Obituary of Charles L Garafano, Sr.

Charles L Garafano, Sr. age 87 of Whitehouse Station, NJ, died Thursday, March 16, 2023 at his home with his loving family by his side. 

Born in Newark, New Jersey, he was the son of the late Giuseppe and  Domenica Garafano. He lived in South Plainfield before moving to Whitehouse Station in 1976.

A graduate of Bloomfield College and Seton Hall University, Charlie was a Special Education Teacher in South Plainfield before retiring and running Garafano Financial Services.  

An avid sports fan; particularly of the NY Yankees and Trenton Thunder, he also dedicated his time as a Varsity Football Coach for South Plainfield and Piscataway High Schools and was a referee for many sports including soccer, baseball, volleyball, and track.  In his retirement years, he enjoyed travel with his family, remaining close with all his childhood friends over the years and dedicating his volunteer time to support our Veterans with the Gem Vac Veterans Association.

Charlie was predeceased by his siblings, Salvatore, Phillip, and Angela.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Barbara, his loving children, Joseph Garafano (June-Ann), Charles Garafano, Jr. (Bonnie), Karen Garafano and his precious grandchildren, Maureen Rose, Isabella Ann, Charles III, Gracemarie, and Aviana.

Friends may visit with the family on Sunday, March 19, 2023 from 2:00 to 5:00 PM at the Kearns Funeral Home, 103 Old Highway 28, Whitehouse.

The family asks that any donations be sent to the Wounded Warrior Project or your local animal shelter in honor of Charlie.