What began as an ordinary assignment for a young engineer blossomed into a career providing design and application of life-support systems for the U.S. submarine service.  This path was the foundation for life as the owner of a critical defense company and as the President of the most celebrated club in the country.

John Albert Johnson, Principal Owner and Chief Executive Officer of Treadwell Corporation, Thomaston, Connecticut, died Thursday, May 21, 2020 of natural causes in the presence of family.  He was 93 years of age.  Jack was a resident of Teaneck, New Jersey for 37 years before moving to Weston, Connecticut in 1999.

Jack was born in Jersey City, New Jersey on July 14, 1926 and graduated from Henry Snyder High School.  He was a combat veteran in World War II, having been drafted in 1944. He arrived in France in November of that year.  He saw action in January 1945 with the 75^th Infantry Division at the Battle of the Bulge and later in the Ruhr Valley. He served in the Army of Occupation as a Military Policeman until June, 1946.  He credited his military experience with his strong belief in a team concept, a disciplined approach to life and the ability to work within an organizational structure.

Following his return home, Jack entered the Newark College of Engineering and received his degree as a Mechanical Engineer in 1950.  His business career began with the Bureau of Ships in Washington D.C. as a Project Engineer and Manager.  It was there that he became involved with Treadwell Corporation in the development and application of high pressure electrolytic oxygen systems for installation in the U. S. nuclear submarine fleet.  He subsequently joined Treadwell in 1962 to oversee the design, production and performance of these systems, and he became owner of the company in 1993.  Though a tough taskmaster, Jack was always willing to help any employee and found any reason to celebrate a success or milestone.  Until shortly before his death, Jack actively participated in company strategies, decisions and events.  His presence is already missed.

Jack served as President of the New York Athletic Club from 1991 to 1993. He served in various committees while as a Board Member and Vice President.  Jack was very active in the Club and believed that a Board Member needed to actively support the various Intra-clubs and to attend all of the major events.  He was particularly devoted to the success of the Saturday Morning program.

Reticent and somewhat uncomfortable in a public speaking role, Jack never hesitated to engage in lively conversations with friends, no matter the subject. Jack enjoyed music of all genres, especially jazz, opera and,  surprisingly, country and western.  His interest in opera led him to see performances in several of the great opera houses in the world.  He was also an avid reader of American history and delighted in finding new stories and accounts to explore.

Jack is survived by his wife of 69 years, Mary (nee’ Correll), his son Robert (Joann) of Stilwell, KS and his daughters, Carol Johnson Hermalyn (Roy) of River Edge, NJ, and Susan of New York City and his sister-in-law Earlene Correll, New York City.  His sons, John and Stephen (Gresy), predeceased him.  He and Mary have eight grandchildren, Sarah Johnson, Benjamin Johnson, Nathaniel Johnson, Michael Hermalyn (Tiffani), Andrew Hermalyn (Sarah), Matthew Hermalyn, Nicolas Johnson and Samuel Johnson and two great-granddaughters, Isabelle Hermalyn and Anna Hermalyn.  Jack will be remembered for the many opportunities he afforded his family.  He took particular delight in the education and the many accomplishments of his children and grandchildren.  The births of his two great-granddaughters brought great joy in his later years.

A family man, business owner, good friend and a patriot, Jack deeply believed in liberty, the greatness of America and the goodness and compassion of the American people.  Jack often stated his proudest accomplishments were his family, his service to the country as an Infantryman and a supplier of critical technology to the Navy, and his ownership of a successful business.  May he rest in peace and comfort.

Internment will take place in the near future in a private ceremony.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Robert (Bob) H. Ullman, 77, of Tappan, New York, passed away on May 26, 2020, surrounded by family, after a long and heroic battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Bob was born to parents Leonard and Ida Ullman, on July 10, 1942, in Manhattan.  Bob was graduated from Erasmus Hall High School in Brooklyn, New York and received a degree in Accounting from Baruch College, City University of New York (CUNY) in New York, New York.

He married Lorraine, the apple of his eye in January 1967, after they met at a dance. 

Surviving Bob are his beloved wife Lorraine B. Ullman, Tappan, NY; his children Jennifer S. Ullman (Matthew D. Jones), Northbrook, IL; Joseph P. Ullman (Carolyne Harrison), Blauvelt, NY; and Liv B. Van de Graaff (Adrian Van de Graaff), New Haven, CT; two beautiful grandchildren Tyler and Abbey Ullman; his sister Sandra Mintz, and his niece and nephews.

Bob was known for being a friend to many, and lover of coffee. Bob enjoyed getting together with his coffee group locally to socialize and catch up on the day.  Bob was sighted often walking with his wife around town, especially along the Piermont boardwalk and sitting in the gazebo in Piermont overlooking the Hudson River.

Bob was a consummate volunteer all of his life. He volunteered for decades with AARP and the local libraries helping people with their accounting and taxes. 

Bob served for over 22 years in the United States Army National Guard, in the Medical Unit based out of West Point, New York.  Bob retired from the Army National Guard in 2004. Bob remarked that it kept him fit and active, while giving back to his country. 

