Joseph Patrick Rafter, 80 years old, a lifelong resident of Hoboken, an educator and an activist, died on Sunday, January 25th, after a valiant fight with Alzheimer’s disease. Joe was the son of Catherine and John Rafter. He attended Our Lady of Grace Grammar School as his father and brother, John, had done before him. …
Category Archives: Forrest Background
Frank O’Brien
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Frank E. O’Brien, who passed away suddenly on January 10, 2026, at the age of 70, after a long illness. Frank was born and raised in Hoboken, NJ. Throughout his career, he worked at Quality Deli (Hank’s) in Hoboken, Stevens Institute of Technology, Ferguson Propeller, …
Marco Sciarra
Marco Sciarra, 93, of Hoboken NJ, passed away December 30, 2025. Beloved husband of Laura Culver. Loving grandfather of Mark Sciarra. Dear brother of Michael Sciarra and Jenny Mets. Predeceased by his first wife, Anna (née Buskolich) 2022, his son, Daniel Sciarra, and his daughter, Lori Sciarra. Also predeceased by his siblings, Thomas, James, Tony, …
Dr. Raymond F. Wylie
Joseph Vito Prezioso
Joseph Vito Prezioso, born on April 21, 1957, passed away on December 17, 2025. Born and raised in Hoboken, New Jersey, Joseph was a longtime resident of Keansburg, where he made his home with his beloved family. He was a devoted family man whose presence left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Known …
Joseph J. Menino
Joseph (Joe) Menino was born in New Bedford, MA on March 10, 1955. He was the son of Joseph and Mary Menino. Joe attended Bishop Stang High School in Dartmouth, MA, where he developed his love of theater and acting. After high school, Joe entered Our Lady of Providence Seminary in Warwick Neck, RI, discerning …
Kathleen Van De Velde
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Kathleen “Kathy” Van De Velde (née Brookes), a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister, on September 21, 2025. Kathy served her community with compassion as a Registered Nurse for 32 years. She will be remembered for her tenacity, strength, nurturing spirit, and her famous …
Cosmo Mezzina
Cosmo Mezzina, 90, of Guttenberg, NJ, entered into eternal life on August 26, 2025. Beloved husband of Marta (née Petruzzella). Devoted father of Joseph (Rosalba) Mezzina and Rosa (Giuseppe) Miele. Cherished grandfather of Andrew (Delia) Mezzina, Amanda (Jerry) Gravina, Lauren Smith, Nico (Jordan Little) Smith, Briana Mezzina. Cosmo is predeceased by his son, Felice Mezzina, …
Vito N. Zarrillo, Sr.
In Loving Memory of Vito Nicholas Zarrillo, Sr. Vito Nicholas Zarrillo, Sr. passed peacefully on Saturday, August 23, 2025. To summarize Vito’s life is to try to capture the sun in a jar—his warmth, humor, and generosity touched countless lives and left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Born in Newark, New Jersey, …
Karen Renee’ Mandell
December 21, 1967 – February 10, 2025 Karen Renee Mandell, 57, of Bloomfield, New Jersey, a beloved yoga instructor who touched countless lives through her teaching and community leadership, passed away on Monday, February 10,th 2025. Born on December 21st, 1967, in New York City to Penny Rouillard and Anthony Magrino, Karen shared her birthday …