Hugo Sagardia

Hugo Sagardia, 81, of New York City, died on Monday March 9, 2026. Born in Añasco, Puerto Rico. He arrived in the United States at age six and settled in Greenwich Village.  He was a devoted Catholic, and his faith played a central role throughout his life.  He remained deeply involved in his local parish, participating actively in church life and contributing to the community that had supported him since childhood.  His commitment to his church reflected his values of service, compassion and a sense of belonging. 

Hugo spent thirty-seven years at National Bulk Carriers, a major American shipping company, once known for building and operating some of the world’s largest oil tankers and bulk carriers.  At its peak, the company ranked among the largest multinational corporations in the maritime industry.  Throughout his career, Hugo played a critical role as a language specialist, translating essential communications from ships operating in Spanish and Portuguese speaking regions such as Spain, Brazil, and Portugal into English to support safe and efficient global operations.

Hugo is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Aracelis, his 2 beloved daughters Maricel Gomez and Frances Piskadlo, son-in-law Todd Piskadlo, and 4 adoring grandchildren Marcus Gomez, Jacob Piskadlo, Arianna Gomez, and Justina Piskadlo.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 3:00pm on Sunday, March 15 at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home,  www.vpfh.com, 257 Godwin Ave. Wyckoff, NJ. 

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00am on Monday, March 16 at the Immaculate Conception Church, 414 E 14th Street, New York, NY  10009.

Interment will follow at Maryrest Cemetery in Mahwah.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Hugo’s memory can be made to the American Lung Association or American Humane Society.

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