In Memoriam: Native Red Banker, Longtime Little Silver Resident, Vaccarelli’s Bakery Owner, Chick Vaccarelli Jr., 97

Native Red Banker, longtime Little Silver resident, owner of Vaccarelli’s Bakery, James V. “Chick” Vaccarelli Jr., “beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather,” passed away peacefully on Nov. 15. He was 97.

Born to immigrant parents, James and Maria Vaccarelli, owners of Vaccarelli’s Bakery (1918 – 2001) in Red Bank, Chick was the youngest of six children. He grew up in Red Bank and graduated from Red Bank High School, “where he excelled both in the classroom and on the field. A gifted athlete, he earned All-State honors in football and baseball and was invited to try out for the New York Yankees.”

After graduating from then Monmouth College, he served in the Korean War and was awarded the Korean Service Medal with a Bronze Star for his service.

“Chick later joined his brothers in the family bakery before beginning a long career with Metropolitan Life. He approached every chapter of his working life with the same steady work ethic, humility, and quiet generosity that defined him. He married Margaret, the love of his life, and they shared 66 years together until her passing four years ago.

“They made their home in Little Silver, where they raised their family and built a warm, welcoming household grounded in love, faith, and tradition. A devoted member of St. James Catholic Church and a proud Knight of Columbus, Chick continued to give back to the community well into his later years, especially through his volunteer work with Meals on Wheels …

“Chick will be remembered for his million-dollar smile, his quick wit, his zest for life, and all things Frank Sinatra.”
Loved ones of Chick Vaccarelli Jr. in his obituary

He is survived by: his four children, Theresa Citarella, James Vaccarelli III, Lisa Wikoff, and Peggy Vaccarelli; seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, “who will forever carry his warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love.”

Visitation will be held on Monday, Nov. 24, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church, 94 Broad St., Red Bank. The mass of christian burial will immediately commence at 10:30 a.m., and the burial will take place at Mt. Olivet.

Flowers can be sent to: John E. Day Funeral Home, 85 Riverside Avenue, Red Bank, NJ 07701 or donations can be made in Chick’s name to Meals-on-Wheels at www.Mealsonwheelsamerica.org

— Edited obituary prepared by family via John E. Day Funeral Home