Ernest Leonard Giordano

Ernest Leonard Giordano, age 94, of Naples, Florida, and formerly of Lyndhurst, New Jersey passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026. Born on May 4, 1931, in Philadelphia, PA to Ernest & Rose (nee Zerillo) Giordano, he lived a life filled with service, family, friends, and a passion for community.

A proud veteran of the Korean War, Ernest served in the Army from 1951 to 1953. He was the recipient of three bronze stars. During his service, the Pen Pal Program brought him to the love of his life, Kathryn. They married in 1954. Together they built a life filled with love, family, and friends who became family. They were married for over 71 years. Ernest enjoyed boating, his constant new cars, his antique car trophies, his tool collection (which was open to the whole neighborhood), his cold beer, his repertoire of daily jokes, and his timeless quotes.

He devoted more than ten years as a member and Captain of the Lyndhurst Police Auxiliary. He was the successful owner/operator of Vic-Barick Paper Company and Galaxy Recycling in Jersey City for many years prior to his retirement. His commitment to community extended to his memberships with the Lyndhurst ELKS Lodge No.1505, the VFW Post 3549, and the Knights of Columbus in Lyndhurst.

Beloved husband of Kathryn (nee Napolitano) Giordano. Loving father of Richard Ernest Giordano & Denise, the late Gary Ernest Giordano & Diane, and Thomas Ernest & Esther Giordano. Cherished grandfather of Diana Marie & Thomas, Gary Michael & Jacqueline, Lisa Melanie & Christopher, Kaitlyn Luisa, and Marissa Rose. Devoted great-grandfather of Thomas, Brielle, Ashlynn, Gavin, Logan, Hudson, Madeline, Amri, and Samiya. Dear brother of the late Lillian Bishop and brother-in-law to Thomas & the late Dee Napolitano, and Theresa & the late Joseph Cutruzzula. Beloved and devoted uncle.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 15th, 2026 from 3:00PM - 8:00PM in Ippolito-Stellato Funeral Home, Lyndhurst NJ. Mass will be celebrated on Friday, January 16th, 2026 at 10:30 AM in Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Lyndhurst NJ. Private Cremation.

Ernest will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, friends, country, and community. Ernest will mostly be remembered by the laughs he brought to every one of us. We can hear him kidding, "The first 100 years is always the hardest!"

To honor his service and all who have served our country, donations may be made in Ernest's memory to VFW Post 3549, 527 Valley Brook Ave., Lyndhurst, NJ 07071.

As Ernie would joke, "Come again when you can't stay so long!"