Daniel Vendrell

Daniel Vendrell, 86, of E. Hanover, passed away peacefully at his home on January 30, 2025, with his wife and daughter by his side.

Daniel Vendrell was born in Sueca, Valencia Spain during the Spanish civil war in 1938. He lost his father, Simeon, at the age of 2 subsequent to the war. From an early age, Daniel showed a closeness to Jesus, becoming an altar server and later a missionary for 4 years in Honduras. During those 4 years, he learned what it was to feel hunger, cold, and fear but also to understand compassion, kindness, and acceptance of our fellow Christians from all walks of life. After returning to Spain, he decided it was time to venture off to America where he met the love of his life, Bertha. They were married in Quito, Ecuador and later returned to New Jersey where they started their family with the birth of their only daughter, Ana Maria. While in NJ, Daniel served as an immigration counselor for the non-profit organization, Catholic Community Services. For over 20 years in his profession, he helped thousands of immigrants reach their path to citizenship in the US. and he was very proud the day he also became a US citizen. When not working, Daniel could be found driving his wife to all the malls she wanted to go to because she doesn't drive, going to Sunday Mass every week, even when on vacation, watching La Liga soccer games and rooting for his home team, Valencia. He was an amazing and loving father and grandfather. He didn't miss a school play, recital, soccer game or concert that his daughter or granddaughters participated in. He was incredibly proud of his family and felt so content with the love he felt in return. His friends and family remember his big smile, his infectious laugh, his desire to dance to the beat of any tune (loved "Despacito"), his ability to become friends with just about everyone, his youthful spirit and his mutual respect for anyone regardless of their walk of life. May he rest in peace and be dancing and celebrating in God's kingdom. 

Beloved husband of 52 years to Bertha (Mejia) Vendrell.  Devoted father of Ana Maria Viegas and her husband JP.  Cherished grandfather of Alyssa, Sara and Sofia Viegas. 

Daniel was pre-deceased by his parents Simeon and Guadalupe Vendrell and was the last surviving of 4 brothers. 

Visitation at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Sunday, February 2nd from 1-4pm.  Funeral on Monday, February 3rd, assembling at the funeral home at 8:45am, followed by the funeral mass at St. Rose of Lima Church in E. Hanover at 9:45am.  Entombment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. 

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

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