Louis Henry Siracusano Sr. of Edgewater, NJ, formerly of Rockleigh, NJ, passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2020.  He was 78 years old.

Born on July 19, 1942 in Corona, NY, he was the son of Luciano and Mafalda Siracusano. Lou is survived by his beloved family, his son Louis Jr. and wife Laura, daughter Mariah, sister Lela Gabrielli, brother-in-law Steve, mother of his children Theresa Siracusano, and his loving six grandchildren Louis III, Leigh, Lyndsey, Christopher, Victoria and Lucian. He is the beloved uncle of many nieces and nephews.

After graduating from Brooklyn Tech High School in 1960, Lou went on to receive an Associates degree in Electronics from Bronx Community College.

Lou co-founded Video Services Corporation (VSC) with his friend and business partner Arnold Ferolito, which started out of a garage in 1975 and developed into a highly successful company when sold in 2000.

He mentored young entrepreneurs at Brooklyn Tech and often spoke of his joy in creating businesses and solving problems. A true entrepreneur, Lou innovatively created many businesses over the years. He emphasized the importance of “mutual trust and respect,” and noted that his success could not have been possible without the loyal team of partners and employees he worked with for many years.

Lou has received numerous awards for his business and philanthropic efforts including “Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist”, “Ellis Island American Legend”, and “Excellence in Communications and Engineering” from WLIW-TV Channel 21. He served on the Foundation Board of Directors for Good Samaritan Hospital.

Lou loved competitive sports, from playing golf with his family and friends, to watching the Yankees and NY Giants.  He was happy whether it be competing on the golf course, Thursday night cards with the guys or on the Black Jack table. He also loved a good laugh and would often watch his favorite comedy shows: Hogan’s Heroes and The Honeymooners.

Most recently, Lou enjoyed watching the boats along the Hudson River and looking at the beautiful Manhattan skyline.

Visitation will be on Sunday, September 20^th, 2020 from 3pm to 6pm at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Ave. Northvale, NJ 07647. Mass will be on Monday, September 21^st, at 11 AM at St. Anthony’s Parish, 199 Walnut St. Northvale, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Lou can be made to the Sano Foundation, c/o Lou Siracusano, Jr., 260 Union St., Northvale, NJ 07647.

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John Piazza, 89, of Northvale, NJ, passed away on Sunday, August 30, 2020. He was born November 24, 1930 in Brooklyn, New York of parents Quirino and Mary Piazza.  He was the youngest of six siblings.  John worked for the City of New York Highway Department and Construction and also played music in the city for many years.

John and his wife Marie move to Northvale in 1969 where they entertained many people with their musical talents in the Tri-State area.  He was considered not only a friend to many but also to our local churches where he and his wife Marie, daughter Selena and son-in-law Tom Giuliano reached the hearts and souls of so many people.  He will be missed but his spirit will live on.

John is survived by his wife Marie, son John Jr. (late daughter-in-law Barbara Piazza), daughter Selena (late son-in-law Tom Giuliano), grandson Brian, sister-in-law Nancy Lombardo, nephew Joseph Lombardo and step granddaughters Brynn and Kerry.

Visiting hours are Tuesday, September 1 from 5-7 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Ave, Northvale (201-767-3050). A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, September 2 at 10 AM at Our Lady of Victories RC Church, Harrington Park.

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John J. Peterson, Jr., 79, of Emerson, passed away suddenly in the presence of his loving wife on Thursday, August 20, 2020. Devoted husband of Marie Rose (nee Frassa). Loving father of John III of Emerson, Michael and his wife Odessa of Washington, NJ, Johanna Bargisen and her husband Scott of Northvale and Anthony and his wife Melissa of Englewood. Proud grandfather of Scott Jr., Eric, Jenna, Courtney and Nicholas and great-grandfather of Rylinn. Dear brother of Norman and the late Ronald, Douglas and Lorraine. Cherished son of the late John Sr. and Valerie of Piermont, NY. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

John was a US Navy Veteran of the Vietnam War. He also served his community as police officer for 26 years for the Alpine Police Dept., achieving rank of Sergeant. He belonged to PBA Local 399 and the NJ Honor Legion. John was a devoted husband, father and grandfather and enjoyed fishing, cooking,  trips to Disney World and time spent at his Florida home.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, August 31, 2020 at 10 AM at Our Lady of Victories RC Church, Harrington Park with interment to follow at Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Tenafly. Visiting hours are Sunday 2-6 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Ave, Northvale (201-767-3050).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or Shriners Hospital for Children in John’s memory.

