Michael Patrick Marella

Michael Patrick Marella, 56, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2025, in Vero Beach, Florida. Born on August 4, 1968, in Hoboken, New Jersey, Michael brought light and laughter into the world from the moment he arrived. He was the beloved son of James Marella and the late Mary Conlon, and a caring brother to Thomas Marella and his wife, Dawn. Michael grew up in Jersey City, where he formed lifelong friendships that remained strong through the years. Later, he made a home for his family in Garfield, NJ with his former wife, Sheila, and eventually retired to Vero Beach, FL, to enjoy the warmth and peace of coastal living. Michael was a proud and talented carpenter, known for his skilled hands and generous heart. He spent much of his career with the Local 15 Bergen County Carpenters Union, which later merged with other locals in New Jersey to form Local 253, the Eastern Atlantic Carpenters Union. He advanced himself to become a councilman, serving as treasurer. Michael not only built structures, but also built strong bonds with those he worked alongside. He was a member and a past Grand Knight of Monsignor Fitzpatrick Knights of Columbus Council 7041 in Hasbrouck Heights, a member of Bishop O'Connor Fourth Degree Assembly in Hackensack and a member of the Color Corps. He also was a very active member of the Cursillo movement for many years. His faith and service to the community were cornerstones of his life. A natural coach and mentor, Michael started coaching his daughters' basketball teams at Corpus Christi and the Garfield Recreation Department, and continued long after they had graduated. His booming voice, quick wit, and understanding nature made him a figure of warmth and guidance to many young athletes and families. Michael had a deep love for history and movies, often blending the two in spirited conversations that showcased his curiosity and humor. He was outgoing and charismatic-always the one to make others laugh, yet the first to listen when someone needed support. One of his greatest joys was vacationing with his family in Lake George, New York. Those trips were filled with laughter, stories, and moments that became cherished memories. Being surrounded by his loved ones in a place that brought him so much joy was something he looked forward to year after year. Above all, Michael was a devoted and loving father, brother, cousin, nephew, friend, and most recently a grandfather. He leaves behind his daughters, Robyn Marella, Samantha Marella-Lemba (Vincent); and his adored twin granddaughters, Charlie and Reagan Lemba. His legacy lives on in the love he gave so freely and the lives he touched so deeply. He will be remembered for his big heart, infectious laughter, and unwavering loyalty. His presence will be missed, but the memories he created - on job sites, at backyard barbecues, and on the dock at Lake George - will live on in all who knew and loved him. Memorial visitation at Costa Memorial Home Boulevard and Central Avenue in Hasbrouck Heights on Wednesday, August 13th from 4 - 8 PM. Funeral Liturgy from Corpus Christi R.C. Church 260 Boulevard in Hasbrouck Heights on Thursday, August 14th at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Michael's memory may be made to; Knights of Columbus Council 7041 c/o Corpus Christi Parish 218 Washington Place Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604.