In his youth, Bob could not resist a game of paddle ball, growing up in Brooklyn.  After moving to Rockland County, New York, Bob started to ride his bicycle, and was known to bike far distances with his good friends.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a private graveside service will be held at Rockland Cemetery in Sparkill, New York.

In the future, when restrictions are lifted, there will be a life celebration for Bob at a date, time and location to be announced.

Memorial contributions may be made to any Parkinson’s organization of your choice or the family requests that you donate to The Jewish Home Family, 10 Link Drive, Rockleigh, New Jersey, 07647.  You can see their website at https://www.jewishhomefamily.org/contact-us/.  Or, please donate to a charity of your choice.

You may leave condolences and memories at https://pizzifuneralhome.com/

Brenda Dembow (nee Sanzari), 71, of Hackensack and Beach Haven West, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Richard. Cherished mother of Kathleen De Feo and her husband Robert of Northvale and the late Richard Dembow, Jr.  Adored grandmother of Brianna and Nicholas. Dearest sister of the late Benny Sanzari.

Brenda was a Clerk for the USPS in South Hackensack for many years. She liked nothing better than spending time with family and friends. She loved to take trips near and far and always loved to tell a good story. Brenda will be greatly missed by those she held dear.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Friday, July 10, 2020 at 10 AM at St. Francis Church, Hackensack with burial to follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Hackensack.

Arrangements by Pizzi Funeral Home, Northvale.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Thomas R. Muller, 63, of Nanuet, NY, formerly of Ridgefield, NJ, Old Tappan, NJ and San Francisco, CA, passed away suddenly on Monday, May 18, 2020. Beloved father of Lyndsay Rose Muller.  Dear brother of Steven Muller. Loving partner of eight years to Elizabeth “Lisa” Greco. Cherished cousin of Toni Plantamura and Carla Plantamura. Thomas was predeceased by his son, Thomas F. Muller, brother, Charles and his parents, Thomas and Rose Muller.

Before retiring, Thomas was a managing director for Morgan Stanley in NYC.

Due to the current health crisis, funeral services will be private.

Arrangements by Pizzi Funeral Home, Northvale, NJ.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

It is with great sadness that the family of Christopher A. Vetere announces his passing on Friday April 10, 2020, at the age of 79. Christopher will be lovingly remembered by his wife Ann Loretta (Nardis) Vetere, adored daughters, Loretta T. Vetere of Valley Cottage, NY and Theresa M. Carullo of Montville, NJ, beloved grandson Anthony J. Carullo, dear brother Vincent Gallo (Alba), and sister Maryann Lanzano (Paul). He is also survived by several cherished nieces and nephews.

Chris was born and raised in the Bronx. He served honorably at the Westchester County Department  of Corrections, Valhalla, NY retiring as a Sergeant after 32 years. He was head of the Honor Guard and Medical Unit of Ward 29, served as a member of the Tactical Team and Transportation Department. He also was a member of the F.O.P. Mid-Hudson Lodge 188.

Chris also volunteered, for over 20 years, with the Cresskill Fire Department. He was very proud of his service to the community.

Chris was a passionate man who loved his family. He kept close relationships with his nieces, nephews, and cousins. One of his most beloved qualities was his infectious smile and he was loved by everyone. He adored his Rottie Max and enjoyed hunting and horseback riding. He will be greatly missed by everyone.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Those who wish to remember Chris in a special way, may donate to the Alzheimer’s Association of New Jersey in his honor.

Henrietta A. Will “Sandy” (nee Huber), 78, of Dahlonega, GA, formerly of Closter, NJ, passed away Tuesday, May 12, 2020. Beloved wife of Gerald H. Will. Cherished mother of Judy Niconovich and husband Eric, John Will and wife Joan and Peter Will and wife Cris. Adored grandmother of Eric Jr. and wife Amanda, Daniel, Valerie, Brendan, Natalie, Thomas and Amanda. Grandchildren’s’ significant others Addison Blackstone and Erin Skaggs. Proud great-grandmother of Emelia. Dear sister of Edward Huber and wife Grace.

Sandy, along with her husband Jerry, was a realtor for Andrew Frank Real Estate in Harrington Park, NJ for many years and was an active member of the Closter Volunteer Ambulance Corps.

Ever a source of wisdom and guidance, Sandy loved her family and instilled in her children strong values that have served them well.  She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date due to the ongoing health crisis.

Arrangements by Pizzi Funeral Home, Northvale, NJ.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Thelma Rose Zecchino (nee Garrone), 95, of Closter, NJ, formerly of Bloomfield, NJ and Huntington, CT, passed away on Tuesday, May 12, 2020. Beloved wife of 68 years to Julius Orlando who passed in 2015. Loving mother of Katherine Hoffer and her husband Lawrence of Pearl River, NY and Julius Zecchino and his wife Mary of Closter. Cherished grandmother of Alexander, Melanie and Marina and great-grandmother of Skyler, Braden and Alan. Dearest sister of the late Robert Garrone.

