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August 29, 2026
Services
You may visit with the family for a celebration of Evelyn’s life at the Vander May Wayne Colonial Funeral Home, 567 Ratzer Road, Wayne, New Jersey, on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, from 5:00 - 8:00 PM.
A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at Our Lady of Consolation Church, 1799 Hamburg Tpke, Wayne, NJ. Please meet directly at the church.
Evelyn Jane Vitalone, age 95, of Pompton Plains, passed away in her sleep on Saturday, August 29, 2026, after facing cancer with courage and grace. She is survived by her beloved husband Gabriel. She was the dear mother of Christopher, Nancy (Mark), and Peter (Sofia); loving and cherished grandmother of Ava and Emma. Evelyn was preceded by her sisters Irene and Helen and brothers Frank and Walter. She is also survived by her nieces, nephews, grandniece, grandnephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Evelyn was born to Anna (Orchekowski) Kaminski and John Kaminski in Manitowoc, Wisconsin on October 27, 1930. She grew up in Manitowoc and attended Holy Innocents Grammar School, Wilson Junior High School, and graduated from Lincoln High School in the year 1949. During high school, Evelyn participated in Mixed Chorus, Glee Club, Baton Club, Bowling Club, served on the class play, play festival, and dance committees, and was voted to the Homecoming Court of Honor. After briefly attending the University of Wyoming, Evelyn boldly chose to move to New York City, embracing the adventure and possibilities that awaited her.
Evelyn began her New York City career in the early 1950s as a receptionist at Norcross Greeting Card Company, where she developed the organizational and interpersonal skills that soon opened the door to her next opportunity at Columbia University. There, she worked as a receptionist for Columbia Mineral Beneficiation, a laboratory operating within the postwar scientific environment shaped by Manhattan Project-era research, a fascinating setting for a young woman beginning her career in New York. In between, Evelyn also worked as a model, adding a touch of glamour and adventure to her early years in the city and capturing the independent spirit with which she embraced life in New York.
A chance meeting at a dude ranch in 1951 changed the course of Evelyn’s life, introducing her to her soulmate, Gabriel. It was love at first sight for Gabriel, though Evelyn made him prove his devotion, limiting their dates to weeknights during their three-year courtship in New York City. His persistence and their growing love ultimately won her heart, and in 1954, they married and began a life together.
As a wife and mother of three, Evelyn devoted herself wholeheartedly to her family while supporting Gabriel with unending devotion as he pursued his passion for teaching and coaching, earned his doctorate, and advanced through the university system. Yet Evelyn was never content to stand still. When Gabriel was settled and at the height of his career, she launched an exciting new chapter of her own, returning to work at age 42 as a sales associate at JM Towne & Company, a small family-owned clothing boutique with stores in the Willowbrook Mall, Caldwell, and Ridgewood. With her impeccable fashion sense, natural warmth, and exceptional gift for connecting with people, she quickly distinguished herself and rose through the ranks to become a store manager. Evelyn embraced each chapter of her life with energy and purpose, building a legacy that was entirely her own while always remaining devoted to the people she loved.
Evelyn was happiest when surrounded by family and friends, and the home she and Gabriel built in Wayne was often at the heart of it all. She loved entertaining, filling the house with family for holiday gatherings and summer cookouts, while her children’s friends, relatives, and neighbors were always welcome. She had a special gift for making people feel at home and was equally generous in spirit, always willing to give of herself and to others. Evelyn loved to bake and became especially known for her pound cake and chocolate chip cookies, often sharing a freshly baked batch with friends and family well into her early 90s.
Evelyn and Gabriel shared a love of travel and adventure, making multiple trips throughout Europe and the US, as well as journeys to Hawaii, Hong Kong, Russia, and other cruise destinations. Yet she and Gabriel never lost their affection for New York City, returning often to enjoy fine dinners, intimate drinks, Broadway shows, the ballet, and musical performances. Her appreciation for good food and culture, and an enthusiasm for glamour made every outing an occasion to savor.
Evelyn’s generosity extended into her community as well. She and Gabriel were founding members of Our Lady of Consolation Church. Evelyn served as President of the Rosary Altar Society in the mid-1960s and remained actively involved in church endeavors as long as she and Gabriel were able to drive. In retirement, Evelyn and Gabriel volunteered weekly as part of a group from the church at Eva’s Community Kitchen in Paterson, helping provide nutritious meals to people facing poverty, homelessness, and other challenges. Her quiet commitment to this work reflected the compassion and generosity that were central to who she was.
