Shook's Cedar Grove Funeral Home, Inc. Obituaries

Obituary Preview: Mise Anevski, 72 of Clifton, N.J. passed away on Thursday, May 16, 2024. Born and raised in Bitola, Macedonia, prior to immigrating to the United States in 1969 eventually settling in Clifton, N.J.Beloved husband of Magda Anevski (Kotevski) of 50 years. Loving and devoted father of daughter Mary Berrios with her husband Eddie and son Bobby Anevski and his wife Krystal. Cherished grandfather of Peyton Skye. He was known by his friends and family as "Mike" and was an avid sports fan of the NY Mets, NY Islanders and NY Jets. He truly will be missed by many.The family will receive relatives and friends on Sunday, May 19, 2024 from 4 - 7 p.m. at Shook's Cedar Grove Funeral Home, 486 Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove, N.J. 07009. A Funeral Service is planned for Monday, May 20, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at Sts. Kiril and Metodij Macedonian Orthodox Church, 1050 Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove, N.J. 07009. Please meet directly at the church. Interment will follow at East Ridgelawn Cemetery in Clifton. Memories and condolences may kindly be shared at shookscedargrove.com.

Obituary Preview: Catherine Imedi Chukwuneke, 94 of the Bronx, N.Y passed away on Thursday, May 16, 2024. Memories and condolences may be shared at shookscedargrove.com.Funeral Services will be announced at a later date. Interment will take place in Anambra State, Nigeria.

Obituary Preview: Pankaj Kantilal Joshi, 76 of Fairfield, N.J. passed away on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. Memories and condolences may kindly be shared at shookscedargrove.com.The family will receive relatives and friends on Friday, May 17, 2024 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at Shook's Cedar Grove Funeral Home, 486 Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove, N.J. 07009, with the Puja to immediately follow at 12:45 p.m. Cremation will be held at Rosedale Crematory, 408 Orange Road, Montclair, N.J.

Obituary Preview: Dr. Svetlana Salerno of W. Orange, N.J. passed away peacefully one day after her 91st birthday, surrounded by her loving family.Born and raised in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, Dr. Salerno received her formal education in Western Europe before pursuing her medical degree in Germany. In her 20s, she traveled to the United States to further her medical training and establish her family practice. With a career spanning 50 remarkable years, Dr. Salerno was a trailblazer in the medical field, pioneering the way for women in medicine. Her career focused strictly in serving the greater Newark area. Her private family practice in Newark was a testament to her tireless dedication to her patients and community. Dr. Salerno’s expertise and compassion extended beyond her private practice, as she also served on the medical staff at Columbus Hospital in Newark and Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville.Predeceased by her parents, Alexiy and Natalia, she is survived by her only son, Dr. Alexander Gerard Salerno and his wife, Monica Elias.Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 11:30 a.m. at Novo-Diveevo Russian Orthodox Convent, 100 Smith Rd., Nanuet, N.Y. Interment will follow at Novo-Diveevo Russian Orthodox Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Shook’s Cedar Grove Funeral Home, Cedar Grove, N.J. Memories and condolences may be shared at shookscedargrove.com.

Obituary Preview: Luningning Caedo Rabanal was one of the children of world renowned Philippine classical realism sculptor Anastacio Caedo. With her father’s influence she followed artistic pursuits in her youth by engaging in competitive gymnastics and folk dance. Eventually she became a member of the National Folk Dance Troupe of the Philippines and represented her homeland internationally by performing on tour in countries like Spain, France, Germany and Italy. Her dance troupe even demonstrated traditional Filipino folk dances in a private audience at the Vatican for Pope John XXIII. During this time, Luningning had also developed a passion for education and teaching. This influenced her to eventually leave the world of dance and pursue a career in teaching wholeheartedly.She graduated from the University of the Philippines at the top of her class with a master’s in education. Luningning would work as an adjunct Professor at the University for a number of years before her desire for travel and adventure resurfaced. She joined an international aid organization that sent her as a teaching/educational missionary to West Africa. She eventually would spend 13 years living primarily in Nigeria teaching literature, science, mathematics and health in isolated communities to all levels of students from elementary to high school.Towards the end of her time in Nigeria, Luningning decided that it was time to pursue her lifelong dream of coming to the United States. As with all her other dreams, she brought this one to fruition as well.After immigrating first to New York, she eventually settled in New Jersey. In New Jersey Luningning continued her lifelong career of teaching in inner city schools in Newark and surrounding areas of East Orange and Irvington. When she finally retired from the Newark Public school system she had been teaching for over 40 years of her life. During these years, amidst all the travel and adventure, Luningning was married twice and became mother to 7 children and numerous grandchildren. In addition to her biological children, she touched the lives of countless other children throughout her long teaching career.She truly lived a life full of accomplishments and service within the community through education.Visitation will be on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 from 10:00 - 12:00 p.m. at Shook's Cedar Grove Funeral Home, 486 Pompton Ave., Cedar Grove, N.J. A Graveside Service followed by interment will take place at Holy Name Cemetery, Jersey City, N.J. Memories and condolences may be shared at shookscedargrove.com.

