George P. Zazzali

George Peter Zazzali, born on December 17, 1939, at his home on Winthrop St. in Newark, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was the cherished son of Catherine Maria Zazzali (Rolandelli) and Peter Charles Zazzali. He grew up in a close-knit Italian neighborhood that shaped his generous spirit and lifelong dedication to family.
George attended Our Lady of Good Counsel grammar school and high school then went on to earn a degree in Electrical Engineering from Newark College of Engineering (NCE). While at NCE he went on a blind date where he met the love of his life Marlene Montano. The two married shortly after he graduated college in 1961. George was a man of remarkable intellect, curiosity, and drive. Early on in his childhood he was mentored by Colonel Richard H. Ranger, an accomplished inventor and academy award winner for advances in magnetic sound recording in motion pictures. Colonel Ranger founded Rangertone Research in Newark, N.J. Years later George became the owner of Rangertone Research, where he combined his technical expertise with his entrepreneurial spirit to advance technology in the field of audio-visual engineering. He was later joined by his brother and business partner Daniel, with whom he worked closely for many years. His creativity and dedication left a lasting mark on all who collaborated with him including such figures as Francis Ford Coppola, Woody Allen, Les Paul, Warner Brothers Studios, NYU Tisch School of the Arts, and NY Metropolitan Opera, amongst others.
George loved music and his Italian heritage. He was a longtime member of the Woodsiders Drum and Bugle Corps where he later became the Corp's Director. He inspired countless young musicians and fostered a spirit of camaraderie that endured for generations. George was proud of his involvement as a member of the Belleville-Nutley Columbus Parade Committee and was honored as the Italian Family of the Year by the Center for Italian and Italian-American Culture. Beyond his professional and musical pursuits, George was an avid collector of toy soldiers, antique toys, and model trains, and was dedicated to the history and storytelling they represented. He could often be found enjoying trade shows as well as cataloguing his extensive collection.
His happiest days were down the shore on his boat the Seven Z's, at family gatherings at his home in Lavallette, and spending time with his kids and grandkids by his side. Everyone will forever remember summer nights at the beach house, family dinners, endless laughter, smiles and stories. George created a home that was cherished by all.
Above all else, George was a man of profound wisdom, humility, and kindness. His thoughtful guidance touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a husband, father, grandfather, brother, mentor, and friend whose presence brought warmth and steadiness to every room and every situation.
George is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Marlene Zazzali (Montano), with whom he shared a lifetime of partnership, devotion, and joy. He was a proud and loving father to his five sons: Dr. Peter G. and wife, Dr. Elizabeth (Seebode) Zazzali, Dr. George N. Zazzali, Dr. Albert J. Zazzali, Edward D. and wife, Lynn (Luciano) Zazzali, and John A. Esq. and wife, Christine (Manzon) Zazzali. His legacy continues through his many grandchildren, each of whom he adored: Peter, Jonathan, Valentina, Federica, Eva, Albert, Camilla, Gianmarco, Edward, Rose, Samuel, Angelina, John, Nicholas, and Christopher. He is also survived by his loving siblings: Catherine Ann Zazzali, and Daniel J. and wife, Linda (Frey) Zazzali, with whom he shared lifelong bonds of family.
He will be deeply missed by all who loved him, but his legacy-built on love, integrity, and gentle strength-will continue to guide and uplift his family for years to come.
May he rest in peace.
The family will receive relatives and friends on Friday, November 21, 2025 from 4 - 8 p.m. at Shook's Cedar Grove Funeral Home, 486 Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove, N.J. 07009. A Mass of Christian Burial is planned for Saturday, November 22, 2025, 10:00 a.m. at St. Peter Roman Catholic Church, 155 William Street, Belleville, N.J. 07109. Interment will follow at Glendale Cemetery, Bloomfield, N.J. Memories and condolences may kindly be shared at shookscedargrove.com