Josephine J. Fogarino

Josephine J. Fogarino died peacefully on Friday, November 27, 2020. She was born in Lodi, NJ on May 18, 1931, the youngest of four children born to Stephen and Mary Focarino. Dear sister of the late Ann Surowiec, Frances DiMaria and Daniel Focarino who still lives in Florida. She is survived by Maryann Sergi of Lodi, NJ, Fred DiMaria of Wappingers Falls, NY, Marianne Mamola of Mahwah, NJ, Joan Toscano of Woodland Park, NJ , many grand nieces and nephews and Marie Michaels.

Josephine graduated from Lodi High School, attended Felician College and then finished her schooling at Jersey City College where she received her degree. She then went on to become a teacher starting in the Maywood Schools for 5 years before moving on to the Closter Schools where she taught math, science and history during her 42 years there. Josephine worked very hard at everything she did (school yearbook and helping with the drama club). She devoted her time to her students to prepare them for the outside world. Her reward was seeing the progress and success that they all achieved. Retirement was not for Josephine. She went back to teaching for 5 more years between the Closter and River Vale schools.

There was nothing more dear to her than her animals. She had 7 Miniature Schnauzers, 5 of which were champions. She was a member of many charities. Seeing Eye Dogs, Guiding Eye Dogs and Rescue Animal Club to name a few. She had a big heart always contributing to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the Starship Children's Hospital in New Zealand.

She loved to travel having visited South America, Mexico, Texas, California, Tennessee, Italy, Greece, Turkey and New Zealand.

She was a devoted Catholic having belonged to Our Lady of Victories, Harrington Park, NJ for over 60 years. She was a great person and a wonderful lady who has left us with a void in our lives. She will be in our hearts always.

Visitation at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ on Sunday, December 6, 2:30-5:00PM. Funeral Liturgy at Our Lady of Victories, Harrington Park, NJ on Monday at 10:00AM.