Obituary of Richard Michael Cannara

Richard Michael Cannara, known affectionately as Rich to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 18, 2023, in West Caldwell, NJ, after a brief illness.

Born in Orange, NJ, in August 1940, to Michael and Ruth (née Larot) Cannara, Rich grew up in Roseland and was a 1958 graduate of Grover Cleveland High School.

He served his country as a Military Police officer in the United States Army, stationed in Germany. For 30 years, Rich owned and operated the Caldwell Gulf Service Station on the point of Roseland and Westville Avenues. The station was a social hub, with the local guys coming in and out, having a cup of coffee and talking. His honest approach to business earned him the respect and loyalty of his customers.

He had a love for his German Shepherd, Max, and a passion for riding motorcycles. Rich had a few of them - a Kawasaki comes to mind - and he enjoyed taking long rides to PA and upstate NY.  As a member of Notre Dame Catholic Church in North Caldwell, Rich's faith was central to his life. He was always helping people - giving them a ride or a little gas if they were in hard times and delivering packages to his neighbors in his complex. Rich had a fondness for films and TV shows featuring detectives - Blue Bloods was his favorite; as well as all the Weather Channel could offer. He had a quick wit with expressions and had a cheeky sense of humor. 

Rich was predeceased by his parents; his brother, Raymond Cannara and his wife, Myra; and his sister, Kathleen (Cannara) Masucci. He is survived by his daughters, Tina Sallee and Terri Cannara; his son-in-law, Paul Sallee; his granddaughters, Kate and Anna Sallee; his brother in law, Donald Masucci; and his nieces and nephews. 

Services were private and provided by Codey Funeral Home of Caldwell. To share a condolence with the family, please visit CodeyFH.com.