Obituary

Mary Brigitta (Groeller) Lopuszniak, born on September 15, 1938, in Passaic, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2026, in Roxbury, New Jersey. She was 87 years old.

She lived most of her life in Clifton, NJ, and resided at Merry Heart Assisted Living and Nursing Home since 2019.

Mary was a proud graduate of Holy Trinity School and Pope Pius XII High School in Passaic, New Jersey. Her education laid the foundation for a life filled with love, devotion, and generosity. As a Catholic, she was baptized, confirmed, and married in Holy Trinity Church in Passaic. Throughout her life, Mary remained deeply connected to her roots and cherished the values instilled in her during her formative years.

She is survived by her two daughters: Lisa Kelly, and Lida Grillo, and her husband Rocco Grillo. Mary also leaves behind two cherished grandchildren, Travis Dolan and Tess Dolan. Her brother, George Groeller Jr., survives her as well, along with his son, Gregory Groeller and his wife, Belinda, and their children, Gregory George and Arianna Lily. Additionally, Mary’s niece Adrienne Groeller Holliday and her children, Della Marie and Lilliana Lorraine, carry forward Mary’s legacy of love and kindness.

She is survived by her two daughters: Lisa Kelly and Lida Grillo (and her husband Rocco Grillo). Mary also leaves behind two cherished grandchildren, Travis Dolan and Tess Dolan. Her brother, George Groeller Jr., survives her as well, along with his son Gregory Groeller (and his wife Belinda) and their children, Gregory George and Arianna Lily. Additionally, Mary’s niece Adrienne Groeller Holliday and her children, Della Marie and Lilliana Lorraine, carry forward Mary’s legacy of love and kindness.

For most of her life, she worked as an accounts receivable clerk, a role she carried out with dedication, precision, and quiet pride. Until her retirement at age 70, she formed lasting relationships with colleagues who appreciated her kindness and steady presence.

Mary had a passion for crocheting and knitting. She especially enjoyed creating chevron-patterned afghans that she lovingly gifted to family members and donated to various charities. Her creations were not just blankets but symbols of warmth and care that touched countless lives. An avid reader as well, Mary found joy in the written word and often immersed herself in books that enriched her mind and spirit. She enjoyed going to lake, pool, or beach with her family and friends. At Merry Heart, she enjoyed attending Mass and playing—and winning—at bingo.

Above all else, Mary had a big heart. She loved her family deeply and prayed for each member daily—a testament to the unwavering faith that guided her life. Her generosity of spirit extended beyond her immediate family to everyone fortunate enough to know her.

May Mary’s memory bring comfort to those who loved her as they reflect on the profound impact she had on their lives.

Her cremains will be buried along with her husband’s remains in Immaculate Conception Cemetary in Upper Montclair, NJ, followed by a Celebration of Life at a later date. Contact the family at (908) 308-9154 if you would like to be notified of the details once they are set.