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Born on November 25, 1935, in Casale, Italy, Marco was the beloved son of the late Nunziata (Manzo) and Angelo Minichiello. He spent his early years in Casale before moving to Rome at the age of 13, where he continued to grow into the hardworking, spirited man so many would come to know and love. In 1971, Marco immigrated to Jersey City with his beloved wife and child, beginning a new chapter rooted in family, tradition, and opportunity. Jersey City would remain his home for the rest of his life.
Marco proudly served his country as a Corporal Major in the Italian Army, a role that reflected his strength, discipline, and deep sense of duty. Throughout his life, he worked as a skilled plumber and was truly a jack of all trades, known for his ability to fix, build, and create just about anything. His hands were rarely still, and his work ethic was unmatched.
He was predeceased by his cherished wife, Rose Minichiello, as well as his brothers Mario, Bartolo, and Domenico. Though he carried the loss of his loved ones with him, Marco continued to live a life filled with joy, humor, and love.
Marco is survived by his loving sons, Gabriel Minichiello and his wife Karla, and Nick Minichiello and his wife Catherine. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Marco, Olivia, Nico, and Emma, who brought immense happiness to his life. He is also survived by his dear siblings, Emilio Minichiello and Rosetta Minichiello, along with many extended family members and friends both here and in Italy.
Marco was a man of passion and tradition. He found great joy in making homemade tomato sauce, wine, Italian sausages, and prosciutto, often working in the basement of his Jersey City home where he brought generations of Italian heritage to life. He cherished his annual trips back to Italy, where he reconnected with family and lifelong friends, keeping his roots strong and his heart full. In his quieter moments, he enjoyed watching classic cowboy westerns and listening to the timeless music of Claudio Villa.
Above all, Marco will be remembered for his vibrant personality. He was outgoing, witty, and full of life, with a natural gift for storytelling that could captivate any room. His laughter was infectious, his presence comforting, and his love for life evident in everything he did. He had a way of making people feel welcome, valued, and entertained, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Riotto Funeral Home (for GPS, please use 14 Stagg Street, Jersey City, NJ 07306). Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at 10:00 AM at the funeral home, followed by an 11:00 AM Mass at Mt. Carmel Church in Jersey City. Entombment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Marco’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org.
Marco’s legacy is one of love, laughter, hard work, and tradition. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit will live on in the hearts of his family and all who knew him.