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Thomas Vernaleken Obituary

VERNALEKEN - Thomas T., 52, of West Paterson formerly of Clifton on July 12, 2005. Beloved husband of Claire C. (De Vries). Dear father of Krista Vernaleken-Miller and husband Jason, and Sgt. Stephen T. Vernaleken, USMC. Loving brother of Margaret Golitko and husband Richard; John F. Vernaleken and wife Eileen. Devoted son-in-law of Sylvia Witte. Dear brother-in-law of William De Vries and wife Laurie. Loving uncle of Devin De Vries, Jay and Erin Vernaleken. Funeral Friday 9:15 AM at Allwood Funeral Home, 660-670 Allwood Road, Clifton. Mass 10 AM at St. Philip R.C. Church, 797 Valley Road, Clifton. Interment St. Mary's Cemetery, Saddle Brook. Visiting Wednesday 7-9 PM and Thursday 2-4 and 7-9 PM. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Tom Vernaleken Memorial Fund c/o Joan Roseman, M.G.O., 633 Third Avenue, 28th Floor, NY NY 10017.

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Published by The Record/Herald News on Jul. 13, 2005.

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5 Entries

Lenore Nemeth

July 30, 2005

Mr. V was my band director for my 6 years in CHS and jr high. I can't even describe the happiness i feel from having known him and how much it hurts to know that he has passed. Mr. V inspired many students and inspired my continued love for music and showed me how rewarding teaching can be. I'll never forget all the memories he has given me, and i will forever miss him. V, you will always be in our hearts.

Rich Gonci

July 16, 2005

Mr. V was my band teacher all through highschool. I remember, in my senior year, I transposed the score Jurassic Park for the band and he let me conduct it at the holiday concert. He was a huge inspiration to many people, including my brother Craig, who eventually followed in his footsteps in becoming a music teacher as well. Mr. V, we will miss you dearly.

Devon Chase

July 15, 2005

Words cannot express my feelings for my beloved friend and teacher. Tom, aka Mr. "V", touched my heart as very few do throughout our lives in a special way. He was like a father to me and I will never forget him. I'm deeply saddened to hear of his passing, and he will always be remembered to me, as my friend. Thank you Tom for everything, and for forever touching my heart.

Cliff Cernek

July 14, 2005

Words can't begin to describe the sorrow in my heart upon learning of Mr. V's passing. He was a great teacher and mentor to many. I had the honor of being in a few of his classes and going on some band trips with him. You could always count on him for a good laugh or good friendship. The town of Cresskill and indeed the music world has lost a wonderful person. Rest in peace Mr. V...

Ronald Allen

July 13, 2005

I knew Tom since our childhood in Clifton.We would play trumpet in the basement of his home and he taught me well.Tom was a good person and I have fond memories of our time together.He was taken to soon.He will be remembered.

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