Obituary of Gary R. Vittorio
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gary Vittorio, who left us on January 5, 2025, at the age of 87. Gary was born on August 4, 1937, in Watertown, NY, to James and Belle Vittorio. He was raised in Watertown, where he excelled as a three sport athlete and an excellent student. It was there that he developed a strong sense of community and determination that would carry him throughout his life.
After graduating from Watertown High School in 1955, Gary attended Cortland State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Physical Education. While he was still in college he married his high school sweetheart, Joan Campisi, and had two daughters, Julie Ann and Lynn Michele. After completing his undergraduate studies the family moved to State College, PA where Gary attended Penn State University to pursue his Masters Degree. After graduation he took a job teaching science, physical education and health at Parsippany High School, NJ and pursued further advanced degree studies at Seton Hall University. At that time his sons Steven Gary and Jeffrey James were born. He, with Joan, raised their family in Denville, NJ.
Gary's professional life was marked by an unwavering dedication to education and athletics. A respected figure in the education community, he became an active member of the New Jersey and National Education Associations and was an early leader of the teachers union in Parsippany. In 1969 he left the classroom to become PHS’ Student Activities Director where, among many responsibilities, he proudly served as the Student Council Advisor.
Initially Gary also coached football and cross country but his passion for wrestling, which he started at Parsippany, led him to the National Wrestling Coaches Association, where he held the prestigious role of president in multiple regions and was ultimately inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame. He was an innovator and ambassador for the sport of wrestling throughout the 1960’, 70’s and 80’s in the state of New Jersey while producing several state champions and multiple championship teams. Gary's leadership, knowledge, and dedication to his athletes earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the wrestlers he mentored.
While his professional accomplishments were many, it was his love for his family and friends that defined Gary. He was a devoted husband of 68 years, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, whose love and guidance touched their lives deeply. He was most proud that all eleven of his grandchildren graduated from college before he passed. His warmth, generosity, and sense of humor will be deeply missed.
Gary leaves behind his beloved wife Joan, his children, Julie Romano (the late Joseph), Lynn McDonald (John), Steven Vittorio (Laurie), Jeffrey Vittorio (Christine), his grandchildren, Kevin McDonald (Heather), Christopher Conlon, Michael McDonald (Danielle), Katie Fuoco (Michael), Daniel McDonald (Kristie), Matthew Vittorio (Ally), Christina Huizenga (Casper), Andrew Vittorio, Nicholas Vittorio, Karissa Vittorio, Steven Vittorio, his great grandchildren, Ryan, Morgan, Jack, Lyla, Emma, Julietta, Chase, Jada, Rya, his brother, James Vittorio (Sally), his sister-in-law, Ellie Campisi, his niece and nephews, and a legacy of service, passion, and love that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
If you would like to contribute to Gary's memory in your own way, the family requests that in lieu of flowers memorial donations be given to the Gary Vittorio Memorial Scholarship Fund. Your contribution will go towards furthering Gary's lifelong pursuit of furthering the athletic achievements of young students at Parsippany High School. Donations can be made via the link, the Memorial Donations tab, or searching Gary Vittorio on GoFundMe.com.
Hours of public visitation for Gary will be held on Thursday, January 9, from 3 to 7 PM at Norman Dean Home for Services. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, January 10, at 10 AM at St. Mary’s Church, Denville. Please join us in celebrating the life of this incredible man!
