Vander Plaat Funeral Home Obituaries

About Vander Plaat Funeral Home

Vander Plaat Funeral Home, located at 257 Godwin Ave., Wyckoff, NJ, 07481, has been a trusted and respected funeral home in the community for many years. With a long history of providing compassionate and personalized funeral services, Vander Plaat Funeral Home has earned a reputation for excellence and dedication to families in their time of need.

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At Vander Plaat Funeral Home, the staff is committed to providing exceptional care and support to families who have lost a loved one. They understand that every family is unique and that each person's life story is worth celebrating. That's why they take the time to listen to your needs, preferences, and stories, working closely with you to create a personalized funeral service that honors your loved one's memory.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Gary W Geresi - Unknown - April 25, 2022

Departed: 04/25/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Gary W. Geresi, 62, of Butler, died on Monday, April 25, 2022. Gary was born in Hackensack and lived in Wyckoff until he got married. He then moved to Oakland where he started his family.  Gary ultimately moved to Butler in 2001, where he continued to support his favorite football team, The Dallas Cowboys. He played and managed the local Oakland softball league for multiple decades in addition to attending many concerts with friends over the years, and coached his children through both sports and life.

He followed various career paths over the years, which mostly included the field of finance, and eventually led to his true passion in life: owning and operating Assisting Hands of Wayne. Gary formed deep personal connections with each and everyone of his clients on a professional level. He will be greatly missed by his clients, aides, and staff.

Gary is survived by his children Danielle and Christopher Geresi, as well as his sister, Linda G. Tamar.  He was predeceased by parents Louis and Alice Geresi, his sister Gail, and brother-in-law, Chip Tamar.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Thursday, April 28th, at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home, www.vpfh.com. The address is 257 Godwin Ave. in Wyckoff, NJ.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, April 29th, at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home.

Interment will follow at St. Nicholas Cemetery in Lodi.

Memorial contributions in Gary’s memory can be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Tribute Program, P.O. Box 1000, Dept 142 in Memphis, TN  38148-0142.

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James Stephen Gaffney - April 20, 1958 - April 23, 2022

Departed: 04/23/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: James Stephen Gaffney was called to heaven on April 23rd, 2022. He was born on April 20th 1958 to James Gerald Gaffney and Loretta Margret (nee Colaprete) Gaffney. He attended Paramus Catholic High School from 1972-1976, where he found love in basketball and the friends he made. Just as Jim Gaffney made the world a better place during his time on earth, he continues to do so now. As a charismatic educator, adoring father, devoted husband, and loyal friend, Jim touched the lives of thousands of individuals during the course of his life. Those who knew him, couldn’t help but be better for it as his spirit was contagious. His soul lives on, embodied in his friends and family, and as a result his influence will always be felt, and he will forever continue to do good, ever-fulfilling his life’s passion.

Jim is survived by his wife of 32 years, Michele (nee Pilger) Gaffney, their five children: Jimmy, Kaitie, Krissie, Stephen and Danny, and his siblings: William and Julia (nee O’Brien) Gaffney, Patricia (nee Gaffney) and Deana Zolfo, John and Mary Helen (nee Murphy) Gaffney and Timothy and Rachel (nee Flauto) Gaffney.

Viewing will be held at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home, www.vpfh.com, 257 Godwin Ave, Wyckoff, NJ on Wednesday, April 27th, 2022 from 4:00 - 8:00PM. Mass will be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 25 Purdue Ave, Oakland NJ 07436 at 10:00AM with Father Thomas Lipnicki.

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Tiffani Ann Loughnane - May 21, 1978 - April 21, 2022

Departed: 04/21/2022 (Wyckoff)

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Francisca Canovas - November 17, 1929 - April 19, 2022

Departed: 04/19/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: WYCKOFF - Francisca Canovas, 92, of Wyckoff and formerly of Paterson died on April 19, 2022. Born in West Virginia, Francisca grew up in Spain before returning to the United States in 1951. She opened Casa Española (later renamed La Española) in Paterson which she managed and grew as a business, becoming a meeting point for the community. She always cherished her time in southern Spain connecting with friends and family. She is survived by her daughter Jacqueline and son-in-law Andres, her grandchildren Monica and Andres, his wife Veronica, and her great-grandchildren Carmen, Matthias and Olivia. She was predeceased by her husband Francisco.

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Ellen J. Hardt - March 24, 1926 - April 19, 2022

Departed: 04/19/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Ellen J. Hardt (nee Mc Gill), 96, a resident of Ridgewood, NJ for 75 years passed away on Tuesday, April 19,2022. Beloved wife of 67 years to the late Clarence E. Hardt (2011). Survived by her son, William Hardt and his wife Mary Lu of Brick, NJ. Daughter-in-law Cindy Hardt of Midland Park, and  son-in-law, John Lillis of Toms River, NJ. Cherished grandmother of 8 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. Ellen was predeceased by her dear daughter Suellen Lillis and beloved son James Hardt. She worked for Top Cleaners for many years as a supervisor and later as an Office Assistant for several Ridgewood Doctors.

