Obituary of Emilio A. “Mel” Pollera

Gillette: Emilio A. Pollera, age 77, died on Wednesday, September 6, 2006 at Overlook Hospital in Summit surrounded by his loving wife and children. Emilio (Mel) was born and raised in Scotch Plains. He and his wife Sara raised their family in South Plainfield before moving to Gillette eleven years ago. Mel and Sara spent their winters in Florida, summers in Lavallette, and the balance of their time in Gillette. Mel graduated from Scotch Plains High School, joined the Navy, and traveled the world. After graduating college, Mel started his first of numerous businesses. He was a successful entrepreneur and real estate investor and maintained an active management role with his investments after early retirement. Born in 1928 to the late Leonardo Pollera and Maria Palumbo, Mel is predeceased by his two brothers, Joseph and Armando. He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Sara Milazzo Pollera; his dear son Dan and his wife Karen; his two loving daughters, Maryann Germaine and her husband Al; Lisa Ann Jaeckel and her husband Carl; and his eight grandchildren, Nicholas, Michael, Taylor, Jodi, Alex, Danielle, Nicole and Maria. The Funeral will be held on Monday, September 11th at 8:15 a.m. from Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Boulevard, Watchung, followed by a 9:30 a.m. Mass of Resurrection at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Stirling. Entombment will be in St. Mary Stony Hill Cemetery in Watchung. Friends and Family are welcome to attend the Viewing at Higgins Home for Funerals Sunday September 10th from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 600 First Avenue, Raritan, NJ 08869-1346.