Frederic Louis "Fred" Cardascia Jr 78, of Montvale, New Jersey, passed away on December 30, 2025 after a long illness. Born on May 12, 1947, in the Bronx, New York, Fred lived a full and vibrant life marked by devotion to his family, a dynamic career, and a deep love for baseball, football and golf.
Fred's early years were spent in New Jersey, where he attended Our Lady Queen of Peace Grammar School in Maywood and later graduated from St. Cecilia High School in Englewood. He continued his education at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1969 and a Master's of Arts in Teaching Degree in 1971. During his senior year at FDU (1968-1969), he served as president of the university's chapter of the Theta Gamma Sigma fraternity—an early sign of his leadership and camaraderie.
Fred built a diverse and accomplished career in the clothing apparel industry. He began as a children's wear buyer for KMart, traveling extensively throughout Eastern Asia, Europe and South America to source girls' clothing. Over the years, he held roles as a jeans manufacturer, retail store manager, retail operations manager, and even briefly owned and operated a small surf shop. In 2010, Fred retired—only to return to work a week later in what he fondly called his "hobby job" as an assistant store manager at the local CVS.
However, it was his final role that brought him the greatest joy: working part-time as a ranger at Valley Brook County Golf Course in River Vale. Surrounded by friends and fresh air, Fred cherished every moment spent on the course with his golf buddies. Golf wasn't just a pastime—it was his passion.
Fred was married to Sandra Cardascia for 56 years—a testament to their enduring partnership and love. Together, they raised two children: Lisa Cardascia and Michael Cardascia. Though deeply saddened by Michael's passing last year on February 19, 2025, Fred remained a steadfast presence for his family. He found immense joy in being "Grampa" to his five-year-old grandson Ethan Herring.
He is survived by his beloved wife Sandra; daughter Lisa; grandson Ethan; one sister; one nephew; and three first cousins. He was predeceased by his son Michael; father Frederic Cardascia Sr., who passed away in 1988; and mother Etta Cardascia, who passed away in 2010.
A man of faith, Fred was a parishioner at Our Lady of Mercy Roman Catholic Church in Park Ridge. He was known among those who knew him as a great husband and father, a good provider, neighbor, and friend—someone who lived fully for those he loved.
May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him and serve as an enduring reminder of a life well lived.
A Funeral Mass and Celebration of Life will be held for both Fred and Michael on a future date to be announced.
To order
memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Frederic Louis Cardascia Jr, please visit our
flower store.