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Elaine M. Amorosso, 81, of Northvale, passed away at home on Monday, August 24, 2020. Beloved wife of 62 years of Charles S. Amorosso. Cherished mother of Charles L. Amorosso and wife Diane of Northvale, NJ, Maria Amorosso of Middletown, NY, Debora Campanelli of River Vale, NJ and Lorelie DiMarco and husband Nick of Tappan, NY. Proud grandmother of Charles J. Amorosso and wife Julia, Anthony Campanelli, Brittany Francisco and husband Michael, Richard Campanelli, Alexandra DiMarco, Gregory Amorosso, Christina Campanelli and Joseph DiMarco and great-grandmother of Michael, Matthew and Charlotte.

Elaine was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend who was always there for her family.  “Gram” as her family affectionately called her, had a smile for all and made time for everyone. 

Visiting hours are Friday 4-8 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Avenue, Northvale (201-767-3050).

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, August 29 at 9:30 AM at St. Anthony’s RC Church., Northvale with interment to follow at Rockland Cemetery, Sparkill, NY.

In lieu of flowers donations to the Northvale Fire Department would be appreciated.

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Epstein, Max, age 94 passed away peacefully on August 15, 2020 at home surrounded by his family. Beloved husband of Francis (nee Romito)of 67 years. 

Born on November 13, 1925 in Englewood New Jersey to Augusta and Angelo Epstein. Loving father of Jerene Lambregste and husband Keith of Park Ridge, June Murphy and husband Brian of Oradell and Judy Murphy and husband Eugene of Old Tappan. He was the adored grandfather of Katrina Washnik and husband Nick, Patrick Murphy and fiancée Colette Biggie, Erick Lambregste, Alexis Murphy, Haley Murphy, Courtenay Murphy, Ana Murphy and great grandfather to Lucas. Eight brothers and sisters predeceased him.Dave, Louis, Vinnie, Sal, Nathan, Harry, Sadie and Rose are now together again.Nieces, nephews and friends will also miss Max dearly. 

Max was a proud veteran of the US Navy and served in World War II. Prior to retiring he was a general contractor, landscaper and worked in the structured cabling industry. 

Max was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Max loved the game of golf and played till the age of 89. Max was also a fan of the NY Yankees, Giants, and Boxing and loved a good game of cards with friends and family. His other great love was ice cream!

We will surely miss his sarcasm, soft demeanor and silent laughs. He will be deeply missed and forever loved. 

Funeral services are private. He will be buried with full honor guard at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Cemetery in Arneytown, New Jersey

Doris Emily Lauder, 87, of Piermont, NY, passed away at home on August 15, 2020 surrounded by her family.  Left to honor and remember her are three daughters, Lynn Garcia, Cindy Lauder, Diane Shovlin and her husband, Terry.  Adored by the grandchildren she loved, “Gram” leaves behind Kelly, David, Christina, Charles, John, Jennifer, Julie, Daniel, his wife, Abby, and their son, Colby.     

Doris is the daughter of the late John and Amelia Dapper, and sister of the late John Dapper.  She was married to her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, David W. Lauder, for 42 years until his passing in 1996.  Doris always referred to herself as a “Jersey Girl.”  Formerly of Dumont, Oradell, and River Vale, she was an honor student at Dumont High School, and co-captain of the cheerleading squad.  For 56 years, she was chairperson of her high school reunion committee.  Her outgoing personality and generous nature won her friends for a lifetime, whom she has cherished since childhood. 

Mom lived life to the fullest.  She traveled extensively, and made new friends wherever she went.  Until her illness last year, she had been a volunteer for many years at what was originally Pascack Valley Hospital’s Thrift Shop, as well as being an active member of the Piermont Seniors.  Since moving to her condo in 2010, Mom became the “pet sitter” in her building.  She thoroughly enjoyed spending time with her four legged friends.  Mom also enjoyed playing  cornhole, board and card games with family and friends.  She was quite skilled at Rummikub, winning most games, even beating her grandchildren. 

