Dolores Bentivegna

Dolores (Formisano) Bentivegna, 89 of Rutherford passed away gracefully at home on May 28, 2024. She was a resident of Rutherford since 1968. Dolores was born in Jersey City and graduated from Dickinson High School, Christ Hospital School of Nursing, after a career as a registered nurse and LPN Nursing instructor in Bergen County, she received her Bachelor's Degree from Jersey City State College and a Master's Degree in Counseling and Social Work from Montclair State University. She retired from Bergen County Vocational-Technical Schools, having held positions as a Health Occupations Teacher, Guidance Counselor and Director of Guidance. 'Mrs. B' was instrumental in the inception of Bergen Academies where she was Director of Guidance. Dolores was a member of the 'Happy Hoofers' professional tap-dancing group who brought joy to audiences throughout NJ and appeared on Good Morning New York. Dolores was a parishioner of St. Mary RC Church. She and her husband Sal were members of UNICO.
Being surrounded by family brought great joy to Dolores. She loved hosting holidays and was a fabulous cook, especially her meatballs and stuffing recipes handed down by her father. Her impeccable sense of style and grace were admired by many, but her kindness, generosity, and infectious smile were most memorable to those who knew her.
Dolores is survived by her son Mark of Barnegat and daughters Susan of Cape Carteret, SC and Karen Kelly and her husband Paul of Rutherford, as well as several nieces, nephews & friends, and her dear friend Kathy McAuliffe. Dolores was predeceased by her beloved husband Salvatore of 63 years, sons John and Guy, sisters Frances and Jean, brothers John, Gus, Salvatore and Michael Formisano, and Frank and John Testa.
Dolores was a devoted grandmother (Nanny, "G-ma") to Mark, Bryan, Timothy, Emily, Matthew, John, Jackson, Brendan and great-grandson Carter. These were her greatest treasures.
Family will receive friends Thursday, May 30th from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Calhoun-Mania Funeral Home, 19 Lincoln Ave. in Rutherford. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, May 31st at the Church of Saint Mary in Rutherford.