Obituary of Alfonso Cassetta
It is with deep sorrow and profound love that we announce the passing of Alfonso Cassetta who left us peacefully in his home in Denville, NJ, surrounded by his devoted family on December 8th, 2024. He was 85 years old. Alfonso lived a full and meaningful life, marked by a dedication to his family, his work, and his passions, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him.
Alfonso was born in Muro Lucano, Italy, on December 28th, 1938 and at the age of 17, he emigrated to the United States, a brave young man eager to create a new life. He settled in Denville, NJ, where he learned the craft of cobbling and eventually became the proud owner of Al’s Shoe Repair Shop which he ran with skill and pride for 45 years until his retirement in 2000. His shop was not only a place of work but a hub for friendship and conversation where generations of customers came to appreciate his craftsmanship and his warm, welcoming spirit.
Alfonso was much more than a businessman—he was a devoted family man who centered his life around the people he loved. His love for his family, especially his wife, children, and grandchildren was unwavering. His heart overflowed with pride for his children, Lorenzo (Cindy) Cassetta and Rose (Jack) Onorati, and his grandchildren, Nicholas, A.J., John, Daniel, and Julia. His legacy is not only in the work he did but in the love and values he passed on to them. He was a constant presence at family gatherings, always offering advice, comfort, and a warm embrace.
His greatest joy came from being surrounded by family and friends, especially during the holidays. Alfonso was a gifted cook, and his culinary skills were the stuff of legend. Whether it was his famous Christmas Eve dinner, his homemade limoncello, or the wine he crafted with care, he made sure that no one ever left his home hungry or without a smile. Cooking was a way for him to show love, and he did it with joy and pride. His food brought people together and created lasting memories. Even in his retirement, he continued to share his gift with others, working as a sous chef at Casa Bella where he perfected his dishes and spread the warmth of his spirit.
Alfonso’s love for cooking stemmed from his Italian heritage where his grandfather was a master chef in Italy. Whether he was grilling outdoors or experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, Alfonso’s passion for food and family was evident in everything he did.
Alfonso’s devotion extended beyond his immediate family. He and his wife, Rita, were inseparable. After they married nearly 64 years ago at St. Mary’s Church in Denville, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared experiences. Alfonso always described Rita as the love of his life and together they weathered the many joys and challenges that life offered. Their bond was a testament to enduring love, mutual respect, and the importance of family.
Alfonso is survived by his beloved wife, Rita Cassetta; their children, Lorenzo (Cindy) Cassetta and Rose (Jack) Onorati; and his cherished grandchildren, Nicholas, A.J., John, Daniel, and Julia. He is also survived by extended family, friends, and a community that loved and respected him. His passing leaves a void that will never be filled, but his memory will live on in the stories, lessons, and love he shared with everyone around him.
If you would like to continue Alfonso`s memory in your own way, please consider making a charitable donation to a cancer charity of your choice!
Hours of public visitation for Alfonso are scheduled for 4 to 8 PM on Wednesday, December 11th, 2024, at Norman Dean Home for Services. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10 AM on Thursday, December 12th, at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church of Denville, followed by a graveside service at Denville Cemetery. We invite all who were touched by Alfonso’s presence to join us as we honor the beautiful life he lived. Please join us to celebrate the life of this incredible man and use this time to share a memory, leave a condolence, or light a candle to continue to let Alfonso`s light shine!
Though he is no longer with us, Alfonso’s spirit, warmth, and love will remain forever in our hearts. His legacy of kindness, family devotion, and the joy of sharing a meal will continue to inspire those who knew him. Rest in peace, Alfonso, knowing that your love and light will never be forgotten.
