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Rollan Masciarelli Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Rollan Masciarelli
Linda Guesman Hoffman
March 3, 2025
I am so sorry about the loss of the great Jefferson Morgan High School band director. Mr Masciarelli was such an inspiration to all of us in Jefferson,Pa. We think of him often and know that he is in heaven playing his horn for the angels.
James Palma
August 9, 2024
Well, it’s been 15 years and your memory grows stronger— The dude was a wired cat, and he was placed in my early life to keep me focused on what matters these days —and thats family and music and peeps, that was Maz.
He was ahead of us all, Some would laughed at his ways, because they didn’t know, —how lazy of them ?
I’d be troubled to believe theres anyone teaching like him today —
I’m listening to Fingals Cave right now. if you know, you know
Not sure where else to send this message, but channeling Mr.M with some cotton in my ears -
I hope it reaches Laura or Lynn.
Kevin Doolittle
August 17, 2022
Roland was an inspiration and role model for as long as I knew him. I still think of him often.
Steven Waldman
August 17, 2022
Always thinking of you whenever I play my clarinet that you started me on many years ago
Kevin Doolittle
August 17, 2020
Rolland is still very much in my heart and mind as I move through the later years in life. He was an amazing teacher and incredible inspiration in my life. God Bless!
steven waldman
August 23, 2010
Its been 1 year since Maz passed away,I think about him everyday especially when I'm either practicing , at a rehearsal or performing. The times when I'm tired at a late night rehearsal I can hear him saying "Hey Waldman , look alive!
or "are you going to let him play better"!I actually carry a photo of him that I keep on the stand with my music,(With my DAD's) Its a good luck charm that does its magic!What a special teacher, friend,mentor, I was fortunate to be to play for him for the last time on my birthday in 2009, it turned out to be the last time and what a great present it was and having him give me a bravo made it all the better, we hugged when we said goodbye and told him I loved him and thanked him for everything he did for me ,even apologized for not listening to him years ago,(careerwise) to which he said "Hey Talent shouldn't be wasted", smiled and said I'll be seeing you Steve!
Thank you for re energizing me in music!and helping my daughter!!
Gerard Hoffmann
February 7, 2010
You know, I thought often about going to see Mazz for a long time...simply to say thanks and express love for his influence in my life...I never made it. This morning, several months after his passing, after a long night of composing, I had a wonderful, colorful conversation with him in a dream...such was his place in my life, teacher and protector of my dreams. He tended a fire that was in me, taught me it was ok to explore, be passionate and make mistakes learning new things. There is nothing I could say or do to repay such of gift. My deepest condolences for your family... -Wantagh High 91
Alan Schiffres
November 15, 2009
Maz was a rare great teacher who made a lasting difference. Some of my happiest times at WHS were in the Jazz Band. He taught us not just to make music better than any of us imagined we could, but that together – each of us pushing for our individual best -- could build something inspiring.
Mr. Maz’s infectious passion for jazz touched countless people. He lives through each of us when we make and appreciate the music he loved. A special person has passed. My condolences to the Masciarelli family.
Alan Schiffres, WHS '75
Joseph DeMasi
October 13, 2009
Mr. Maz was truly a GREAT teacher and a GREAT musician. He pushed us to be the best that we could be. Not only did he make music fun, he included everyone and always made you feel that your contribution was valuable. He had a real love for music AND for his students. He certainly helped me attain my dream of becoming a professional musician. He touched so many of us in such a wonderful way. What a great legacy! "Dad", you'll always be with us!! My deepest condolences to the Masciarelli family.
Garry Hughes
September 14, 2009
Mr Maz - RIP. I graduated Wantagh HS almost 35 years ago, but I still remember his pure love for teaching music and helping/driving his students.
He definitely shaped my love for music and the kind of music I enjoy through life - to this day. He taught us how to improvise and play jazz the right way. Man I hated marching band though.
September 8, 2009
Rollan was my mother's cousin. I have very pleasant memories of
his last visit to Cleveland. I will remember him fondly.
Loretta Ventura - Richmond Hts., Ohio
Anthony Gaudio
September 4, 2009
Rollan was the nephew of my granfather Vincenzo Masciarelli of Cleveland Ohio. My Deepest condolences to all of his family.