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Joseph Buono - Unknown - April 17, 2022

Departed: 04/17/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Joseph Buono of Montvale, formerly of Mahwah, passed away on Sunday April 17th at age 76. Most wonderful husband of Grace Galvin and dear brother-in-law of Nancy Sierra and son-in-law of Donald Galvin. He is survived by his sister Sue (Vic) Wortmann and brother Cosmo. He is predeceased by his parents Cosmo and Florence, brother Frank and his faithful companion Holly. He is also survived by his beloved nephew Victor Wortmann and niece Sue Curran, their families and several other nieces and nephews. Cherished friend of Harriet Buono, Dr. Allen & Terri Griggs and Tom Barrett.

Joe worked as a stock broker for many decades and truly enjoyed advising his clients who most often became friends. A rare, true gentleman, he loved animals and we kindly request that memorial contributions in his name be made to the Birdsey Cape Wildlife Center, 4011 Main St., Barnstable, MA 02630 or Valley Hospice, 223 N. Van Dien, Ridgewood, NJ  07450. At Joe’s request there will be no services but please think of him when you see a spring flower bloom.  Arrangements by the Vander Plaat Funeral Home in Wyckoff, www.vpfh.com

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Rose Collado - June 22, 1955 - April 15, 2022

Departed: 04/15/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Rose Collado, age 66 of Wyckoff, NJ, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2022 surrounded by her loving family.  Rose was born in Hackensack and had been a resident of Wyckoff for 28 years.  Prior to her retirement in 2019, Rose was employed by the Waldwick Board of Education at Crescent School for 25 years.  She touched the lives of countless students and her work family as a collaborative aide and Spanish teacher.  Rose loved spending time with her family and was always up for taking countless adventures with them.  Her granddaughters were the little loves of her life and her bright light.  Rose’s smile lit up a room and left an indelible mark on the hearts of everyone she met. She was a true blessing in everyone’s life.

Rose was predeceased by her devoted husband Tony, in 2003 and her father, Andres Albacete, in 1988. She is survived by her children Rosey, Donny, Lisa, Rob, Cristina and grandchildren Makayla, Briella, Alexa and Amaya "Collado".  Also surviving, are her mom Ana and her two brothers John and Gabe Albacete.

Rose was never one to say "goodbye", she always said "see you later".  You’d say "I love you", she’d say "I love you more".

The family will receive family and friends on Wednesday, April 20, 2022 from 8:30 – 11:30 AM at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home,  www.vpfh.com, 257 Godwin Ave. Wyckoff, NJ.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 20, 22 at 12:00 PM at St. Elizabeth RC Church, 700 Wyckoff Avenue, Wyckoff, NJ 07481 with the interment to follow at Fair Lawn memorial Cemetery, Maple Avenue, Fair Lawn, NJ.

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Debra Long - Unknown - April 14, 2022

Departed: 04/14/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Debra A Long, née Hooyman, of Midland Park, was born on February 4, 1957, to John and Geraldine Hooyman. Growing up in Rochelle Park, where she was surrounded by nearby aunts, uncles and cousins, Debbie learned a love of God, church, family, arts and crafts, and 70’s disco music. As the oldest of four, Debbie was loved and looked up to by her younger siblings as a role model, teacher, and sometimes caretaker.

In 1975, Debbie attended Bergen Community College earning her associates degree in dental hygiene. She began work at the dental office of Dr. Ralph Baines in 1977, in Clifton. She continued her career at Clifton Dental Arts up until last year. Debbie met her husband, Dwight, in New Hampshire while she was waitressing at the Seminole Point Lodge on Lake Sunapee for the summer, and he was on vacation with his family. They dated for 2 years and were married on June 16, 1979. Debbie and Dwight went on to adopt 3 children. Adam joined the family in 1987, Ashleigh in 1991, and Julissa in 2007. In 1998, Debbie was looking to give back and decided to begin interim care for infants. Over the years, Dwight and Debbie cared for over 80 babies.

Debbie loved spending time with her family and taking them on different adventures. Whether that be a trip up to Schroon Lake, where her parents had a vacation home on the lake, a trip to a museum, a day in the city, or many other day trips and vacations. She was always very involved in the lives of her children: as a class mom in school, a chaperone in many church programs, and participating in countless other activities, many times responsible for arts and crafts. Debbie was a very creative person who had a love of sewing and using her creative talents to give back.

Debbie died on April 14, 2022 at the age of 65 after a long battle with breast cancer. She was predeceased by her loving mother Geraldine. She is survived by her husband Dwight, her children Adam, Ashleigh, and Julissa, her father John, and her siblings, Diane, Glenn, and Gary, and their respective families.

Visitation and celebration of life will be Saturday, April 23, 2022 at the West Side Presbyterian Church, Ridgewood, NJ. The Long family will receive friends and family 9:30 until 11:00, followed by her celebration of life at 11:00 AM.

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Kenneth B. Koeller - March 17, 1932 - April 14, 2022

Departed: 04/14/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Kenneth B. Koeller was born in Ridgefield Park, NJ on St. Patrick’s Day in 1932.  He was a lifelong resident of Bergen County, New Jersey.  He excelled at football, basketball and baseball at Ridgefield Park High School before transferring to Fork Union Military Academy in Fork Union, VA.

After graduating from Fork Union Military Academy and the University of Maryland, he taught school for one year and then followed his brother, Norman Koeller, to work for his father, Alfred H. Koeller, in a startup business, Koeller Air Products.  He learned entrepreneurship and developed a natural talent for sales.

