August F. Schmidt Funeral Home Obituaries

Welcome to August F. Schmidt Funeral Home

Since opening its doors, August F. Schmidt Funeral Home has been a pillar of support and solace for the community in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Situated at a prime location at 139 Westfield Ave., this family-run establishment has consistently provided compassionate and dignified funeral services tailored to the needs of each family it serves. Their commitment to exceptional care during one's final journey and the grieving period that follows is the cornerstone of their respected reputation.

History and Legacy of Caring

The August F. Schmidt Funeral Home has a long-standing history within the Elizabeth community. Over the years, they have carefully nurtured the trust of local families with their personalized services and attentive care. Their legacy continues to grow as they honor traditions and embrace the diverse needs of the city's population. Understanding the emotional weight of losing a loved one, they offer their historical warmth and expertise to every family they assist.

Funeral Obiturary Search

Explore our extensive database to find and remember the lives of loved ones through millions of heartfelt obituaries

Search

Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Emmanuel Vergis - December 18, 1944 - January 31, 2024

Departed: 01/31/2024 (Elizabeth)

Obituary Preview: It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Emmanuel Vergis, who departed on January 31, 2024. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unforgettable memories that will forever be cherished by family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born on December 19, 1944 in the village of Volada, island of Karpathos, Greece, to the late Ioannis and Maria Vergis, Emmanuel arrived in the United States at the young age of sixteen, full of courage and motivation to begin a life filled with passion and purpose. He was a beloved husband to Evangelia, father to John, Achilles and Margaritis, father-in-law to Paula and Vanessa, brother to Anna and Athanasios, brother-in-law to late George and John, Eva, Ilias, Zoi, Niko and Theodora and a grandfather to Evangelia, Alexia and Katerina.

He enjoyed cooking for his family and was passionate about airplanes. He pursued his dream of becoming a pilot and then later decided to follow his true love for cooking and embarked on a new journey as a restaurant owner.

Emmanuel was known for his unwavering kindness, entertaining and humorous stories. He had a heart that overflowed with compassion and was always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.

Emmanuel’s departure leaves a void that can never be filled. His absence will be deeply felt by his family, friends, and all those who were fortunate enough to have been part of his life. However, the memories, love, and lessons he shared will continue to live on in our hearts.

View Full Obituary

Rose Pinho - December 06, 1933 - August 21, 2023

Departed: 08/21/2023 (Elizabeth)

Obituary Preview: Rosa Tavares Pinho passed away on August 21, 2023, at the age of 89. Rosa, the youngest of three, was born on December 6, 1933 in Ovar, Portugal to Anibal Lopes Tavares and Maria Pereira Dos Santos. She came to the United States in 1935 at the age of 18 months, settling in Elizabeth, New Jersey where she lived most of her life. She attended St. Patrick School and High School and became a US citizen at the age of 17. Her first job was doing bookkeeping and payroll at the former Lincoln Laundry in Elizabethport. She then worked in the credit office at W.T. Grant’s on Broad Street in Elizabeth until it’s closing. Her third and final job was in the financial office of Kean College (now Kean University) in Union from where she retired in 1994. As her father was a founding member of the Portuguese Instructive Social Club and of the Elizabeth Portuguese soccer team, the Portuguese community was a guiding force in her life. She had a passion for both her heritage and community from an early age. She attended Portuguese school, became a member of the P.I.S.C. youth at the age of 13 and also part of the dramatic group of the Portuguese club, which included many of her family members. During her formative years, P.I.S.C. was on Third Street in Elizabethport which she always said was the center of all activity. She would say, “Everyone knew everyone else and families would walk to the club and participate in everything.” It was there that she met her future husband, Manuel Dias Pinho, and following her lead, he too was deeply involved in the community. They married on May 12, 1956 and made their home in Elizabeth, where they raised two daughters, Elena and Rosemarie. Throughout the years and as the community grew and evolved, Rosa took on many roles. Apart from her time with the club’s drama group, which she was in for many years, she was a big supporter of the construction of the new club, working alongside her husband. She became secretary of the club’s reorganization committee, secretary of the Ladies Auxiliary, secretary of the P.I.S.C. General Assembly, secretary of the Old Youth and moderator for the New Youth which she reorganized and remained in charge of through 1977. She was also part of the inauguration committee for the club’s new building on Rte 1. A member of Our Lady of Fatima Church in Elizabeth from it’s inception in 1973, she joined the Rosary Society in 1978 as treasurer, and later served for a number of years as president. She continued her service to the church as a member of the decoration committee traveling from Highlands, NJ to Elizabeth even after having moved in 1996. She was treasurer and president of the Filantropica Ovarense and treasurer of the Portuguese Continental Union Lodge 21 (now Luso American Financial). Upon moving to Highlands, she became an active member of the Highlands Seniors and the Community Center Auxiliary and the Highlands Historical Society, as well as, volunteer grandparent at the Highlands elementary school. She was predeceased by her husband, Manuel, her brother Manuel Lopes Tavares and her sister Ana Andril. In addition to her daughters, Elena and her husband Michael Seminara, Rosemarie and her husband Christopher Kasica, Rosa is survived by her granddaughters, Alexandra Hueter and her husband Adam, Victoria Claudio and her husband Steven, and two great-grandchildren Jaxson and Jolie Hueter, and several nephews and nieces.

