Alfonso Anthony Conte
Loving family man known for his strong work ethic, Army veteran
Alfonso Anthony Conte, 76, passed away Monday, Nov. 5, 2018, at his home in Watchung, N.J. Born in Volturara, Italy, Alfonso had moved to Newark, N.J., with his family in 1954. He also resided in Springfield, N.J., and New Providence, N.J., before moving to Watchung 28 years ago.
Alfonso proudly served in the United States Army during the Cuban Missile Crisis; he was stationed at Fort Dix and Camp Drum.
Alfonso worked for many years as a florist before he opened Conte Floral Shop on Valentine's Day in Newark. He later started Conte's Produce located in Union, N.J., where he worked until his retirement. Alfonso was well known for his strong work ethic, he would routinely work seven days a week.
He was an active long time member of St. Lucy's R.C. Church in Newark. He led the Italian Masses on Sundays and would decorate the church with flowers for the Feast of St. Gerard held every October.
Alfonso enjoyed traveling and was a vintage car enthusiast. Most of all he loved his family, which was evident by the many photographs he had displayed at work where he spent all his time. Alfonso's greatest joy was spending time with his two grandchildren. He will be missed by all.
He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Rosalie (Sherman) Conte; four children, Lisa Becker, Maria Conte, Salvatore Conte and his wife, Mina, and Samuel Conte; two grandchildren, Cole Noah Becker and Alessandro Antonio Conte. He is also survived by three siblings, Carmela Marra, Ferdinando Conte, and Ludovico Conte.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018, at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Funeral services will begin on Friday at 9 a.m. at the funeral home followed by a 10 a.m. Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Peace R.C. Church in New Providence. The entombment will be held at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in East Hanover, N.J.