Donato Marucci

Donato Marucci, 86, of Orange, NJ, born in Alberona, Italy, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family on March 14, 2023.

Donato grew up in a large family during the Great War. After his service in the Italian Army, he migrated to France and then Germany for work. In 1965 he married his love, Maria, and moved into the house he worked so hard to build for them. They soon welcomed their two sons, Nicola and Giandonato.

He started a dairy business in Italy with his brother Leonardo and then after visiting relatives in America in 1969, he fell in love with this country and decided to immigrate here with his family in 1972.  

Soon after arriving in the United States, he lived the American Dream by starting his own landscaping business, “D. Marucci Landscape & Mason Work”, and then purchasing his first home in Orange, NJ, where he lived his whole life. He took a lot of pride living in Orange and was even awarded “Best Christmas Decorations” and “Distinguished Resident of Orange, NJ” for his dedication.

He was a proud member of the Alberonese Social Club of Orange, NJ, and active committee member for the Maria SS. Incoronata Feast at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church.

Donato loved fishing, dancing, visiting relatives, Atlantic City, and travelling to many places but especially back to his hometown of Alberona. But his biggest passion was his garden and his beautiful fig tree, earning him the “Best Garden in Orange” award.

He was a positive, gentle, loving man who took great pride in his two sons and their families.  He will be missed dearly by all.

Beloved husband of 58 years to Maria (DiStasio) Marucci.  Devoted father of Nicola Marucci, his wife Antonella, Giandonato Marucci and his wife Maria.  Cherished grandfather of Donato Antonio, Nicholas and Alyssa, Maria and Donato.  Dear brother of Rocco Marucci.  Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Donato was pre-deceased by his parents Nicola and Incoronata, and his siblings Leonardo, Lucia and Giovanna.

Visitation at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Thursday from 4-8pm.  Funeral on Friday, assembling at the funeral home at 10:30am, followed by the funeral mass at St. Rose of Lima Church in East Hanover at 11:30am.  Entombment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Donato’s name to: The Cancer Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, 94 Old Short Hills Road, Livingston, NJ 07039, 973-322-5000.

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