Whether welcoming a crowd into her home, sharing something freshly baked from her kitchen, traveling the world, or simply gathering with the people she loved, Evelyn brought warmth, generosity, and genuine joy to the lives around her.
Evelyn was a devoted and loving wife to Gabriel, her husband of 72 years. Together, they were a shining example of true partnership, devotion, and the very epitome of love. Their connection was something everyone could see and feel simply by being in their presence. Through 72 years of life together, they shared a bond built on unwavering love, respect, trust, companionship, and a deep commitment to one another.
Evelyn was also a wonderful mother who supported each of her children in her own unique way. She was firm, but never raised her voice. Talking through clenched teeth or a certain look was usually all it took to let you know she meant business. Yet beneath that quiet strength was a deeply loving and devoted mother who remained a constant source of support through all the ups and downs of both childhood and adulthood. She was someone Chris, Nancy, and Peter could always count on, confide in, and turn to for comfort, wisdom, and reassurance. No matter their age or what life brought their way, her children knew Evelyn would be there, listening without judgment, offering guidance when it was needed, and loving them unconditionally. Her children never had to wonder where they stood with her or whether she would be there when they needed her. She simply was.
Evelyn was an exceptional mother-in-law, always generous, respectful, and supportive. She embraced each of her children’s spouses with warmth and treated them with genuine kindness and love. Her thoughtful and caring nature made them feel not only accepted, but truly part of the family.
As a grandmother, Evelyn was simply amazing. She created memories that Ava and Emma will carry with them forever, from bubble baths with tubby toys and Saturday mornings with cartoons and cold cereal, to fashion advice and the countless thoughtful ways she cared for them. Evelyn was always thinking about her granddaughters, anticipating what they might need, finding ways to help, and doing little things to make their lives easier and happier. Her love was woven into the details of their lives, and they always knew they were on her mind and in her heart.
Evelyn had a remarkable generosity of spirit. She gave her love freely and made the people around her feel cared for, supported, and valued. Her family and friends will carry with them not only the memories she created, but the enduring feeling of having been deeply loved by her.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Eva’s Village would be greatly appreciated. You can honor Evelyn with a gift to Eva’s Village HERE.
If you would like to send a private condolence directly to the family use this condolence section.
You may visit with the family for a celebration of Evelyn’s life at the Vander May Wayne Colonial Funeral Home, 567 Ratzer Road, Wayne, New Jersey, on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, from 5:00 - 8:00 PM.
A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at Our Lady of Consolation Church, 1799 Hamburg Tpke, Wayne, NJ. Please meet directly at the church.
August 29, 2026
Services
You may visit with the family for a celebration of Evelyn’s life at the Vander May Wayne Colonial Funeral Home, 567 Ratzer Road, Wayne, New Jersey, on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, from 5:00 - 8:00 PM.
A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at Our Lady of Consolation Church, 1799 Hamburg Tpke, Wayne, NJ. Please meet directly at the church.
Evelyn Jane Vitalone, age 95, of Pompton Plains, passed away in her sleep on Saturday, August 29, 2026, after facing cancer with courage and grace. She is survived by her beloved husband Gabriel. She was the dear mother of Christopher, Nancy (Mark), and Peter (Sofia); loving and cherished grandmother of Ava and Emma. Evelyn was preceded by her sisters Irene and Helen and brothers Frank and Walter. She is also survived by her nieces, nephews, grandniece, grandnephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Evelyn was born to Anna (Orchekowski) Kaminski and John Kaminski in Manitowoc, Wisconsin on October 27, 1930. She grew up in Manitowoc and attended Holy Innocents Grammar School, Wilson Junior High School, and graduated from Lincoln High School in the year 1949. During high school, Evelyn participated in Mixed Chorus, Glee Club, Baton Club, Bowling Club, served on the class play, play festival, and dance committees, and was voted to the Homecoming Court of Honor. After briefly attending the University of Wyoming, Evelyn boldly chose to move to New York City, embracing the adventure and possibilities that awaited her.
Evelyn began her New York City career in the early 1950s as a receptionist at Norcross Greeting Card Company, where she developed the organizational and interpersonal skills that soon opened the door to her next opportunity at Columbia University. There, she worked as a receptionist for Columbia Mineral Beneficiation, a laboratory operating within the postwar scientific environment shaped by Manhattan Project-era research, a fascinating setting for a young woman beginning her career in New York. In between, Evelyn also worked as a model, adding a touch of glamour and adventure to her early years in the city and capturing the independent spirit with which she embraced life in New York.