I will let the remaining family members in Pescara del Tronto Marche Italy, the descendants of his other uncle, Americo Masciarelli, know of his passing.
John Boreman
September 4, 2009
I have countless, wonderful stories about "Mr. M" that I could share, but space is limited. He was my music mentor, and most of all a friend. He taught me to appreciate music, and to this day I remember how his ears used to wiggle involuntarily when he heard an out-of-tune note. We teased him, and he teased us back. We loved him, and he loved us back.
My sympathies extend to his family, and I would like them to know that he touched my life very, very deeply. Thanks, Mr. M.
-John Boreman, Wantagh HS Class of 1966
Linda Wells Lett
September 2, 2009
My sincerest sympathy is extended to the entire Masciarelli family. Maz will be sorely missed. He had a profound effect on my life and always encouraged me to stay with music. He tutored me in theory -- and in life -- during many a study hall! Throughout the years, whenever I saw him, he was always excited and happy to see me. What a wonderful man. Wantagh Class of 1968.
August 31, 2009
I never knew his wife. I never met his daughters.
He lived near by, but we never got to know each other outside the school district. My children were never directly involved with him although they certainly knew him. In the years that I was involved with the district, there was never any particular issue that warranted any immediate or necessary communication between us. The interaction I had with him was mostly by chance, as friendly encounters. Yet, he was my friend. I felt I knew Rollan very well, and I'm sure many people would say the same thing.
He was the nicest gentle man I've ever known next only to my own father.
My mother once wrote something in Italian about my father. Translated roughly she stated that she believed a noble soul is something you have to be born with, it can not be acquired. As little as I knew Rollan, I knew he was in that special breed of very noble souls.
My sympathy to his whole family, and a special note to his daughter Lorraine who spoke about him so beautifully at his Mass at St. Francis.
Rita Daniggelis
David Hoffman
August 28, 2009
Maz was so very influential to me. He was a master teacher and storyteller. He helped his students to believe in themselves and to achieve confidence they didn't know they had. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.
Ann O'Brien
August 27, 2009
My deepest sympathies to the Masciarelli family, I was saddend to hear of your loss. His death has had a profound affect on me. He was an educator in the truest sense of the word. His compassion, brilliance and sense of humor have stuck with me all these years. If I can have a similiar affect on one-tenth of the students I teach, I will consider myself a success. Thank you for everything Maz!
Ann Hartmann O'Brien ~class of 91
Bob Cafarelli
August 27, 2009
Lucille and Family....
Chris and I recently learned of Rollan's passing while on a camping vacation in New England, where we still are. Our deepest sympathies to you and the girls.
Rollan was one of the first people I met when I came to Wantagh in 1966 and we have remained friends for the past 43 years. As a rookie I had the 'privilege' of sharing cafeteria duty with Rollan. He took me under his wing and served as a mentor to me. The maestro was one of those rare individuals who interacted with faculty and students and will be remembered so fondly by both groups. I will miss him.
Neil Hauck (Wantagh '72)
August 27, 2009
Of all the teachers, coaches and mentors that I had throughout my pre-college years, Rollan had by far the greatest impact. His attention to detail, and his method of drilling us over and over on the more difficult passages of a piece of music, were a part of the reason that our bands (concert, marching and jazz) were always so good. The rest of it was due to his infectious spirit. He set the bar very high ... and as a result, we achieved great things.
However, that is only part of the story of his life. Four or five years ago, I had the good fortune to attend a gathering in his honor. During those few hours, I learned so many things about this wonderful man that I didn't know ... like how he loaned money to a family back in the early '60s (when Wantagh was on an austerity budget) so that they could buy textbooks for their children ... and how he loaned his car for an extended period of time to a former student who had just returned from serving in Vietnam, so that he could get to his job ... and how devoted he was to his family ... and how important his faith was to him. I came away from that gathering with the impression that Maz was very much like George Bailey in the movie "It's A Wonderful Life" ... I don't think he had any idea how much of an impact he had made on so many, many lives.
I am glad to have known him, and to be able to call him my friend. Peace and love to the entire Masciarelli family.
Ambrose "Buck" Splescia
August 27, 2009
Rollan was an inspiration for me and my work in music. He emboldened us to be all we could be, and encouraged us to be unique in our own way.
