Fatal Crash Victim Was A Beloved Gloucester Twp. Restaurant Employee

GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ — A man identified as the victim of a fatal crash was a beloved employee and familiar face at a Gloucester Township restaurant. Frank J. Bersani served as general manager of Cotardo's Italian Restaurant, working there for 40 years.

An intoxicated driver hit Bersani's vehicle after running a red light Thursday night in Washington Township, police said. Bersani, 56, was pronounced dead at the hospital. Read more: 1 Dead After Intoxicated Driver Runs A Red In South Jersey Crash: Cops

A GoFundMe page has been established to support his children's continuing education.

In his time at Cotardo's, Bersani became "a part of our restaurant, our community, (and) our family," the business said on social media. The eatery stayed closed Friday after his sudden loss.

Since then, many shared fond memories of the Laurel Springs restaurant through Cotardo's Facebook page.

"Frank was always so welcoming and helpful," one commenter said. "He was my go to when planning a parties there. As long as I can remember he was the first face I saw while entering the restaurant."

"Frank was a good person," another person said. "As a coworker, Frank was kind and friendly. He was there if we needed help and supported my family."

"He was so nice," said another comment. "I’m so so sorry for your loss. What a great guy. It’s going to be sad going in the restaurant and not seeing him."

Bersani was an avid Philadelphia sports fan who loved his family, according to the GoFundMe.

Funeral services are set for Saturday. View Bersani's obituary.