Years later after his father’s death he and his brother sold the business to Messer Griesheim and Mr. Koeller started Yankee Propane in Florida, New York.  Beginning with two friends as customers, he, along with his future son-in-law Peter Guerci, grew the business to deliver propane to residential, commercial and industrial customers in five counties in New York and New Jersey.

Not content with the northeast, Mr. Koeller and his other son-in-law, Ronald Mitchell, started Virginia Propane in Ashland, Virginia.

In 2017 both Yankee Propane and Virginia Propane were sold to Superior Plus Energy, a Canadian company.

He was a lifelong member of Masonic Lodge #203 in Clifton, NJ.

Mr. Koeller died on April 14, 2022 at the age of 90.  He was predeceased by his first wife Betty.  He is survived by his wife Nancy, his brother Norman, two daughters Karen Mitchell and Patti Guerci, twelve grandchildren and step grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Visiting will be held at Vander Plaat Funeral Home, www.vpfh.com, 257 Godwin Avenue, Wyckoff, NJ 07481 on Tuesday, April 19, 2022 from 2:00 – 4: 00 and 7:00 – 9:00 PM.  Funeral Services will be held at Hawthorne Gospel Church, 2000 Rt. 208 N, Hawthorne, NJ on Wednesday, April 20, 2022 at 10:30 AM.  Burial will follow at Hackensack Cemetery.

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Daniel McAuley - January 26, 1938 - April 14, 2022

Departed: 04/14/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Daniel A. McAuley 84, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2022. He was born in New York, NY to Katherine (née Regan) and Daniel J. McAuley. Dan grew up in Astoria, NY. Dan and his wife Noreen raised their family in many places before settling in Wyckoff, NJ in 1981. Before retiring in 2002, Dan was national sales manager for acrylic sheet products at CYRO Industries, starting in the mail room at American Cyanamid in 1956 and holding several sales roles at Cyanamid and at CYRO, Cyanamid’s partnership with Rohm GmbH & Co. KG. Dan was an avid golfer and could remember each shot he took on any course. Dan was predeceased by Noreen, his wife of 61 years. He leaves two children, Daniel McAuley (Mary Anne), of Glen Rock, NJ, and Nancy McAuley (Kathleen) also of Glen Rock, NJ. He was the proud grandfather to three grandchildren: Anna of NYC, NY, Daniel of Hoboken, NJ and Ryan of Glen Rock, NJ, as well his grandpuppies Zoe, Phoenix, and Riley. Dan is also survived by his sister Evelyn Smith (James) of West Palm Beach, FL, as well as many nieces and nephews, dear family members, and many wonderful friends

Friends may visit the family from 4:00pm to 7:00pm on Wednesday April 20, 2022, at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home, www.vpfh.com, 257 Godwin Ave. Wyckoff, NJ. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 10:00am on Thursday at the St. Elizabeth’s Church, 700 Wyckoff Avenue, Wyckoff, NJ  07481. Entombment will follow at Maryrest Cemetery in Mahwah.

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Kathy J Sekela - November 17, 1958 - April 13, 2022

Departed: 04/13/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview:

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June H. Carroll - Unknown - April 10, 2022

Departed: 04/10/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: June Holland Carroll, died on Palm Sunday, April 10, 2022 after a rapid decline in health suddenly at 97¾ years of age.

June was born to parents Leo and Mary Maloney Holland in Seneca Falls New York. June often spoke of happy memories growing up in Seneca Falls surrounded by extended family and was especially fond of her “baby sister” Nona.  She shared often about happy childhood memories of time spent on Cayuga Lake, her many friends, her pet dogs, playing piano from weekly hit parade sheet music provided by Uncle Tenny and Auntie Nona and accompanying family sing alongs. She proudly graduated from Mynderse Academy with the honor of Valedictorian of her class. June married her high school sweetheart, William J. Carroll after his return from the service during WWII.  The couple left Seneca Falls in 1948 to begin a new life and new careers in New Jersey where they settled in Westwood raising their 2 children, Mary Lee and Bill. The family enjoyed a very happy life in their close and friendly Westwood neighborhood. Upon retirement Bill and June moved to Cooperstown, NY which they enjoyed for 10 years, until returning to NJ to be closer to family.  As a young widow in 1993, June lived in Waldwick for 20 years, and then in order to “maintain her independence” chose to move to Mill Garden’s Assisted Living in Midland Park, NJ where she resided and enjoyed an active life for 10 years.

June was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, career woman and friend to many.  She enjoyed playing bridge, tennis (until 85 years of age), working out at the YMCA, daily walks at the Wyckoff Wildlife Center as well as being dedicated to her Catholic faith.  June was devoted to her family and especially loved and appreciated her son-in-law Dave and her daughter in law Claudia.  She is remembered  for hosting “sleep overs” with her grandchildren, Lisa, Bill, Caitlynn, Christine, Kathryn and John, treating them to Friendly’s and attending their ball games, dance recitals, Boy Scout courts of honor and countless other events important to them. June supported her grandchildren’s educations as well.   She was also a proud great grandmother of 6!   June adored her sister Nona and her husband Don and loved their 3 children, Mary, Kathryn and Don.

June leaves her family, friends and all who had the privilege of meeting her with memories of a kind, beautiful, sweet, strong, faith filled, talented and loving woman.

