Calogero Messina

Charlie was born in Messina, Sicily to a family of farmers, where he learned early the values of perseverance, discipline, and dedication. As a young man, he proudly served two years in the Italian Army before continuing his education in Switzerland. While in Switzerland, he studied construction engineering.

He later immigrated to the United States, where he met the love of his life, Guilia Roselli. The two married, and built a life together, raising four children. Charlie was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Guilia Messina, as well as his parents, Antonino and Concetta Messina.

Charlie was the proud father of four children: Anthony, Peter, Charlie Jr, and Annarita. He was also a devoted grandfather to nine grandchildren—Kelsey, Charlie, Draven, Anthony Jr., Rose, Vincent, Abagail, Mason, and Diana—and he recently experienced the joy of becoming a great-grandfather to Lilyana.

Throughout his career, Charlie was a proud member of the New Jersey Laborer’s Union 325, dedicating many years to the trade before retiring in 2001. Known for his strong work ethic and craftsmanship, he took great pride in the work he did, and the life he built for his family.

Outside of work, Charlie found peace in his garden. An avid gardener, he generously shared the fruits and vegetables of his labor with neighbors, friends, and family each fall. He also kept bees, believing deeply in their role in supporting the local ecosystem through pollination. His yard was often filled with life, from flourishing plants, to the many birds drawn to the birdhouses he carefully maintained over the years.

Charlie was a man of strength, conviction, and complexity. While he could be a difficult man at times, those who knew him understood the depth of his dedication to family, his pride in his work, and the quiet ways he contributed to the world around him.

He will be remembered for the life he built, the family he loved, and the legacy he leaves behind in the generations that follow.

Visitation will be held at Leber Funeral Home, 1245 Paterson Plank Road, Secaucus, NJ 07094, US, on March 13, 2026, from 9:00 am to 11:30 am, followed by a Funeral Service at Leber Funeral Home from 11:30 am to 12:00 pm.

A Committal Service will take place at Fairview Mausoleum Co., 501 Bergenwood Rd, Fairview, NJ 07022, US, on March 13, 2026, from 12:30 pm to 12:45 pm.