Dorothy H. Ippolito

D’Ann was born on the 13th of November in1942. Her loving parents, Karl and Dorothy (nee Bergman) established the family roots in Livingston upon Karl’s return from service in World War II. D’Ann graduated from Livingston High School in the class of 1960 where she met the love of her life, Patrick Ippolito.

D’Ann graduated from Vermont College in 1962 with a major in Elementary Education. Her teaching career began at New Canaan Country Day School in Connecticut followed by forty six years teaching third grade at Far Brook School in Short Hills. With her heart and soul in teaching, “Mrs. Ipp” was devoted to her students. Her passion for learning positively impacted thousands of students during her career. She was a favorite teacher because she made every child feel important and special. D’Ann formed many meaningful relationships with students, parents, faculty and staff and was greatly admired for a classroom that was colorful, creative, comfortable and fun. Her favorite subject was the culture and history of the Native Americans and her classroom was filled with artifacts, projects and traditions that reflected years of student, parent and teacher contributions to the lore of that culture.

D’Ann married Pat in 1964 and they celebrated 58 years of happiness, mutual respect and abundant good times filled with laughter. Throughout her illness, Pat was D’Ann’s rock and supported her with tender loving care.

D’Ann is survived by her husband and partner for life, Patrick Ippolito together with their son, Christopher and daughter Meridith. She was blessed with two granddaughters, Amelia Davis, of Meridith and Ron and Kathryn Ippolito of Chris and Janet. D’ann is also missed by her sisters, Beverly Desch and Arlyne Ball, her brother in law Peter Desch, and many friends and cousins. Her nieces will never forget the gift of being let into the magic space that was Dee Dee.

Of all her accomplishments, D’Ann considered being a mother and grandmother her crowning achievements. She taught her children the importance of traditions such as summer at the Jersey shore, trips to Skytop Lodge, Christmas Eve on Crescent Road, birthdays, weddings and for all those events she invoked the supreme challenge, what she called “the command performance.”

A lifelong resident of Livingston, D’Ann left her mark as a volunteer at St. Barnabas Medical Center and Hospice. She was also a member of the Livingston Women’s Club, Rosary Society, and UNICO. Her strong faith enabled her to serve as a Eucharistic minister for St. Philomena Catholic Church. In addition, D’Ann dedicated time and energy to many local organizations and causes.

D’Ann leaves a large hole in the hearts of her family and friends who were always entertained by her stories, hospitality and willingness to help others. She was a warm, friendly, loving and generous person who will be remembered for her enduring positive attitude. If riches are counted in friendships, D’Ann would be truly wealthy.

The family wishes to thank the many friends and Hospice for filling her final weeks with joy and love. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Philomena Church on Saturday, September 10, 2022 at 10:00am. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to St. Philomena’s Church or Livingston First Aid Squad. Quinn Hopping Funeral Home, Livingston, NJ is in charge of arrangements.