June 13, 1934 – February 26, 2026

Francine Elizabeth Ferrara (née Tozzi), of Old Tappan, peacefully passed away amongst her loving family on February 26, 2026. Francine was born in June of 1934 in the Bronx, New York. 

Growing up in the Bronx, Francine attended school and enjoyed playing with her friends in the neighborhood. She was like a second mother to her younger sister, Joan, and the two shared a special bond throughout their lives. 

Francine went on to attend Hunter College on a full scholarship where she received a degree in teaching. Upon graduation, she began her career as an elementary school teacher in Westchester County.

She met the love of her life, Eugene Vincent Ferrara  in the 1950s. They wed in April of 1961 and lived in Yonkers, NY. In 1963, Francine and Eugene settled down in Dumont, NJ to start their family. They raised three children – Vincent, Lisa and Eugene – in a loving and caring three-generation home, as her husband’s parents and her mother also resided there.

A devoted mother, she put her career on hold to raise her children. Once her kids got a bit older, she returned to teaching and worked in the Dumont school system. Thanks to Francine and Eugene’s nurturing and guidance, all three children went on to successful careers and grew families of their own. Throughout their long-lasting marriage, Francine was a supportive partner to Eugene and his endeavors as he started his own engineering firm – JMA Consultants – where she worked after her retirement from teaching. The business is family-run to this day (by their son Eugene, and grandsons Nicholas and Christopher). 

After 30-plus years in Dumont, Francine and Eugene moved into a new multi-family home in Old Tappan, NJ that Eugene designed and built in 1997. She shared the home with her devoted son, Vincent, his wife, Elizabeth, and their children; becoming the second three-generation home Francine tended to. Later in life, Vincent and Elizabeth both provided a great deal of care to Francine and were always there for her. 

Over the years, their home would become the spot for countless holiday celebrations, birthdays, family reunions, cherished meals and traditions – especially her family assembling in Francine’s kitchen for bagels after Sunday mass at St. Pius X in Old Tappan. 

Throughout her entire life, she held her family most near and dear to her heart; but she also was proud to make many friends along her life’s journey. Her family and friends would describe her as loving, generous, attentive and witty.

In her adult life, Francine enjoyed spending time with her friends and family at her house in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. She was also an avid explorer, as she sailed aboard many Royal Caribbean cruises alongside her children and grandchildren. While at home in New Jersey, she was a fixture at the 10am Sunday mass at St. Pius X. She loved to read out on her deck and by the pool – as she always loved having her grandchildren and their friends over for a swim. During her long life, Francine established several longstanding Ferrara family traditions that will continue to be passed down, such as the annual gathering in Grandma’s kitchen for the preparation of the season’s Christmas cookies and struffoli. 

Francine was predeceased by her dearest husband of 37 years, Eugene Ferrara. She is survived by her beloved children; Vincent and his wife Elizabeth, Lisa Guzzo and her husband Joseph, and Eugene and his wife Maria; her grandchildren whom she loved dearly, Nicholas and his wife Katherine, Christopher and his fiancé Ryan, Gabriella and her husband Nicholas, Michael, Rachel, Regina and Thomas; and her great grandchildren, Bethany, Vincent and Anthony, whom she loved very much and lit up her smile and brought her much joy in the latter stages of her life. Francine will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Visiting hours are Sunday, March 1, 2026 from 2-5 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Ave, Northvale, NJ. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday, March 2, 2026 at 11 AM at St. Pius X RC Church, 268 Old Tappan Rd, Old Tappan, NJ with interment to follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Hawthorne, NY.

Donations in Francine’s memory to St. Pius X Church, 268 Old Tappan Rd, Old Tappan, NJ 07675, www.spxot.org or Blythedale Children’s Hospital, 95 Bradhurst Ave, Valhalla, NY 10595, www.blythedale.org, would be greatly appreciated.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Margaret Leslie Cooke (nee Brown), 84, of Old Tappan, NJ (formerly of Northvale, NJ) passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 surrounded by her family.  Leslie will be remembered for her upbeat, fun-loving personality and her deep devotion to her family.

Leslie was born in Jersey City, NJ in 1941 to the late George and Margaret Brown (nee Crowley).  Leslie was raised in Teaneck, NJ and loved her years there forming many lifelong friendships.