His knowledge and imagination went well beyond the classroom only equalled by his generosity. He was a great teacher, and became an even greater friend.
Karen Haviken-Barbari
August 26, 2009
To the Masciarelli Family,
I want to express my deepest condolences and my prayers to all ofyou. MAZ was the best teacher any student can ask for. You know he is and will always be someone special when twenty six years later his words and knowledge are still with you as you raise your family and go on through your life. What a GREAT man.
Sincere Condolences,
Karen-Haviken-Barbari
Lorraine Schibani
August 26, 2009
To all the Masciarelli family & their closest friends,
'MAZ' - as our children called him, was quite instrumental (no pun intended) to their love of music, and their desire to master their musical instruments.
Both our children, Joseph (SAX) and Donna Lynn (FLUTE) were under his extraordinary influence. I believe he taught them to have confidence in themselves as well as responsibilty & a sense of humor. MAZ had the makings of a wonderful BAND, ORCHESTRA, JAZZ BAND & MARCHING BAND because of his compassion and understanding for each individual.
All parades passed by our home on Wantagh Avenue & you could always see the PRIDE on Maz' face - with whistle in hand. Joseph & Donna Lynn marched with pride as well. No one wanted to dissappoint MAZ! They wanted to be 'perfect' - and indeed they were.
Thanks to Maz! -
Sincere condolences.
Lorraine & Joe Schibani
Mary Jo Palazzolo Fazio
August 25, 2009
To the Masciarelli Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Maz has always and will always have a special place in my heart. He was the kind of teacher that we speak of over and over even 25 years later. So many memories of band, jazz band, marching band and the band trips. I can only hope that I am 1/2 the teacher he was...
Jay Sklar
August 25, 2009
To the Masciarelli Family,
Maz was truly one in a million. A fabulous teacher who loved his students, believed in us and helped us believe in ourselves. Although he pushed us hard on the field or in the rehearsal room, he was the kind of guy that never laughed alone; when he laughed, we all laughed. As a wise classmate of mine & student of Maz's always tells people, "In Wantagh, it was cool to be in the band."
Please accept my deepest sympathies. Maz will most certainly be sorely missed.
-Jay Sklar - WHS'91
Mary Rys
August 25, 2009
To the Masciarelli Family,
I didn't know Mr. Maz as a teacher - but as the "dad" to my buddy, Lisa. He was protective, funny and a strong presence - and it was clear that he loved his family above all. My condolences to all of you, along with fond memories of visiting your home during my childhood and teen years. My love and best wishes to all of you, Mary (Shea) Rys
Nick Mondello
August 25, 2009
Dear Members of the Masciarelli Family:
Please accept my deepest condolences for your loss. We lose a treasure here.
As a pro trumpeter, I had occasion to perform with Rollie numerous times with Tony Vernola - who himself years before was a student of Rollie's.
In the times I performed with Rollie, it was ALWAYS about the music. What a kind, intelligent man! What a sense of humor! What a great musician and educator! He is and will be sorely missed.
May he rest in peace.
In deepest sympathy and love,
Kevin Doolittle
August 25, 2009
Lucille & Family,
Rollan "Maz" was one, if not the most influential person to touch my life. The impression he made, guided me every day. I have been teaching for twenty seven years now, and a day did not pass that I didn't think how would "Maz" have done it. Even though I did not see him many times since I left Wantagh, he was with me all these years. I loved him, and he still guides me. My sincerest condolences, and I know he is at peace and with god.
Joe Schibani Jr.
August 25, 2009
Maz was an awesome teacher! I remember him very well. Always kept pushing me in Concert, Jazz, and Improve band and giving me the lead on a few songs in jazz band. I can still remember him during our marching band rehearsals outside in the field. "listen to me son, what you're doing is not marching! You need to get your legs horizontal to the ground!, like this!" And he would show us, and everyone would laugh, Then he would say, "What so funny!?!?" Then blow his whistle and we would continue to march our own way.. His piano and trumpet playing will always be remembered. He was a one-of-kind, that's for sure. That mustache was funny as hell, but made him who he was. I will miss you MAZ!
Joe Schibani Jr. WHS Class of 1986
Condolences to the Masciarelli family!
