Eugene A. Grasso, 81, of Belford, passed away Saturday, Nov. 20, at home surrounded by his family. Gene was born and raised in Keyport, one of nine children born to the late Sallie and Joseph Grasso. After marrying, Gene moved to Port Monmouth before settling in Belford over 53 years ago. Gene worked with the Sheet Metal Workers Union Local 027 for many years.
Gene was a true family man. Everything he did was for them. He loved playing horseshoes, cornhole, shuffleboard, poker and darts. He could fix anything with his engineering mind; there was never a need to call a repairman because Gene could fix it. Gene also enjoyed spending time at Monmouth Park, Atlantic City, vacationing with his family, camping or just fishing on a beautiful day. He will always be fondly remembered as a loving and selfless husband, father and Poppy.
Gene was predeceased by his wife of 44 years, Catherine Grasso, in 2005. He is survived by their children: three daughters, Donna, widow of Robin Kempson, of Vermont; Dawn, wife of Darren Rinn, of Belford; Diane, wife of Scott Kirschner, of Red Bank; and a son, Gene, husband of Elizabeth Grasso, of Belford. He also leaves behind two brothers, Christopher Grasso and Peter Grasso; along with 10 grandchildren: Ryan (Courtney), Matt, Caitlin, Connor, Philip, Deanna, Darien, Scotty, Samantha and Steven; and his beloved cat Delphie.
Gene was predeceased by his siblings Ernest Grasso, Mary Eismann, Theresa O’Rourke, Josephine Darcy, Delores Carroll and Rosalie Cassie.
Friends and family were invited to a memorial gathering Nov. 23 with a prayer service at Scott & Kedz Home for Funerals, Belford.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation to your favorite local charity in Gene’s name.
The article originally appeared in the November 25 – December 1, 2021 print edition of The Two River Times.
