Gerald L. Colabelli

Gerald Colabelli 10/27/37 - 12/02/23

Gerald Colabelli, a long-time resident of Cranford, passed away peacefully on 12/2/23.

He is survived by his loving and united family, sister Sarah Russo, nephew John Russo (wife Cynthia), niece Joanna Britanak (husband Joe), niece Maria Penna (husband Ernest) as well as twelve great nieces and nephews and ten great great nieces and nephews.

Gerald was the son of Donato and Theresa Colabelli and was born and raised in Newark NJ. He graduated from St Benedicts Prep in 1955, Earning two varsity letters as point guard for the Gray Bees under legendary coach Jack Dalton.

Upon graduation from St. Benedicts Prep, Gerald enrolled at the University of Oklahoma majoring in Mathematics education. It was there he fell in love with the Oklahoma Sooners football team. His affection for the team would result in a family ritual to go watch the Sooners in the Orange Bowl throughout the 70's & 80's

Gerald finished up his college education at Seton Hall University Earning a BS in Mathematics Education and later a master’s in educational administration.

In 1962 he was hired as a math teacher at Linden High School where he taught for 35 years chairing, serving, and advising on numerous education committees. He was a fixture at sporting events and school activities and was selected as Teacher of the Year for the Linden Public Schools for the 1983-1984 school year.

Outside of school Jerry enjoyed Golfing at Roselle Golf Club where he was a member for 35 years, getting together with the boys from St. Benedicts Prep and hanging with his colleagues and friends from Linden High School.

He loved large family gatherings, telling his stories from the old days and having a few glasses of wine with friends and family. Gerald Colabelli was a great teacher, family man and mentor who impacted the lives of so many, he will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, charitable donations may be made to St Jude Childrens Research Hospital, Memorial Giving 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105.