Obituary of Gerardo Fredella

Gerardo Fredella, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 2, 2023, at the age of 91 in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Gerardo's life journey began in Vallata, Italy, where he was born, and he later embarked on a new chapter by emigrating to Elizabeth, NJ in 1967, a place he would call home for the rest of his life. Gerardo dedicated 27 years of his life, from 1968 to 1995, as a machine operator at Phelps Dodge Copper Products, in Elizabeth, leaving a lasting legacy of hard work and commitment to his craft. His dedication and work ethic were truly commendable. Gerardo's life was marked by his love for his homeland and his service to his country. He proudly served in the Italian Army, demonstrating his unwavering patriotism. As a former member of the Vallatese Club on Third Avenue in Elizabeth, he valued the bonds of friendship and camaraderie he formed there. Beyond his professional and social pursuits, Gerardo found solace and joy in simpler pleasures. He had a green thumb and a passion for gardening. His homemade wine and tomato sauce were a testament to his culinary skills that brought family and friends together creating memorable moments he enjoyed. As a parishioner of Saint Anthony's Church in Elizabeth, he found spiritual fulfillment in his faith. Gerardo is now reunited with his beloved wife, Rosaria (Strazzella) Fredella, and his siblings; Adelio, Luigi, Michele, Domenica, and Corinda Fredella, who have gone before him. He leaves behind a loving legacy in the hearts of his children; Josephine Lewis, Maria De Francesco, Frank Fredella, and Gerardo Fredella, Jr., as well as his cherished grandchildren; Cristina, Giuliana, Roxanne, Cheryl, Gianna, Nina, Shayla, Frank, Marcello, and Dylan, and his great-grandchildren; Michela, Jayla, Averie, Julia, Gabrielle, Liam and Kate along with his many nieces and nephews. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during the visitation on Thursday, September 7, 2023, from 6-8 p.m. and Friday, September 8, 2023, from 9-9:45 a.m. at the Petruccelli Funeral Home, 232 Christine Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202. A funeral mass to celebrate Gerardo's life will follow at 10:30 a.m. at St. Anthony of Padua R.C. Church, 853 Third Ave., Elizabeth, NJ 07202, with entombment to follow at Rosedale Cemetery in Linden, NJ