Maria Ressa

Maria E. Ressa, aged 64, passed into her eternal rest on June 25, 2021. She was surrounded by her family and friends in her home as she peacefully went into the arms of Jesus.  

Born in New York City, she was the daughter of the late Frances and Vito Panzarino. Maria was raised in Rahway, NJ and moved to Upper Saddle River when she married her beloved Nick, and here she raised her most precious daughter, Angelica.

Maria graduated from Mother Seton Regional HS, Clark, in 1975, and St Peter’s University in Jersey City in 1979.  She received a master’s degree in cosmetic chemistry from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 1986. She began her career at Haarmann & Reimer, in NJ, as a cosmetic chemist, specializing in the science of fragrance, and continued that career in the Avon company, until she retired with the birth of Angelica.  Most recently, she used her love of the culinary arts and her science background, as well, when she returned to the workfield, in the bakery at Uncle Guiseppe’s Marketplace where she loved her interaction with the many people that she met, especially children.

Maria was the consummate cook, hostess, and housekeeper, and lover of animals.  In addition to her titles of wife, Mom, aunt, cousin and friend, she was also known to some of us as Dr. Doolittle, because of the animals that found their ways to her including dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, ducks, chickens, and fish. 

Maria hosted unforgettable dinners and parties at their home.  She was so loved by all who met her, and was always willing to help anyone at the drop of a hat.  She was a devoted and tireless caregiver to her mother, father, and father-in-law until their passing. Maria always thought of others before herself. She was an avid member of her community, serving as a class mom, Girl Scout leader, and Catechism teacher. 

Surviving are her beloved husband, Nicholas, and her most wonderful gift, her daughter, Angelica, and many cousins, aunts, uncles and cherished friends.

Maria was so generous with her love and her time, and we will all carry a piece of her in our hearts. All who were privileged to know her are all better for it.  She blessed us all with her love.

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