Neftali G. Colon

Born on July 26, 1936, in Orocovis, Puerto Rico, Neftali came to Manhattan, New York as a teenager, where destiny brought him to Laura, the love of his life. Their 67-year marriage was a testament to enduring love and partnership.

For 40+ years, he practiced the art of hand-carved custom picture framing, a craft that brought beauty into the world and earned him recognition for his exceptional skill. His work graced some of New York City's most prestigious venues and projects. He contributed to the decoration of the World Trade Center prior to 9/11 and worked on a significant project for Robert De Niro's restaurant in Tribeca. In August 2010, he did phenomenal work on the Picasso exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, creating three frame replicas for Picasso artworks. His client list included American Express, Disney cruise, and renowned museums such as the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, and the Guggenheim Museum. His talented hands had the honor of creating frames for celebrities and institutions alike, making each piece a work of art.

Beyond his professional achievements, he found joy in life's simple pleasures—casting a line while fishing, crafting his specialty birdhouses, and most importantly, spending quality time with those he loved. He was the rock of his family, providing strength, wisdom, and unwavering support.

He leaves behind his devoted wife of 67 years, Laura and loving children predeceased by his son, Neftali Jr., Joann, Anthony, and Jennifer and her husband Rob. His cherished grandchildren Desiree, Sharee, Vincent, Ronnie, Alexis, Mason, Taylor, Jordan, Nicholas, Danny, Jessica, Brianna, Brittney and his beloved great-grandchildren Chloe, Kayle, Zoey, Peyton, Anthony, Shae, Lily, Brett Jr. and Roman Neftali, who brought him immeasurable joy.

He was an amazing man whose warmth, skill, and loving presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his family and in the beautiful work he created throughout his life.

Rest in peace. The memories we all shared will forever live in our hearts.

Memorial Home, 1245 Paterson Plank Road, Secaucus, NJ 07094. A funeral service will be held Monday, December 29 from 11:00 to 11:30 AM at Mack Memorial Home, Secaucus, NJ. Burial to follow at Hillside Cemetery, Lyndhurst, NJ.