Obituary of Caesar Casale

Casale, Caesar age 88 of Little Falls at rest in Little Falls on February 26, 2008. Beneath Caesar Casale's senior picture in his Barringer High School yearbook were written the following words... "I don't want to make history." This sentiment was the cornerstone of a personal philosophy which Caesar espoused throughout his life. Combined with his love and devotion to God, his family and his country, this philosophy was one that amused some, angered a few, and confounded many: however, it was deeply engrained in the life of this good and honorable man. Caesar's love of God was challenged in 1963 with the premature death of his beloved wife and soul mate, Elizabeth. Although he was able to meet this challenge and overcome his grief, over the past forty-five years, Elizabeth was never far from his thoughts and his heart. Caesar honored God as a communicant at the St. Francis Xavier Church in Newark where he served as the head usher at the 12:15 Sunday Mass for many years. He was also a member of the Fr. Owens' Post of the Catholic War Veterans, and the St. Francis Xavier School Board. Caesar's love for his parents, his nine brothers and sisters, his children and his grandchildren was profound. He reveled in the accomplishments of his children, Angela, Lucia and Ralph, as well as his son-in-law, Ben. He was awed by the uniqueness of each of his grandchildren and their mates. Inevitably, during any given conversation, Caesar might remind you of T.G.'s talent, Gina's sensitivity, Benjie's sense of humor, Gianna's maturity, Vinny's intelligence, Frankie's innocence, Jenn's infectious laughter, Kevin's quiet demeanor or Renee's charm. Most of all Caesar was overwhelmed by the unconditional love and respect that he received from each of these young people. In June 2005 Caesar was blessed with the birth of his great-grandson, Anthony Benjamin. When Anthony would sing and dance for his "Chaz", Caesar's smiles and laughter and look of pride reflected the deep love that he held for this baby and for all of his children and grandchildren. Caesar's love of country was epitomized by his four years of service in the Army Infantry during World War II; the majority of this time in France. Caesar was also one of the founding members of the World War II Monument Committee, as well as the Ellis Island Foundation. He was also credited with initiating a Congressional Bill which granted automatic citizenship to parents who lost a son or daughter during World War II. This idea was prompted by the death of this brother, Tony, and allowed his mother, Angelina, the honor of American citizenship. Throughout his lifetime, Caesar also served on a number of community and public service projects. Returning home from his Army service Caesar enrolled in Seton Hall University. After graduation he began a forty-six year career with the Newark Public School System. Caesar served as a teacher, vice-principal and principal with the majority of his service at the First Avenue School. After retirement he worked for another five years as an Education Mentor at Montclair State University. While he was a member of many educational organizations, Caesar was most proud of his stint as a chief negotiator with the New Jersey Education Association. At the age of eighteen Caesar may never have wanted to make history, however over the next seventy years he quietly created a legacy of love and learning. His humble life left a lasting impact on his family, his friends and the thousands of students whom he had the privilege to serve. While we mourn our loss, we must also honor this life led by this truly gracious, generous, nice, gentle man. Probably, if Caesar could speak to us today he would remind us that, he always had a lot to be thankful for, and, after all, "c'est la vie...this is life." We will love and miss you Caesar, and may God bless you always for, "A thing of beauty is a joy forever." . He was Principal for the Newark Board of Education, 1st Avenue Elementary School, Newark, for 46 years before retiring. In addition, Caesar was a member of the Catholic War Veterans, New Jersey Education Association., City Administrators and Supervisors Association, Newark Principals Association, Ellis Island Foundation, Association for Supervisor and Curricular Development, Seton Hall University 50 Plus Alumni Association and St. Francis Xavier School Board. Beloved husband of the late and former Elizabeth (nee Giosiffi) Casale. Loving Father of Angela Gualano and her husband Benjamin of Little Falls, Lucia Botti of Totowa, and Ralph Casale of Belleville. Cherished Friend of Concetta Cioci of Ocean Port. Caring Brother of Mike Casale of Belleville. Adoring Grandfather of Anthony and his wife Jennifer, Gina and her husband Kevin, Benjamin, Gianna, Vincent and Frank. Affectionate Great grandfather of Anthony. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral from the Festa Memorial Funeral Home, 111 Union Blvd, Totowa, on Friday at 9:00 AM. Funeral Mass to follow at St. Francis Xavier R.C. Church, Newark at 10:00 AM. Interment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, East Hanover. Friends may call Thursday 2-4 and 7-9 PM. In lieu of flowers donations to Passaic Valley Hospice, 783 Riverview Drive, Totowa, NJ 07511 would be appreciated. For more information, go to www.festamemorial.com.