Oranges Obitutary: Frederick Walter Federici Jr.

East Orange native Frederick Walter Federici Jr., an “affordable housing pioneer” who served as Essex County Tax Commissioner for 20 years, passed away on Aug. 23.

He was 90-years-old.

The following obituary comes courtesy of Farmer Funeral Home:

“Frederick Walter Federici Jr., 90, of North Caldwell, formerly of Essex Fells, died peacefully on August 23, 2015.

“He is predeceased by his parents, Federico Federici and Madeline (Capone) Federici and his brother Pascal Federici MD. Surviving is his beloved wife of 62 years, Rosaria R. (Caruso) Federici; devoted children, Linda Filippo, Francyne Zlotnick and Rosaria Arie Krier; 8 grandchildren, Deanna (Filippo) Stesner, Christine (Filippo) Walker, Jay Filippo, Susanne (Filippo) Vinger, Michael Zlotnick, Skylar Zlotnick, Tabitha Krier and Dean Krier; 8 great grandchildren and his brother, Armand. He is also survived by a host of extended family and friends.

“A life-long boater and lover of the sea, he was born and raised in East Orange and graduated from Seton Hall University. He began working at Blue Cross of NJ, moving to Newark with his wife. He was also the Essex County Tax Commissioner for 20 years. When he became aware of the shortage in affordable housing for seniors in Newark he built the first building for seniors in the North Ward, establishing what would become his calling in life. He was involved in the development and operation of thousands of apartments in New Jersey sparking a renaissance in high quality affordable senior housing. For his efforts he was awarded the coveted NJ Pioneer in Affordable Housing in 2012.

“Along with his efforts for the betterment of seniors, he was an active supporter of police and fire causes, particularly those associated with the September 11th tragedy as well as the Wounded Warriors cause. He has been a staunch supporter of the Roman Catholic Church and a long time parishioner of St. Aloysius Church in Caldwell.

“If you would like to make a contribution in his memory, please donate to the Wounded Warrior Project, woundedwarriorproject.org, or St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, stjude.org.”