Obituary of Philip John Falco, Sr.

Phil Falco, World’s Greatest Pop Pop Life Began In A Garden… Philip John Falco, Sr., passed away on Friday, June 17, 2016. He was 77 years young and has left wonderful memories for his family to cherish forever. Phil was born in Madison to the late Ralph and Leslie Falco. After his schooling, he enlisted in the US Army and upon his honorable discharge, he married Patricia Danish and the couple settled in Denville where they raised a family of their own. Phil worked as a painter in the Union for many years. When he wasn’t at work he could be found in his vegetable garden or watching sports. Gardening was his favorite hobby and he took it very seriously. His large garden of tomatoes, peppers and zucchini was bountiful each year and harvested with love. Eggplant was not a favorite crop… He loved to travel and enjoyed new experiences. He and Pat have made a trip to Aruba for the past 35 years together. It was their most favorite destination and they made many friends along the way. Phil loved sports. Any and all. He never missed a game on TV and could recite the details of any past game, match, or bout. He loved to cook. One specialty was his famous shrimp scampi and if sports weren’t on his television set, the cooking channel was. Above everything in this world, his family was the center of his universe; especially his adoring grandchildren. Pop Pop was indeed their #1 Fan. He attended each first day of school and every major event leading up to recent high school graduations. Every sporting event, birthday, play- Phil was there. He reminded the kids to always “be smart”, a lesson they will keep them as they grow. Phil was a loving husband to his caring wife Pat for over 50 years and an awesome Dad to his three children. He was present and deliberate and you always knew where you stood. He will be missed greatly by his family and all those who had the pleasure of knowing him in this world. He leaves happy memories to his wife Patricia; daughters Karen Merle (Peter) and Denise Falco (Adam Socha); his son Phil Jr.; and his adoring grandchildren Stephen and Kevin Merle and Gabriella and Raymond Lara. Private arrangements were held under the direction of Norman Dean Home For Services. Those who wish may make donations in his name to the good work of the Compassionate Care Hospice Inpatient Unit at St. Clare's Hospital, Dover, NJ 07801.