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Mamaroneck Observer

Recent Obituaries

Michael J. Maffei, of Rye Neck, left this earth too soon on January 8th, 2025, at age 12.  Mikey was born May 15, 2012, in Greenwich, CT to Michael & Julia (nee Mrdelja) Maffei.  He was a 6th grade student at Rye Neck Middle School.  Mikey had many loves, hobbies and interests.  He enjoyed playing guitar and had a deep love of hunting, keeping with the tradition of the men in his family.  Michael loved to watch action movies.  He was a student of history, enjoyed lizards, as well as rock music and had a curiosity about the world.  He took mixed martial arts classes and practiced jujitsu.  He leaves behind his devoted parents, Michael & Julia, his loving sister, Victoria, his paternal grandparents, John Maffei and Rose Maffei, his maternal grandparents, Joso & Sunamita Mrdelja, aunts & uncles, Krsto Mrdelja (Sandra), Melissa Ferreira (Sergio), Richard Maffei and Dr. Anthony Maffei (Sylvia), and many cousins.


Donna (nee Graziano) Pergola, of Mamaroneck died December 26, 2024 after a valiant battle with cancer.  She was 74 years old.  Donna was born in the Bronx to Michael and Charlotte Graziano.  She worked as an admissions coordinator for Four Winds.  She was the beloved wife of Peter “Twiggy” Pergola (d. 2019).  She is survived by her sons Peter (wife Claudee), Anthony (wife Kerri) devoted grandmother of Carly Rose, Ellie James and Dominic; loving sister of Arlene Viggiano, Deborah DeFalco and the late Romona Fogherty and Michael Graziano. 


James Howard Minnerly (Jim), affectionately known to his grandchildren as "Poppa Pez" or “Poppa Playmate” and to his loving wife as “my Minnie”, wrapped up his earthly adventures on Christmas Eve, surrounded by family and friends who were family, so that those he loved would never forget him and would be in church on the holiday.  Born on January 10, 1949, Jim spent nearly 76 years on this planet making others laugh, lending a helping hand, and reminding everyone that family is the most important thing in the world.


Beloved husband to Rose Ann for 54 glorious and, at times, mildly exasperating years, Jim loved her with his whole heart and created a life filled with love and, of course, laughter.

Jim’s proudest titles included being the cherished father of Jennifer and Michael, and the doting Poppa to Megan, Kevin, Rachael, Ryan, and Aaron.  He never missed an opportunity to joke with his grandkids, play a game with them, slip them some money, or give them tips, pointers, or Pez.


Jim’s heart, humor, and devotion also extended to his community.  A lifetime member of St. Thomas Episcopal Church, he believed in faith, fellowship, and that sermons shouldn’t run too long.  He did everything from acolyte to senior warden, but his favorite was to greet everyone on the holidays – always at the Front Door.


He was a member of Mamaro Fire Company for 46 years, leading them as President for much of that time.  Whether it was responding to a call, keeping discipline at meetings, playing volleyball at the annual picnic or collecting money for pizza fritta at the carnival, he left his own unique mark.  Who ever heard of a yellow fire truck?


Predeceased by his parents, Russell and Margaret, his brothers Eddie, Russell, and Joey, as well as his sisters Peggy and Carole, Jim will no doubt be looking for a family reunion up in heaven. Jim is survived by his sister Susie.


Jim leaves behind countless memories filled with laughter and love.  He had a heart that was bigger than this world, and he touched the lives of so many during his time with us.


Robert Andrews Sr. - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert Andrews Sr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and pillar of the Mamaroneck, NY community.  Born in Mount Pleasant, NY, on September 22, 1933 to William & Olga Andrews, Robert lived a life devoted to service, family, and love.  He passed away peacefully on December 23, 2024, at the age of 91.


A proud Navy veteran Robert served his country honorably during the Korean War.  After his time in the service, he dedicated over 65 years as a volunteer firefighter for the Village of Mamaroneck, earning the admiration and gratitude of countless neighbors for his selflessness and generosity.  His career was spent with the Westchester Joint Water Works, where he worked diligently to support his family and serve his community.


In 1996, Robert and his wife relocated to Cocoa Beach, Florida, where they enjoyed many wonderful years together in retirement, filled with sunshine, friends, and cherished memories. Despite the distance, Mamaroneck and its community always held a special place in Robert’s heart.


Robert was the cherished husband of Dolores Andrews, his devoted partner for 67 years. Together, they built a life filled with love and family, raising their children: Robert Jr. (Donna), Brian, Denise (Daniel), and Annette (James).  He was the proud grandfather of Steven, Robert, Lauren, Robert III, Amber, Brian Jacob, Natalie, and James.  Robert’s kindness, wisdom, and humor will live on in their hearts.


He was also the dear brother of the late William and Virginia Andrews and a treasured member of his extended family.  His life was defined by his dedication to his community, his family, and the values of service and integrity.


Robert Andrews Sr. leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and community.  He will be remembered as a man of great character who lived a life well lived.  His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.


Ray Francis Fiorentino Jr., of Mamaroneck, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2024, at the age of 75.  Born on September 19, 1949, to Ray and Sylvia Fiorentino, Ray lived a life defined by service, love, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys of life.

A proud veteran of the U.S. Army, Ray served his country from 1967 to 1970 with honor and dedication.  Following his military service, he worked for many years with the New York City Department of Sanitation, was an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 1156, where he previously served as Vice Commander, and was always advocating for and supporting his fellow veterans.


In his later years, Ray found new passions at the Mamaroneck Senior Center, where he explored his creative side through painting and art classes.  An admirer of nature, he could often be found outdoors, soaking in the beauty around him, watching and feeding birds, and finding peace in quiet moments under the open sky while camping with his family.


Ray was a dedicated volunteer who worked tirelessly to raise funds for Hero Dogs, a nonprofit organization that trains service dogs for veterans coping with PTSD.  He also gave his time and compassion to others, spending hours at the senior center and Sarah Neuman Nursing Home, listening to life stories, sharing his own, and offering comfort and camaraderie to those who needed it most.


Above all, Ray cherished his family. His greatest joy came from the time spent with his loved ones, creating memories that will be treasured forever.  He is survived by his devoted wife, Carla Fiorentino; his beloved daughter, Talia Fiorentino; and his dear siblings, Frank Fiorentino, Maryann Dishuk, and Joyce Fiorentino Maguire, along with many cherished nieces, nephews, and their families.  He is predeceased by his sister, Laura Giorgio, who held a special place in his heart.


Richard G. Cimaglia, formerly of Mamaroneck, NY, passed away peacefully on December 8, 2024, in West Palm Beach, FL, at the age of 91.


Born on December 28, 1932, to Angelo and Ida Cimaglia, Rich led a remarkable life filled with dedication and passion.  He proudly served his country in the United States Navy and later became the proprietor of Rich’s 19th Hole, a beloved Mamaroneck institution.

An exceptionally gifted golfer, Rich was a long-time member of Westchester Hills Country Club, where he built lifelong friendships and cherished memories on the course.  Following his retirement, he spent the last decade enjoying the warmth and community of West Palm Beach, FL.


Rich was predeceased by his beloved wife, Julia Cimaglia, with whom he shared a deep and enduring love.  He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion as the father of Richard Cimaglia Jr. and Laura Casale (Sam Cherubin), and as the cherished brother of George Cimaglia.  Rich is also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who will remember him with love and lots of smiles.



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