Leslie married her late husband Daniel Cooke in 1960.  They moved to Northvale where they raised their five children, Daniel (Susan), Brian (Maryrose), Michael (Kimberly), Donna (Andrew) and James.  She had an especially close relationship with her brother in law and sister in law, Charles and Christine Cooke as well as her nieces, Wendy (John) and Debbie (Bart). Through the years in Northvale, Leslie was active in the St Anthony’s school, rosary society, taught CCD and was a former member of the Northvale Ambulance Corp.  It was at St Anthony’s where Leslie & Danny formed their wonderful circle of friends, Bill & Mary McGurn, Jack & Madeline Simons, Fred & Rosemarie DePhillips, Russ & Pat Kennedy, Jules & Jean Loh, Al & Marion Paolillo and Al & Jackie Amend otherwise known as “The Idle Wild Gang”.  They enjoyed many dinners, beach days, vacations and celebrating all their kids milestones.

Leslie was a talented musician and served as the organist at St Anthony’s Church for over 50 years until her retirement in 2019. Many of those years as a volunteer before she was hired on full time as the Music/Choir Director and also served as the Director of Religious Education for many years.  Leslie played for almost every mass, wedding and funeral for all those years. Leslie also worked as a secretary for many years at Pyrometer in Northvale and later at Hanleigh in Pearl River.

Leslie adored her nine grandchildren, Anthony, Thomas (Chrissy), Katie, Shannon, Lauren, Brian (Ali), Sean (Maura), Erik (Nicole) and Emily and one adorable great-grandson, Declan.  She also leaves behind many other nieces, nephews and extended family.

A wake will be held on Friday, February 27th from 4:00PM to 8:00PM at the Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Ave, Northvale, NJ. A funeral mass will be held at St Anthony’s Roman Catholic Church, 199 Walnut St, Northvale, NJon Saturday, February 28th at 10:00am. Leslie will be buried beside her husband, Danny, at Rockland Cemetery in Sparkill, NY.

In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate donations to St Jude Children’s Hospital or the Northvale Ambulance Corp.

Vincent “The Tailor” Squillace, 87, of Northvale, NJ, passed away on Sunday, February 22, 2026.  Beloved husband of Carolina (nee Cordileone).  Loving father of Donna Arencibia and her husband Luis and Lisa Semenick and her husband Alex.  Caring grandfather of Nicholas, Luis, Mia, Zachary and Sonny.  Proud brother of Nino, Carmella and Mimmo and the late Gregorio, Maria, Francesco. He was loved by many nieces and nephews. 

Vincent was born in Calabria, Italy before immigrating to the United States of America.  He began his career as a business owner and tailor in Englewood Cliffs, NJ before owning and operating Vincent’s Custom Tailor and Tuxedo in Closter, NJ for over 25 years.  He was also a proud member of the Italian American Societies and an active parishioner of St. Anthony’s RC Church, Northvale, NJ.  Above all, he loved his family.

Visiting hours will be Wednesday, February 25, 2026 from 4-9 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Avenue, Northvale, NJ.  A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at 10 AM at St. Anthony’s RC Church, Northvale, NJ.  Entombment will follow at Madonna Cemetery and Mausoleum, Fort Lee, NJ.

Donations in Vincent’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

PLEASE NOTE SERVICE TIMES HAVE CHANGED AGAIN.

September 3, 1938 – February 19, 2026

Larry J. Grassi, 87, of Norwood, NJ, passed away peacefully at home on February 19th, 2026, surrounded by his family and friends. Larry will be remembered for his kindness, patience, and his unwavering habit of putting others before himself.

Born in Harlem, New York, in 1938 to Angelina Mancuso and Joseph Grassi, Larry moved to Norwood with his family in 1944 to join their relatives, the D’Ercoles. He enjoyed a happy childhood spending time playing on the farm alongside his cousins and 12 siblings. Even in his final days, Larry was still reciting his brothers’ and sisters’ names all in birth order:

• Lucille Zangara (Ziggy)
• Frank Grassi
• Joseph Grassi (Sandy nee Piana)
• Sally Ann Koza
• Anna Marie Grassi
• Camille Reid (Archie)
• Maria Coppola (John)
• Geraldine Devlin (Ronnie)
• Jeannie Catapano (Lenny)
• Natalie Coppola (Mary Lou)
• Angela Warren (John)
• Diana Grossman (Glenn)

In early adulthood, Larry spent a number of years living at sea on oceanographic research vessels. He travelled the world to places like Japan, Hawaii, and Spain; he transited the Panama Canal numerous times and climbed the famous 12,389-foot Mount Fuji.

