Lee R. Cecere

Lee R. Cecere, 86, of Bridgewater, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, March 13, 2026.

Born at Margaret Hague Hospital in Jersey City, Lee was the son of the late Adam and Bertha (Affuso) Cecere. While he eventually settled in Bridgewater, he was also a resident of West New York, Carteret, Edison (New Jersey), Aurora (Colorado), and various locations throughout Latin America and Europe.

After graduating from Memorial High School in West New York, Lee continued his education at Fairleigh Dickinson University and New York University. He built his career in banking operations with Citibank at the iconic "Whistle" building on East 53rd Street in New York City. His professional expertise brought him to over 20 countries where he resided and met many friends whom he continued to converse with until his final days.

Lee also proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army National Guard during the 1960's as a medic and public safety official.

Lee maintained a wide range of personal interests including gardening, classic cars, sailing, and music. Always with a smile in his step and a song in his heart, he was known to sing a few words of his favorite tunes while in conversation. Lee was also a devoted animal lover.

Lee is survived by his children and their respective spouses: daughter, Tina Hunter, and sons, Tracy, Michael, and Spencer Cecere. He is also survived by his wife, Karin Cecere; his former wife, Helen Cecere; his brother, Antone Cecere; and his sisters, Christine Roberts and Jacqueline Sobroza. He leaves behind two grandchildren, Vanessa and Amelia, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, and his cherished Chihuahua, Sammy.

Cremation services will be held privately. A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the American Heart Association (www.heart.org) or the Hydrocephalus Association (www.hydroassoc.org).