Obituary of Louis J Vitale

On Wednesday February 7, 2024, a new bright light joined our heavenly sky.  On that date at Morristown Hospital, Louis J. Vitale went to be with the Lord.  His life was long in years, and up until the end, he lived life to the fullest!   Over the years, he made his home in Irvington, Livingston, Rahway and, most recently, Basking Ridge, NJ.  

He was a kind, gentle, and generous soul.  He was a devoted andloving husband to Fern for almost 23 years.  He loved and was so proud of his daughter, Monica, her wonderful husband, Luis, and his granddaughters that he loved and cherished: Cristina (Michael), Lauren (Bobby), and Danielle (David).  In time, threegreat-grandchildren came on the scene to add even more joy to his life.  Lucas and Ava Cerra and Aurelia Libertson were all superstars to their Pop.  

He was a rarity - timeless and ageless.  He was a renaissance man who loved opera as well as country music.  On a trip to Las Vegas, he even stood with a “glow stick” to salute Barry Manilow in concert.  In years past, traveling was a favoriteendeavor.  Always active, he enjoyed playing handball with his“Y friends.”  When medical challenges arose, he returned to his love of reading and being surrounded by nature.

Lou was born on November 21, 1931, in Newark, NJ, to his adoring parents, Angelina and Antonio Vitale.  His given name on his birth-certificate, “Luigino,” speaks of the rich Sicilian Italian background and traditions that he held dear throughout his life.  He was the baby of the family, joining his siblings,Connie, Sandra and Joseph.  He was devoted to his family all through the years.  With Fern, he gained more brothers and sisters - Eugene (Iris) and Gary (Toby).  He adored and admired all of them.  His numerous nieces and nephews will surely remember their Uncle Lou with fondness and memories that will bring a smile to their faces.

Lou attended the Irvington public schools, and even returned as Principal to Berkeley Terrace School where he had spent his formative years.  His educational training took place at Montclair State College, followed by obtaining two Master’s Degrees at Seton Hall University.  He loved learning, and for 36 years he imparted his knowledge and wisdom to countless students and staff.  He was smart, wise, funny and an extraordinary leader.  He also served as an officer in the US Army, spending several years in Germany.  His love of country was ever-present.

Anyone who knew Lou, will always recall his warm greetings, shy smile and infectious laughter.   Lou’s life and legacy willlong be remembered by his loving family, friends, former colleagues and students.  

In lieu of flowers, the Vitale family ask that you consider a donation in Louis' name to one of the following organizations:

International Myeloma Foundation: https://fundraise.myeloma.org/give/523296/#!/donation/checkout

Tunnels to Towers Foundation: https://dogood.t2t.org/give/320847/?_gl=1*19pvaas*_ga*NDk0MTAwMDk4LjE3MDc1MDEwODM.*_ga_KKJBEGGEYM*MTcwNzUwMTA4My4xLjEuMTcwNzUwMTA4OS41NC4wLjA.#!/donation/checkout

Wounded Warriors Project: https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/Default.aspx?tsid=26155&_gl=1*n1ezxd*_ga*MTUzMTQ1OTM3OS4xNzA3NTAxMTk1*_ga_R4MM40GQC5*MTcwNzUwMTE5NS4xLjAuMTcwNzUwMTE5NS42MC4wLjA.