Archives for December 2020

Thomas W. Kraus, 75, Lifelong resident of Norwood, entered into eternal life on Thursday, December 31, 2020. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 49 years, Marcella (nee Student). Cherished father of Thomas, Jr. (Jennifer), Jennifer Rossi (Glenn), Michael (Amanda) and Janet Gaskill (Christopher). Proud and loving Pop to Kirstie, Courtney (Matt), Nicole (Bryson), Thomas III, Adeline, Henry, Maria, Christopher and Anna Rose. He is predeceased by his parents Joseph and Mildred, and his brother Joseph. Cherished by many nieces, nephews, and other family members.  Tom leaves behind a lifelong list of heartbroken friends.

Tom was an active parishioner and trustee of Immaculate Conception Church, Norwood. He served his beloved community as a member of the Norwood Police Department for 34 years, retiring a Lieutenant and enjoying life since 2000. A true blessing from above, he gave his all to all. Tom was a kind and gentle man, never looking for anything in return.

A celebration of his life and internment at Tappan Cemetery, Tappan, NY, under the direction of Pizzi Funeral Home, will be held at a future date. With a heartfelt thank you to all who have supported my family and I through this heartbreaking tragedy, until we meet again, be kind and be safe.

Donations in his memory would be appreciated to Hugs for Brady Foundation (childhood cancer), 4 Quentin Road, Kendall Park, NJ 08824 or Covenant House, 550 10^th Avenue, NY, NY 10018.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Rosaleen C. Murphy (nee Murphy), 83, of Blauvelt, passed away on Thursday, December 24, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Jeremiah. Devoted mother of Eileen Murphy and Kevin Caffrey, Michael and Jane Murphy, Anne Reeves, Deirdre and Brian McKiernan, Maureen and William Walter and Jerry Murphy. Proud “Meemaw” of Joe, Stephen, John, Alexa, Brian, Kaleigh, Sarah, Andrew, Conor, Tommy, Meaghan, Aidan, Lauren andcherished Mickey. Dearest sister of Anne Farrell, (Peter)Michael Bosco Murphy and the late Mary Dowd (Peter). Sister in law to Eilish (Billy), Marie (Joe), Cora (Gussy), Mairead (Bob), Pauline (Donnie), Eileen, Patsy, the late Donal, the late Noel, the late David (Sheila), the late Micheàl (Carmel) and the late Sheila (Willie).  

Cherished aunt of many nephews, nieces and other loving relatives and friends.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Thursday, December 31, 2020 at 11 AM at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart RC Church, Tappan with interment to follow at Rockland Cemetery, Sparkill.

In lieu of flowers, donations made to Tappan Zee High School in honor of Mickey Reeves, Tappan Zee High School National Honor Society 15 Dutch Hill Rd, Orangeburg, NY 10962 would be greatly appreciated.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Patricia A. Mastropasqua (nee Wise), 73, of Norwood, passed away on Sunday, December 20, 2020. Beloved wife of Terry Mastropasqua. Cherished mother of David and wife Daniela of Nutley and Jackie Monico and husband Louis of Fort Lee. Proud grandmother of Connor, Logan and Emily. Dearest sister of Virginia Wentzler and husband Kenneth, Kenneth Wise and wife Jane and Cynthia Wise. Also survived by many loving relatives and friends.

Pat was a Physical Education teacher at Bergenfield High School for many years.

A Funeral Service will be held Thursday, December 24, 2020 at 9:30 AM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Ave, Northvale, NJ (201-767-3050) with interment to follow at George Washington Memorial Park, Paramus. Visiting hours are Wednesday from 4-7 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org, would be greatly appreciated.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Richard A. Ihrig, born April 28, 1962, of Hampton, New Hampshire, formerly of Northvale, New Jersey, entered into eternal rest on December 9, 2020.  Rich leaves behind a son Andrew, 3 sisters, Sharon, Lorna and Charlene and brothers-in law Peter and Tom.  He was an uncle to 5 nephews; Matthew, Michael, Brian, Alexander and Kevin.  He is predeceased by his parents, Richard and Charlotte Ihrig.

Rich was born in Hempstead, New York and was the second of four children.  Rich was an Eagle Scout and President of his high school senior class.  Rich married his high school sweetheart, with whom he had one child, Andrew Ihrig Lanier.  Rich had a passion for adventure and travel and in his twenties moved to Florida to pursue a career in the travel industry.  Several years later, Rich relocated to South Carolina where he built his dream home and pursued his passion for raising horses.  Rich was an animal lover and along with his 3 horses, he had 2 dogs.  Rich eventually found his way to New Hampshire where as a child spent most summers at the beach.

Rich was a great cook, loved to fish, watch baseball, fly kites and spend time at the beach where he enjoyed watching sunsets.  Rich enjoyed working with his hands and earned a living as a tile setter and also had a business of flipping homes.  His creativity with his tile work and designs was a direct reflection of his personality, which was truly unique and magnetic. 

Rich ended every phone call with, “Love You” and will be something that will always be remembered by his family.

