Gaetano Nino

Altamura

Gaetano N. Altamura, known to everyone as “Nino,” passed away peacefully at home in Ridgefield, NJ on October 16, 2026, at the age of 84. Born in Molfetta, Italy on September 8, 1942, Nino remained deeply connected to his Italian roots and his hometown throughout his life. He served for several years in the Italian Navy before joining the Merchant Marines, spending much of his early adulthood at sea. It was in his hometown of Molfetta on the feast of Ferragosto that he met his beloved wife Angela (née Amato). Their 60 years of marriage were marked by an enduring devotion to one another and to the family they built together. Nino and Angela were blessed with two children, Mauro “Morris” and Loredana. Above all, Nino’s life was dedicated to his family. He adored and had enormous pride for his four grandchildren, Sofia, Gabriella, Adriana, and Gianluca, who affectionately call him “Nonno.” To Nino, his grandchildren represented the fulfillment of a lifetime of hard work, sacrifice, and love. Their accomplishments and happiness were among his greatest sources of joy.

A self-made businessman, Nino worked in real estate in Hoboken, NJ for more than 50 years. He was admired for his perseverance, determination, independence, and tireless work ethic. He was talented in countless ways and there never was a job that he could not tackle or a problem he could not solve. His distinctive walk and unmistakable presence made him recognizable to friends and neighbors from blocks away.

Anyone who knew Nino knew that he loved to talk about anything and everything. He would stop you in your path to discuss history, politics, or religion, and always kept up with his constant reading to remain informed about a changing world. His love for his garden was unparalleled. He had the ability to bring any plant back to life and grow abundant produce in his own “Garden of Eden.” He proudly considered himself an organic gardener long before it became popular. Throughout his life, Nino maintained a profound love for Molfetta, returning to his hometown nearly every year and cherishing the family, friendships, and traditions that connected him to Italy. Though he built his life and career in New Jersey, Molfetta always remained a part of who he was. He was particularly fond of the fact that his birthday was the same day as the Feast of La Madonna dei Martiri, the patron saint of Molfetta.

Nino was predeceased by his beloved son, Mauro “Morris” Altamura, who tragically passed away at the age of 17. He is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Angela (née Amato); his loving daughter, Loredana, and her husband, Joseph Petriello, of Ridgefield; his cherished grandchildren, Sofia, Gabriella, Adriana, and Gianluca Petriello; and his sister, Mariella, of Molfetta, Italy. He is also remembered with love by his extended family of in-laws, nieces and nephews, and many friends. Nino will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his lively conversations, and storytelling that reflected his lifelong wisdom. His presence will be deeply missed, especially by his beloved wife, daughter, and grandchildren.