Obituary Preview: Theresa D. Yum (nee Chung) 91, of W. Orange, N.J. passed away on Friday, May 10, 2024.Visitation with Prayer Ceremony will take place on Thursday, May 16, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Andrew Kim Church, Maplewood, N.J. A Mass of Christian Burial will offered on Friday, May 17 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Andrew Kim Church with interment to follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, E. Hanover, N.J. For memories and condolences, please visit shookscedargrove.com. .

Obituary Preview: Cane Stojanovski, 93 of Totowa, N.J. passed away on Thursday, May 9, 2024.Born in Rastani, Macedonia to Stavre and Aca (nee Mihajlova) Stojanovski, he came to the United States in 1970 residing in Paterson before settling in Totowa the past 20 years. Cane played a vital role in the construction of St. Nikola Macedonian Orthodox Church and remained a devoted and active member through his life, dedicating himself to its growth and community. He also found joy in cultivating his garden and cherished moments spent with his loved ones.Predeceased by his parents, three siblings and his beloved wife, Danica, he is survived by his children, Nikola Stojanovski and his wife, Liljana, Lila Torres and her husband, Alejandro and Tome Stojanovski and his wife, Glady's and Vlade Stojanovski; grandchildren, Gordana, Dimko, Alejandro, Deni, John, Natasha, Tome, Anita and Eleana. Survivors include 14 great-grandchildren and 3 siblings.Visitation will be on Monday, May 13, 2024 from 10-12 p.m. at Shook’s Cedar Grove Funeral Home, 486 Pompton Ave., Cedar Grove. Funeral Ceremony will be at 12:30 p.m. at St. Nikola Macedonian Orthodox Church, Totowa with interment to follow at Laurel Grove Cemetery, Totowa. Memories and condolences may be shared at shookscedargrove.com.

Obituary Preview: Chester Herman Fath, passed away on Thursday, May 9, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. He was 89.Born and raised in Elizabeth, N.J., he was a longtime resident of Cedar Grove and a veteran of the United States Army. He was Treasurer for The Newark Group, Inc. before his retirement. In his spare time, Chester could be found casting a line or tending to his garden. Fishing and gardening brought him peace and joy. He also could be found completing crossword puzzles, working on projects around the house, reading the latest Barrons newspaper or following headlines on various financial television stations.As a graduate of Seton Hall University, he had always been a die-hard Seton Hall Men's Basketball fan, cheering on the Pirates through thick and thin. His love for the team was only rivalled by his love for his family and friends, who will deeply miss his warm smile, kind heart, and generous spirit.Predeceased by his parents, Alfonse and Mary (nee Wittauer) Fath, brother, Henry Fath, and son-in-law, Anthony Galietti, he is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Rosalie L. (nee Scudillo) Fath; cherished children, Regina Galietti, Gregory Fath and his wife, Isabel and Michael Fath; and precious grandchildren, Melissa and Austin Tighe and Ashley, Vanessa and Christina Fath.To honor Chester’s wishes, there will be no funeral services. However, we ask that you privately celebrate his memory in your own way. Memories and condolences may also be shared at shookscedargrove.com, as Shook's Cedar Grove Funeral Home is handling logistics.

Obituary Preview: Brajan Avramovic, 71 of Oakridge, N.J. passed away on Wednesday, May 8, 2024.Brajan was born in Kragujevac, Serbia, son of Mijo and Sofijana (nee Miljevic) Avramovic. Raised in Serbia, he came to the U.S. in 2013 residing in Oak Ridge, N.J.Predeceased by his parents, he is survived by his beloved daughter, Tamra and treasured grandchildren, Stefan, Ivana and Jovan.Visitation will be on Friday, May 10, 2024 from 6-8 p.m. at Shook's Cedar Grove Funeral Home, 486 Pompton Ave., Cedar Grove, N.J. A funeral ceremony will take place on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Serbian Orthodox Church, 119 Carlisle Ave., Paterson, N.J. Please gather directly at the church. Interment will follow at Laurel Grove Cemetery, Totowa, N.J. Memories and condolences may be shared at shookscedargrove.com.