Visiting will be at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home, www.vpfh.com, 257 Godwin Avenue, Wyckoff, NJ on Monday, April 18, 2022 from 9:30AM to 10:30A, Funeral Mass at 11:00AM at St. Elizabeth RC Church, Wyckoff, NJ  and followed by interment at Christ the King Cemetery, Franklin Lakes, NJ.

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Raymond Zegel - Unknown - April 10, 2022

Departed: 04/10/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Raymond Zegel was born on July 26, 1926, to Martin and Grace Zegel in Passaic, NJ. Shortly after Ray was born, the family moved to Wyckoff, NJ, where Ray fell in love with working on farms. He and his brother Marty had many friends in Wyckoff as children. As a young adult, Ray joined the Airforce during WWII and was stationed in the Aleutian Islands, Alaska, where Ray became a plane mechanic specializing in the P38 Aircraft. Ray was notorious for speaking of his experiences frequently as he enjoyed his profession with the military.

After returning home from his tour, he became a partner in Zegel’s Hardware in Midland Park, NJ. As Ray settled into working life with his dad, he met his beautiful wife Trudie at a wedding. They were engaged quickly and built their home in Wyckoff, where Nancy, Patti, and Bob were born.

Years later, Ray joined Elmco Distributors as a Stihl salesman. During his career with Elmco, he discovered his extraordinary talent for carving. Ray created numerous carvings and became very fond of duck decoys, many of which were donated and sold at the Wyckoff Reformed Church holiday fair auction. In addition to his love for carving, he designed and built most of his household furniture in his basement woodshop.

After he retired, Ray took his handyman skills and volunteered daily at the church. It became his semi-full-time job in retirement. As a proud member of the Wyckoff Reformed Church Property Committee, it gave him great joy to dedicate himself to the church he grew up in. Ray always found things to be done, most of which he did without being asked. He gladly did this work for over 20 years.

After living most of their lives in their Wyckoff home, Ray and Trudie became residents of the Holland Christian Home in North Haledon, NJ.

On April 10, Ray passed away at the Holland Christian Home at the age of 95. He is survived by his wife Trudie, his daughter Nancy and her husband Jerry Mattera, their son Michael and wife Yen and his son Bob and his wife Tori Zegel, and their children Emily and Josh.

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James E Laughlin, Jr. - July 01, 1937 - April 07, 2022

Departed: 04/07/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: James E. Laughlin Jr, of Waldwick NJ, loving & devoted husband, father, and grandfather, is now resting peacefully with his wife, Pam Laughlin (nee Rapp) (predeceased), and his precious granddaughter, Nicole Van Lenten (predeceased). Jim joined Pam and Nicole on April 7, 2022.

Jim was a proud but private man. He had a good sense of humor, was well-liked, and could talk about anything. He lived his life by his strong, deeply held convictions. Family was always first and he took his responsibilities and obligations seriously. He had a strong work ethic, always took pride in his work, and always respected others as he expected in kind. Jim was proud to serve his country during peacetime and notably distinguished those who served in wartime. He deeply believed in honesty, integrity, maintaining one’s reputation, and standing by one’s words & beliefs. In addition, he lived by the United States Marine Corps motto – Semper Fi (“Always faithful”).

Jim was born and raised in Ohio. After serving in the United State Marine Corps he resided in New York City to be close to his Mother and Aunt. There he soon met and married the “Love of his life”, Pam. Shortly thereafter, they started a family. Jim continually worked while pursuing a college degree and graduated early from St. John’s University. After working for a variety of companies, he eventually worked and retired from the Federal Government after 35 years. Early in his career, Jim worked additional night jobs in order to fulfill his dream of owning a house in Waldwick, NJ.

Throughout his lifetime, Jim most enjoyed time with his family (including all their four-legged companions). Thanksgiving Day was his favorite holiday. Family gatherings, weekend trips to visit relatives or friends, family vacations, or summer days in the yard – Jim enjoyed them all! But time at the shore (Jones Beach, the Jersey shore, the Outer Banks) held a special place in his heart. There he truly relaxed and enjoyed it. Jim also retained many fond memories of his 25th wedding anniversary trip to Europe with Pam. In departing this world, Jim leaves his loving children with countless wonderful & special memories. They are forever grateful for the father he was and for all the joy he brought to their lives. Diane, Patti (h. Fred Van Lenten), Judy (h. Robert Ciulla), Cyndi (h. Reno Mastrocola), and Jet (James the 3rd ) will miss him dearly, but will always keep his spirit alive within their hearts. Dad may your broken heart be healed as you now spend eternity with your loved ones who passed before you!

The family will receive friends and relatives on Tuesday, April 12, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM for visitation and a celebration of Jim’s life at: Vander Plaat Funeral Home, 257 Godwin Ave. Wyckoff, NJ. A private interment will be held at a later date.

