Obituary of Marco F. Cera

BOONTON TOWNSHIP---Marco F. Cera, 39, died Friday, April 6, 2012, following a heroic struggle with mesothelioma. A graduate of Blair Academy and Providence College, he also held a master's degree from Montclair State University and was pursuing his doctorate at Seton Hall University. A highly successful educator, he began teaching and coaching at Pompton Lakes High School, then moved to administrative positions at Kittatinny, Madison, and Franklin Lakes before becoming the principal at Briarcliff Middle School in Mountain Lakes, where he was currently employed. A true Renaissance man, he was an avid reader and historian, as well as an enthusiastic golfer and sports fan. But what he loved most was "his girls": his beloved wife of 11 years, Danielle and daughters, Gabriella, 9 and Nina, 7. In addition, he leaves behind his devoted brother, Christopher and his wife Kim and nephews Michael and Marco, all of Boonton Township and his parents, Anthony and Corinne Cera of Kinnelon. Marco was a joy to be near. Friends may visit with the family on Tuesday, April 10th from 2-4 & 7-9 PM at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 910 Birch St., Boonton, NJ 07005. The Funeral Liturgy will be held at the church on Wednesday, April 11th at 10:00 A.M. The interment will be private. Memorial contributions in Marco's name may be made to the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, 1317 King St., Alexandria, VA 22314. Envelopes will be available at the church. Contributions may also be made by telephone at 877-363-6376 or via the internet at www.curemeso.org. Arrangements are by Mackey Funeral Home ( www.mackeyfh.com), 107 Essex Ave., Boonton.