Joseph Duffala

Joseph Duffala, 88, died peacefully on March 20, 2024.

Born in Fords, New Jersey, Joseph was self-made from a tough start in life. He took care of himself and learned his own discipline. He went on to meet the love of his life, Rosemarie Michalowski at the Polish Falcon Club in Hillsborough. The two were married, and settled in Manville where they raised their family.

Mr. Duffala worked for Burlington Industries as a Teamster for over twenty-five years before his retirement. Retirement didn’t sit well with Joseph, so he went on to work for Johnson & Johnson Ortho in Raritan. He had a love for cars from a young age and could often be found under the hood of his car, or tinkering in his garage listening to Johnny Cash. When his daughters got their licenses, he always assured they had a reliable car with a little flair to set them off in the right direction. His greatest memories are spent at their family shore house in Lavallette. He was known as the King of Beach Treasures, walking with his grandchildren and family along the shore looking for sea glass, he would snorkel out past the breakers and find shells, starfish, and blowfish to show his grandkids. He built an incredible life and legacy coming from foster care to a family of over twenty, full of love and memories that will be cherished for generations.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Rosemarie Duffala in 2019 and his mother Helen Duffala in 2001.

Surviving are his loving daughters, Dawn Stabile and husband William, Jr., Donna Bonaduce and husband Al, Diane Zaentz, and Dina Sena and husband Michael, his cherished grandchildren, Joseph, Billy and wife Stephanie, Kristina, David and wife Elizabeth, Derek, Danielle, Lauren, Michael, Brittany, and Jesse, his cherished great-grandchildren Nina, Noah, Joey, Brooklyn, Santino, and Reese, as well as his extended family and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:00 AM on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at The Church of the Immaculate Conception, 35 Mountain Avenue, Somerville.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Adult Day Center of Somerset County, Donate Online .