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Robert Edward Wortmann, Sr. - February 07, 1939 - April 04, 2022

Departed: 04/04/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Robert Edward Wortmann Sr. passed away peacefully on April 4th, 2022, surrounded by his closest loved ones. Bob was born in Brooklyn, NY and raised in River Edge, NJ. He settled in Upper Saddle River where he started and raised his family before moving to Mahwah in recent years. He attended Roanoke College and finished his Civil Engineering Degree at the University of Miami. Bob is survived by his dedicated wife, Mary, and his three children and their spouses, Erika (Wortmann) Marrett, Dan Marrett, Andrea Wortmann, Robert Wortmann Jr. & Samantha Wortmann. Known as “Papa” to his four grandchildren Waverly, Hunter, Tripp & Charlotte, they had a magnetic attraction to him and loved spending time with him, earning smiles and laughs along the way. Bob was a natural leader from an early age – he co-founded VRH Construction with his brother Vic in 1958, he served as Council President at the Redeemer Lutheran Church in Ramsey, he was Chairman of the Board at Roanoke College, and was an active member of the Upper Saddle River Zoning Board and Historical Society. He forged strong and loyal relationships with organizations that were a part of his education, career and community, giving back to them so they could continue to flourish. A loving family man, he kept the extended Wortmann family close; woven into important moments and places throughout his life. He is also survived by his brother Vic, his sister-in-law Sue, his niece Sue and nephew Vic Jr., along with their spouses, children and grandchildren. He was passionate about traveling, skiing, hunting, gardening, the arts and theatre. His children became avid skiers raised on the slopes at Plattekill Mountain. They explored the world on beautiful family vacations, and the children have carried the torch with his passions, adopting them as their own. He will always be remembered for his firm handshake, his genuine smile, and his heavy pour. It was paramount to him that his wife enjoyed life to the fullest, and as he raised a glass with Mary, he would say “never above you, never below you, always with you.”

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Sigmund Gorski - July 21, 1925 - April 02, 2022

Departed: 04/02/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Sigmund J. Gorski, age 96, died peacefully at home on April 2, 2022 with his daughter and son in law. ”Ziggy” was born in Dunellen, New Jersey. He raised his family in Wyckoff, New Jersey and retired in Fairlawn, New Jersey. Ziggy was the service manager for Beckman Instruments. He proudly served his country during WW2 in both the Navy and the Army and was a proud member of both the VFW and American Legion. Ziggy was also the Drum Major in The Dunellen Drum and Bugle Corps as well as Scoutmaster of the Boys Scout Troop 253 in Wyckoff, New Jersey. His favorite pastimes were painting, dancing & playing the accordion.

Ziggy is survived by his four devoted children; Stephanie Gorski Chapman and her husband Robin, Judi Gorski Villano and her husband Chris, Daniel Gorski and his wife Kristi and Matthew Gorski.  Also surviving are his nine wonderful grandchildren that brought him so much joy; Jocelyn, Brianna, Emme, Jordan, Savannah, Micaela, Brett, Samantha & Alex.

The family will receive family and friends on Tuesday, April 12, 2022 from 4:00 until 7:00 at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home, www.vpfh.com, 257 Godwin Avenue, Wyckoff, NJ  07481.  The funeral mass will be held on Wednesday 9:30 AM at St. Anne RC Church, 15-05 Saint Anne Street, Fair Lawn, NJ  07410.  Cremation will be private.

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Dolores Randall - April 24, 1928 - April 01, 2022

Departed: 04/01/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Dolores Randall peacefully passed away after a short illness on April 1, 2022, just weeks before her 94th birthday.

She was predeceased by her parents, Samuel, and Catherine Morrow, and by her loving husband of 69 years, Robert Randall. She is survived by her two daughters Kathleen Randall (husband Robert Goodwin) of Highland Park, NJ, and Lois Randall (husband Kim Knight) of McClellanville, SC; and grandchildren Evan Goodwin (wife Carey), Hali Knight, Quinn Knight, William Randall-Goodwin, and Emily Randall-Goodwin.

Affectionately known as “Gram” by family and friends, she was a loving wife, mother, and devoted grandmother. Gram will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate to have known and loved her.

Services will be at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home, www.vpfh.com, 257 Godwin Avenue, Wyckoff, NJ on Wednesday, April 6, 2022. Visitation from 10:00am-12:00pm. Funeral Service will be at 12:00pm and then followed by interment at Cedar Lawn Cemetery, Paterson, NJ.

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Larry Morris - April 20, 1948 - April 01, 2022

Departed: 04/01/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Larry was born in Greensburg, PA, attended Greensburg Salem High School and Clarion University where he played Varsity football, was President of his fraternity Sigma Tau Gamma, and graduated in 1970. After spending several years in the steel industry, he went on to get his MBA from Providence College and his JD degree from UConn law. He spent the majority of his career working in Finance in New York City ending his career at Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi Leasing & Finance as President, Chairman and Director. After spending the last 32 years in Wyckoff, NJ, Larry recently retired to Ellsworth, Maine with his wife Laura to spend time on the water and enjoy nearby Acadia National Park.

Larry is survived by his wife Laura, his son Justin and wife Pam, his son Eric and wife Alyse, daughter Rebecca and son Colby, his mother Clara and brother Barry and wife Linda. He is preceded in death by his father William.

Larry had a true love of sports, specifically an avid Steelers fan. He loved to travel and enjoyed hiking and biking with family and friends and his beloved canine companions.

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Marcello Allegra - Unknown - March 29, 2022

Departed: 03/29/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Marcello Guiseppe Allegra, age 53 of Mahwah, died peacefully surrounded by his family on Tuesday, March 29, 2022. Born in Passaic, Marcello has lived in Mahwah for most of his life.

He was a restauranteur working in the family business, Arturo’s in Midland Park established in 1982.

