Gerardo Antoniello

Gerardo Antoniello was the embodiment of the American Dream. Arriving in America in search of greater opportunity and a better life, he came with little more than determination, resilience, and hope. Through hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to his family, he built a life rich in love, accomplishments, and cherished memories.

After marrying his wife Angela, Gerardo was blessed with two sons, six grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. He enjoyed a long and fulfilling life. Gerardo passed away peacefully on October 14, 2026, at the age of 98, surrounded by the family he so deeply treasured.

Gerardo was born on October 1, 1928, in Sant'Angelo dei Lombardi, Italy, to his loving parents, Salvatore and Incoronata Antoniello. As a young man, he served in the Italian Army. He married his wife, Angela, in 1957 before immigrating to America. When they first arrived, Gerardo and Angela lived in Orange NJ, then moved to Livingston where they raised their family, before finally settling in East Hanover.

Gerardo worked in construction and masonry, and was a proud member of the Laborers' Union. Following his retirement, Gerardo and Angela enjoyed traveling back to Italy, often bringing their grandchildren with them to spend time on their family farm. This is where they learned about their culture and roots such as their ancestors before them. Gerardo especially enjoyed the many family vacations he went on, including the Jersey shore. He especially loved Disney World.

A man who found happiness in life's simple pleasures, Gerardo enjoyed playing traditional Neapolitan card games, especially Scopa and Briscola both with family and friends. He took great pride in cultural traditions such as making home made wine, sausage, soppressata, and tending his garden. He always grew fresh vegetables and figs, which he proudly shared with everyone around him. Gerardo was also proud of his traditions, which he also shared openly. Most of all, he treasured spending time with his immediate and extended family as well as neighbors and many dear friends. Whether attending graduations, sports games, music concerts, birthday celebrations, or helping his grandchildren move into college, Gerardo never missed an opportunity to support and encourage those he loved. He was always happiest when surrounded by family, enjoying good company and a glass of wine.

Gerardo is survived by his wife of 69 years, Angela; his two sons, Salvatore Antoniello and his wife, Pamela, and Gerardo (Jerry) Antoniello II and his wife, Lisa; his six grandchildren, Maria Antoniello and her husband, Tyler Astor; Gina Antoniello and her husband, Andrew Bowden; Nina Jantzen and her husband, Matthew; Angela Mammana and her husband, Salvatore; Gabriella Mahady and her husband, Cory; and Gerardo Antoniello III. He is also survived by his seven beloved great-grandchildren: Galliano, Lucas, Maria (Mia), Lawrence, Nico, Giada, and Avellina.

Visitation will be held at Quinn-Hopping Funeral Home, 145 East Mount Pleasant Avenue, Livingston, New Jersey, on October 21, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Rose of Lima Church, 312 Ridgedale Avenue, East Hanover, New Jersey, on October 22, 2026, from 9:45 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to American Cancer Society or the Alzheimer's Association.