Gerard Tolve

Gerard Tolve, 89, a lifelong resident of Nutley, NJ, passed away peacefully at home on June 21, 2025. Born to Rocco and Olga (Zinicola) Tolve, Gerard's roots ran deep in the Big Tree section of town. He was born and grew up on Berton Place, then King Street, above the Zinicola Baking Company, where the aroma of baking bread and the warmth of family filled his childhood days. Later, the family moved around the corner to Union Avenue, further cementing his connection to the community he loved.
A standout athlete at Nutley High School, Gerard excelled in football and track, setting shot-put records that stood for decades, a testament to his strength and dedication. After he graduated in 1954, he attended trade school in Newark, developing skills to embark on a lifelong career as a commercial printer and expert typesetter.
It was at Belleville Assembly of God Church that he met the love of his life, Genevieve (D'Angelo), after dedicating his heart to the Lord. They married on October 12, 1957, embarking on a journey of love and faith that would span nearly seven decades.
Gerard's entrepreneurial spirit led him to co-found The Delgen Press in 1957 with his brother, John, a part-time venture cleverly named after their wives, Delores and Genevieve. For many years, Gerard worked in the newspaper printing business, primarily at the Herald-News in Passaic. He eventually transitioned to running The Delgen Press full-time in 1981, later partnering with his son, Gregory, who continues to carry on the family business.
Beyond his professional life, Gerard was a man of many passions. An avid outdoorsman, he found joy in hunting, fishing, and golfing. A memorable hunting trip to Idaho in the early 1970s instilled in him a deep love for the American West, inspiring epic family road trips across the United States, creating cherished memories in a station wagon with a pop-up camper in tow. His love for travel extended internationally, with adventures continuing into his 80s. Highlights included a trip to China for his 70th birthday in 2006, and a trip to Egypt the following year. Gen and Ger made many lifelong friends on the road and enjoyed sharing stories about their travels.
Gerard's commitment to his community was unwavering. He was a dedicated member of numerous organizations, including Nutley UNICO (1990-2025) where he was recognized as an outstanding Unican in 1998 and served as chapter President and District Governor. As a Unican, he was instrumental in growing the Nutley chapter to one of the largest in the country, and founded their annual golf tournament. In 2006, he was honored as Nutley's Italian Man of the Year by the Nutley-Belleville Columbus Day Parade Committee.
He also served on the Board of Directors for Youth Challenge International Bible Institute (formerly Teen Challenge), and was active in the Third Half Club, Nutley Chamber of Commerce, Washington School PTA (as President), Hunt of a Lifetime Foundation, Trinity Chapel (as a deacon), and Brookdale Baptist Church (as a trustee).
Above all, Gerard loved the Lord, his wife of 67 years Genevieve, his children Gerard "Jerry" (Sherrie), Gregory (Sandy), and Joy Intindola (Brian) all of Nutley, and his grandchildren Carrie Tolve (Keri), Sarah Barnhart (Devin), Dante Intindola, Ava Intindola, Gerard "Jay" Tolve, and Natalie Tolve. He is also survived by his sisters Johanna Martielli of Somerset, NJ and Roxann Marshall of Plano, TX, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, son Jerry, and his brother John.
"Big Ger," as he was affectionately known, was a man of generosity and mentorship, always ready to lend a helping hand. He wished to be remembered for his walk with the Lord, a path guided by Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." His legacy of love, faith, and service will forever be etched in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
In lieu of flowers please donate to the Nutley Fire Department/EMS 228 Chestnut St Nutley, NJ 07110, who were instrumental in caring for Gerard.