He is survived by his mother, Nicolina and his brother Mariano and his wife Deborah and nephews, Mariano and Stefano.  He is also survived by his Aunts  Antonietta, Maria and her husband Nino, his cousins Nino, Jeffrey, Danielle, Anthony, Frank, and Silvana.  In Sicily he is survived by numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.  Marcello was predeceased by his father Arturo in 2018.

The Allegra family will receive friends on Monday, 3:00 until 7:00 PM at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home (www.vpfh.com), 257 Godwin Avenue, Wyckoff.

Funeral mass will be held Tuesday, 10:00 AM at the St. Elizabeth’s R.C. Church, 700 Wyckoff Avenue, Wyckoff.

Entombment will be in the Maryrest Cemetery in Mahwah.

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Joseph "Joe" Stanley Lehr III - May 20, 1945 - March 29, 2022

Departed: 03/29/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Joseph S. Lehr, III, 76, died Tuesday, March 29, 2022, in The Villages, FL.

Joe was born in College Point, New York, son of Joseph and Eleanor, and brother to Elaine Tolipani, Deborah O’Shea, and Karen Feit.

Joe was the cherished husband of Joanne (Urgo) Lehr for 53 wonderful years. The beloved father of Joseph Lehr and wife, Rachel, of Ringwood, Kimberly Dalton and husband, Michael, of Ringwood, Thomas Lehr and wife, Emily, of Glen Rock, and Edward Lehr and wife, Nicole, of Ramsey.  Proud grandfather to his 9 grandchildren whom he adored - Ethan, Justin, Keira, Madison, Liam, Sophia, Phoebe, Liliana and Gabriella.  Joe is also survived by several nieces, nephews and many, many friends.

A veteran of the Army National Guard, Joe was a successful accountant working alongside his wife, Joanne, for many years.  A resident of Ramsey for 40 years, Joe was a devoted public servant to the town he loved.  He served as Councilman for 15 years and later as a volunteer firefighter and President of the Ramsey Fire Department.

Joe profoundly impacted the lives of all who knew him with his caring and loving personality.  His wisdom, laughter, and fun-loving nature will be forever missed by his family, friends, and the communities of Ramsey and The Villages.

Visitation will be held on Monday, April 4, 2022 from 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM at Vander Plaat Funeral Home, www.vpfh.com, 257 Godwin Avenue, Wyckoff, NJ.  A funeral service will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 5, 2022 at 11:00 AM at Vander Plaat Funeral Home.

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Richard H Kunz - April 12, 1935 - March 28, 2022

Departed: 03/28/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Richard Kunz, age 86, died unexpectedly, on Monday, March 28, 2022, surrounded by his family. Richard was born in Brooklyn, NY, and spent his childhood in Queens. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary, and his sons, Jeffery and his wife, Lorraine, of Oakland, John and his wife, Donna, of Oakland, Joseph, and his wife, Angela, of Fair Lawn, and Richard, and his wife, Kristen, of Ramsey. He was predeceased by his son Edward. He was also blessed by, and survived by his beloved grandchildren, Emily, Allison and Jennifer, Catherine, Julia and Joanna, Mary and Christopher, and Emma and Abigail.

Richard graduated with a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn and a M.S. in Environmental Engineering from NJIT. He was a member of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity Alpha Xi chapter.

The family will receive friends on Friday April 1st, 2022, from 4:00pm to 7:00pm at Vander Plaat Funeral Home, www.vpfh.com, 257 Godwin Ave. Wyckoff, NJ. Liturgy of the Word will take place at Church of the Nativity, 315 Prospect St., Midland Park, Saturday April 2, 2022, at 10:00am. Interment to follow at Christ the King Cemetery, Franklin Lakes, NJ.

In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to Access for All, Trust care of Denise Shabet, Mahwah Access for All, 475 Corporate Dr. Mahwah, NJ, 07430 or to a charity of choice. We encourage the use of masks.

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Kevin Holdefehr - May 11, 1999 - March 26, 2022

Departed: 03/26/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Kevin Bisgrove Holdefehr, 22, died on Saturday, March 26, 2022, in Las Vegas, Nevada from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident.  Kevin was born May 11, 1999 in Ridgewood, New Jersey and raised in Allendale, New Jersey. He moved to Las Vegas, Nevada in 2020.

Kevin attended the Allendale grade schools and Northern Highlands Regional High School.   He went on to finish high school at Monarch School in Heron, Montana where he found his love for the outdoors.

In Montana he was introduced to the beautiful relationship between humans and horses.  His horse, Buddy, was close to his heart.  He went on to learn the art of Equestrian Vaulting.

Kevin enjoyed adventure at every turn.  He was fearless in his pursuit of rock climbing, snowboarding, and heliboarding to name a few. He found great joy in riding his motorcycle.

He was a Technical Specialist for REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.) in Las Vegas, Nevada, and was recently promoted.  He had a true love for the employees at REI both in Paramus and Las Vegas.  Kevin took great pride in his work and relished being a part of the REI family.

Kevin is survived by his parents: Christine (Christy) Bisgrove and Daniel Holdefehr Jr., his older brother Bailey, his grandparents Margaret Bisgrove, Gerald Bisgrove and Daniel Holdefehr Sr., his Aunts Megan and Maureen Bisgrove, Aunt Denise & Uncle Vin Ciummo, his Godparents Jerry & Christine Gallo along with his cousins.