Kim (Ferlin) Dempsey
August 25, 2009
Lucille & Family,
My sincerest condolences to your family. In speaking to some friends from Wantagh about his passing - I need to let you know that everyone who knew him - has a story and fond memories of him. He touched and inspired so many. May he be at peace.
Scott Kaufmann
August 24, 2009
There are teachers whose impression on you lasts forever, and Maz was one of those teachers for me. He was one of those rare individuals who was an authority figure, but who knew when to kick back, sit amongst us and be just another person who loved music, laughing and joking with the rest of us. He taught us so much more than just the music; he taught us that the rewards of life are worth all the toil and effort that you need to put into them. Anyone who was ever in the marching band can recall the long hours on the football field, practicing our formations, getting them to perfection. As angry as he would get at us for stepping out of line or for turning in the wrong direction, Maz was just as proud and as supportive when we got it just right. From the time that I graduated in 1987, I've told countless people about the unforgettable music teacher I had in high school, and always with a smile on my face. I can only imagine how many lives he touched over the years, how many people he saw potential in, how many adolescents became outstanding adults because of his influence. All the things that made Maz unique; his expressions, his enthusiasm, and most importantly, his love for his students, will never be forgotten.
August 24, 2009
Dear Lucille & family, our thoughts & prayers are with you all.We are so blessed that we knew Rollan.He will be greatly missed,But good memories will live forever.Our love & condolances.
Mike,Pat & all the DENNEHY family.
Stephen Loew
August 24, 2009
Mr. Maz was an inspiration in my career as a professional clarinetist. He taught me to embrace the competitiveness of the music world and listened and encouraged me to achieve my dreams.
A short true story of the class of 71-72. My good friend Steve Waldman was first chair, Michael Solomon sat 2nd and myself third chair. We had to be three of the finest young clarinetists in the nation. Every week or so Mr. Maz encouraged challenges for seating and I would always challenge poor Steve. One day Steve asked me if I wanted first chair and I said yes. He then threw the chair at me. Since then I have learned to love and appreciate all the wonderful students Mr. Maz touched. For those of us who new him well he was tough with a heart of gold.
Love you always.
Ed Weir
August 24, 2009
After 46 years the memories are still vivid - concerts, NYSMA, football games, lessons, etc., etc., etc.
- Wantagh '63
Jean Hedgecock-Armstrong
August 24, 2009
Maz was one of those rare and truly gifted teachers who touched countless people's lives. He was loved by everyone who was lucky enough to have known him. I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to play in the WHS bands with Maz--they are wonderful memories that I will always treasure. The entire Hedgecock family is very sorry for your loss.
Shawn Donohue
August 24, 2009
Mr. Masciarelli, a one of a kind man, teacher and friend.
I will never forget those great years as your student. You helped me become the musician I am today, for that I will always be greatful. RIP
Ann Howe
August 24, 2009
Dear Lynn and family,
My heart goes out to you for your loss. I have fond memories of swimming in your pool and of your dad conducting band. What a wonderful family and truly exceptional man. He will be missed.
Mike Calvello
August 24, 2009
My condolences to the Masciarelli family. Maz was a true inspiration to all of us who studied music at Wantagh. We had some great times in band. His leadership,committment and passion are something I will always remember. He is one of the reasons I majored in music and became a high school band director. He will be missed. Mike Calvello - WHS Class of 78
Francine Olivieri
August 24, 2009
To the family of Mr.Maz, my condolences. Mr. Maz took a group of high school kids and made us the best on Long Island. I still play flute for a local band for the past 21 years. Mr. Maz took us to NYSMA conpetition and we played ' Festive Overture" I was so nervous. We recieved an A . we had summer band, and I remember him telling my sister ' Play Louder' as she soloed for ' Procession of the Sadar's " . Whether it was Concert Band, Summer Band or Marching Band , Mr. Maz was the best. He will be missed by many people lives he touched. Mr. Maz...Thank You and Rest in Peace.
Kevin Sparke
August 24, 2009
So many good memories from Wantagh High School bands directed by Mr. Maz. I learned a lot from Maz and had fun doing it. He'll always be remembered with a smile and great appreciation. Condolences to the Masciarelli family.