View Full Obituary

Tomas A. Rodriguez - August 06, 1940 - August 18, 2023

Departed: 08/18/2023 (Elizabeth)

Obituary Preview: In Loving Memory of Tomas A. Rodriguez August 6, 1940 – August 18, 2023

With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to a remarkable soul whose presence illuminated our lives and whose love shaped us in profound ways. Tomas A. Rodriguez, born on a warm August day in 1940, transcended to eternal peace on August 18, 2023.

Surrounded by a tapestry of love, Tomas leaves behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of those he touched. He is survived by his cherished wife of 49 tender years, a love story that spanned a lifetime. His adoring son, Abner Rodriguez, and his wife Kimberly Rodriguez, stand as a testament to his enduring devotion and the family bonds he held dear. Yet it was in the twinkling eyes and innocent laughter of his grandchildren, Alexander “AJ” and Juliana “Julie” Rodriguez, that Tomas found his truest purpose, the center of a world he nurtured with boundless love.

Tomas's journey was a testament to resilience and the power of family. Born amidst the beauty of Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico, he was one of fifteen siblings raised in a home brimming with the warmth of shared experiences. These early years etched upon his heart the profound value of kinship and the joy of togetherness. When he left the shores of his beloved Puerto Rico to embrace a new chapter in Elizabeth, New Jersey, he carried with him the lessons of unity and a commitment to being a true family man.

As the seasons of his life unfolded, Tomas discovered that his greatest joy lay in the simple pleasures of life, surrounded by those he held dearest. His role as a loving grandfather was more than a title – it was a legacy of care and affection that he embraced wholeheartedly. In the tender embrace of his grandchildren, he found the endearing nickname "Pai," a term that echoed not just his role as a grandfather but the deep bond of fatherhood that he embodied.

While his words may have been few, his actions spoke volumes. Tomas had a heart of gold that extended beyond the boundaries of his family, reaching out to children and the less fortunate through numerous acts of kindness and charitable giving. His love for nature found solace in the outdoors, often in the company of the family's beloved boxer dogs, creating memories that would endure through time.

As we come to terms with the void his passing has left, we find solace in the tapestry of memories he wove throughout his life's journey. The legacy of love he leaves behind is a radiant beacon that will guide us through the darkness of loss. Tomas A. Rodriguez, a loving husband, devoted father, adoring grandfather, and a compassionate soul, has bid us adieu, but his spirit will forever dance in the laughter of his grandchildren and the love that binds his family together.

Rest in eternal peace, dear Tomas. Your memory will forever be a blessing and your love an enduring melody in our hearts.