He was loved deeply by his “West Coast Family”; Uncle Dave & Aunt Naolani Holdefehr and their children took Kevin under their wing in every sense of the word.  When Kevin and his cousins would hang upstairs chatting or gaming, the sound of his hearty laugh would ring through their home.

He was predeceased by his grandmother Mrs. Helen Holdefehr.

The Funeral Mass for Kevin will be 10:30am on Monday, April 4, at the Church of the Presentation, 271 West Saddle River Road, Upper Saddle River, NJ 07508.

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Romana E Arnold - May 11, 1940 - March 25, 2022

Departed: 03/25/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Romana Arnold, 81 was born May 11, 1940 in Teaneck, New Jersey passed away March 25, 2022 at Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, New Jersey. Ro was a recent resident of The Vista in Wyckoff. She was a longtime resident in New Jersey having lived in Teaneck, Alpine, Saddle River, Indian Lake NY, Bedminster, Montvale, and summered in her family home in Hampton Bays, NY.  Ro was the daughter of the late Fred and Romana Inganamort, who constructed many homes throughout Bergen County, including Mediterranean Towers in Fort Lee. She was the sister of the late John, Michael (Babe) and Frank Inganamort who also were in the family construction business. Ro was predeceased by her first husband Robert M. Sisti.  She is survived by her loving husband of 41 years Lee Arnold. Ro is also survived by her daughter Romana (Mona) and son Robert M. Sisti Jr. of Englewood. Ro leaves behind three grandchildren Romana (Cavallaro), Sara Romana (Sisti) and Robert (Tre)  ((Sisti III)). Ro also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. Ro’s greatest passion and joy were her horses and dogs. She enjoyed riding her favorite Appaloosa Superman, and was heavily involved in the Sport of dogs as a Breeder and Exhibitor of Chinese Shar-Pei, having bred many top winning Best In Show dogs and wins at the Westminster Kennel Club. Ro shared her passion with her loving husband Lee, with many travels to dog shows around the country. Ro was on the Board of the Chinese Shar-Pei Club of America and also served as Vice-President and President and later receiving a lifetime membership in the club for her dedicated work for the Breed, which extended to also being Vice President for over 25 years of the Chinese Shar-Pei Charitable Trust whose mission is to address the health needs of the Breed through scientific research, having raised over 2 million dollars. Over 12 years ago she found love with a new breed, the French Bulldog and leaves behind her beloved “Mr. B” and “Puzzle”.  Romana’s ultimate devotion was to her family. Her great love for her children and grandchildren is her lasting legacy. She loved them with all of her heart.

The viewing will take place at Vander Plaat Funeral home, 257 Godwin Avenue in Wyckoff, on Tuesday March 29th from 3 to 7. The funeral will be held at Vander Plaat Funeral Home on Wednesday, March 30th at 10:00am. Romana will be laid to rest in her family mausoleum at Madonna Cemetery in Fort Lee.

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Nadine E Drake - Unknown - March 24, 2022

Departed: 03/24/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Nadine Drake, 61, of Waldwick, lost her 2 year battle with metastatic breast cancer on Thursday, March 24, 2022. Born in Washington, DC, she lived in Bergenfield, NJ before moving to Waldwick, 36 years ago.  Nadine was a Pharmacist for Walgreen’s Pharmacy in Waldwick.  She also loved traveling with her family.

Nadine is survived by her loving husband Richard, her son Andrew and daughter Erica and her husband Michael Scalise, her granddaughters Jessica, Abigail, and Brooklyn. She is also survived by her mother Georgeanna and brother Robert.  She was predeceased by her father Robert in 1991.

Visiting hours are from 3:00 to 7:00pm on Monday at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home,  www.vpfh.com, 257 Godwin Ave. Wyckoff, NJ.  A Funeral Service will be held 10:00 am on Tuesday at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home, 257 Godwin Ave., Wyckoff, NJ  07481.  Interment will follow at the George Washington Memorial Park in Paramus.

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Carmelo Bufardeci - Unknown - March 23, 2022

Departed: 03/23/2022 (Wyckoff)

Obituary Preview: Carmelo Bufardeci, 87, of Midland Park, died on Wednesday, March 23, 2022. Born in Paterson, Carmelo lived in North Haledon before moving to Midland Park, 61 years ago.

He was a service manager for various Ford dealerships in northern New Jersey until he retired in 1994.  Carmelo had many hobbies including shooting pool, fishing, gardening and cooking.

Carmelo is survived by his loving wife Henrietta, his daughter Carol, his sons Carmen and his wife Ann, Steven and Kenneth and his wife Dawn, his grandchildren: Michael, Matthew, Jessica, Jack, Dominic and Joseph.  He is also survived by his sisters Theresa and her husband George Ferrito and Grace DeBoer along with many nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his parents Michael and Lucia Bufardeci.

Visiting hours are from 2:00 to 6:00 pm on Sunday at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home,  www.vpfh.com, 257 Godwin Ave. Wyckoff, NJ.  A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 10:00am on Monday at the Church of the Nativity, 315 Prospect St., Midland Park, NJ 07432.

Entombment will follow at the Calvary Cemetery in Paterson.

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Funeral Services Offered

Vander Plaat Funeral Home offers a wide range of funeral services to meet the diverse needs of families in the community. From traditional funeral services to cremation options, memorial services, and pre-planning arrangements, their experienced staff will guide you through every step of the process. They also provide assistance with obituaries, death certificates, and other necessary paperwork.

