Obituary of Augusto Messercola

Augusto Messercola
December 18, 1932 – September 17, 2025

Augusto Messercola, 92, of Watchung, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2025.

Born in Fontechiari, Italy, Augusto was a proud and hard-working Italian American immigrant who came to the United States at a young age in search of a better life. He was the only member of his family to make the journey to America, where he dedicated himself to building a future not only for himself but for generations to come.

Augusto was married to the love of his life, Antonietta “DeCarolis” Messercola, for 65 years until her passing in 2020. Together, they built a strong, close-knit family grounded in love, hard work, and Italian traditions.

A skilled and self-employed mason by trade, Augusto devoted his life to honest labor and later took pride in helping his children grow their own businesses. He was a man of deep integrity and strength, and always willing to lend a hand.

Augusto found great joy in spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, passing down stories, traditions, and his love of Italian culture. He was also an avid deer hunter and enjoyed the outdoors.

He is survived by his sons:
Bernardo Messercola and his wife Fabiana, grandchildren Marco and Arianna.

Ergino Messercola and his wife Dina, and grandchildren, Stefanie and her husband Matthew, Gino and his wife Christie, and “great-grandchildren” Luca, Liviana, and Capri.

Fernando Messercola; and his grandchildren, Justin and his wife Elizabeth, Jenna and her fiancé Connor Vanderhoof, and Lauren.

He is also survived by his brother Delio Messercola and his wife Celestina; sisters-in-laws Ana, Guisippina, Eufrasia, and Luigia (Gina).

Augusto was predeceased by his beloved wife Antonietta; his parents Bernardo and Filomena; his siblings Tonino, Rocco, Fernando, and Maria. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

Augusto’s legacy is one of love, sacrifice, and devotion to family. He will be remembered for his strength, generosity, and the unwavering values he passed down to all who knew him.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend the visitation at Higgins Home for Funerals, Watchung, on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 24th, at 9:00 am at the funeral home, followed by a 10:00 am Mass of Resurrection at Saint Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, Watchung [LIVESTREAM]. Entombment will follow at Saint Mary’s Cemetery, Watchung.

In lieu of flowers, we invite you to honor Augusto’s memory by planting an apple tree in Upstate New York, a place he loved dearly. Please call Kelin or Laura at Delaware Valley Farm & Garden Center in Callicoon, New York at (845) 887-5100 to make your donation which will be planted in the Spring.

The Mass can be live-streamed by clicking the link here: [LIVESTREAM].