63-Year Wayne Firefighter Gregory F. Velardi Dies

WAYNE, NJ — Gregory Velardi was a rarity. He helped produce and harvest crops during World War II. He gave as a member of the military and fought overseas.

And, for 63 years, he risked his life as a firefighter.

Velardi, 89, of Wayne died peacefully at his home, April 9, his obituary states.

Velardi was honored for his then-55 years of service as a firefighter with Company No. 2. Exit and entry ramps on both sides of Route 23 were renamed in his honor.

Related: Ramp Named for Long-Serving Firefighter

He was a former captain and trustee of Company No. 2 and a life member of the New Jersey State Firemen's Association.

He was awarded the Wayne Counseling and Family Services Unsung Hero Award in 2001, his obituary states.

Velardi was a union carpenter and helped save a child's life as a foreman at the Izod Center. The child's neck was trapped in a turnstile at the area. Her mother was frantic and screaming for someone to help. Velardi calmly sawed away the turnstile until the girl was freed.

Velardi also replaced a piece of glass during a Devils' game at the arena during a delay.

He was born and raised in Wayne.

He was awarded a Certificate of Service from the New Jersey State Department of Agriculture for helping grow and harvest food as part of civilian work efforts that contributed to the United States military's campaigns during World War II.

Velardi was a private the U.S. Army. He was based in Germany during the Korean War and was honorably discharged in 1953.

Velardi and his wife were married on June 8, 1957. They attended Holy Cross church in town for many years. Eleanor Velardi died in 2015. His three brothers, Natale, Rocco, and Carmen also predeceased him.

Velardi is survived by his sons, Frank and Gregory and his grandchildren, Timothy, Paul, and Robert.

Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the New Jersey Firemen's Home, 565 Lathrop Ave., Boonton, N.J. 07005.

Email: daniel.hubbard@patch.com