If you've been to the Caldwells, you have seen - or met - Louis Ginefra. This spry 89-year old veteran was not only an avid photographer but also offered snapshots of life from many decades past in the Caldwells.
Ginefra passed away and leaves behind not only his photos but also many friends who will miss him. At local events in the area, especially when it concerned veterans, Ginefra was always on hand to offer a smile, words of wisdom, humor and a strong handshake, many times shared with a penny taped to a paper clip. He was always smiling, welcoming, and most of all, caring to those around him.
Obituary
Louis John Ginefra Loved his family; dedicated veteran and patriot Louis John Ginefra, 89, peacefully passed away at home in Caldwell, N.J., on Wednesday, March 21, 2018. The family will receive friends at the Codey & Jones Funeral Home, 54 Roseland Ave., Caldwell, N.J. 07006 on Friday, March 23, from 4 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at St. Aloysius R.C. Church, 219 Bloomfield Ave., Caldwell, N.J., on Saturday, March 24, at 10 a.m. The interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in East Hanover, N.J., with military honors. To extend a condolence or share a memory, please visit www.codeyjonesfh.com. Lou was born and raised in Orange, N.J., along with his three brothers and a sister. He was the son of the late Nicola and the late Michelina Ginefra. He proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and was honorably discharged at as sergeant. He met and married the love of his life, Carol Van Ness, and together they raised their family in Caldwell. Mr. Ginefra had many talents in life; he was a gifted photographer, printer, insurance agent and taxi driver. He retired several years ago from the Bloomfield Taxi Co. Foremost, Lou was dedicated to his community as a member of the AMVETS Post No. 70 and the Sons of Italy, both in Orange, also the American Legion Post No. 185 in Caldwell. Lou was a familiar face around Essex County with his signature smile and a camera in hand. Surviving are his beloved wife, Carol; devoted children, Coleen and her husband, Frank Verrone, Lisa and her husband, Vincent DeCroce, John Ginefra and his girlfriend, Kate Santalla; cherished grandchildren, Frank, Gina and Alyssa. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers, Salvatore, Thomas and Sabino and a sister, Mary Moore. In lieu of flowers, donations in Lou's memory to the Sons of Italy Padre Pio Lodge No. 2350, 16 Peniston Ave., East Hanover, N.J. 07936 or the West Essex First Aid Squad, P.O. Box 662, West Caldwell, N.J. 07007-0662 would be appreciated.
