Bernardo "Dino" Messercola, 69, of Watchung, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at Overlook Medical Center in Summit, New Jersey.

Born in Newark, New Jersey, on July 6, 1957, Dino was the beloved son of Augusto and Antonietta (DeCarolis) Messercola. He was raised in Irvington and Union before making Watchung his home more than forty years ago, where he built a life centered on faith, family, hard work, and lasting friendships.

A graduate of Union High School, Dino continued his education at Bloomfield College, earning his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. During his college years, he enjoyed playing soccer, a sport that reflected his lifelong appreciation for teamwork and friendly competition.

Dino began his professional career in manufacturing with Bristol-Myers before joining the family business, Messercola Brothers Construction, where he worked alongside his family. He later found his calling with the United States Postal Service, serving as a manager in Westfield for many years until his retirement. Throughout his career, he earned the respect of coworkers through his strong work ethic, integrity, and steady leadership.

A devoted Catholic, Dino was a longtime communicant of St. Mary-Stony Hill Church in Watchung, New Jersey. His faith remained an important part of his life and helped guide the way he cared for those around him.

Outside of work, Dino enjoyed traveling and creating lasting memories with his family. One of his favorite adventures was traveling to Brazil with his beloved wife, Fabiana, a trip he always looked back on with great joy. He was also an avid sports fan who rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on the New York Yankees and enjoyed following soccer throughout his life.

Above all else, Dino's greatest source of happiness was his family. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and someone who treasured every moment spent with those he loved. His children were the center of his world, and nothing brought him greater pride than watching Arianna and Marco grow into the people they became. His kindness, quiet strength, and unwavering love will be remembered always by those fortunate enough to know him.

Dino is survived by his beloved wife, Fabiana Trindade Messercola; his loving children, Arianna Messercola and Marco Messercola; his brother, Fernando Messercola; his cherished cousin, Margie Farrell; and many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Augusto and Antonietta Messercola, and his brother, Ergino Messercola.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during a visitation on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Higgins Home For Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, NJ 07069.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary-Stony Hill Church, 225 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, NJ 07069, followed by entombment at St. Mary Stony Hill Cemetery.

In remembering Dino, those who knew him will recall a man whose life was defined not by accolades, but by the love he shared with his family, the friendships he nurtured, the faith that sustained him, and the quiet example he set each day. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love him.