Ismael Irizarry

Ismael Irizarry, 92, of Newark, NJ, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025 surrounded by his loving wife, daughters and grandchildren.
Relatives and friends are invited for visitation on Thursday, November 13, from 5 to 9 PM at Shook-Farmer Funeral Home, 45 Roseland Avenue, Roseland, NJ 07068, shookfarmer.com.
A Funeral Mass will be offered on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 10:30 AM at the Basilica Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Newark, NJ, with interment to follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, East Hanover, New Jersey.
Born and raised in Isabela, Puerto Rico, Ismael grew up with strong values rooted in faith, humility, and hard work. After marrying the love of his life, Sol María, the couple moved to the United States and established their home and family in Newark, where they built a beautiful life together.
Ismael began his career in the United States as a cook, a craft he enjoyed both professionally and personally. He later worked as a welder for Arts Metal Company in Harrison, NJ until his retirement. Known for his unwavering work ethic, he never missed a single day of work throughout his entire career. Providing for his family and honoring his commitments gave him true purpose and pride.
Family was the heart of Ismael's world. He cherished spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and later great-grandchildren. Holidays at the Irizarry home were filled with delicious food, music, dancing, and the joy of being together. Stylish and sharp in appearance, he brought warmth and energy to every gathering. He had a deep love for music and delighted in playing the guitar.
When his children were young, Saturday visits to Branch Brook Park became a cherished family tradition, sharing meals, laughter, and treasured moments. He and Sol María also enjoyed traveling together to Puerto Rico and playing dominoes.
A devout Catholic, Ismael was a longtime parishioner of St. Patrick's Church in Newark and later St. Augustine's Church. In his later years, he regularly attended Mass at the Basilica Cathedral of the Sacred Heart.
He was predeceased by his parents, Eladio and Julia Irizarry, and by his son, Ismael Irizarry, Jr.
Ismael is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Sol María Dumeng Irizarry; his devoted daughters, Wendy Irizarry, Nancy Irizarry, and Evelyn Irizarry; and his treasured grandchildren, Carlos Rodriguez, Ismael Irizarry III, Bianca Irizarry, Josette Rubio, Nicholas Irizarry, Alexia Irizarry, and Damian Mercedes. He also leaves behind his cherished great-grandchildren, Austin and Callie; and his dear siblings, Mina Gutierrez, Tony Irizarry, and Luis Irizarry.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the American Kidney Foundation. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ismael, please visit our floral store.