Obituary of Virginio Delli Gatti

Delli Gatti, Virginio, age 97, of Haledon passed away April 16, 2016. Predeceased by his sweetheart Grace by only eight weeks, they remain as inseparable as they were during their 64-year marriage. Loving father of Gina Delli Gatti and her husband Tom Gorga of Wyckoff. Dear grandfather of Carly Gorga and Natalie Gorga, both of New York City. Brother of Angelina, Carmela, Rinaldo, and Giovanni (deceased) of Montella, Prov. Di Avellino, Italy. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Born in Montella on Armistice Day, 1918, Virginio immigrated to the United States in 1954 and settled in Paterson before moving to Haledon 40 years ago. He loved the outdoors, working in the construction industry for 30 years. He was one of the original members of the Roma Sport Club in Paterson, where he spent countless Sunday mornings sipping espresso, playing Scopa, watching soccer, and laughing with his many friends. Virginio charmed everyone he met. He was a kind soul and a true gentleman. An avid storyteller, he loved sharing memories of his youth in Italy, and even managed to put a positive spin on his WWII stories. He celebrated every day, and remained active throughout his life, tending to his tomato garden and beloved fig tree, foraging for mushrooms, jarring sauce alongside his wife, and making homemade wine. He adored his wife and family, and always put them first. He will be missed by many, and will be remembered each birthday, harvest, and sunny day. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral from the Festa Memorial Funeral Home, 111 Union Blvd, Totowa, on Thursday at 9:00 AM. Funeral Mass to follow at St. James R.C. Church, Totowa at 9:30 AM. Entombment at Laurel Grove Cemetery Mausoleum, Totowa. Friends may visit Wednesday 4-8 PM. For more information, go to www.festamemorial.com.