Bocchiaro, David A.,Sr., 75 of West Milford on Wednesday, December 22, 2020. Beloved husband of the late Lillian (DeGroat) Bocchiaro. Born in Paterson, NJ, he was the son of the late Salvatore and Frances (Francavilla) Bocchiaro. A self employed construction worker, he was the proprietor of his own drywall company. Surviving are a son, David A. Jr. of West Milford, two daughters, Jina Barber of Franklin, NJ and Christina Sanchez of Mt. Olive, NJ, three sisters, Judy Bocchiaro , Jennifer Bark and Sandra Connors all of Florida. Eight grandchildren and one great grandchild also survive. Predeceased by two brothers, James and Terry Bocchiaro. Private services entrusted to the Richards Funeral Home, 1440 Union Valley Road, West Milford, NJ.
Bobrowski, Lois Jean (Murphy) (nee Feakes), 82, of Bloomingdale, NJ was freed from pain and suffering on the morning of Tuesday, December 15, 2020. Lois passed peacefully and with dignity after long illness. The eldest child of Herbert Edward and Eva Poelstra Feakes (Jackson), she was raised in Clifton with her sisters, Carol Lynn and Karen Lee, and brother, Herbert William. A beautiful and intelligent woman, she loved, laughed, wept and lived with strength and poise. Her integrity and private nature made her a trusted friend and confidante. She was also known for her warm smile, sharp wit and humor. Lois is now reunited with her beloved eldest child, JT Murphy, and her cherished husband, Charles M. Bobrowski. Among those who say, “Good bye, for now,” are her children: Christopher William and Marianne Murphy; her son-in-law, Thomas Louis Wall, daughter-in-law, Tru Lyn Murphy; her four grandchildren: Jackson Murphy Burfitt, and Melissa, Corynn and Christopher C. Murphy; one great-grandchild, Matthew; her siblings and their families: Bill & Lynn Noyes, Lee Donnelly, and Herb & Maria Feakes; the extended members of the Feakes family and Jackson clan; her former husband, James Thomas Murphy; and her friends and church family at Pompton Reformed Church in Pompton Lakes, where a memorial service is planned for Spring 2021. Arrangements entrusted to Richard’s Funeral home, Riverdale, NJ
Bove, Andrew, 72, of Ringwood on Thursday, December 17, 2020. Born in Suffern, NY, he was the son of the late Andrew and Hazel (Menzie) Bove. A self employed farmer and entrepreneur, he was the proprietor of Farmstead Estates in Ringwood, NJ. His passion to work and succeed in life was second to none. From starting to fix cars in his parents driveway to than eventually owing his own used car dealership. He loved cars, driving them, racing them and selling them. He worked 6 days a week with no regrets and put in the hard work and time when he was young to build and buy his dream, the Farm in 1979 to breed and show Arabian horses. He won several awards for his accomplishments and dedication. His vision was to be on the farm and work everyday of his life. He escorted over 5,000 children each year through the farm to get educated about the over 100 animals and farm life. This was not possible without his “Farmstead Angels”. He held one of the leading farm educational programs in New Jersey. He loved to be on an excavator and work in the construction field until his final days. He was a man to look up to and always had a vision. He took no one’s opinions and always knew what he wanted. His name will forever be remembered in Ringwood. Dad taught us a lot of amazing qualities that will last forever and we are forever grateful and we will keep the “Farm” alive in his name. A Memorial gathering will be held on Tuesday, January 5, 2021 at Richards Funeral Home, 1440 Union Valley Road, West Milford, NJ 07480 from 5 to 8 PM.
Conlon, Matthew J., 27, was called home to the comfort and peace of the Lord on December 18, 2020. Born in Pompton Plains to William and Mary Conlon, he resided in West Milford, and was an I.T. specialist. Loving brother of Joshua, Sean, Shane and Jamiel Conlon, his grandfather William Conlon and nephews Mason and William F. Conlon IV in addition to Hailey his beloved pet. Predeceased by his brother William F. Conlon III. Visiting hours Monday, December 28, 2020 from 5-7 PM at Richards Funeral Home, 1440 Union Valley Road, West Milford. Interment is private. Please limit your visit with the family due to attendance restrictions in the funeral home.