After returning to Bergen County, Larry married Elaine Rourke (d. 1989), and in Norwood raised three sons – Lawrence, Stephen and Michael. Larry was a mainstay of the community, serving as an officer and life member of the Norwood Ambulance Corp. He was one of the founding coaches of the Norwood youth soccer program and was a Scout leader for years. He owned fuel and service stations in Norwood and Closter, where he was known for providing 24-hour towing with his 1947 GMC tow truck—often charging friends little to nothing for the help.  Larry, Elaine and the boys were members of Immaculate Conception Church.

Larry later worked for the Northern Valley Regional and Norwood Public School districts, eventually retiring as a maintenance supervisor. Even in retirement, he stayed active as a crossing guard at Blanch Ave and Summit St, where he made it a point to know every child by name. He enjoyed great times with friends at his weekly poker and bocce games, and was lucky enough to find a great group of men who shared his unapologetic culinary taste, becoming a member the “Chicken Liver Lover’s” club.

For the last 20 years, Larry shared his life and experiences with his companion, Patricia Jackson. Together they enjoyed gardening, trips to Atlantic City, cruises and spending time with friends.

Larry is survived by his three sons, three daughters-in-law and ten grandchildren:

• Lawrence Grassi and wife Karen Latimer of Ridgewood; children Madelyn, Serena, Lorelei, Charles, and Shane.
• Stephen Grassi and wife Lyzzette (nee Jugo) of Norwood; children James and Daniel.
• Michael Grassi and wife Tracy (nee Anastasi) of Harrington Park; children Noelle, Alyssa, and Mikey.

Affectionately known as Pop Pop by his grandchildren, his unconditional love will stay with them always. His root beer floats, anecdotes and his making of spontaneous gourmet breakfasts will be forever missed.    

This wonderful man leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humility and generosity.

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Service Information HAS CHANGED

• Visitation is Tuesday, February 24 from 4-8 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, Northvale, NJ
• Funeral Mass Wednesday, February 25 at 10AM at Immaculate Conception Church, Norwood, NJ
• Interment Rockland Cemetery, Sparkill, NY

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:

Norwood Volunteer Ambulance Corp, P.O. Box 8, Norwood, NJ 07648, or

Safe Routes to School https://saferoutespartnership.org/

Peggy N. Douvres, of Norwood, passed away on February 10, 2026, a month after her 99th birthday. Peggy will be remembered for her unwavering strength, kindness, and deep devotion to her family.

She was born in Las Animas, Colorado, in 1927 to Louise and Ed Nicklos, the daughter of a true American cowboy. Her Dad, Ed, was a farmer and rancher and she spent her early years living on the ranch. The Colorado cowboy culture was deeply ingrained in her, and she proudly carried the resilience of her western roots with her throughout her life. She forged her own path at a time when such independence was uncommon, attending the University of Colorado Boulder, where she majored in Voice and Violin, pursuing her love of music while carving out a life defined by determination, hard work, and courage. She taught high school music in Arvada, Colorado,  Alamogordo, New Mexico, where she met her husband, who was stationed in the Air Force, and then Port Jefferson, New York.

She married Nicholas Douvres, the love of her life, at the Greek Cathedral in New York in 1966 and they moved to Norwood, NJ, where they grew their family with the birth of their daughter, Amanda.

Peggy continued her teaching career in Wyckoff, New Jersey until she retired to be a full-time grandma. She was an active member of the Presbyterian Church in Norwood, where she served on the Session, the Board of Deacons, sang in the choir and taught the children’s choir. She loved music, crossword puzzles, Siamese cats and chocolate.

