The Ciccone Family

Maria Santa Croce and Pasquale Ciccone were married in their hometown of Reggio Calabria in Sicily, Italy, at the turn of the century. The Ciccones celebrated the birth of their first child just before the family immigrated to the United States in 1900. Soon after arriving in this country, Mr. Ciccone became a chauffeur for well-to-do families while his wife maintained the home and cared for the children. Eventually, the family moved into a home that Mr. Ciccone had built for them in Nutley, New Jersey.

Maria and Pasquale had ten children in all. Education was very important to the Ciccones, and Mrs. Ciccone always encouraged her children to do their best. With constant support and encouragement from their parents, the Ciccone children went on to complete their educations and embark on successful careers. Of the ten children, there were three doctors, an orthopedic physician, a dentist, and a podiatrist.

Maria also encouraged her children to follow their hearts. Her support of her youngest son Richard (given name Domenico) Ciccone’s acting in school plays, and his mother’s pride in him, led Dr. Ciccone to name the Bergen Community College theatre in loving memory of his mother and inspired other generous contributions to the college.