Depietri, William Francis on Tuesday, December 22, 2020 of Hamburg, NJ and North Myrtle Beach, SC, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 60. Born in New York, NY, Bill was a devoted husband, father and son. Bill moved to West Milford, NJ in his teens, graduated from West Milford High School in 1978 and attended Western Connecticut State University. He was a longtime member of Metallic Lathers and Reinforcing Ironworkers Local 46, NY, with a successful career as a foreman and superintendent. Bill made a big impact on the NYC skyline, including the rebuilding of Freedom Tower 2 in downtown Manhattan. On April 30, 1983 he married Kathy Marcantonio. They raised two sons, Christopher and Anthony John (AJ). Bill was an avid and loving supporter of his sons, coaching Wallkill Valley Youth Football and serving as president of the North Jersey Youth Football League, as well as cheering them on at wrestling matches during their years at Wallkill Valley Regional High School. Bill was especially proud when both of his sons became third generation lathers, joining Local 46 with him. A lover of wine, cooking and entertaining, Bill was a big presence with an even bigger heart. He was always willing to help when help was needed and was the first to extend his hand to anyone he met. In addition to being a wonderful friend, Bill was also a world class buster of chops. A member of the Wallkill Valley Golf Club since 2006, Bill loved golf and was always happy to take a friend’s money. Bill was looking forward to retiring to South Carolina to spend more time with his wife, Kathy, whom he adored. Bill was preceded in death by his father, William Depietri. He is survived by his mother, Marian, his wife, Kathy, his sons, Chris and AJ, his brothers Bob and John, as well as his beloved nieces and nephews. Due to the sheer number of those who loved him and the limitations of the current pandemic, the family plan to have a memorial and celebration of Bill’s life in Spring 2021 (date and time TBD). In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to The American Heart Association or the New York Helmets to Hardhats Scholarship Fund.
Gurnee, Etta Constance (Connie), 80, of Riverdale, NJ (formerly Wayne, NJ) passed away peacefully on Sunday December 27, 2020 at her home. She was born in Wanaque, NJ to the late Everett and Mabel (Cahill) Allen. Connie was the proud mother of three children and beloved mother-in-law to their spouses: the late William Spencer Gurnee III of Brooklyn, Ohio (Colleen Simovic); Grant Gurnee of Longmont, CO (Helen Gurnee), and Michele Gurnee-Van Zile (Brian Van Zile) whom she resided with in Riverdale. She is also survived by her big brother, Everett Allen, of Allamuchy, NJ; little sisters Jane Kimble, of Oakridge, NJ and Jody Taylor of Hampton Township; and her nieces and nephews, Cindy Cassidy, Lee Allen, Kim Kojac, Katy Kimble and Brendan Taylor. Connie was a graduate of Pompton Lakes High School, Class of 1957 and went on to achieve her Associates Degree. She was employed by ICA Risk Management Consultants in Mahwah where she worked as a Comptroller for many years until her retirement at age 72. Connie loved all of her ICA “family” as if they were her own and they warmly shared their love for her. Connie (aka “Super Mom”) was a kind, loving and nurturing soul who had an immense joy for life. She always described how she literally “grew up” with her 3 children while raising them as a single parent from the age of 23 onward. Connie was a true friend and confidante to all who knew her, always putting the needs of others before her own. She treated all of her family and friends as only a loving “Mom” would do, always willing give her time, love, wisdom and generosity. She was known amongst her children’s friends as the “cool Mom” as she always allowed them to hang out at her house, hold loud rock band practices in her basement, and find safe haven in times of trouble. Connie’s death leaves a heartache that no amount of tears may wash away, but the legacy of her love and joy will live on in all of us. We know that God has welcomed her in heaven, as she lived as an angel on earth for nearly 81 years. Super Mom would want us all to be together to share our stories of the happiness and love we experienced “growing up with her". So please join us for a Memorial Gathering on Saturday, January 2, 2021 at Pompton Lakes Reformed Church, 59 Hamburg Turnpike, Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442 from 10:30 AM-12:00 PM (doors open at 10 AM). We will have a brief service with Pastor Burden and then all attendees are welcomed to share their memories and stories of Connie with her family and friends. Arrangements entrusted to Richards Funeral Home, Riverdale, NJ. Due to the current COVID restrictions face coverings must be worn at all times and attendees must maintain proper social distance. Memorial contributions can be made to Shepherd’s Haven - Social Adult Day Center (www.shepherdshavennj.org) where Connie spent many happy days or to the Alzheimer’s Association (act.alz.org/donate).