Peggy was predeceased by her husband Nick and her sisters Kathryn and Rita. She is survived by her daughter Amanda Groenendaal and husband, Cris, her granddaughters, Melanie and Jess, who were the loves of their grandma’s life, her nephew, Ted Beatie and niece, Kathy Emanuilidis.

Visiting hours are Saturday, February 28th, from 10:00-11:00  at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Avenue, Northvale with a funeral service at 11:00 and internment to follow at  Westwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org.

Jane Villani (nee Tschupp), 94, of Norwood, NJ, formerly of River Vale, NJ for 60 years, passed away on Sunday, February 15, 2026.  Beloved wife of the late Frank J. Villani. Loving mother of Kit Argenti and husband Caesar and Steven Villani and wife Judi. Adored grandmother of Chante, Steven (Melanie), Mark (Alexa), Dean (Caity) and Max.  Proud great-grandmother of Steven and Alexander.  She was predeceased by her parents Edward and Hazel Tschupp and her brother Jack Tschupp.

Jane began her career as a secretary for CBS.  She then served as a court clerk for the Township of River Vale for over 15 years.  Jane enjoyed gardening, knitting and cooking and loved traveling the world with her husband, Frank.  A friend to all, she will be greatly missed by all that knew her.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 10 AM at Our Lady of Victories RC Church, Harrington Park, NJ with entombment to follow at Garden of Memories, Washington Township, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Sisters of Charity of St. Elizabeth, at scnj.org, in support of Jane’s dear friend Sr. Elizabeth.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

James Michael Rawdon, 37, of Northvale, New Jersey, passed away on Thursday, February 12, 2026.

James was the beloved son of Lynn Murray of Congers, New York, and James Rawdon and his wife Diane of Northvale, New Jersey. He was a loving brother to Sean Rawdon and his wife Katie, Danielle Hinds and her husband John, and Joseph and Casey.  He was a devoted uncle to Sean’s two sons, Owen and Jack.

He will be deeply missed by his loving grandparents, Joanie Murray, Patricia Rawdon, and Barbara and Joseph Policastri, as well as by his aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends whose lives he touched. He was predeceased by his grandfathers, Richie Murray and James Rawdon.

James shared a special and loving relationship with his girlfriend, Leanne, who brought him great happiness and will miss him deeply.

He grew up in Hillsdale, New Jersey, and was a graduate of Montclair State University. He began his professional career in sales and marketing in New York City.

James loved out loud and loved deeply, especially with his family and the people closest to him. A lifelong sports fan, he followed his teams with passion and was known for his big heart and unforgettable laugh, which could fill a room and bring joy to everyone around him.

He will be remembered for the love he gave freely, the laughter he shared generously, and the lasting impact he made on all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A funeral mass will be held Saturday, February 21st at 11:00am at St. Anthony’s Church in Northvale, NJ. Arrangements will be made by Pizzi’s Funeral Home .

Northvale Police Chief George E. Vollmer (Ret.), 90, a lifelong resident of Northvale, NJ, passed away at home surrounded by the love of his family on Monday, February 16, 2026.

George was born and raised in Northvale, growing up on the cherished Vollmer/Bongiovanni family property (affectionately known as “the compound”), founded by his Italian grandparents, who immigrated with his mother around 1915. Surrounded by generations of family, strong values, and a deep sense of community, George developed the work ethic, loyalty, and love of the land that would stay with him for the rest of his life.

He was the beloved husband of Barbara A. (née Fehsal). Loving father of George M. Vollmer and his wife Katie McGuire, Kenneth Vollmer, and Sherri Lyn Vollmer and her husband John Churinskas. Proud grandfather of Lea Ann, Tiffany, Bryanne, Kaitlyn, Alexandria, and Kenneth, and adored great-grandfather of Lyra and Chloe. Dear brother of the late Lorelei Matthews.

George was a devoted Catholic who faithfully attended church and lived out his faith through service to others. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and volunteered his time feeding the homeless at St. Anthony’s Church alongside Father Jerry.

George dedicated his life to the town he loved so much. He joined the Northvale Police Department in 1961 and rose through the ranks to become Police Chief in 1983, serving with pride and integrity until his retirement in 1996. He was a respected member of the Bergen County Police Chief’s Association, the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, and the International Association of Chiefs of Police.