View Full Obituary

Gladys Rosado - January 30, 1935 - July 30, 2023

Departed: 07/30/2023 (Elizabeth)

Obituary Preview: Gladys Maria Alvarez Rosado Wife, Sister, Mother, Grandmother, and Great-Grandmother

Gladys Maria Alvarez Rosado, a resident of Elizabeth, NJ, passed away peacefully in her sleep on July 30, 2023. Gladys was a loving, caring, and devoted wife, sister, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She graduated from Edison High School, Elizabeth in 1954. Gladys was a seamstress and enjoyed making clothing for herself and family members. She was a great cook and loved making special cultural dishes during the holidays. While raising her children she knew the importance of keeping family together, so much so, that there were frequent family visits. Gladys loved music and Broadway shows which she attended with her siblings. She also enjoyed frequent trips to the Caribbean.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Noon, Thursday, August 3rd, at St. Genevieve’s Church, 209 Princeton Road, Elizabeth. Interment to follow at Fairview Cemetery, 1100 East Broad Street, Westfield. Visiting is Thursday morning from 9:30 am - 11:30 am at August F. Schmidt Memorial Funeral Home, 139 Westfield Avenue, Elizabeth.

Gladys was preceded in death by her parents Jose and Josefa Alvarez, brothers Elmo Alvarez, Eddie Alvarez, Jose Alvarez, Luis Alvarez and sisters Elsie Alvarez, Lillian Robles, and Esther Flores.

Gladys is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Jose Antonio Rosado; sisters Nellie Balady, Miriam Bobish, Betty Joan Alvarez, and brother, Antonio Alvarez (Sara); children Brunilda/Bernie (husband - John Moriarty), Milton Rosado (wife - Evenly), Josephine (husband - Gary Wittenberg), and Jose Rosado; grandchildren, Michael Moriarty (Crystal), Scott Wittenberg, Lauren Wittenberg, Daniel Rosado, Joel Rosado, Diego Rosado, and Brianna Rosado; and four great-granddaughters, Michaella Moriarty, Gabriella Moriarty, Alexandra Moriarty, and Olivia Moriarty. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews and extended family.

Born in the Dominican Republic, on January 30, 1935, Gladys, her Mom, Josefa, and siblings moved to the USA in 1948 to join her Dad, Jose, and two older sisters who had started their journey to Elizabeth, NJ, in 1944. Gladys met her husband, Jose Antonio Rosado, in the early 1950s shortly after he arrived from Puerto Rico. They raised their family in Elizabeth, NJ, and moved to Coral Springs, Florida for their retirement until moving back to New Jersey.

View Full Obituary

Donald Charles Sims - April 24, 1934 - July 23, 2023

Departed: 07/23/2023 (Elizabeth)

Obituary Preview: Donald Charles Sims was born on April 24, 1934 in the Bronx, New York to Charles F Sims and Dorothy Jones Sims. He spent his life in Elizabeth, NJ attending Thomas Jefferson High School and later Duke University where he played basketball and was president of his fraternity Delta Tau Delta.

He met the love of his life Janet Davis in 1954 at Duke and they were married in November 1956.

After he served two years active duty in the US Army stationed in Arizona they moved back to NJ where he began his career with International General Electric in their training program. He began his banking career in 1965 at Union County Savings Bank in the Treasury department and he became President of the bank in 1971. He served in this role for 50 years finally retiring at the age of 87. He grew the bank from a mutual savings bank to a $2 billion mutual savings bank. Don helped organize the Bankers Cooperative Group and was chairman of the NJ Bankers Cooperative Group for two terms. Don was also a board member of the Evergreen Cemetery in Hillside, NJ where he still served. He also established the UCSB Charitable Foundation in 2003 that helped serve the needs of the community. Don was also a very active church member in the United Methodist Church and most recently at Zion Lutheran Church in Clark, NJ.