Mayer, Ruth (Rohllf), 90, of Riverdale, NJ died on Monday December 28th at home. She lived in Riverdale for over 50 years, moving to Barnegat after retiring and returning to Riverdale. While living in Barnegat, she was involved with many volunteer activities, including providing transportation to medical appointments and grocery shopping, and preparing income tax forms for seniors. She was an active member of the Riverdale Seniors and enjoyed her weekly card games with the ladies. She was the former owner of the Pompton Lakes Bakery, along with her husband Frank, who predeceased her in 2002. She is survived by her children Gene Mayer of Mt. Arlington, Raymond Mayer (Iris) of Pompton Lakes, Christine Dougherty (Shawn) of Naples, Florida; nine grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister Mary and her brothers, Charles and Robert. Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to The COPD Foundation or Valley Hospice.
McGary, Anna Goodheart, 90, of West Milford was called home to the comfort and peace of the Lord on December 3, 2020 after a brief illness. Born in 1929 to John and Anna Frelczak, Anna was raised in Lodi, NJ and graduated Lodi High School in 1948. She married the love of her life, William M. Goodheart in 1949 and they were blessed with five children. In 1956 they built their forever home in Kinnelon, NJ where Anna resided for 63 years before moving to the Chelsea at Bald Eagle in 2019. Anna’s heart and soul went into raising her children. After losing her beloved husband in 1961, her most important task in life was to make sure they were well taken care of. Through the years, she was blessed with 12 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. All which brought her incredible joy! She loved having the whole family together. Christmas Eve at Grandma’s house was one of our fondest memories! Anna worked for Ophthalmology Associates for 30+ years before retiring in 2000. She loved baking, spending time at the beach, trips to Cancun and occasional visits to the casino with her companion of 30+ years, Edwin Barmore (2015). Anna leaves wonderful memories to her loving children, Bruce and Karen Goodheart, Robert and Renee Goodheart, Denise Cessna (Goodheart), and Donna (Goodheart) and Gary Schmidt, her treasured grandchildren, Abby, Andy, Ben, Beth, Billy, Bruce, Courtney, Luke, Mont, Paul and Scott and great grandchildren, Isabella, Leah and Harper. She is predeceased by her beloved husband, William M Goodheart (1961), her adored son, William J. Goodheart (1988). and treasured granddaughter, Caitlyn Schmidt (2017) and second husband, James McGary (1977). Our hearts ache with sadness as we will miss her dearly but find comfort that she is reunited with her loved ones that went before her and know she will continue sending her love as our guardian angel. Visitation, Friday, December 11, 2020 from 3 – 7 PM at Richards Funeral Home, 4 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale, NJ 07457. Funeral Mass Saturday, December 12 at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Magnificat Church, Kinnelon, NJ. Interment will follow at Pompton Reformed Cemetery, Pompton Lakes, NJ. Please know that Covid-19 restrictions will be strictly adhered to so all that want to visit feel comfortable in doing so.
