCava Daughter, Susan and her husband James McArdle Son, Patrick and his wife, Karen, (nee Sperling) DelleCava Son, Robert and his wife, Jill (nee Benson) DelleCava Daughter, Rose and her husband, Joseph Wassel Daughter, Lisa and her husband, Richard Gail Brother, Daniel Wardrope and his wife Janet (nee Montefusco) Wardrope and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by brothers Robert and Richard. Please join the family in celebrating her life on Tuesday, November 22, 2022 from 3-7 PM at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls and on Wednesday, November 23, 2022 at 10 AM for a Funeral Mass at Holy Angels RC Church, 473 Main Street, Little Falls. Please meet directly at church.  Cheff, Francis A. "Frankie", 53, a lifelong resident of Little Falls, passed away on Thursday, September 29, 2022. Beloved son of Joseph Cheff. Frankie was predeceased by his mother Paula De Prospo. Dear brother of Joey Cheff, Brielle Cheff, and the late Amanda Cheff who passed away in 2001. Cherished nephew of Ray and Sandra Cheff.
Born in Paterson, Frankie lived in Little Falls all of his life. He worked as a technician for the Wanaque Reservoir for 15 years. Frankie was a parishioner of Our Lady of the Holy Angels Roman Catholic Church in Little Falls. The family will receive their friends on Tuesday, October 4, 2022 from 4-8 PM at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, October 5, 2022 at 9:30 AM at Our Lady of the Holy Angels Church, 473 Main Street, Little Falls. Please meet directly at church. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the American Diabetes Association, Somerset NJ Office, 19 Schoolhouse Road, Somerset, NJ 08873 or www.diabetes.org Envelopes will also be provided during visiting hours. |