Donato “Danny” Colella, 79, of Middletown, died peacefully on Thursday, August 24 surrounded by his loving family. Danny was born in Mola di Bari, Italy, the son of Giovanni and Anna Colella. In 1970 he moved to Brooklyn, New York, where he met his wife, Maria. They were happily married for 46 years.
In Brooklyn, Danny began his career in produce as the owner of several stores in the Gravesend area. In 1989 he moved his family to Middletown, and after a move to Port St. Lucie, Florida, in 2000, he returned to Red Bank to be closer to his children and grandchildren. He always had a big garden in his backyard where he spent time tending to his vegetables and fruit trees.
Danny loved sharing a meal around the table with family friends. He would retell stories of his travels on the “boat” and all of the amazing places he visited around the world. He especially loved the days of crabbing with his sons and their friends. If Frank Sinatra or Elvis Presley music came on the radio, he was the first one out on the dance floor, singing along to every word. His grandchildren were the light of his life and he lit up whenever he saw them.
He was predeceased by his parents, Giovanni and Anna Colella; his sister, Chiara Quaranta; his brother, Vito Colella; his brother-in-law, Giovanni Desilvio; and his nephews, Joe and Vito Colella. Danny is survived by his loving wife, Maria; his devoted sons and daughters-in-law, John and Meghan Colella and Dan and Cami Colella; his five adoring grandchildren, Ellie, Katie, Blake, Caden and Emerson; his brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Concetta Colella; his sister, Domenica Desilvio; his sister and brother-in-law, Laura and Franco Peconio; his sister-in-law, Anna Colella; his brother-in-law, Francesco Quaranta; and his many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.
Thompson Memorial Home, Red Bank, was in charge of arrangements. Memorial donations may be made in Donato’s name to St. James Catholic Church.