Don loved his Blue Devils, the Red Sox and the Green Bay Packers. There wasn’t a sport he didn’t like. He was an avid golfer and had a hole in one at Roselle Golf Club. Sanibel Island, Florida held a very special place in his and Janet’s heart and they vacationed there every year since 1978. Don cherished his wife Janet, as well as his 4 children and his 10 grandchildren and served as a valuable mentor to all. He was the heart and soul of his family and will be sorely missed by all. Don is survived by his wife Janet and his 4 children. Sharon Sims and her husband Jim and their children Luke and Cara of Fanwood, NJ. Robin Webster and her husband Scott and their children Kelly Schlaeppi and her husband George, and Eric Webster who reside in High Point, NC. Alison Eames and her children Tommy, Brad, Connor and Evan of Mansfield, MA. Brian Sims and his wife Kristen and their children Davis and Reese of Montgomery, AL

View Full Obituary

James E. Heimes - October 06, 1946 - July 22, 2023

Departed: 07/22/2023 (Elizabeth)

Obituary Preview: James Edward Heims Vietnam War Veteran United States Marine Corp, Retired Elizabeth Police Lieutenant, A Man of Honor and Service

James E. Heims 76 of Elizabeth passed away peacefully on July 22. He was born in Newark, NJ to the late Frederick and Beatrice Heims. James grew up in Roselle Park and graduated from Roselle Park High School in 1964 before going on to serve in the US Marine Corp (1966-1969) where he was awarded the Purple Heart and many other awards. After leaving active service he earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Rutgers University. He joined the Elizabeth Police Department in 1973 and retired with the rank of Lieutenant in 2002. He went on to serve as Director of Security for the Elizabeth Board of Education before his final retirement in 2009.

As a member of numerous organizations, including the Retired SOA, Retired PBA, American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, Two Hundred Club of Union County, Knights of Columbus #253, Union Elks Lodge #1583, Friendly Sons of St. Patrick Union County and countless other organizations too many to list. James was most proud of his Irish heritage, joining clubs that celebrated Ireland and all things related to the Emerald Isle. Always humble, he was honored with numerous awards and accolades, including the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick of Union County in 2018. He was an avid reader and owned hundreds of books, he loved animals, he enjoyed the NY Times crossed word puzzles only using ink pen, music, fishing, golf, traveling, theatre, good food, celebrating and laughing with family and friends which he loved and cherished.

James is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Lisa Ann Gleason Heims; sons, James T. Heims of Waretown; John F. Heims, Esq. and his wife Linda Rehrer, Esq. of Brick; a daughter Tricia Mackechnie and her husband James of Dover, VT; a sister Kathy Kreie and niece Lisa Heims of Union. He was grandfather to Daniel, Jake, Madison Rose, Jack, Grace and Lily Heims and Cameron Mackechnie and had an extended family which included sister Arlene Donlin and her husband James of Toms River, brothers, the late Jack Hall and his wife Glena of Elizabeth, Thomas Hall and his wife Betty of Barnegat, as well as many nieces and nephews, cherished friends and faithful companions and fur children Tucker, Finnegan and Pippa.

View Full Obituary

Jorge Luis de Sousa - August 22, 1924 - July 22, 2023

Departed: 07/22/2023 (Elizabeth)

Obituary Preview: Jorge Luis de Sousa August 22, 1924 - July 22, 2023 In loving memory of Jorge Luis de Sousa, born in Corredoura, Cavernães, Viseu, Portugal on August 22, 1924, to parents Duarte Luis and Alzira de Jesus. He was blessed with five brothers

and had a fulfilling life with many cherished roles. His journey of service began in Lages where he trained to become a military nurse. As WWII came to an end, he was called into serve his fellow countrymen and American soldiers stationed in the Azores. After leaving active service in late 1947, he was employed at the Military Arms and Munitions Factory of Braço de Prata in Portugal, where he dedicated many years of his life as a compassionate and skilled nurse in the factory infirmary. He selflessly cared for the well-being of their employees, leaving a positive impact on the lives of countless

individuals. After his remarkable service at the military factory, he pursued another passion - the love of food and hospitality. In 1953, He started his own restaurant in Penalva do Castelo, Portugal, where he created a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all who dined there. His dedication to creating delicious meals and sharing joy with his patrons made his restaurant a beloved

gathering place within the community. At a certain point in his life, he briefly immigrated to Germany, where he embraced new experiences and connections, adding to the richness of his life's journey. However, the call of a brighter future beckoned, and in 1972, he made his way to the United States, where he continued to work hard as a machine operator for over two decades with C & S Group before