Nemeth, John J. Sr., 80, of West Milford on Friday, December 4, 2020. Beloved husband of the late Nancy (Worzel) Nemeth. Born in Ellsworth, PA, he was the son of the late Michael and Anna (Yancho) Nemeth. An Army veteran, he obtained the rank of Sargent and was a platoon leader at Fort Monmouth in NJ. He also served in Vietnam and Germany. A welder for 28 years, he had been employed by IT&T in the Artic and Greenland and by Vandermeyde Welding & Iron Work Inc. of Hewitt, NJ as a metal fabricator. He was Exalted Ruler of the West Milford Elks, a past Commander of American Legion Post 239 of West Milford and an Elder and Trustee of the West Milford Presbyterian Church and was Shop President of Ironworkers Local 545. John enjoyed reconditioning old cars. He loved to cook and bake and was famous for his original dishes. He loved animals and rescued many and gave much of his time to the community through the organizations he belonged to and his church. Surviving are two sons, John Jr. of West Milford, Joseph Paul of MI and one daughter, Christine Cooke of Hampton, VA and three grandchildren. Pre-deceased by a brother, Michael and sisters, Mildred and Ann. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the West Milford Presbyterian Church, 1452 Union Valley Road, West Milford, NJ 07480. Private arrangements entrusted to the Richards Funeral Home, 1440 Union Valley Road, West Milford, NJ 07480.
Norton Jr., Edward W., 95, of Riverdale died December 30, 2020 in Wayne, NJ. Born in Passaic, NJ to the late Edward and Gertrude (Johnson) Norton. Edward was inducted into the U.S. Army on May 22, 1943. He fought in Germany with Battery "B" 141st Anti Aircraft Artillery Gun Battalion. He was promoted to the rank of Sgt. First Class. He received the American Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, World War II Victory Medal and European African Middle Eastern Service Medal, and discharged March 18, 1946. He entered the Army Reserve on March 17, 1949 and was called back into service for Korea on October 17, 1950, and discharged October 15, 1952. Between WW II and Korea he was a professional baseball player with the Austin Baseball Club playing for the Del Rio Cowboys. After leaving the reserves he went to work for Bendix Corporation in Teterboro, retiring in 1986. One of his proudest moments was when he was honored by the N.Y. Mets organization for his military service on August 13, 2015. Edward and his wife Ruth (Baxter) lived in North Haledon and Toms River before residing in Riverdale, NJ. Edward is predeceased by his wife Ruth (2002) and is survived by his daughter Denise Van Der Veen and husband William, granddaughters Kim Savarino (Michael), Adrianna McGillis and Bryanna De Korte ( Andrew), his step-daughter Kathleen Ritchie and great-grandchildren Abigail, Kayla, Joey, Lexi, Arabella, Andrew, Luke and Jace. He will be missed by his football family Bill and Lorraine Wilson along with his nieces and nephews. Private funeral arrangements are entrusted to Richards Funeral Home, Riverdale.
Oberer, Edith Eugenia (Dougherty). 97, passed away peacefully at her home in West Milford, NJ, on December 26, 2020. She was predeceased by her husband John Jacob Oberer and daughter Edith Zimmerman. Born in Philadelphia, PA, Edith was delivered into this world by her very own father, Dr. Russell Dougherty. Her mother was Ilona (Clark) Dougherty from Buffalo, NY. Her parents met at Alfred University in western NY. After marrying John Jacob Oberer, she resided in Hawthorne, NJ. During this time, Edith contracted polio, but recovered to full health. Eventually they built a home in Packanack Lake, Wayne, NJ, where they remained for fifty years. Upon the death of her husband in 2005, Edith moved to Bald Eagle Commons in West Milford, NJ to be near her son, Ernest and family. Edith attended Berkley Secretarial School after high school and worked in the Paterson Saving and Loan Bank on Market Street, Paterson, NJ. After her marriage she worked in the well-known family dry cleaning business, Dr. Oberer Cleaning and Dye Works in Paterson, NJ, for many years. Later she was employed by G.A.F. in Wayne, as a Claims Adjuster. She retired in 2005. Beloved mother of Ernest and wife Dr. Joan Oberer of Hardyston, NJ, John Jacob Oberer, Jr. and wife Bedaliz of Tabernacle, NJ, Carl Oberer and husband Russ Risden of Westlake Village, CA. Also surviving are her son-in-law Charles Zimmerman of SC, and six grandchildren: Sherri Zimmerman Graham, Corinne Zimmerman, Charles Zimmerman, Ernest Oberer, Elise Oberer Cole, and Elizabeth (Oberer) Welsh, nine great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the West Milford Animal Shelter (westmilfordanimalshelter.org) in Edith’s memory. Private funeral arrangements are by Richards Funeral Home, West Milford.
