Joseph B. Spinella

Joseph B. Spinella, “Pepè,” 97, of Cedar Grove, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 29, 2026.

Joseph was born in Reggio Calabria, Italy, on March 12, 1929. After World War II left a significant impact on his family, he moved to Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1950, where he worked as an engineer for Casa Stewart. In 1966, Joseph and his family emigrated to the United States and made their home in Cedar Grove, New Jersey. In 1968, he co-founded Felipe Creations Jewelers alongside his brother, Philip. Together, they built a successful business that remained a part of the community for more than three decades.

Joseph enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. He loved taking long walks, swimming at the YMCA, visiting the library, cheering on Argentina’s soccer team, and watching his granddaughters play softball. And anyone who knew him knew he could never pass up the opportunity for a sweet treat.

Above all else, Joseph loved his family. He was reunited in heaven with his beloved wife, Ana (Abramiuk), his parents, and his seven siblings.

Joseph is survived by his two children, Alejandro Spinella and his wife, Joann, and Maria Laura Dara; his three granddaughters, Gabriella Salamone and her husband, Anthony, Autumn Parker and her husband, Dennis, and Olivia Spinella; and his three great-grandchildren, Crue, Carlo, and Stevie.

A beloved father and uncle, Joseph was perhaps proudest of being “Poppy” to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, both in the United States and in Italy, to whom he was lovingly known as “Zio Pepè.” Joseph’s life spanned continents, generations, and nearly a century, but his greatest legacy will always be the family he loved so deeply and the memories they will carry with them.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to Verona Park, a place that holds a special place in our heart. Joseph loved taking his granddaughters there, walking around the park, and enjoying nature together. Donations may be made through the Verona Park Conservancy.

A time of memory and love will be held on Saturday, October 17, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Marrocco Memorial Chapel, 470 Colfax Avenue, Clifton, NJ 07013, where family and friends are invited to gather, remember Joseph, and celebrate his remarkable life.