A chance meeting at a dude ranch in 1951 changed the course of Evelyn’s life, introducing her to her soulmate, Gabriel. It was love at first sight for Gabriel, though Evelyn made him prove his devotion, limiting their dates to weeknights during their three-year courtship in New York City. His persistence and their growing love ultimately won her heart, and in 1954, they married and began a life together.
As a wife and mother of three, Evelyn devoted herself wholeheartedly to her family while supporting Gabriel with unending devotion as he pursued his passion for teaching and coaching, earned his doctorate, and advanced through the university system. Yet Evelyn was never content to stand still. When Gabriel was settled and at the height of his career, she launched an exciting new chapter of her own, returning to work at age 42 as a sales associate at JM Towne & Company, a small family-owned clothing boutique with stores in the Willowbrook Mall, Caldwell, and Ridgewood. With her impeccable fashion sense, natural warmth, and exceptional gift for connecting with people, she quickly distinguished herself and rose through the ranks to become a store manager. Evelyn embraced each chapter of her life with energy and purpose, building a legacy that was entirely her own while always remaining devoted to the people she loved.
Evelyn was happiest when surrounded by family and friends, and the home she and Gabriel built in Wayne was often at the heart of it all. She loved entertaining, filling the house with family for holiday gatherings and summer cookouts, while her children’s friends, relatives, and neighbors were always welcome. She had a special gift for making people feel at home and was equally generous in spirit, always willing to give of herself and to others. Evelyn loved to bake and became especially known for her pound cake and chocolate chip cookies, often sharing a freshly baked batch with friends and family well into her early 90s.
Evelyn and Gabriel shared a love of travel and adventure, making multiple trips throughout Europe and the US, as well as journeys to Hawaii, Hong Kong, Russia, and other cruise destinations. Yet she and Gabriel never lost their affection for New York City, returning often to enjoy fine dinners, intimate drinks, Broadway shows, the ballet, and musical performances. Her appreciation for good food and culture, and an enthusiasm for glamour made every outing an occasion to savor.
Evelyn’s generosity extended into her community as well. She and Gabriel were founding members of Our Lady of Consolation Church. Evelyn served as President of the Rosary Altar Society in the mid-1960s and remained actively involved in church endeavors as long as she and Gabriel were able to drive. In retirement, Evelyn and Gabriel volunteered weekly as part of a group from the church at Eva’s Community Kitchen in Paterson, helping provide nutritious meals to people facing poverty, homelessness, and other challenges. Her quiet commitment to this work reflected the compassion and generosity that were central to who she was.
Whether welcoming a crowd into her home, sharing something freshly baked from her kitchen, traveling the world, or simply gathering with the people she loved, Evelyn brought warmth, generosity, and genuine joy to the lives around her.
Evelyn was a devoted and loving wife to Gabriel, her husband of 72 years. Together, they were a shining example of true partnership, devotion, and the very epitome of love. Their connection was something everyone could see and feel simply by being in their presence. Through 72 years of life together, they shared a bond built on unwavering love, respect, trust, companionship, and a deep commitment to one another.
Evelyn was also a wonderful mother who supported each of her children in her own unique way. She was firm, but never raised her voice. Talking through clenched teeth or a certain look was usually all it took to let you know she meant business. Yet beneath that quiet strength was a deeply loving and devoted mother who remained a constant source of support through all the ups and downs of both childhood and adulthood. She was someone Chris, Nancy, and Peter could always count on, confide in, and turn to for comfort, wisdom, and reassurance. No matter their age or what life brought their way, her children knew Evelyn would be there, listening without judgment, offering guidance when it was needed, and loving them unconditionally. Her children never had to wonder where they stood with her or whether she would be there when they needed her. She simply was.
Evelyn was an exceptional mother-in-law, always generous, respectful, and supportive. She embraced each of her children’s spouses with warmth and treated them with genuine kindness and love. Her thoughtful and caring nature made them feel not only accepted, but truly part of the family.
As a grandmother, Evelyn was simply amazing. She created memories that Ava and Emma will carry with them forever, from bubble baths with tubby toys and Saturday mornings with cartoons and cold cereal, to fashion advice and the countless thoughtful ways she cared for them. Evelyn was always thinking about her granddaughters, anticipating what they might need, finding ways to help, and doing little things to make their lives easier and happier. Her love was woven into the details of their lives, and they always knew they were on her mind and in her heart.
Evelyn had a remarkable generosity of spirit. She gave her love freely and made the people around her feel cared for, supported, and valued. Her family and friends will carry with them not only the memories she created, but the enduring feeling of having been deeply loved by her.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Eva’s Village would be greatly appreciated. You can honor Evelyn with a gift to Eva’s Village HERE.
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