Libero Dante Marotta

Libero Marotta, lifetime resident of Union City, NJ, dedicated his life to bettering the lives of the working people of Union City and Hudson County Starting as an activist in the anti-war and Civil Rights movements in the 1960s, Libero was dedicated to social justice, peace, and equality throughout his life.

Libero loved music, and was himself, an excellent musician. He excelled at saxophone and clarinet and enjoyed playing the mandolin, guitar and more. He shared his love of music and the arts, bringing family and friends with him on many occasions to join him in watching one of his great joys in life—the Opera.

He was also a dedicated son. Libero’s father bought him his first saxophone at the age of 13. When Libero came home from a music gig, working at the embroidery shop, or the gas station, his entire paycheck was placed on his parents’ dresser to help support the family.

When choosing a career path, Libero felt becoming an attorney would provide the skills and the means to effectively help people. He provided his resources, at no charge to many, often to keep a family in their home. Libero was instrumental in representing the clam diggers, in their fight for a fair wage and better living conditions. In 1968, he brought the fight on behalf of the Police/ Fire pay raise representing them in their struggle for a fair wage. They thanked Libero by making him an Honorary lifetime member of the Police Benevolent Association and giving him the silver card. Libero was actively involved in organizing “grass roots” movements to bring integrity and “the voice of the people” into government. His goal, to bring positive change and better the lives of people. Libero is an active member and contributor to the Southern Poverty Law Center and the American Civil Liberties Union, again to help those in need.

Libero is predeceased by his beloved wife Alma Marotta and is survived by his daughter Lee Marotta (Daniel Schwartz), son Neil Marotta (Kathleen Garvey), grandchildren Gwynn and Sarah Marotta, and brother Joseph Marotta (Amy Marotta). Libero is predeceased by his brother Murray Marotta (Ellie Marotta); sister Rose Marie Marotta; sisters-in-law Irene Radcliffe (Bill Radcliffe), Aileen Knipe (Harold Knipe), Leola Moran and brother-in-law Norman Nelson (Edith Nelson). Libero is very fortunate to have over 80 nieces and nephews, great and great-great nieces and nephews, and countless loving friends. Libero was dedicated to his family, and a fiercely loyal friend.

To celebrate the life of this remarkable person, a visitation for Libero will be held on Friday, June 7th, 2024 at Leber Funeral Home, 2000 Kennedy Blvd., Union City, NJ from 4:00 to 8:00 pm. The family will provide a eulogy at 6 pm and encourage family and friends to participate in expressing their feelings or stories about Libero. The burial will be private for family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Big Brothers Big Sisters, https://www.bigsandkids.org or the Southern Poverty Law Center, www.splcenter.org