Cremation Services

Vander Plaat Funeral Home recognizes that cremation is becoming an increasingly popular choice for many families. They offer a variety of cremation options, including direct cremation, cremation with a memorial service, and cremation with a traditional funeral service. Their staff will help you understand the cremation process and make informed decisions about your loved one's final arrangements.

Pre-Planning Arrangements

Planning ahead for your own funeral or that of a loved one can be a thoughtful and responsible decision. Vander Plaat Funeral Home offers pre-planning arrangements, allowing you to make your wishes known and ensure that your final arrangements are carried out according to your desires. By pre-planning, you can also alleviate some of the emotional burden on your loved ones during a difficult time.

Facilities and Amenities

The facilities at Vander Plaat Funeral Home are designed to provide a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for families and friends gathering to pay their respects. The funeral home features spacious visitation rooms, chapels, and reception areas, as well as ample parking and convenient accessibility. Their amenities include audio-visual equipment for memorial tributes, catering services for receptions, and on-site florist services.

Community Involvement

Vander Plaat Funeral Home is deeply committed to the Wyckoff community and surrounding areas. They participate in local events, sponsor charitable organizations, and provide educational resources on topics related to grief support and funeral planning. Their staff is also involved in various community organizations, demonstrating their dedication to serving others beyond the walls of their funeral home.

Grief Support and Resources

Losing a loved one can be an overwhelming experience, but it doesn't have to be faced alone. Vander Plaat Funeral Home offers grief support resources, including counseling services, support groups, and online resources. They understand that grief is a journey that takes time, patience, and compassion, and they are committed to supporting families through this difficult process.

Contacting Vander Plaat Funeral Home

If you're in need of funeral services or would like more information about Vander Plaat Funeral Home, please don't hesitate to reach out. You can contact them by phone at [phone number], email at [email address], or visit their website at [website URL]. Their caring staff is available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide guidance during a difficult time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It is often published in newspapers, online obituary websites, or funeral home websites to inform friends, family, and community members of the person's passing.

What is the purpose of an obituary?

The primary purpose of an obituary is to announce the death of a loved one and provide information about their life, achievements, and surviving family members. It also serves as a way to share news of the passing with a wider audience, beyond immediate family and friends.

Who writes an obituary?

Obituaries are typically written by family members, close friends, or a funeral home. In some cases, a professional writer or journalist may be hired to write the obituary.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include information about their accomplishments, awards, and charitable work.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or website. Typically, it ranges from 100 to 500 words. Some online obituary platforms allow for longer tributes or stories.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only the name, age, and date of death. An obituary provides more detailed information about the person's life and legacy.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and some newspapers allow you to include one or multiple photos with the obituary. This can help personalize the tribute and make it more engaging for readers.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and guidelines. They may have specific requirements for formatting, length, and content.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, it is becoming more common for people to write their own obituaries in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your life story is told in your own words.

What is an online obituary?

An online obituary is a digital version of a traditional printed obituary. It is published on websites or social media platforms, allowing for easy sharing and access by a wider audience.

How long do online obituaries remain available?

The duration that an online obituary remains available varies depending on the website or platform. Some websites keep them archived indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period.

Can I edit an obituary after it has been published?

In most cases, it is possible to make corrections or updates to an obituary after it has been published. Contact the publication or website where it was published to request changes.

What is a memorial website?

A memorial website is an online platform where friends and family can create a personalized tribute to a loved one who has passed away. It often includes photos, stories, and memories shared by those who knew them.

How do I find an old obituary?

You can try searching online archives of newspapers or websites that specialize in genealogy research. Local libraries or historical societies may also have archives of old newspapers that can be searched.

Can I reuse an existing obituary?

If you need to republish an existing obituary in another newspaper or online platform, you may be able to reuse the original text with permission from the original author or publisher.

What is the cost of publishing an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication or website. Some newspapers charge by the word or line, while online platforms may offer free or paid options with varying features.

Can I include charitable donations in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers in an obituary. This allows friends and family to make a donation in memory of the deceased.

How do I notify social security about a death?

You should contact your local Social Security Administration office to report the death and obtain any necessary documentation for benefits or survivor claims.

What is a funeral home's role in creating an obituary?

Funeral homes often assist families in writing and submitting obituaries as part of their services. They may also provide guidance on what information to include and how to format the tribute.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to incorporate humor or anecdotes into an obituary to reflect the personality and spirit of their loved one.

How do I handle errors or inaccuracies in an obituary?

If you notice errors or inaccuracies in an already-published obituary, contact the publication or website immediately to request corrections.

Can I write an anonymous obituary?

In most cases, it is not recommended to write an anonymous obituary. Obituaries are meant to be a public acknowledgment of someone's passing and should include accurate information about their life.

What is the significance of including survivors in an obituary?

Including survivors in an obituary helps notify friends and family members who may not be aware of the person's passing. It also provides a sense of connection and community during a difficult time.

Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include meaningful quotes, poems, or lyrics in an obituary to add depth and emotion to the tribute.

How do I preserve an online obituary for future generations?

You can save a copy of the online obituary as a PDF or print it out for physical preservation. Some websites also offer permanent archiving options for a fee.