Shaw, Kimberley Ann, 49, of Pompton Lakes, departed this life on December 30, 2020. Born in Teaneck, NJ and raised in Saddle Brook, NJ. She is lovingly remembered by her two sons, Robert Thomas Shaw 3rd and Nathaniel Robert Shaw. Kimberley was preceded in death by her parents Eileen and Alfred, and sister, Allison Pearsall. She is survived by her sister Christy Polizzi and several nieces and nephews. Kimberley loved spending time cooking and baking with her boys. She would love to do arts and craft projects with them, that could be seen decorated throughout her home. Kim always told her boys how much she loved them and was fiercely proud of the young men that they have become. Kimberley had a passion for dancing at parties. She also loved spending time on the beach, despite the amount of effort it took to get there. She was generous, kind, and quick to give to whoever needed it. She was also a supportive and loyal friend who always had time to listen and say an encouraging word or two. Kimberley loved life and lived life to the fullest. She was a fighter through and through and lived every moment as if it was her last. She fulfilled her dream of seeing her beloved boys graduate from school and spent a peaceful Christmas holiday at home as was her wish. Words cannot express how profoundly she will be missed, and her sunny smile and carefree laughter will forever be remembered for the warmth in her bright eyes, the flip of her bouncy blonde hair and the sound of her brisk steps. Kim was a beloved member of the Christian Health Care Center and has served its community for 21 years. She was a passionate advocate for her patients and never hesitated to do what she felt was right. Most of all, we will miss her warm touch, her affectionate heart and the comfort of her loving arms. Rest in peace now, Kim. We will miss you deeply and keep you in our hearts forever.
Valera, Liliana, 94, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Sunday, December 20,2020. A “War Bride” born in Trieste, Italy, she came to America and became a successful assistant bridal designer and pattern maker in Manhattan’s famous “garment district” in the 60’s & 70’s. In her retirement she enjoyed a leisurely life in southern Florida with her husband, Alberto, the American soldier she met in her homeland of Italy. And eventually returning to NJ to be with her daughters and their families (even the four legged ones). She adored her grandchildren and never passed up a chance to be with them, even if it meant the occasional escapade outside her comfort zone. Originally a resident of Bergenfield, she and Alberto returned to live in West Milford in 2008, where they resided with their daughter and son in law, Rosaida & David Surman. She was predeceased by her husband of 55 years, Alberto. She is survived by her daughters, Rosaida & Debra Kumka, her son, Dennis Valera, and her six grandchildren, Cristina, Walter, Steven, Allie, Dennis & Hayley. A memorial service will be arranged at a later date to be held outdoors, to ensure safety for our family & friends. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to: The Arc of Bergen & Passaic, 223 Moore Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601.
Williams, Eileen, 86, was called home to heaven to be with her Lord on December 3, 2020. She was the beloved wife of Raymond for 69 years, having together raised their 7 children, Stephen (Vivian), Stephanie (Tom), Mark (Gloria), Kathy (Pete), Julie (Wayne), Timothy and Jonathan, deceased 2014 (Druanne). Eileen was grandmother to 17 grandchildren and great-grandmother to 18 great-grandchildren. She loved her precious Savior, Jesus Christ and lived her life as a testimony to His faithfulness and goodness. The glorious song of her heart rang out in confidence, "The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" Psalm 27:1. With thanksgiving, we rejoice knowing that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord, which is by far all our hearts' desire. We love her and her sweet and devoted spirit will be greatly missed. Graveside service Friday, December 11, 2020, 11 A.M. at Mount Rest Cemetery, Butler, NJ. Arrangements entrusted to Richards Funeral Home, Riverdale, NJ.