Philip Veli

Philip Veli, 78, died peacefully after a lengthy illness on January 14, 2022.  Philip was born on December 6, 1943 in Ragusa, Sicily.  The son of Vincenzo and Rosalia Veli, Philip was the oldest of four children.  Brother of Anthony (Phyllis), sister Rosalie Giudice (John) and brother Salvatore (Kathy).  Philip started a career in Sicily as an apprentice barber and immigrated to the Unites States in 1961 and settled in Paterson, NJ.  He received his cosmetology license and he joined Larry’s Barber Shop in Midland Park.  Phil became the owner of Larry and Phil’s Barber shop and served the Bergen County community for over 50 years.  He was a member of the San Giuseppe Santa Croce Camerina Society in Hawthorne, NJ and was a member of the Barber’s Union. Philip was adored by his beloved wife of 51 years, Helen (nee Patti) and cherished by his children Laura Gruber (Mark), Marc Veli and his fiancé Wendy Blasius.  His grandchildren, Julianna, Kathryn and Jason were his joy in life.  His smile was infectious, and they will always remember their excursions and treasured moments with Grandpa.  He was loved by all and will always be remembered by his extended family and friends.

   The Veli family will receive friends on Tuesday, January 18, 4:00 until 8:00 PM at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home, 257 Godwin Avenue, Wyckoff. Funeral mass will be held Wednesday, January 19, 10:00 AM at St. Elizabeth’s RC Church, 700 Wyckoff Avenue, Wyckoff. Entombment will be in Calvary Cemetery in Paterson. 

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