Obituary of Richard Bertoia

Richard "Piti" Bertoia, 62, of Vineland, NJ died peacefully at home on Monday morning with his family by his side after battling cancer. Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Rich emigrated with his family to NJ when he was 3 years old. He attended Millville Schools and graduated from Cumberland County College and Rowan University. During his teens, he developed an interest in early glass and antiques with his family. He began his career as a teacher and then moved into the sales profession, before joining the Bertoia family auction business 22 years ago. He became a respected expert in the antique toy market and authored several books. He enjoyed soccer, karate, antique shopping and music, especially percussion and the rhythm of Santana. His greatest love was spending his time with his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Trina (Guessford); daughters, Nina, Lani and Monica; granddaughters, Angelina and Ava; parents, Ofelia and Hector; in-laws, Pearl and Jim Guessford; nephew Michael, niece Lauren (Bertoia) Costanza; sister-in-law Jeanne, brother-in-law Brian Guessford. He was predeceased by his brother Bill in 2003. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, December 22, 2016 at 8:30pm at DeMarco-Luisi Funeral Home, 2755 S. Lincoln Ave, Vineland, NJ. Family and friends will be received on Thursday evening from 6pm to 9pm at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Rich's memory to the American Cancer Society, Vineland Chapter, 729 E. Landis Ave., Vineland, NJ 08360. Memories, thoughts and prayers may be extended to the family by visiting dlfuneral.com.