Obituary of Michael Charles Gargiulo

 Michael Charles Gargiulo, 92, passed away on Monday, October 16, 2023 at the Lyons, VA Medical Center.  Michael was born in Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York. He resided in BayRidge, Brooklyn for most of his adult life before moving to Monroe Township, NJ in 2015 to live with his sister, Angelina.

Michael Charles’ life, which he always expressed gratefulness for,was a life lived fully. Above all, Michael was especially proud to have served his country during the Korean War. He was the recipient of the Purple Heart, which he wore with great pride on every jacket lapel.

Michael’s creative talents were evident in many areas in his life. His inspiring relationship with food started in the kitchen of his family’s landmark restaurant, Gargiulos in Coney Island. It was there Michael cooked alongside his father, mother, aunts and uncles. Michael’s multitude of skills led him to numerous restaurant positions. Maitre’d in a celebrity filled New York restaurant, part owner, with his brother, of an East Hampton restaurant/nightclub, and food garde manager for the Manhattan Beach Jewish Center. Michael’s food career ended at the Fort Hamilton Army Base, where preparing food for his fellow servicemen and veterans gave him the opportunity to provide for those he held in the highest regard.

Michael’s artistic talents were found in many places. On the canvas, Michael’s beautiful paintings, depicting childhood memories in Coney Island, were showcased at a gallery in Soho. At Christmas, his artistic talents stood tall in the numerous Christmas trees he decorated for the family. And, everyday his touch was seen in his handwriting on envelopes, letters and cards. He also had a passion for old movies, and the biographies of the Hollywood stars he watched while growing up.

Michael was a man of the strongest faith. His fondest memories were of his years attending Our Lady of Solace, and the nuns who taught him. He attended church regularly and found true peace there. Sharing his strong beliefs, as he approached the end of his life’s journey, was inspiring and spiritually uplifting for those who loved him dearly.

Michael is joined in heaven with his three brothers; Constantine Gargiulo, Joseph Gargiulo, Hugo Gargiulo his beautiful sister, Erma Front, his brother-in-law, Otto Loroesh, and his dear friend Rita Vikki.

Michael is survived by his two brothers; Anthony Gargiulo, John Gargiulo, his devoted sister, Angelina Loroesh, loving sisters-in-law, Rose Gargiulo and Columbia Gargiulo, brother-in-law Stephen Front, and his many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. 

Visitation will be from 9:00am to 11:00am on Monday October 23, 2023 at the M. David DeMarco Funeral Home, Inc. 205 Rhode Hall Rd. Monroe Twp., NJ 08831, 732-521-0555. Funeral Services will begin at 11:00am on Monday October 23, 2023 from the funeral home. A funeral liturgy will be 12:00pm at Nativity of Our Lord RC Church, 185 Applegarth Road, Monroe Township, NJ. Interment in Arlington National Cemetery will take place at a later date.  

In lieu of flowers-Michael was thankful for the VA, the years of medical attention he received, his cancer treatment, and the final care in VA, Lyons Hospice Ward. Donations in his name, Michael Charles Gargiulo, can be made to: VA New Jersey Health Care System,

151 Knollcroft Road, Lyons, NJ 07939 Attention: 8889 Grant A Wish Program.