Obituary Preview: Mehmedalija Drnda, 89 of Wayne, N.J. passed away on Tuesday, May 7, 2024. Services will begin on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at the Albanian American Islamic Center in Garfield followed by interment at Laurel Grove Cemetery, Totowa, N.J.Funeral Services are under the care and direction of Shook's Cedar Grove Funeral Home, 486 Pompton Ave., Cedar Grove, N.J. Memories and condolences may be shared at shookscedargrove.com.

Obituary Preview: Sandra R. Gabelli (Grosso), 82 of Cedar Grove, N.J. passed away on Sunday, May 5, 2024.Born and raised in Orange, N.J., she was a resident of Cedar Grove for many years. An animal lover, especially of dogs, Sandra enjoyed trips to Atlantic City and spending time with family and friends. She will be sorely missed by all who loved her.Prior to her retirement, she was an excellent office administrator for Prudential Insurance, working in several locations throughout New Jersey.Predeceased by her parents, Al and Louise Grosso and her nephew, Joseph Timpanaro, she is survived by her beloved companion, Sean G. McErlean; loving and devoted cousins, Brina Signorile and Patricia Mochary; sister, Lucille Timpanaro and her husband, Vincent; 4 nieces and their spouses; and half-brother and sister, Paul Grosso and his family and Candance Grosso.The family will receive relatives and friends on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 from 10 - 12 p.m. at Shook's Cedar Grove Funeral Home, 486 Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove, N.J. Memories and condolences may be shared at shookscedargrove.com.

Obituary Preview: James V. Gabriela, 102 of Cedar Grove, N.J. formerly of Nutley, N.J. passed away on Wednesday, May 1, 2024.All services are private. Memories and condolences may be shared at shookscedargrove.com, would be greatly appreciated.

Obituary Preview: Joyce Nieuzytek, 74 of Newark, N.J. passed away on Wednesday, May 1, 2024.All services are private. Memories and condolences may be shared at shookscedargrove.com.Interment, Forest Green Park Cemetery, Marlboro, N.J.

Obituary Preview: It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lillian Anna Montalto of Pearl River, N.Y. She passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at the age of 78, surrounded by her loving family.Born in Manhattan, N.Y. to Pasquale and Catherine (nee Cecala) Volpe, she was raised in Manhattan and later Bronx before settling in Pearl River, N.Y. She was a devoted matriarch and homemaker, always putting the needs of others before her own. One of Lillian’s greatest joys in life was spending time with her family, especially her grandkids, who brought immeasurable happiness into her world. She treasured every moment with them. Lillian also had a special place in her heart for her cats who brought her immense joy and she whom she spoiled endlessly. Lillian also had an affinity for cars. Before her husband Joe’s passing, they would frequently go to car shows.Predeceased by her parents, loving husband, Joseph A. Montalto, Sr. and her brothers, Frank and John Volpe. She is survived by her adoring son, Joseph A. Montalto, Jr. and his wife, Daniella; treasured grandsons, Nicholas J. Montalto and Joseph A. Montalto, III; caring siblings, Kathy Volpe, Phyllis Aquilino and Patricia Volpe; and many doting nieces and nephews.Lillian’s passing leaves a void in our hearts that can never be filled. However, her love and kindness, and the joy she found in the simple pleasures of life. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.Visitation will be on Monday, May 6 from 9-11 a.m. with a Catholic prayer service to be offered at 11:00 a.m. at Shook’s Cedar Grove Funeral Home, 486 Pompton Ave., Cedar Grove, N.J. Entombment will follow at Laurel Grove Cemetery, Totowa, N.J. Memories and condolences may be shared at shookscedargrove.com.

Obituary Preview: Stanley A. Lentkowski, 64, of Montville, NJ and Vero Beach, FL, died Monday, April 29, 2024.Born in Wroclaw, Poland, he lived in Clifton before moving to Montville in 1999. He also maintained a residence in Vero Beach, FL since 2005. He was a member of the Polish American Club in Vero Beach.Interment will be at St. Michael’s Cemetery in South Hackensack, NJ. At the request of the family, services will be private.He is the beloved husband of 33 years to Helen Lentkowski (Adomska) and devoted father of the late Stanley Lentkowski, Jr. (2019).