Kathleen McGovern Mahoney, was 56 when she passed away on December 17, 2020 in Old Tappan, NJ. She was in her beautiful home, and entered the kingdom of heaven peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, and inseparable dog Molly.    

Born to Frank and Kathleen (Devine) McGovern in Glasgow, Scotland on Sept 5th, 1964, the second youngest of 6 siblings. At 22 years old, Kathleen emigrated to the USA along with her siblings and settled in Nyack, NY. Eventually her sweet mom, also Kathleen, emigrated as well and lived right down the street.   

Kathleen started her career in the Fashion Industry, but had so many other talents, notably a keen photographer and expert hair stylist with a deep passion for interior design, music and dancing. Kathleen created many beautiful spaces over the years. Most recently, despite her Illness and treatment, Kathleen designed and created a gorgeous beach sanctuary for her family.                             

In 1991, Kathleen met the love of her life, Patrick Mahoney and it was truly a match made in Heaven. The young Irish man from Louisiana and the Scottish lass created a beautiful partnership. Together they welcomed three children into the world who were the center of their lives.  Kathleen was a devoted wife, and a loving mother, daughter and sister with the most generous heart.

Kathleen was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2018 and fought a long, courageous battle, and personified both dignity and grace.  Never complaining, always positive, dancing to the end. Kathleen inspired all who knew her with her strength, compassion and love.

Kathleen is survived by her devoted and loving husband Patrick, 24 year old son, Patrick, and 16 year old twins, Faith and Aidan. Also survived by her mom, Kathleen, sister Anna, brothers Frank, Jack, Martin and Paul. Not to mention a very large and extended loving family of Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and in laws.

Although the Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Victories in Harrington Park, NJ  will be private due to covid restrictions, those who wish may watch a livestream of the mass on the link below on Wednesday December 23, 2020 at 10 AM.

https://boxcast.tv/channel/kathleen-mahoney-funeral-service-757927

In lieu of flowers please donate to the Elephant Nature Park, www.Elephantnaturepark.org

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Carmine was a loving, happy, supportive and a one-of-a-kind husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and friend that gave the tightest, warmest hugs. You could always find Carmine’s big smile at Crecco’s where he loved to spend most of his time hanging with Jeff and the crew. He had the ability to make people laugh in any situation. Carmine loved to cook, play solitaire, and have fun with the guitar. Carmine was a US Army Veteran of the Berlin War. He retired from Orange & Rockland as an electrician after 38 years of service. Carmine was an active member of Sons of Italy Lodge 2176, Blauvelt, NY where he enjoyed playing cards with his buddies.
Laura was a compassionate, thoughtful, selfless and devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, cousin, grandmother, and friend that valued her family more than anything. She enjoyed going out to dinner, playing with her grandchildren, laughing and lending a listening ear. She was the rock of the family, the person you could always rely on. Laura was always up for anything, her young-hearted spirit and energy was contagious. Laura was a beloved office manager at Dr. Fisher Dentistry for Children and Children’s Dentistry of Palisades for 35 years. Often referred to as the “Office Mom” she was adored and loved by so many of her colleagues.
Carmine Frank Nigro, 76, and Laura Louise Nigro (nee Crecco), 70, passed away on Monday, December 7, 2020 and Saturday, December 12, 2020, respectively. They are the beloved parents of Jeff Nigro and Jillian, Tiffany Pereda and Henry, and Brian Roccabruna of West Nyack, NY. Proud grandparents of Sienna and Luca. Carmine is survived by his siblings, Orazio Nigro , Phil Keefe, Anna Bryant and Patricia Wojtyszyn. He is also survived by Robert Nigro, Brian Nigro and Valerie Bruno and their families. Laura was the dear sister of Gregory Crecco and the late Donna Pugliese.
Together Carmine and Laura leave behind quite a legacy, a beautiful family and so many people who loved them dearly. Their zest for life, senses of humor, and ability to light up any room were contagious to all who knew and loved them. They loved to travel, host parties at their home and create special memories with their family. Carmine and Laura were simply LOVED by all. Their nurturing presence is irreplaceable. Words cannot describe how much they will be missed. The world lost two beautiful souls.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, December 19, 2020 from 2-5 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Avenue, Northvale, NJ (201-767-3050). They would also like to thank everyone for their condolences, outpouring love and support during this time.
www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Sally Mathew 76, passed away on Tuesday, December 15th, 2020. Sally Mathew was the beloved wife of the late VT Mathew. She is survived by her two sons Ashok and Rajesh, daughters-in-law Laly C James and Sheena Mathew, and her grandchildren Shaun, Shantel, Rachel, and Donna.  Sally Mathew was an amazing teacher who taught in India, and Nigeria. She lived in Northvale, New Jersey for the last 8 years with her son Rajesh Mathew.
Sally Mathew had an amazing passion for teaching children; even after she had retired she volunteered in the Holy Family Syro-Malabar church as a substitute CCD and Malayalam school teacher. She was an active member of the church as well as the Northvale Senior Citizen club. Sally loved participating in church skits and other programs.