his retirement. Throughout his life, he embraced a fun-loving spirit and had a big personality that brought joy to those around him. Family was paramount to him, and he was married to his beloved Marciana for 45 years until her untimely passing. Together, they raised two children, Maria Helena Castainca (Jose Manuel Castainca) and Jose Carlos Sousa and were blessed with four grandchildren, Alexandra Castainca-Costa (Jose da Costa), Nuno Castainca (Melissa Castainca), Carisa Sousa and Christian Sousa (Cinthia Sousa) and five great-grandchildren, Gabriel, Lucas and Tomás Costa and William and Conrad Castainca, leaving behind a lasting

legacy of love and care. Jorge Luis de Sousa joined his wife in eternal rest on July 22, 2023, surrounded by his children and various other family members. A funeral mass will be held on Friday, August 4, 2023, at 10:00 AM at Our Lady Of Fatima R.C. Church, Elizabeth. Interment at St. Gertrude Cemetery directly following the mass and a small

gathering of friends and family immediately thereafter. Fond memories of him will always include gatherings filled with laughter, great company, and the pleasure of sharing delicious meals and a few good glasses of wine. His warm presence and love for life will be dearly missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the

privilege of knowing him. Eternal Peace grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May the

souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. - Amen.

View Full Obituary

Personalized Funeral Services

Recognizing that each life is unique, August F. Schmidt Funeral Home offers a range of personalized funeral services. They are attuned to honoring individuality through various types of tributes, from traditional religious ceremonies to non-denominational celebrations of life. Their dedicated staff is trained to arrange all types of memorials and suggest meaningful ways to reflect the personality and wishes of the deceased.

Professional and Empathetic Staff

The professionals at August F. Schmidt Funeral Home are highly experienced and offer a profound level of empathy and understanding. Each staff member undergoes rigorous training to ensure they provide not only logistical support for funeral arrangements but also emotional support during these trying times. Their commitment to families extends beyond just professional assistance; it’s about being a guiding presence when it is needed the most.

Pre-planning Services

Understanding the importance of preparing for the future, August F. Schmidt Funeral Home offers comprehensive pre-planning services. This gives individuals the opportunity to arrange their affairs in advance, thereby relieving their loved ones of this responsibility during a period of mourning. Their pre-planning specialists help clients consider their options and make informed decisions, ensuring their final wishes are understood and will be carried out without question.

Commemorative Resources and Facilities

The facilities at August F. Schmidt Funeral Home are designed to cater to various types of funeral services and gatherings. With spacious viewing rooms, a peaceful chapel, and private spaces for family members to convene, the environment is conducive to reflection and honoring the deceased. Moreover, they offer a selection of commemorative resources such as guest books, memorial cards, and keepsake jewelry to cherish the memories of the departed.

Grief Support and Resources

Grieving does not end with the funeral, and August F. Schmidt Funeral Home is keenly aware of this. They provide ongoing grief support and resources to help individuals cope with their loss over time. Whether offering referrals to counseling services or providing educational materials on dealing with grief, the funeral home remains an ally to families long after the service has ended.

Community Outreach and Involvement

At August F. Schmidt Funeral Home, the commitment to service extends beyond their doors to the community at large. They actively participate in community events and engage in outreach programs, demonstrating their dedication not only to those grieving but also to the wellbeing of the broader Elizabeth area. This local engagement underscores their role not just as a funeral home but as a valuable community resource.

Contacting August F. Schmidt Funeral Home

Those in need of funeral services or interested in planning ahead can contact August F. Schmidt Funeral Home directly. They are readily available to answer questions, address concerns, and provide guidance. Whether you are faced with an immediate need or simply seeking more information, the professionals at August F. Schmidt are there to assist you with kindness and expertise. For a personal consultation or to discuss the specific needs related to a funeral service, the staff encourages you to reach out.