Obituary Preview: Evangelos Stavrou, 95 of Wayne, N.J. passed away on Saturday, April 27, 2024.Visitation will be on Thursday, May 2, 2024 from 4-7 p.m. with a Funeral Service to be offered at 5 p.m. at Shook's Cedar Grove Funeral Home, 486 Pompton Ave., Cedar Grove, N.J. Interment in Athens, Greece is planned for a later date. Memories and condolences may be shared at shookscedargrove.comFull obituary to follow.

Obituary Preview: Churah Joe Anamdi, 68 Linden, N.J. passed away on Monday, April 22, 2024.Funeral Services are pending. Please visit shookscedargrove.com for up to date information.

Obituary Preview: June F. Emrich, 88, of Montclair, N.J., passed away on Sunday, April 21, 2024. A Funeral Mass will be offered on Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Cassian Roman Catholic Church, 187 Bellevue Avenue, Upper Montclair, N.J. Kindly gather directly at the Church for the Mass. Interment will follow at Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Upper Montclair.Born and raised in Brookly, N.Y., she lived on Long Island before calling Montclair her home. June was an Antiquarian with a storefront in Verona, N.J. June was a member of the Montclair Historical Society and the Montclair Garden Club.Predeceased by her parents, Walter and Anne (nee: Cafiero) Lankenau and son, Michael Emrich, she is survived by her husband, Gordon C. Emrich, Jr.; children, Nancy Petrillo, Gordon Emrich, and Regina Emrich; grandchildren, Gabriella Raccioppo and Lauren Berlingeri; great-granddaughter, Lia Berlingeri; and sisters, Anne Pecha and Rita Hansen.

Obituary Preview: Barbara Ann Ellert, 80, of Cedar Grove, N.J., passed away on Friday, April 19, 2024.Born in Montclair, N.J. to the late Dorothy and Bernard Solomon, Barbara Ann grew up in Bloomfield, graduating from Mount Saint Dominics Academy and received a BA in Education from William Paterson University in Wayne, N.J. She met Roger Thomas Ellert, Jr. in Seaside Heights in 1962. They married in 1965, moved to Cedar Grove in 1967 and lived an active life in the community, while enjoying the sands of Cape Cod.Barbara Ann was involved in many community organizations over the years to include the Cedar Grove Jaycee-ettes, where she served as State President and received a Citizen of the Year award, Junior Women’s Club President, Cedar Grove Recreation Advisory Board Chairman, Women’s Club of Cedar Grove President, South End Family School President, and town wide President of the FSA.Barbara Ann was the founding teacher for the Gifted and Talented program in Cedar Grove and was designated N.J. Gifted Teacher of the Year, received the Governor's Teacher Recognition Award twice and was listed in the Who's Who in American Education, nominated through her former students. She was the Chairperson of Essex County Steering Committee for Gifted and Talented and had many wonderful years educating her students. She joined the Delta Kappa Gamma Alpha Chapter, a professional society for women educators in 1997 and became President in 2012.Since her retirement in 2005, she volunteered for the Office of Ombudsman and worked with the elderly at three local nursing homes, was St. Vincent’s Nursing Auxiliary President and could be seen stocking St. Vincent’s gift shop for visitors to share thoughtful gifts with the residents. Barbara Ann was active in the College Women’s Club of Montclair as President, was very proud of the Book Sale fundraising that provided numerous college scholarships to local women and worked with young adults throughout the years as a volunteer through St. Catherine of Siena.Barbara Ann inspired many, was a humble leader, a constant source of help and had a very generous giving spirit. She will be remembered for her quick wit, sun-kissed freckles, her love of art and craft fairs, and the beach.Barbara Ann is survived by her husband Roger Thomas Ellert, Jr. of 59 years, children, Jennifer Ellert Trzepacz and her husband Michael Trzepacz of Truckee, CA; Noelle Ellert Sheehan and her husband William Sheehan; grandchildren, Megan, Kelly, and Billy of Danville, CA.Visitation will be on Thursday, April 25, 2024 from 3 - 7 p.m. at Shook’s Cedar Grove Funeral Home, 486 Pompton Ave, Cedar Grove, N.J. 07009. A Funeral Mass is planned for Friday, April 26, 2024, 10:00 a.m. at St. Catherine of Siena RC Church, 339 Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove, N.J. 07009.

