05/02/2026
Vittorio “Victor” Americo Capolunghi passed away peacefully on Friday, May 1, 2026, in Bridgewater, New Jersey, surrounded by his beloved family. He was 80 years old.
Born on May 24, 1945, in Middlesex, New Jersey, Victor was the cherished son of Joseph and Olga Capolunghi. A lifelong resident of Middlesex, he built a life rooted in service, family, and community.
Victor’s professional journey reflected his curiosity and versatility. He began working at Grants Department Store in Middlesex before pursuing his passion for storytelling as a reporter and photographer for The Home News and The Chronicle. He later worked at WAWZ FM 99.1 Zarephath Radio Station and shared his love of history as a teacher at Zarephath Christian School. Victor went on to have a long and successful career as a Program Manager at AT&T for 20 years and was also employed by Hewlett-Packard.
A proud veteran, Victor served in the United States Army, stationed in Vicenza, Italy, as a member of the 49th Army Band from September 27, 1965, to September 22, 1967.
Victor was deeply committed to his community. He was an active member of the Republican Club and served three terms as a Middlesex Borough Councilman. He was also a dedicated member of the Middlesex Elks BPOE 2301, the Jaycees, and the American Legion. For 40 years, Victor served as a volunteer firefighter with the Beechwood Heights Fire Department, including several years as Secretary.
Outside of his many commitments, Victor embraced life fully. He was an avid runner, a lifelong softball player, a passionate Italian winemaker, and a lover of history books. He was the family’s photographer, capturing countless memories, and was known for his humor and playful spirit.
Above all, Victor adored his wife of 42 years, whom he affectionately called “My Girl.” He found immense joy in making his grandchildren laugh and was a constant source of support and love for his family, friends, and community.
He was a devoted father to Robyn (Wayne) DeVincentz, Renee (Todd) Nicolay, Joey Barile, and the late Brad Barile. He was a beloved grandfather to Ashley (James) Lopez, Gabrielle (Tyler) Ambrogio, Ty Nicolay, and Lily Nicolay, and a cherished great-grandfather to Violette Lopez.
Victor was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Olga Capolunghi; his sister, Fran Burton; and his brother-in-law, Don Burton. He is survived by his siblings Joe Capolunghi and Louise Reffler, his sister-in-law Lori Jones, and was also predeceased by his brother-in-law Walter “Butch” Jones.
He was an adored uncle to Elizabeth Burton, Karen (Fitz) Blackwood, Sue Reffler, Cynthia (Greg) Oakes, Joey (Kayla) Capolunghi, Nicole (Kevin) Hengst, Kelly Jones, Kristin (Johnny) Comune, and Kimberly (Angel) Ortiz, and a great-uncle to Charley Comune and Feliz Ortiz.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Middlesex Funeral Home, 528 Bound Brook Road, Middlesex, New Jersey. Interment will take place on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Bound Brook Cemetery in Bound Brook, New Jersey.
In lieu of flowers, Victor's family kindly request donations to be made in his name to Beechwood Heights Fire Department in Middlesex Borough.
Victor will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his deep sense of community, and the joy and laughter he brought to all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.
