William Mandara

William J. Mandara, 85, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026. Born in Hackensack, New Jersey, Bill lived a life defined by dedication, curiosity, and a deep love for family, education, and sport.

A lifelong athlete, Bill was an avid golfer, tennis player, and bowler. His passion for bowling led him to become a state champion during his college years. Even after retirement, his love of the game continued as he served as a golf coach at Clifton High School, mentoring students with the same patience and enthusiasm that defined his teaching career.

Bill attended William Paterson College and pursued postgraduate studies at Seton Hall University and the University of California, Berkeley. He spent his entire professional career at Clifton High School, where he taught science before becoming the Science Department Supervisor. A respected educator and leader, Bill left a lasting impression on generations of students and colleagues through his commitment to learning and excellence.

Bill was preceded in death by his beloved parents, William and Antoinette Mandara, and his siblings, John Mandara, Rose Graziano, and Lena Briglio.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Janet Mandara (née Vandenburg); his daughter, Laurie Satmaria, and her husband Stephen, of Succasunna; and the lights of his life-his grandchildren Jen Babus and husband Ben, William Satmaria Villar and husband Nick, Stephen Satmaria, his cherished great-granddaughter, Charlotte Babus.

A celebration of life will be held on February 15th from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance and to honor a life well lived.

Bill will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, teacher, coach, and friend. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched, both in and out of the classroom, and in the family he loved so deeply.