Obituary Preview: Noel G. Carragher, 73 of Berkeley Heights, N.J. formerly of Belleville, N.J. passed away on Thursday, April 18, 2024. Born and raised in Dublin, Ireland, he immigrated to the United States in 1987 residing in Belleville for many years prior to settling in Berkeley Heights.Prior to retiring, he was an auto mechanic with East Coast Toyota for many years.Beloved father of Alanna Carragher and her husband Santiago Parra. Loving and devoted brother of Elizabeth Anne Bennett and husband Michael, Kathleen Lennon and husband Michael and Francis Carragher and wife Rose. Dear son of the late Owen and Eileen (Fox) Caragher He is also survived by his former spouse Catherine Glynn and many loving nieces and nephews.The family will receive relatives and friends on Tuesday, April 23, 2024 from 9 - 10:30 a.m. at Shook's Cedar Grove Funeral Home, 486 Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove, N.J. 07009. A Mass of Christian Burial is planned for Tuesday, 11:00 a.m. at Holy Family RC Church, 28 Brookline Avenue, Nutley, N.J. 07110 (Funeral Mass will take place in the church chapel). Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington, N.J. Memories and condolences may be shared at shookscedargrove.com.

Obituary Preview: Jean Carol Snider, 81, of Bay Head, N.J., formerly of Cedar Grove, N.J., passed away on April 17, 2024 after a brief illness.Born in Montclair, N.J. to the late James and May Maher (nee: Reardon), “Jeannie” grew up in Montclair before attending Caldwell College in Caldwell, N.J. She met George Snider on Thanksgiving Day in 1963. They married in 1966, and together built a family in Cedar Grove before retiring to Bay Head, N.J.Jeannie was a breast cancer survivor and served as a member of the Essex County Committee for almost 40 years. She and George were members of the first parish council of St. Catherine of Siena Church. She also worked for Montclair Assemblyman Buddy Fortunato, then for Old Deerfield Fabrics in Cedar Grove, and finally as a teacher’s aide at Northeast School.Jeannie will be remembered for her wicked wit and sarcastic sense of humor, and her love of road trips, Hallmark movies, and the NY Yankees.Jeannie is predeceased by her husband of 51 years, George, and survived by her children, Kathleen Snider-Belinski, Greg Snider (Dave Hunt), Stacey Orlick (Steve), George Snider (Amy); grandchildren, Mickie, Dalton, Devon, Matt, Jason, Kevin, Gavin, and Anna; siblings, Kathie Cocca and Marie McKeown, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and friends. She was preceded in death by her brother, James T. Maher.Visitation will be on Tuesday, April 23 from 4-8 p.m. at Shook’s Cedar Grove Funeral Home, 486 Pompton Ave, Cedar Grove. Services will begin on Wednesday, April 24 at 9 a.m. at the funeral home. The funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. at St. Catherine of Siena Church, Cedar Grove, with interment at Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Montclair, N.J. Memories and condolences may be shared at shookscedargrove.com.

Obituary Preview: Margaret “Margie” Schneider, 81, of Whiting, N.J., passed away peacefully on April 15, 2024. Margaret was born July 2, 1942 in The Bronx, N.Y. to the late William and Matilda Schneider. She was the youngest of 5 children who have all preceded her in death. Margaret was a business owner and spent the last 8 years volunteering at Community Medical Center in Toms River, NJ where she greeted everyone with a smile and well wishes for their day.She lived in West Orange, NJ for 33 years before settling in Whiting, NJ in 2009. She was a devoted mother and caregiver to her daughter Margaret Ann, a loving sister, stepmother, Aunt, Godmother, and friend to so many.Predeceased by her daughter, Margaret Ann Schneider, her brothers, William Schneider and John Schneider, and sisters, Matilda Lynch and Marie Carvalho.Visitation will be on Friday, April 19, 2024 from 9-11 a.m. at Shook’s Cedar Grove Funeral Home, 486 Pompton Ave., Cedar Grove, N.J. A Catholic Prayer Service will be offered at 11 a.m., with entombment at Hollywood Memorial Park, Union, N.J. Memories and condolences may be shared at shookscedargrove.com.

