Marie DeSantis Visco, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend passed away on Friday, May 31st, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and devotion. Born in Jersey City, New Jersey, on June 14th, 1933 (Flag Day) to the late Frank and Rosemary DeSantis, Marie is also predeceased by her younger brother Frank (“Sonny”). Born during the Great Depression, Marie grew up with very modest means in West New York, New Jersey, where she attended Public School #1 and Memorial High School. It was during these formative years that she met the love of her life, Louis. Marie absolutely loved school and was a model student. She loves to tell the story of how she was number one in her class (followed by Louis at number two)!
Marie and Louis were married on June 23rd, 1956, after his service in the Navy. The couple settled in an apartment on Adam Street for five years while Louis attended Jersey City State Teacher College, and it was during this time that their family began to grow with the arrival of their children Leona, Matthew (spouse Lisa), and Mark (spouse Dee).
After five years, the family moved to Hillsdale, New Jersey, where Marie would make a lasting impact on the Pascack Valley School District over the next 25 years. Starting at the switchboard, Marie worked her way up to becoming the Superintendent's executive assistant. Where she showcased her dedication, hard work, and intelligence. During this time, she also pursued higher education, completing an Associate's Degree from Bergen County Community College. Marie's greatest joy in life was her family, she showered them with love, wisdom, and support. In addition to her three children, she is survived by seven grandchildren: Jason (Spouse Neala), Lauren (Spouse Ruz), Eric (Spouse Brigid), Steven (Spouse Jonathan), Sabrina (Fiance Rich), Ryan, and Luke. As well as 6 great-grandchildren: Tessa, Sophia, Maz, Conner, Kam, and Owen. Marie was deeply involved in all of her grandchildren's lives, attending every sporting event, concert, and dance show as well as taking them on trips across the country. She had boundless energy and a zest for life that was truly inspiring, enjoying skiing, scuba diving, and parasailing. Throughout her life, she traveled extensively and had many adventures, including rafting the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon and climbing the Sydney Harbor Bridge in Australia. Marie even famously achieved a hole-in-one while golfing at the Ocean Pines Golf Club! Marie also loved the simple pleasures in life, like spending time at the pool and brunch at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club. She was a voracious reader, particularly enjoying history and biographical novels. She enjoyed riding a bike, walking, and camping, and always found joy in the great outdoors, visiting many of the National Parks.
Marie had an extremely playful and affectionate personality. She never missed an opportunity to get on her hands and knees and play with little kids, even helping her great-grandchildren learn to walk. Marie was extremely generous with her affection, giving frequent hugs to loved ones and strangers alike. She brightened any room she was in and was rarely without a smile and a positive attitude. If you asked her how she was doing she would respond along the lines of “I’m a lucky dog”, ”I’ve never been better” or “I am spoiled rotten”. Marie appreciated the many blessings in her life and truly never took a single day for granted.
Marie DeSantis Visco was a shining example of how to live life to the fullest, and her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of crossing paths with her. Her legacy of love, kindness, and adventurous spirit will continue to inspire for generations to come.
A viewing will be held from 4-8 pm on Wednesday, June 5th, at the Becker Funeral Home in Westwood, New Jersey. A celebration of life will be held at St. Pius Catholic Church in Old Tappan, New Jersey on Thursday, June 6th, at 10 am. Burial will follow at BG William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery, North Hanover Township, NJ. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer's Association (Alz.org).
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