Thelma was born on April 16, 1925 in Newark, NJ  to Joseph and Mae Garrone (nee Russo). Thelma was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She worked as a bookkeeper for many years and became a quilting teacher upon her retirement. She was a classical pianist and loved to play the Moonlight Sonata. She was a wonderful homemaker and enjoyed cooking, sewing and quilting.

A private memorial service will be celebrated at a later date. Burial will be at the George Washington Cemetery in Paramus, NJ. We requist that no flowers be sent.

Arrangements were intrusted to the care of Pizzi Funeral Home, Northvale, NJ. To leave condolence messages for the family please visit www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Maria Stabile (nee Vignapiano), 93, of Northvale, formerly of Brooklyn, passed away on Tuesday, May 12, 2020. Beloved wife of Santo “Salvatore”.  Loving mother of Vito and wife Margaret of Palisades Park, Michael of Danbury, CT and Patricia Hoyt and husband Fred of Vernon. Adored grandmother of eight and great-grandmother of nine. Dearest sister of the late Nicholas and the late Michael.

Maria enjoyed time spent with her husband at the Patton Point Yacht Club and the North Hudson Yacht Club.

Funeral services were private due to the current health crisis.

Arrangements by Pizzi Funeral Home, Northvale.

Martha Sierra (nee Osorio) of Northvale, NJ, passed away on Saturday, May 2, 2020. Beloved wife of Hernan Sierra. Devoted mother of Hernan W. Sierra and wife Debby Lara of Fort Lee, NJ, Ann Marie Sierra and husband Richard Emenheiser of Marlton, NJ and Christine DiFabio and husband Daniel of Westwood, NJ. Adored grandmother of Ryan, Justin, Isabel, Haley and Sierra. Dearest sister of Diana Maddalone and Nancy Goenaga.

Martha was born in Cartagena, Colombia to loving parents where she grew up, went to boarding school in London with her 2 sisters, and returned to Colombia where she met our father. He said it was love at first sight! They married and decided to move to the US when she was 8 months pregnant with Hernan W.  Lived in NY for many years and eventually settled in Northvale. She worked p/t at Joannou Cycle Co. for over 20 years before she decided to retire and take care of her granddaughters Isabel & Sierra. She lived for her family and her 5 grandchildren. Our mom had a way of making everyone feel comfortable and welcomed. Always the most gracious host and up for anything! She loved shopping, dancing in the living room and listening to Elvis songs. Our mom was always smiling and we are sure she is making heaven a brighter place.     

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Those who wish may make donations in Martha’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org.

Arrangements by Pizzi Funeral Home, www.pizzifuneralhome.com.

Ann Cosgrave, age 88, long time resident of Northvale, NJ passed away on May 8, 2020.

Ann married the love of her life, Michael, in what seemed to be a fairytale story she often told.   In her words:  (It was a cold, snowy night Jan. 6, 1953, when more than 20 young women and I boarded an old Army bus and headed for Camp Kilmer near New Brunswick.  We were on our way to enjoy a night of dancing with soldiers leaving for or returning from Korea.  Little did I know that within the hour I was to meet my future husband.  He had just returned from Korea and was eager to dance and enjoy his new R&R.  In minutes we were doing a Lindy – a fusion of many dances of the time – a foxtrot, and never left each other’s arms!  It was love at first sight, and just 39 days later, on Valentine’s Day, Mike gave me a beautiful engagement ring.  We were married 37 1/2 years before he had to go away forever.)

Ann is the cherished mother of Kathleen and her husband David.  The adored grandmother of Vanessa.  Beloved sister of the late Joan, and late Ronald.   She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.  Ann was a long-time and dedicated educator, mainly 4^th grade, and later continued to substitute for over 17 years in Fairlawn and Northvale schools. 

Ann will be forever remembered for her love of family, kindness, generosity, love of singing and dancing and her faith in God.  She was a member of the Northvale Golden Age Club, a life-long Catholic and a devoted parishioner of St. Anthony’s Church where she was a Eucharistic minister, taught religious education, opened up her home for Monday night bible study, and sang in the choir for over 40 years.  Singing at Christmas Eve mass held a very special place in her heart as she loved Christmas and looked forward to spending time with close family and friends that gathered to celebrate after mass.  Her fondest memories were being a part of a group of Catholic women who raised money for charitable causes and who remained friends for their entire lives.  She volunteered for The Center for Hope in Time of Loss, the Jamie Schuman Center, Woman’s AGLOW, and for the American Heart Association fund drives. She even spent her time helping others with Hospice for 9 years.  And was part of a decade long Women’s Health Research Initiative.  Ann always tried to do her best for everyone – to be kind and helpful to anyone who needed it and to show her love and compassion to all.  Her essence was so loving and joyful and she always laughed; her smile would light up a room.  Ann was extremely generous with her heart and time and made our world better in both big and small ways; she will be dearly missed. 

Services will be private at this time and a memorial service and Mass of Resurrection will be scheduled at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the (AFA) Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.