Obituary Preview: Charles Paul Atteyeh, 67, of Nutley, N.J., formerly of Rutherford, N.J., passed away on April 15, 2024. Charles was predeceased by his parents, George and Florence (Tierno) Atteyeh, and is survived by his former wife, Sherri Atteyeh; stepchildren, Jennifer Anderson, Robert Lynch; nephew, Jacob Moore; cousins, and best friend, Salvator J. Ultimo.Charlie loved music, volunteer coaching, and watching sports, spending time with friends and family, being a foster provider, and helping others. Charles graduated from St. Mary High School and went on to retire from American Airlines after 20 years and worked at Coldwell Banker for over 25 years.There will be a celebration of life luncheon at the Cedar Grove Elks Lodge, 405 Bowden Rd, Cedar Grove, N.J. on Sunday, April 28, 2024 from 12-4 p.m. All are welcome to come and celebrate Charlie’s life and share a story or two. At 2 p.m., Pastor Jack Kraus will offer a few words.Arrangements are under the direction of Shook’s Cedar Grove Funeral Home, 486 Pompton Ave., Cedar Grove, N.J. Memories and condolences may be shared at shookscedargrove.com.

Obituary Preview: Fred Ude Onuegbu Ndukwe was born into the family of Ndukwe Ude and Esther Ndukwe of Echiele Otampa in Isuikwuato local government area of Abia State, Nigeria. Fred’s early childhood was shaped by the traditional values of the time: conformity to rules and obedience to parents and older kindreds. His father, Ndukwe Ude, was a strict disciplinarian who laid down the rules: work hard and go to school. Fred, however, enjoyed a unique family circumstance. He had a doting grandmother, Mgbotugbo Ekwedike Ude, who loved Fred to a fault. She called Fred “dim” (my husband) because Fred was her late husband, Ude, reincarnated. To the chagrin of her son, Ndukwe Ude, Mgbotugbo shielded Fred from punishment whenever he erred. Mbgotugbo would not brook anything that would hurt Fred, her reincarnated husband. For example, Mgbotugbo made sure that Fred enjoyed her delicious soups made with tasty ayiya (shrimp), okpokicha (very popular tilapia specie dry fish of the time) and anu õkpõ (dried meat). Neither Fred’s mother nor his father enjoyed these delicatessens often. Fred’s father felt that her mother was pampering Fred. At dinner time Fred would regularly sneak into grandma’s indoor kitchen, enjoy the delicious soup and then come out with his lips wiped clean. Fred’s siblings, particularly his immediate younger brother, the late Issac Ndukwe, envied him. Fred’s envious siblings teased him, calling him “onye onu utó (someone who loved to enjoy good soup). Neither grandma nor Fred was ever moved by how others around felt. Grandma loved ‘dia’ (her husband); and she never wavered until she passed.Fred attended Saint Celina’s school, Otampa, where he completed his junior primary education. For his senior primary education, he attended Saint Patrick’s senior primary school, Oguduasaa, trekking several miles to school every day. Fred was known to be a quiet student, but he was also known to have many friends. Fred maintained lifelong friendship with some of the friends he made at Saint Patrick, like the late teacher, Onyeado of Umunnekwu Agbo, with whom Fred maintained friendship and communication until he, Onyeado, passed away several years ago. Even though Fred’s father, Ndukwe Ude, was a successful farmer, he also worked as a railway track maintenance crew member without formal education. He soon learned and witness, firsthand, the value of education. He was several times denied promotion because he could read or write. He would later enroll in adult education class so that he could, at least learn to read his treasured book, the Igbo version of the holy bible. Ndukwe Ude constantly emphasized the importance of education and the acquisition of artisanal skills. He constantly hammered this to all his children. “Ga skul ma icho ibara onwe gi uru” (go to school if you want to be useful to yourself), he repeated to his children at every available opportunity.After his elementary education his father sent Fred to one of his town’s people who lived in Zaria, Northern Nigeria. Papa, as Ndukwe’s children called him, wanted Fred to acquire an artisanal skill. While in Zaria Fred became an apprentice mason (bricklayer) and house painter. After learning these skills, Fred became an itinerant laborer. Every day he went out with his tools, looking for building sites where he could work. Fred worked hard in these tedious jobs but earned very little money.After years of toiling, doing temporary jobs at usurious low wages, Fred decided to leave Zaria. He traveled to Jos, Benue Plateau, where he was warmly received by his dear aunt, Mercy Ndamioku. Fred and his sibling called their caring and loving aunt ‘mama’ because of her motherly and caring love for them. She was, indeed, a good mother to Fred. Mama had boundless love for all his sister’s children and welcomed Fred with open arms. Shortly after Fred’s arrival, she gave Fred money with which started arbitrage