Mom was the best house guest, with more energy than most.  If something needed mending, cleaning or organizing, it was done before she left.  Our friends would ask if they could borrow her!  Whatever you needed, Mom always had a spare.  Whenever you needed her, she was always there to help.  Mom was central to our family, and content to be surrounded by those she loved.  Our hearts are sore.  We miss her more each day.          

 A funeral mass will be celebrated on Friday at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart RC Church, Tappan, NY, with interment to follow at George Washington Memorial Park, Paramus, NJ.  In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to her grandson’s foundation, www.soldiersforwildlife.org, or Tomorrows Children’s Fund at Hackensack Medical Center

Michael J. Mazur, 54, of Congers, NY, passed away on Monday, August 3, 2020 after a long battle with illness.  Beloved husband of Deborah (nee Negri). Loving father of Michael, Anthony, and Joseph.   Michael is predeceased by his father, Frank Mazur. Also survived by many loving relatives and friends.

Michael was born on June 15, 1966 and grew up in Pearl River, NY. He attended Pearl River HS Class of 1984. Mike was a proud member of the Pirate’s Football Team. He was also an integral member of the 1984 PRHS Baseball Team that were Section Nine Champions! They were inducted into the PRHS Sports Hall of Fame in 2008.

After receiving a Bachelor Degree in Marketing from Pace University, he worked for many years at Advanced Distribution Systems, (ADS) in management. Michael also worked at UPS, where he devoted many nights to this company.

Michael loved to vacation with his wife and sons. He enjoyed sports and was a big Mets and Pittsburgh Steelers fan. He also loved to watch his sons play sports, and was there for them. Michael will be missed.

Per Covid restrictions, a private memorial will be held at a future date.

Wilbert Oswald Hemans, fondly known as “Bertie”, was born on January 8, 1937 in Blue Mountain District, Manchester, Jamaica, West Indies.  To parents David Henry Hemans, a successful farmer, and his wife Ida Beatrice Hemans, a homemaker.  He was the beloved brother to his sister, Dolores Elizabeth “Dol” Hemans, whom he fiercely loved and protected.

                He received his early education at Belfield Elementary School then attended Clarendon College.  Upon graduation, he worked at Bauxite Mining Company, where he gained his first exposure to physics and chemistry.  He migrated to the United States in 1963 where he attended Fordham University in New York while working at American Express.  He then worked with Pfizer Pharmaceuticals, where he participated in the development of the nozzle NASA used for their rocket ships.  After Pfizer relocated, Bert transitioned to Technicon, which was later acquired by Bayer Corporation, where he was a research scientist.

                In 1967, he married Hillary Alwyn Graham, his wife of 53 years, whose union produced three beloved children, Wayne St. John, Tonya Dorothea and Kimberlynn Nanaesi.

                Upon retirement, he and Hillary relocated to Miramar, Florida where he resided until his death.  He spent his retirement years as a surrogate father and grandfather figure to extended family and new friends whom now mourn the loss of their “Uncle Bert”.

                A spiritual man, he would always start his day reading scripture and a devotional.  He attended Christ the Rock Church in Cooper City.

                Bertie loved life to the fullest.  An avid sports enthusiast and a former athlete, Bertie loved tennis, bowling, fishing and soccer.  He loved all genres of music and had an extensive collection of records.

                Although we now mourn our loss, we can just imagine his joy being in the arms of our loving God and Savior and the host of angels.  Sleep on now and take your rest Bertie.  Continue to enjoy the heavenly music until we met again.

                Bert is survived by his wife, Hillary Hemans, son Wayne Hemans and his wife Patricia, Tonya Hemans and Kimberlynn Hemans and her fiancé Marco Martinez; his sister, Dolores “Dol”; brother-in-law, Dr. Lascelve Graham, sister-in-law, Yvonne Graham, grandchildren Raymond, Rayvon, Adrian and Meghan; many cousins, other relatives and a host of friends, among them the Clarendon College brothers and sisters.

https://boxcast.tv/channel/wilbert-oswald-hemans-funeral-service-378587

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Educator, Dog Lover and Devoted Daughter, Mother and Nana, 98

Dr. Virginia M. McCauley, 98, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 9, 2020.