His commitment to service extended far beyond the police department. George was a life member of the Northvale Volunteer Fire Association and served as Fire Chief from 1979 to 1980. He was also a member of the Northvale Exempt Firemen’s Association and a life member of the New Jersey State Firemen’s Association. He served on the Northvale Planning Board and was a charter member of the Northvale Volunteer Ambulance Corps—always stepping up wherever help was needed to serve his community.

A skilled and hardworking craftsman, George built his own home on the family property in the 1960s using plans from a Sears catalog—a reflection of his ingenuity and won’t-give-up attitude. A true jack of all trades, he could do construction and service work with ease and even spent time modeling in his younger years, appearing in numerous advertisements.

Outside of his public service, George was happiest at home and with family. He loved gardening and working in the yard, cooking for his loved ones (or taking them out to their favorite restaurant, The Mountain House), relaxing in his armchair, vacationing in Stone Harbor, and traveling the world with his beloved wife, “Bobbe”—always returning home with souvenirs for his family. He took great joy in spoiling his grandchildren and making sure everyone around him was well taken care of. He also deeply valued his friendships, many of which became like family to his children. He had a great sense of humor and loved “busting everyone’s chops,” keeping family and friends on their toes with his wit. He could be stubborn—a true tough cookie—but beneath that was a soft heart and a deep commitment to doing the right thing and helping others whenever he could.

George had the biggest heart and a special love for animals, from family pets, especially his grand-pup Yennifer, aka Tiffany”, to the squirrel that faithfully visited his backyard bird feeder and became part of his daily routine.

Visiting hours are Thursday, February 19, 2026 from 4–8 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Avenue, Northvale. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday, February 20, 2026 at 11 AM at St. Anthony’s RC Church, Northvale.

In lieu of flowers, donations in George’s memory may be made to any of the organizations that were a huge part of his life and that he cared for deeply:  Northvale Police Benevolent Association, Northvale Volunteer Fire Association, the Northvale Volunteer Ambulance Corps or the food pantry at St. Anthony’s RC Church in Northvale.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Amelia “Millie” Helen Overton Dillon (nee Parelli), 94, of Blauvelt, NY passed away on Saturday, February 14, 2026.

She was born in her home in Piermont, NY in 1931, to Frank and Jennie Parelli.  At the age of 18 she met the love of her life, John Dillon and they were married in June 1950.  Together they had three children, Eileen Dillon, John Dillon (wife Dineen Dillon), and Maureen De Lise.

She was the caring and loving grandmother of James, Jennie, Patrick, and Kerri. Adored great grandmother to Cyan, Iggy, Roman, and Haven.

Millie was predeceased by her parents, husband, her brother Jack Parelli, grandson Franco, and granddaughter Dari.

Millie’s husband, John, passed away very young, and she raised her three children on her own working as a bookkeeper, and as a sales representative for many years.  She was a loving mother that was devoted to her family.  She adored her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Millie was an avid bowler for many years, belonged to the senior citizens of Tappan, and was a member of the Red Hatters.

Visiting hours are Wednesday, February 18, 2026 from 4-7 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Avenue, Northvale, NJ.  A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Catharine’s RC Church, Blauvelt, NY on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 10 AM.  Interment will follow at Rockland Cemetery, Sparkill, NY.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Millie’s memory may be made to Another Step, Inc.: anotherstep.org/donations

Irene M. Widman, 89, of Northvale, NJ, passed away at home on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. Beloved wife of 67 years to Kenneth F. Widman. Loving mother of Wendy Widmann and Cindy Lillis and her husband Stephen. Proud grandmother of Stephen, Thomas and Michael. Dearest sister of Diane Croce and the late John Keutmann and Thomas Keutmann.

Irene was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She never missed watching an episode of Judge Judy,loved Nat King Cole, Johnny Mathis, Haagen-Dazs ice cream and spending time at their happy place, Siesta Key, FL.  Irene will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Visiting hours are Sunday, February 15, 2026 from 2-5 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Avenue, Northvale. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday, February 16, 2026 at 10 AM at St. Anthony’s RC Church, Northvale with interment to follow at Tappan Cemetery, Tappan, NY.

Those who wish may make a donation in Irene’s memory to the St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com