trading in seasonal produce, buying from interior villages, particularly, Gombe and Funtua, where the produce was cheap and transporting and selling the produce in urban areas, particularly in Jos, which had a large open market. During the first two bountiful seasons, Fred earned much higher income trading than he ever did throughout the years he labored in Zaria doing tedious masonry. Both Fred and mama were happy with the outcome. However, Fred’s luck quickly ran out during the third (yearly) trading season. Fred had purchased baskets of fresh eggs which he was moving to Jos when the conveying lorry blew a tire and crashed, breaking all of Fred’s eggs and wiping out his entire capital. Fred was devastated. So was his financier, mama.After a short while when Fred loitered around looking for livelihood, mama came to Fred’s rescue, again. She placed Fred into an apprentice to become a photographer at Universal Photos, which was owned by a renowned photographer at Longsdale Street Jos. Because Fred couldn’t afford the apprentice fee, he had to serve his master for two additional years before he could be certified and allowed to open his own studio.At the end of his apprentice, Fred opened his studio, Ebony Photos, at No, 5 Panshin Road, Jos. After a very short operating time, Ebony Studio became a big success, attracting patrons from all over Jos and beyond. Soon, Fred had other bigger ideas.One day, Fred came home and told his younger brother, Felix, who was then living with him, that he, Fred, had been accepted to six months course in photography at Germain Institute of Photography, Manhattan, New York. Fred explained that he came upon the school while reading Ebony magazine, the same magazine that inspired him to name his studio Ebony. Soon Fred succeeded in obtaining a visa and travelled to New York, where he took various courses in photography. While at Germain Fred met many African students, who were studying in various institutions in the city. He also met his first wife, Marghiee Bartholomew Ndukwe, a West Indian lady from Trinidad and Tobego. Marghiee fell in love with Fredie, as she called him. Marghiee encouraged Fred to pursue a course higher education.After returning to Jos at the completion of his photography course, Fred introduced many new innovations at Ebony Photo Studio, making the studio to become a much sort out place for beautiful photos: studio portraits, wedding photographs and several other events and activities that he covered. Ebony photos was the place to go; and people flocked the studio and were delighted with the artistry and quality of photos they received.Shortly after arriving in Jos, Fred brought two apprentices. One, Sunday Nnorom, was Fred’s first cousin. The other was Godfrey. Godfrey’s father had assisted Fred during his struggles to survive in Zaria. Six months later, Fred obtained a student’s visa and returned to the US to further his education. Due to cultural and personal differences, Fred’s marriage to Marghiee was short lived, ending in divorce. Shortly, Fred travelled to Nigeria where he met and married his life-long wife, Comfort. Fred and Comfort were, over time, blessed with four children. Fred worked hard, combining academic pursuits with work. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Richmond College, Staten Island, New York. After that her enrolled at City College of New York (CCNY), one of the colleges of the City University of New York, CUNY, where he earned a master’s degree in science education.After his formal education, Fred worked as a research assistant at Rockefeller University. He later took employment at Chase Manhattan Bank, New York. Fred and Comfort lived in Brooklyn, New York. Late in 1977 Fred expressed a passionate desire to return to Nigeria to teach. He and his wife waved goodbye to the US. Soon after arriving in Nigeria, Fred obtained a teaching appointment with the Lagos State College of Education at Ijanikin, Lagos, where he taught for several years. However, after going through some difficult experiences at Ijanikin, Fred became disillusioned with what he described shenanigans at the college and quit the job.Fred then decided to return to the United States, where upon arrival, he secured temporary employments and taught science at two high schools in New York. Later he decided to move, settling in the city of Elizabeth, New Jersey with his family: wife and four children (Ikonna, Nwanyize, Junior and Ezinne). During this time Fred and his family met frequently and celebrated many festive occasions (Christmas, Thanksgiving, graduations, etc) with his brother Felix and sister Anne, who were living in the US. Fred encouraged and promoted what turned out to be gregarious family gatherings. Fred was always visibly happy and very jovial during these gatherings, bantering, tagging playful names on people and making jokes. These gatherings were always harmonious and facilitated family bonding, which to date, continues to serve the larger Ndukwe family well.After