Dominick J. Passarella

Dominick J. Passarella

Dominick, "Donald", "D.P." Passarella, 87, of Waterford Works, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on August 18, 1939, he lived on Pump Branch Road in Winslow Township. He was the son of Gus and Florence (Cassario) Passarella, and the youngest of six children. Donald is predeceased by his parents, and his brothers; Gus and Mike, and his sisters; Marie (Mattola), Dorothy (Lucca), and Anna (Bombaro). He spent his entire life in Winslow Township and as a young man began working for R.L. Mauriello Incorporated. A heavy equipment operator, Don was highly respected for his skills and his strong work ethic for over 60 years.

On January 28, 1961, Donald married Margaret (Margie) Taylor. They shared a beautiful life together for 42. years. Their union ended when his beloved Margie lost her battle with cancer. His devotion to her never faltered, nor did his love for their two daughters, Karen and Jacque.

Whenever Donald was not busy at work, you could find him at the Waterford Fire Station meticulously working on the trucks and the facility. He guided young volunteers who looked up to him for leadership. For 35 years he served the residents of Winslow Township without hesitation. He dearly loved his fire company family. Don never failed to answer a call, often leaving a supper uneaten and the chance for a good night's sleep behind. He was proud to be part of an organization that put the security of the community above their own safety and needs. Donald cherished his time at the annual N.J. State Firefighter's Convention in Wildwood. Not only did he revel in the companionship of his fellow firefighters and their antics but also took the parade and competition very seriously. In the weeks leading up to the convention, he would dedicate hours prepping the trucks, especially "Super Ben" that won a tanker full of first place trophies over the years.

Donald is survived by his loving companion of 21 years, Judy Delessio; his daughters, Karen (Anthony) Sirolli and Jacqueline (Anthony) Evangelista; Judy's sons, Jason (Chrissy) Delessio and Jeff (Jacqui) Delessio; his grandchildren, Taylor and Anthony; Judy's granddaughters, Mileena and Juliette; and many nieces and nephews and friends who felt like family.

All are invited to attend Don's viewing on Friday, September 25, 2026, from 9:30 am to 10:45 am at Christ the Redeemer Parish, 315 Carl Hasselhan Drive, Atco, N.J. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00-12:00. Interment will take place after the Mass at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Berlin, N.J.

Don dedicated most of his life to the fire department. In lieu of flowers that lose their brilliance after a few hours or days, please donate to the New Jersey Firemen's Home, 565 Lathrop Avenue, Boonton, N.J. 07005. It is the only licensed health care facility in the State of New Jersey that provides for the men and women of the fire service. Your donation would not only benefit those who risked their lives to save others, but it would continue Don's legacy of helping others. Please, please consider a donation.