Obituary of Eugene C. Maggioncalda

Eugene Charles Maggioncalda, 85 WWII Veteran and Businessman Eugene Charles Maggioncalda, 85, of Vineland, passed away at home after a brief illness, on Saturday, June 20, 2009, surrounded by loved ones. He was born in Camden to Charles and May (Campbell) Maggioncalda. He came to Vineland at the age of seven, attended Sacred Heart Grammar and High School, and graduated in 1942. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps, and was called to active service as a pilot in World War II in 1944. There, he was stationed to the Pacific Forces as a member of the 868th squadron of the 13th Air Force, The Snoopers. After the War, Gene went to Villanova University on the GI Bill, graduating with a BS Degree in Finance/Accounting in 1950. He returned to Vineland to work for Airwork Corp in Millville as a Controller. In 1954, he started Columbia Business Supplies, providing businessman and farmer alike with the supplies needed to keep their businesses running smoothly. He also served as Chairman of the Board for Precision Electronic Glass. Gene was a member of The Knights of Columbus, AARP and served as the President of the Sacred Heart Grammar School PTA. In 1977, Gene retired to spend time with his wife Francesca DiTomasso Maggioncalda, and their five children, travelling extensively across the country in their motor home. His love of travel and different cultures continued after the children grew up, and he and Francesca traveled to many countries all over Europe, as well as to China. Gene is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Francesca, sons Eugene II, John, and Mark; daughters Angela and Maria Aretz; and 9 grandchildren, Christian Heredia, Lauren Alvarez, Eugene III, Abigail Aretz, Jacob, Katherine Aretz, Madeleine, Austin and Miles. A memorial service will be held on Monday June 29, 2009, at the Padre Pio Church. For those who wish, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Samaritan Hospice at 5 Eves Drive, Suite 300, Marlton, NJ 08053, or to Bishop Shad, at 15 North-East Avenue, Vineland, NJ 08360, or to St. Mary's Regional School, 735 Union Road, Vineland NJ 08361.