several years of teaching science at the East Orange school system, Fred decided to take an early retirement and to return, once again, to his beloved homeland, Nigeria.With his characteristic inquisitive mind and “Can do spirit”, the newly retired Mazi Ndukwe, as many now called him, Fred decided that it was time for him try his hand, again, at running a business enterprise. First, he opened an internet café (INEI Cyber Café) in Wuse. During this period, internet cafés were trending and popular as businesses and sprang up everywhere. His business grew rapidly but it also fell apart as quickly due technological changes and advances, particularly the introduction of smart mobile telephones, which progressively made internet cafés businesses unprofitable.Soon Fred, saw opportunities in bureau d’exchange business. His youngest brother, Nath, who was already in the business, gave Fred a thumbs up, encouraging him. Soon, Fred registered and launched his own, Osimiri Bureau d’Exchange, at Banex Plaza, Abuja. The business thrived and proved profitable. It was so successful that Mazi Ndukwe jokingly dubbed the bureau d’exchange business: “a cash cow”. Mazi Ndukwe was now a successful man and made many social friends, some of whom helped him to thrive in Abuja. While supporting his children, who were now in universities in the US, Mazi Ndukwe also employed many people in his business, including relatives and non-relatives. Mazi Ndukwe also supported some relatives in school, paying the fees some who were enrolled in Nigerian universities. Like his late father, Ndukwe Ude, Mazi Ndukwe believed in education. His motto for success in life was: Education, Education and Education. He would often say to his kids and others, “go to school; nobody can take your education from you.”Mazi Ndukwe believed in family and did everything thing to corral the larger Ndukwe family into collaborating unit. Through his contacts in Abuja, he was able to acquire his own residential home in Brick City, in the outskirts of Abuja. The same network of friends assisted other members of the Ndukwe family to establish business and purchase homes in Abuja.Throughout his life, Mazi Ndukwe demonstrated and encouraged honesty and upright living.He preached and promoted family unity and bonding.Jointly with his brother and sister, they laid the foundation for a thriving Ndukwe family in the United States. Mazi Ndukwe was a husband, a father, a brother, an uncle, a grandfather, and an advisor to many who listened to him pliantly.Mazi Ndukwe was a principled and stubborn person who often insisted on having things his way, often saying “I have told you what to do; if you don’t want to listen, then do it your way”. Mazi was also, a nominal Christian, who worked hard and never believed or waited for miracles. Even though Mazi Ndukwe often invoked and thanked God for his blessings, he would often, ruefully and rhetorically, end with the phrase “if there is God.”One Tuesday in April 2015, Mazi Ndukwe suffered a massive, debilitating stroke while at his home in Abuja, just days before he was to travel to the United States to attend the graduation ceremony of his youngest daughter, Ezinne. Mazi Ndukwe was found unconscious at his home by one of his social friend who took him to the hospital in Abuja. Mazi Ndukwe was later evacuated to the United States for medical treatment. He made remarkable, albeit, not full recovery. Even though Mazi Ndukwe became partially impaired from the stroke, with love from family and friends, he continued live good life. Perhaps, realizing the fragility of human life, Mazi Ndukwe would often say, “Onwei onye agai anwu onwu (there is no one who will not die). And in his own characteristic manner, Mazi Ndukwe, always ended his thoughts about human death by adding, in English, “nobody, none whatsoever!”On April 14, 2024, at about 9:30pm, Mazi Ndukwe met life’s inevitable end: Mazi Ndukwe passed away. Mazi Ndukwe is survived by: his wife, Comfort Ndukwe, a nurse, and their children Ikonna Ndukwe, a successful business manager in New Jersey, USA Dr. Nwanyieze, Md and a resident Psychiatrist in New Jersey Junior, a veteran and currently an officer with the Philadelphia Police Department, PPDEzinne Ndukwe, a registered nurse, with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health. Five grand children. His brothers and sisters, numerous nephews and nieces, other distant and close relatives, and countless friends.Even though Mazi has passed on to glory, his legacy lives on.Goodbye Mazi Fred Onuegbu Ndukwe. May the Almighty God grant you perfect peace and rest.

Obituary Preview: Pushpa Suda, 99, of Kinnelon, N.J., passed away on April 13, 2024. Visitation will be on Sunday, April 14, 2024 from 10-11 a.m. at The Chapel at Rosedale Crematory, 408 Orange Road, Montclair, N.J. with cremation following. Arrangements are under the direction of Shook's Cedar Grove Funeral Home, 486 Pompton Ave., Cedar Grove, N.J. Memories and condolences may be shared at shookscedargrove.com.