Obituary of Ernest Scerbak

Scerbak, Ernest age 82 of West Paterson at rest in Paterson on March 6, 2012. Beloved husband of Frances (nee Palma) of West Paterson. Loving father of Adrienne Scerbak (Doug Grover) of Chappaqua, NY, Robert Scerbak (Marianne) of Riverdale and Eric Scerbak (Lori) of Nutley. Caring grandfather of Alyssa, Jaclyn, Dominique, and Nicholas Scerbak. Devoted brother of Anne Marie Lajeskie of Clifton. He leaves behind grieving nieces and nephews, in particular, Joelle O'Brien of Garfield, who gave unending time, care and love to her uncle during his last months. Born and raised in Passaic, he moved to Paterson when he married his lovely wife, Fran fifty-six years ago. In his earlier years, he was a construction worker, specializing in building chimneys. Then he was a dispatcher for the Paterson Police and Fire Departments. Ernie became a Line Man for the Paterson Fire Department and worked his way up to Firefighter, which he loved and was his passion. He was also known for his love of firehouse cooking. Ernie was a WW II Marine Corps Veteran attaining the rank of Corporal serving in the Pacific. He was a Boy Scout Leader for Troop # 39, Paterson. As a leader, he was a father to all the scouts, and especially enjoyed helping them meet the challenges of outdoor camping in all weather. He contributed generously to many charitable organizations, particularly charities for children and animals. He was also a parishioner of Our Lady of Pompeii R.C. Church, Paterson. Ernie was well-travelled. His last trip was to Paris in the summer of 2011 with his oldest granddaughter. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral from the Festa Memorial Funeral Home, 111 Union Blvd., Totowa, on Saturday at 9:15 AM. Funeral Mass to follow at Our Lady of Pompeii R.C. Church, Paterson at 10:00 AM. Friends may call Thursday 7-9 PM and Friday 2-4 & 7-9 PM. Interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Totowa. For more information, go to www.festamemorial.com.