Virginia is survived by her daughter and son-in-law Dr. Diane Fellows (former Principal in Franklin Lakes, NJ and Superintendent of Schools in Alpine, NJ) and George Fellows of Jupiter, FL; her grandson Brian Orlando and his wife Andrea Orlando; her grandson Justin Orlando and his wife Minna Rhee of New York, NY; her granddaughter Julie Fellows Crow of Marietta, GA; her granddaughter Dana Fellows of Ft. Lee, NJ; and her Great-Grandchildren Lily, Michael, Sophia and Sebastian Orlando of New York, NY and Tyler and Evan Crow of Marietta, GA.

Virginia was born on October 14, 1921 in Brooklyn, NY. She grew up in Queens, NY.  She was married to Joseph A. McCauley, Sr. with whom she had two children, Joseph and Diane. She married a second time to William Cook in 1998.

She received a BA in English from Hunter College, an MA in Education from Queens College and an EdD in Education from Fordham University. She taught at Meadowbrook Elementary School on Long Island. She moved to Palisades NY in 1963 and began teaching English at Spring Valley High School and Ramapo High School. After retiring from Ramapo High School in 1993, she taught at Fordham University and St. Thomas Aquinas College.

She remained incredibly active in the community throughout her life. She was a member of the Northern New Jersey German Shepherd Dog Club where she showed her prize-winning German Shepherds. She was also on the Library and Senior Citizens Committees in Palisades, NY.  She never lost the desire to teach and continued tutoring writing and composition into her 90’s. She was an active member at the St. John’s Church in Piermont NY, singing in the choir and participating in religious and community events. Virtual funeral services will be held at St. John’s (stjohnspiermont.org) at 10:30am on Wednesday, August 12^th. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the St. John’s Church for the Dr. Virginia M. McCauley Fund for Education.  

Charles Victor Wetli, 76, of Alpine, New Jersey, passed away on July 28, 2020 after a short but valiant struggle with lung cancer.

Born in 1943 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Charles spent his early childhood in Green Bay until his parents moved to Manhasset, NY.  Even as a boy in high school, he knew he wanted to become a physician someday.  He graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1965 where he majored in chemistry and then went on to pursue a medical degree at St. Louis University. 

As a result of the United States Berry Plan,  Charles was able to defer military service during the Vietnam War era until after he graduated from medical school and completed the majority of his residency in pathology.  Charles served as a major in the U.S. Army Medical Laboratory Pacific in Japan, as the Chief of Pathology.

Upon return  to the United States after military service, Charles embarked upon a career dedicated to forensic pathology.  He spent nearly twenty years in the Dade County, Florida Medical Examiner’s Office and then over a decade as the Chief Medical Examiner for Suffolk County, New York.  As a pioneer in the field of forensic pathology, he authored numerous articles in medical journals, as well as several books. The trajectory of  his career in forensic medicine coincided with dawn of the era of the use of scientific evidence to solve complex crimes, and unexplained deaths.  As a result of his training, vast experience, and ability to clearly articulate his findings, he was able to aid many law enforcement agencies and attorneys throughout the nation.  Always valuing education, he taught at the University of Miami School of Medicine and then at the State University of New York at Stony Brook.  He has left a lasting impact as a mentor to hundreds of young pathologists throughout the country.

Of all of his many accomplishments, he was most proud of his family.  His wife, Geetha, was the love of his life.  Together, they were able to travel the world, spending time in places as exotic as Vietnam, Cambodia, the Galapagos Islands, Morocco, and Machu Pichu. Although, in reality, it did not matter where he travelled as long as he was with his precious Geetha. A voracious reader, he was rarely found without a book in hand. He treasured spending time with his seven grandchildren and was the most involved grandfather one can imagine. 

Charles was predeceased by his parents, Mary (nee Carriveau) and Cletus Wetli.  He is survived by his wife, Geetha; his children, Cletus, Carla (Philip), Kavita (Sean) and Vikram (Danielle); and his grandchildren, Luke, James, Nathan, Elizabeth, William, Julia and Caroline.

Due to the restrictions placed on public gatherings as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, a private funeral will be held.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the National Park Foundation.  https://give.nationalparks.org/site/Donation

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