Carl W DeFilippis

Carl W. DeFilippis, 94, of Madison, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Carl DeFilippis was born on March 4, 1931, in East Orange and was raised in nearby West Orange as the youngest of four children. He attended West Orange High School, where he went to be lettered in both baseball and soccer, demonstrating his early team dedication. He furthered his education at Newark College of Engineering, earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering, and later obtained his Masters degree from Seton Hall University. From 1954 to 1958, Carl honorably served in the United States Air Force as a meteorologist stationed at McGuire Air Force Base, achieving the rank of Captain before completing his service. He devoted the remainder of his professional career to Picatinny Arsenal, where he worked as a mechanical engineer until his retirement in 1990.

Carl met the love of his life, Antoinette “Toni,” in Belmar, New Jersey. They were married on August 23, 1958, beginning a partnership that lasted until Toni’s passing in 2020. Together they built a warm and loving home in West Caldwell, where they raised their two loving sons, Don and John. 

A lifelong train enthusiast, Carl took great joy in his extensive train collection, proudly setting it up for friends and family to admire and enjoy. He and Toni shared their love of travel with their sons, creating cherished memories on many trips aboard Amtrak—from Stowe to Orlando and many places in between. Carl also had a deep love of music and was a devoted member of the choir at St. Aloysius Church. His favorite singer was, of course, the legendary Frank Sinatra.

In retirement, Carl continued to give generously of his time as a volunteer at Sandy Hook, part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, where he led tours and shared his knowledge with any and all visitors. Still passionate about meteorology, he was always keeping a close watch on the weather, always telling his family and friends the most accurate and timely forecasts. Carl and Toni spent many happy summers vacationing on Long Beach Island with their sons and extended family, and they enjoyed frequent day trips to Belmar and Spring Lake. He truly loved the Jersey Shore, and it remained a special place in his heart throughout his life.

Devoted father of Don Carl DeFilippis, his wife Heather, John Marc DeFilippis and his wife Laurie.  Cherished grandfather of Isabella and Cole DeFilippis, Ava and David DeFilippis. 

Visitation at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Thursday, February 19th from 4-7pm, including a prayer service at 6:30pm.  Due to the snow and ice, the inurnment will be held at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Carl’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, see donation box below for details…..

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