She had a penchant for  culinary  art and enjoyed cooking delicious dishes  for her family and friends. Her choice subject in college  was Home Science. Sally was well disciplined and kept a diary of her daily activities. Her teachers were highly appreciative of her punctuality. 
Always bubbly, as a child; she had a store house of jokes. She was a mimic too. She brought a gleam of happiness every where. Her husband Babychan appreciated her goodness and supported her through out their life together. Both of them knew that happiness comes from mutual support. Together they faced their life without fear. They gained strength from faith in Jesus and overcame difficulties together. Even when they faced physical illness they groomed their sons to grow up to be wholesome young men. Sally always was a caring person who took care of her parents on both sides of the families. God blessed her with two great sons and their beautiful families. Even though she faced many challenges in her life she had such a strong and beautiful spirit.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Huested, S. Burton of Durham, NC formerly of Blauvelt New York passed away on Wednesday, December 9^th.  He is survived by his wife of 64 years Shirley Knutson Huested, daughter Melissa Huested Oberrath of Durham, NC, 4 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his son Stephen Blauvelt Huested.

Burt attended grade school in Blauvelt and graduated from the Orangeburg School because he was the only one in the 8^th grade in the Blauvelt School.  He attended Nyack High School and graduated in 1951.  He attended New York State College at Farmingdale, graduating in 1954 with a degree in Nursery Management.  He joined his father in the family business “Rockland Nurseries” which was established in 1844.  Burt’s great grandmother was a Blauvelt.

Burt was active in community affairs serving in every office in the Blauvelt Volunteer Fire Company.  He served as Chief for 3 years and was elected Chairman of the Board of Directors yearly for more than 25 years.  Upon his retirement and impending move out of the state, he was named Chairman Emeritus of the Blauvelt Volunteer Fire Company.

After his retirement from the nursery, he was asked to work for the Orangetown Parks Department as a horticulturist. He was chairman of the Rockland County Fire Training Site Committee which selected the site and oversaw the construction of the present fire training facility in Pomona.  He was a member and former Chairman of the Rockland County Fire Advisory Board.  He was a life member and former President of the Rockland Fire Chiefs Association.

He was a life member of the Rockland County Volunteer Firemen’s Association and Orangetown Chiefs Council.  He was a member and former chairman of the Orangetown Parks Advisory Board, the Rockland County Parks Committee, and the original Orangetown Housing Authority.

He was a Republican Committee member for District 3 in Blauvelt and Area Chairman of the Blauvelt-Orangeburg Area for the Republican party.  He was a Delegate to Rockland County Republican Committee and member of the Association of Blauvelt Descendants.

A Funeral Service will be held Saturday, January 2, 2021 at 11 AM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Ave, Northvale, NJ (201-767-3050) with interment to follow at Greenbush Cemetery, Blauvelt. Visiting hours are Friday, January 1, 2021 from 2-4 & 7-9 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Burt’s memory to the Blauvelt Volunteer Fire Co., 548 Western Highway, Blauvelt, NY 10913 would be greatly appreciated.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Doris Ruth Brunell – age 91 passed away December 11, 2020 in her home with her devoted husband Robert at her side.  Doris was born January 25, 1929, in Brooklyn, NY, the youngest of six children surviving the hardship of the depression. She flourished into a beautiful young woman. Doris was whisked away by her dashing Merchant Marine, Robert, and for an impressive 73 years they were a shining example of a loving marriage.

A conscientious, diligent worker, Doris was employed by Methodist Hospital, Isotopes Corporation and then for 30 years at Allyn & Bacon /Simon & Schuster as a college correspondent and a director of her department. Her work responsibilities led her to different cities throughout the United States.

Doris’s quintessential devotion was to her family, especially her daughter Barbara Anne DeMauro and her son-in-law Albert. Doris treasured her grandchildren Dr. Samantha DeMauro-Jablonski and Dr. Christopher DeMauro, as well as, their spouses Dr. Mark Jablonski and Dr. Sara Bonamo-DeMauro.  She cherished hugs from her great grandchildren Madeleine, Vivienne, Clementine, Oliver and Julian Robert.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted into the care of the Pizzi Funeral Home in Northvale, New Jersey, and a celebration of her life will be announced at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Save the Children, www.savethechildren.org or March of Dimes, www.marchofdimes.org.

Doris, Mom, Mema Goldie and Gigi has left behind so many cherished memories for us to embrace.

www.pizzifuneralhome.com

Patricia Manning (nee Rooney), 84, of Blauvelt, NY, passed away on Saturday, December 5, 2020. Beloved wife of the late Timothy. Loving mother of Timothy Manning and his wife Patti, Carolyn Ryan and Matthew Manning. Proud grandmother of six grandchildren.

Patricia was a Registered Nurse at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in NYC. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend and will be dearly missed.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Monday, December 14, 2020 at 10 AM at St. Catharine’s RC Church, Blauvelt. She will then be buried with her husband at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Trumbull, CT.

Arrangements by Pizzi Funeral Home, Northvale, NJ (201-767-3050).

www.pizzifuneralhome.com