Debby Kantor
August 24, 2009
I was devastated to learn of Rollan's passing. Mr Maz was so much more than a teacher. I'm thankful to have played the flute in the WHS band and had the privilege of knowing such a truly gentle and inspiring man. It was always a treat to visit and spend time together when I've returned to Wantagh for a class reunion. You will be forever missed, Mr. Masciarelli.
Debby Kantor - WHS Class of 1971
Alan Freedman
August 24, 2009
Maz gave me my first opportunity in music - as a keyboard player in the WHS Jazz Ensemble, 1989-1990. Since then I've gone on to direct the music for many, many musical theatre productions and can credit Maz for building my musical confidence and inspiring me to teach music to others. Maz, you are definitely missed. Regards, Alan Freedman, WHS Class of 1990.
James Palma
August 24, 2009
Maz, your were the man, a teacher with passion--what more could a confused kid ask for? It's been 26 years and your impression is still firmly upon me. Through a tough day at school, I always had your class to look forward to, music, it's become my life and it started and grew under your guidance...who could forget Maz's foul langauge--"ah Jim, Hells Bells!" and the cotton in his ears! and my favorite time with him was out on the football field with the marching band. megaphone in hand, running all over the place---it's a sad day nd I will always remember you for what you were to me--a teacher, a coach, a father, a leader, a role model and most importantly, a friend
You will never be forgotten!
Suzanne Smith - Kuoppala
August 24, 2009
Maz, or "Dad" as he was fondly called at times, was a musical inspiration and basically a really fun teacher!! He made a mark and many memories on many lives. Thank you!!!
Class of '72
Alicia Slack Donohue and Rollan Mascerelli, 2000
August 23, 2009
My siblings and I were more than just three flutes and a baritone to you. We all loved you as a teacher and a friend. You will be so missed Mr. Masciarelli. Alicia Slack Donohue and Family WHS classes of 1969, 1973, 1976 and 1984
MR Masciarelli and Alicia Slack Donohue at the WH Multi Year Reunion, 2000 My favorite teacher ever!
August 23, 2009
August 23, 2009
Dear Lucille and family: We were so sorry to hear of Rollan's passing. We are currently in Florida spending a family vacation at Disney world. We will niot be back in time to attend any of the services. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Rollie was one of my favorite colleagues. Chuck and Carole Kalinowski
Joshua Peltz
August 23, 2009
A great neighbor watching over me when I grew up. A friend who always provided encouragement in life. A man who always smiled :)
You will be missed dearly, Rollan!
Arthur Apicella
August 23, 2009
Mr. Masciarelli, you will never be forgotten. You inspired so many students both creatively and musically. Your dedication as a leader, teacher, mentor and friend will stay in our hearts and minds forever.
Robert Sinche
August 23, 2009
Fours years with Mr. Maz were clearly the highlight of my years at WHS. A man who taught about more than just music... commitment ("show up late and make up for it by leaving early!"), right from wrong and how strong efforts yielded good results. He was also a great friend to my Mother (AV Edna) for over over 30 years. You will be missed, but never forgotten. Bob Sinche WHS 1970
tina lucas
August 23, 2009
All my love and prayers to all of you. My heart hurts with the passing of such a loving and caring man.. If you guys need anything, please call... Rollan is talking football with my dad right now, the Giants vs. Jets discussions... I love you all!!! Tina
tina lucas
August 23, 2009
All my love and prayers to the whole family, please let me know if there is anything you need. Rollan was a very caring and loving person, I'll miss him so much. He is now up in heaven talking football with my Dad again, watching after us.... I love you all... Tina
Angela Mistretta-Muller
August 23, 2009
You will be missed Maz, Band wouldn't have been the same without you..you made it memorable..RIP
steve waldman
August 23, 2009
Mr Masiarelli, My mentor and dear friend for 47 plus years. It was an honor to be part of your great bands of Wantagh High . Your genius has been an inspiration to me and my daughter.Mr Maz if asked for help NEVER knew the word No. Thank you for some great years and for starting me on the clarinet, R.I.P.
Steve and Becky Waldman
Martine Bisagni
August 23, 2009
Our love with all of you and for your father,
Amani Ansari, Martine Bisagni and the Whiting Family
Eric
August 23, 2009
RIP Maz, a very strong unforgettable man
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