Alphonso J Cocozziello

Alphonso J. Cocozziello, 75, of E. Hanover, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Al, known by his family as "Butch/Butchie" was born and raised in South Orange, New Jersey, the youngest child and only son of Alfonso and Elizabeth. He was the darling baby brother of Angela "Angel" and Rosemary "Cookie." The three shared a relationship that far exceeded that of siblings and remained close friends throughout their lives. In kindergarten, Butch met his lifelong best friend, George Varrallo, and the two shared 70 years of support, laughter, and love, all the very best of friendships. George was at Butch's bedside, among Butch's immediate family members, during the final days and moments of his life.

After high school, Butch voluntarily enlisted in the United States Army (1967-1970), proudly serving in the Vietnam War. Shortly after returning to the States, he met and married the love of his life, Patty Farese. Theirs was a love story for the ages, defined by the selflessness of each in service of the other. Butch and Patty spent many happy years residing in his family home in South Orange. They joyously welcomed their three daughters: April, Christina, and Adrienne there before relocating to their home in East Hanover, New Jersey. That home became the epicenter of the family for generations to come with honored traditions such as family kickball games in the backyard. Butch was happiest in those moments when his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were running around the house and yard, laughter echoing all around him. He would stand on the deck, eyes filled with light, smile bright as can be, happily holding onto Patty, proclaiming, "all of this came from us."

Butch worked for the United States Post Office and as a groundskeeper for the Hanover Park Regional High School District until he retired. When he was not spending time with Patty or the family, Butch enjoyed reading, welcomed opportunities to learn new things, and tended to the birds in his yard.

Beloved husband of 53 years to Patricia A. Cocozziello.  Devoted father of April Maceyak, Christina Cocozziello, Adrienne Cocozziello Hoover and her husband Keith.  Cherished grandfather of Frank, his wife Jamie, Daniella, Gianna, Ava and Grayson.  Proud great-grandfather of Jordyn, Brayden and Mason.  Dear brother of Angela Ferraris and her husband Joseph.  Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Alphonso was pre-deceased by his parents Alfonso and Elizabeth Cocozziello and his sister Rosemary Dalrymple. 

Visitation at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Monday from 11-2pm, immediately follow by a service at the funeral home, including Military Honors, a prayer service and family Eulogies. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Alphonso’s favorite charity, Employment Horizons, by visiting: ehorizons.org