Angelo J Del Monte

Angelo J. Del Monte, 97, of New Providence, NJ, passed away peacefully with his family at his side at home on February 27, 2025.
Born on June 19, 1927, in Summit, NJ, Angelo was the son of Assunta "Susan" (nee Mizzoni) and Angelo Del Monte. A lifelong resident of New Providence, Angelo lived a life full of dedication, service, and love for his family, friends, and community.
A proud veteran of the United States Army, Angelo served overseas as part of the Allied Occupation of Austria at the end of World War II. Returning to New Providence he started work on Erie Lackawanna Railroad. He married his beloved wife Clara (Claire) of 68 years on April 23, 1950. Shortly after they bought "the little store" on Marion Ave, and started their family. Angelo and his family would move several times but always in New Providence and ended up back on Marion Ave for the rest of his days.
In the mid 1960's he and Clara opened Del Monte Delicatessen, the first submarine sandwich shop in New Providence, a well loved local landmark. Angelo was known for his work ethic, his hands-on abilities, and his pleasant and friendly demeanor. His front porch was a gathering spot for many years and he would be informally referred to as "the Mayor of Marion Ave".
Angelo was a antique and classic car enthusiast who loved collecting and working on all types of cars. But is well known for cruising around in his blue and white 1957 Skyliner that he and Clara have owned since new.
A virtual "Jack of All Trades," Angelo was able to repair anything that needed fixing. His love for learning and sharing his skills was evident in all aspects of his life. He enjoyed golfing, gardening and working on puzzles.
Angelo and Clara for many years were on the go traveling across the United States in the family's Winnebago, many times with one of his many nieces and nephews who all have fond memories of their trips with Uncle Angelo and Aunt "Mela" in their "Winnie".
Angelo's contributions to his community were numerous. He was a lifetime member of the William Paca Club, a past president of the New Providence Senior Citizens, and a founding member of the New Providence Police Reserve. He was a member of the New Providence American Legion and Berkeley Heights VFW Post. In 2023, Angelo was honored as the Grand Marshal of the New Providence Memorial Day Parade, a testament to his many years of service and community involvement.
Angelo was predeceased by his loving wife Clara (Mela) Del Monte (nee De Iesso), and his siblings: Joseph, Elsie, Julia, Louise, Louis, Tony and Carmen. He is survived by his loving children, Angelo Del Monte and Claire Cowan and her husband Rick, his cherished grandchildren, Rick Cowan, his wife Maddy and Grace Del Monte and her mother, Susan Horvath. He is also survived by his adored great-granddaughter, Amelia Claire Cowan.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Angelo's life on Saturday March 8, 2025 from 1:00-4:00 PM at Paul Ippolito Berkeley Memorial, 646 Springfield Ave, Berkeley Heights, NJ. A tribute to Angelo will be held during the gathering beginning at 3:15 PM. Interment at St. Teresa's Cemetery will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the New Providence Police Benevolent Association (PBA) 132 at 360 Elkwood Avenue, New Providence, NJ 07974