Mark Richardson Saffert, “Duke”, 76, of Old Tappan, NJ, formerly of Northvale, NJ, passed away at home on Monday, April 22, 2024. Beloved husband of Mary Saffert (nee Shafer) for 41 years. Loving father of Michael Saffert and his wife Kristin and Daniel Saffert. Predeceased by his parents, Marcel and Geraldine and his sister Cathy. Survived by his father-in-law Ralph Shafer (late Dorothy), sister-in-law Linda Ettinger and husband Hal, brothers-in-law Robin Shafer and Charles Shafer and his wife Andrea. Also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends.
Duke was a proud Vietnam Veteran of the Army of the 199th Light Infantry, known as the “Redcatchers”. He was also a member of the Norwood American Legion Post 272. He worked for William Falkenstern Inc. for many years as a stone mason. Duke enjoyed hiking with his dog Max, the beach at Martha’s Vineyard, and was an avid Yankees, Giants and Rangers fan.
Visitation will be Thursday, April 25, 2024 from 4-8 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Ave, Northvale NJ. Family and friends will gather on Friday, April 26, 2024 at 10 AM at Pizzi Funeral Home. A burial service will be held at Rockland Cemetery, Sparkill, NY at 11:30 AM.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Duke’s name to the Wounded Warriors Project.
Thanks for the friendship for the last 64 yrs. thanks for the memories we had our share, the pain is now gone and in the Lords care. May your spirit fly over your family and friends protecting us all to our near end. Time flew by so quickly in speed God bless you Duke you were a friend indeed.
Rest in peace hometown Hero, serving with pride as our forefathers did showing your courage as you should, 199th Infantry Brigade stood ready to defend with men like you. Your a Redcatcher at heart who Honorably served the greatest country the red, white and blue!
Duke, ever since we met when you were first out of the Army we had fun times and laughs together Especially at Northvale bowling lanes , the canopy, Mooneys bar, and how can we leave out our great Ed Sullivan impressions. All those days are gone my friend, but like you they will NEVER be forgotten. Thankyou for all the laughs and one day we will laugh together again . My deepest condolences to Mary and family