August F. Schmidt Funeral Home's dedication to serving families in their time of need is an enduring testament to the compassionate care they have offered for generations. Their full range of funeral services, experienced staff, and commitment to individualized care ensures that families in Elizabeth, NJ and the surrounding areas have a place of comfort and support when it's needed the most.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a published notice of a person's death, often with a brief biography of the deceased. It's a way to publicly commemorate the life of the loved one and inform the community of their passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as important historical records. They help friends, acquaintances, and extended family members know about a loved one’s death, the details of their funeral service, and highlight significant accomplishments in their life.

What information is typically included in an obituary?

An obituary typically includes the full name of the deceased, their date of birth, date of death, a short biography, details about the funeral or memorial service, and information about surviving family members.

How long after a death is an obituary published?

An obituary is usually published within a week of a person's death to allow for timely notification before the funeral service, though the exact timing can vary.

Who writes obituaries?

Obituaries can be written by family members, friends, or the funeral home handling the arrangements. In some cases, individuals might even write their own obituary in advance.

Where are obituaries published?

Obituaries are commonly published in local newspapers, online obituary websites, funeral home webpages, and sometimes in national publications, depending on the deceased's prominence.

Is there a difference between an obituary and a death notice?

Yes. A death notice is typically a shorter, more formal announcement of a person's death and funeral details, while an obituary also includes a biography and personal tributes.

How can I write a heartfelt obituary?

To write a heartfelt obituary, include personal anecdotes, mention the qualities that made the deceased unique, and celebrate their life's achievements. Speak from the heart and focus on what made your loved one special.

Can obituaries be rejected or edited by newspaper editors?

Yes, newspaper editors review obituaries and may edit them for length, clarity, or to meet editorial policies. They can also reject an obituary if it doesn't meet publication standards or the guidelines of the newspaper.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost to publish an obituary can vary widely depending on the publication, length of the obituary, and any additional features, such as photos or extra space.

Is there a standard format for writing an obituary?

While there's no one-size-fits-all format for obituaries, they generally start with the announcement of death, followed by personal details, information about the funeral services, and a list of surviving family members.

What should you avoid including in an obituary?

Avoid including overly sensitive personal information that could be misused, such as exact addresses or financial information, and consider privacy concerns when mentioning surviving relatives.

Can an obituary be updated after it has been published?

Typically, once an obituary is published in print, it cannot be updated. Online obituaries may offer more flexibility for updates or corrections.

Are photographs included in obituaries?

Many obituaries include a photograph of the deceased. The inclusion of a photo often depends on cost considerations and the policies of the newspaper or online service.

How can friends and family contribute to an obituary?

Friends and family can contribute to an obituary by sharing their memories, photos, and personal stories of the deceased with the person writing the obituary.

Is it acceptable to include charitable donation information in an obituary?

Yes, it's common to include information about requested charitable donations in lieu of flowers. Be sure to provide the name and address of the charity.

Should an obituary include cause of death?

Including the cause of death is a personal choice and is not required. When deciding whether to include it, consider the preferences of the deceased and the surviving family members.

Can an obituary be funny or unconventional?

Yes, an obituary can reflect the personality of the deceased. If they were known for their sense of humor, an unconventional or funny obituary might be entirely appropriate and welcomed by those who knew them.

What is the deadline for submitting an obituary to a newspaper?

The deadline for submitting an obituary to a newspaper varies but is often one or two days before the desired date of publication to allow time for editing and formatting.

How do I ensure accuracy in an obituary?

To ensure accuracy, collect information from reliable sources, double-check dates and names, ask family members to review the obituary, and confirm details with the funeral home if necessary.

Can an obituary be too long?

An obituary can be as long as a family wishes and can afford, considering publication costs. However, a concise, well-written obituary that captures the essence of the individual is often most effective.

Is it possible to publish an obituary for someone who died a long time ago?

While somewhat uncommon, it is possible to publish an obituary for someone who died a long time ago, especially if no notice was published at the time of death, or if the family wishes to commemorate a special anniversary.

What are the benefits of an online obituary over a print one?

An online obituary offers a permanent record that can be accessed globally, allows for the inclusion of more content, such as pictures and stories, is often more affordable, and can be easily shared on social media.