Raymond Zangrando

Raymond “Ray Zang” Zangrando May 9, 1954 – April 4, 2026

Raymond “Ray Zang” Zangrando, 71, passed away on April 4, 2026, from complications of Parkinson’s disease.

Born on May 9, 1954, in Passaic, New Jersey, Ray was raised in Clifton by his loving parents, Raymond and Jean (Sefchik) Zangrando. He graduated from Clifton High School in 1972 and remained deeply connected to the community that shaped him throughout his life.

In May 1978, Ray married his beloved wife, Brenda, beginning a partnership that would span decades. The couple first lived in West Paterson (now Woodland Park) before settling in Garfield, New Jersey, in 1980, where they built their home and life together.

Ray dedicated much of his life to his work as a skilled and trusted mechanic. He began working alongside his father at Ray’s Sunoco in Clifton in 1974. In 1986, he proudly took ownership of the business, renaming it Ray Zang’s Auto Service. Known for his honesty, work ethic, and friendly demeanor, Ray built lasting relationships with customers who came to rely on both his expertise and integrity.

A lifelong and passionate race car enthusiast, Ray was a proud member of the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). He spent countless hours building race cars in his parents’ garage, working side by side with his father and brothers. Ray regularly raced at Raceway Park in Englishtown and Island Dragway, and his love of the sport took him across the country, competing in national events in Canada, Florida, and California.

Ray was the epitome of a devoted family man, wholeheartedly supporting his children in all they pursued, cheering them on at every sports game, creating cherished memories with annual family vacations to Key West, and always striving to bring happiness to those he loved.

Ray is survived by his loving and devoted wife Brenda (Levich), his son Nicholas, and his daughter Stefanie Rae and her husband Gregory Gaydos. He is also survived by his brothers Robert (Janet) Zangrando of Toms River, New Jersey, Ronald (Marie) Zangrando of Englewood, Florida, his uncle Roy Zangrando of Boonton Township, New Jersey, along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his commitment to his trade, his one-of-a-kind sense of humor, and the quiet strength, generosity, and kindness he showed to all who knew him.

Ray’s memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the community he served so faithfully.

Memorial Visitation will be held on Friday April 10,2026 at the Marrocco Memorial Chapel 470 Colfax Avenue Clifton from 2- 4 PM