Angelo Paternoster

PASSAIC - Angelo Paternoster, 103, of Passaic, NJ, and formerly of Clifton and Ridgewood, NJ, died peacefully in his sleep on March 18, 2024. Angelo, also known as Pat, was born in Swoyersville, PA, and predeceased by his loving wife of 64 years, Marie Antinnes Paternoster, who died in 2008. He leaves behind numerous loved ones and friends, all of whom will remember his good nature and warm smile (not to mention his famous tomato salad).

Angelo is survived by his sons, Michael and Andrew, and daughters-in-law, Maureen and Linda; his grandchildren, Jolene Sundstrom (née Paternoster), Michael Jr., Pamela, Andrew Jr., and Anthony (as well as his grandchildren-in-law, Will Sundstrom and Colleen S. Paternoster); and his great grandchildren, Ian, Kayli, Jacob, Samantha, Chloe, and Connor. He is also survived by his niece Carmella Veira and her husband, Tony, with whom he lived and shared many laughs over the past 11 years, and by many other nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

A veteran, boxer, and eternal optimist, Angelo approached life with unparalleled enthusiasm and a seemingly endless reserve of energy, continuing his career as an award-winning car salesman until the age of 80.

He spent much of his retirement with his many friends at the Bergen County Senior Activity Center in Midland Park and treasured his yearly trips to the Jersey Shore with his family. An avid horseracing fan, he attended the opening day festivities in Saratoga for more than 25 years and was honored with a race in his name for his 101st birthday. During one of his last visits with his family, he mused that some years of his life were better than others, but he enjoyed every minute of it.

At Angelo’s request, his family will hold a private ceremony rather than a funeral in the coming months. Anyone wishing to remember him can play an exacta part wheel 6 with 1, 2, and 4.