Obituary of Philip Cortese

Philip J. Cortese South Plainfield - Philip J. Cortese Jr., 81, died Sunday, August 26, 2012 at Robert Wood University Hospital in Rahway. Born in Belleville, Mr. Cortese resided in various towns throughout New Jersey prior to settling to South Plainfield 49 years ago. He served with the U.S. Marine Corps. during the Korean Conflict and was a recipient of 3 Purple Hearts. Phil was active with several organizations throughout South Plainfield. He served as Past Commander of the VFW Post 6763, American Legion Chaumont Post 243, ELKS Lodge # 2298 and he was also a member of the South Plainfield Exempt Fireman's Association. In addition, Phil was a member of the J.J. Gardner Detachment, Marine Corps League. While serving as Commander of the VFW Post, one of Philip's most notable accomplishments was the planning of the South Plainfield Monument Park Project. He was one of the original founders of the landmark and helped procure the AH-1G Cobra Helicopter, which currently stands enhancing the significance of the park. He is survived by his beloved wife; Marianne (Nemeth) of 60 years, his daughter; Theresa Lake and her husband Russ of Middletown, two sons; Philip of Hellertown, PA and Kurt and his wife Karen of South Plainfield, his sister; Carol Bartolotta and her husband Joseph and two brothers; Robert of Delaware and John and his wife Mary of Toms River. Also surviving are seven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, August 30, 2012 at 9:15 AM in the McCriskin - Gustafson Home For Funerals, 2425 Plainfield Ave., South Plainfield, NJ 07080 followed by a 10:00 AM funeral mass at Sacred Heart RC Church, South Plainfield. Interment will follow in Holy Redeemer Cemetery, South Plainfield Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 29, 2012 from 6-9 PM in the funeral home.