Woodland Park dedicates tree, plaque to beloved volunteer known as Mr. G
WOODLAND PARK — "In great deeds, something abides," and in the borough, one man's deeds are being remembered.
Last week Woodland Park dedicated a small patch in Yodice Field where a tree was planted and a plaque installed to commemorate the late Daniel Girlando Sr., or Mr. G, as the longtime volunteer was called by some.
For those who knew Girlando, his legacy as a selfless man was guaranteed long before last week's plaque and tree dedication. During his many decades of service, the borough and his neighbors benefited from his commitment, and they still do.
"Mr. Girlando planted his roots here and devoted himself to a life of service to our community," said acting Mayor Tracy Kallert.
Girlando served among a cadre of volunteers who ran and raised thousands of dollars for the West Paterson Boys & Girls Club, served as board chair, volunteered to coach and served as sports commissioner. He was also a volunteer for the local first aid squad.
When he died on Feb. 23 at age 70, he had set the example of what it means to give back, former Mayor Keith Kazmark said.
"He left a mark on countless kids who grew up in town during that time, myself included," Kazmark said. "He was a kind man and will certainly be missed by his family and the community."
Quiet, humble
"My dad was a quiet, humble man," said his son, Daniel Girlando Jr. "The things he did for the town and community ... he didn't do for accolades or attention. He never sought that out. And the things he did, he always gave his full effort."
With the help of Girlando and other active volunteers, the borough raised money to purchase the lights at Memorial Field and installed them, Kazmark said.
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Girlando organized the annual carnival that provided key funding for the Boys & Girls Club for many years, Kazmark added.
His son was pleased with the placement of the plaque and tree at Yodice Field, saying it could not have been better.
"This is a special place for my sister and I, who played on these fields as children," he said. "This location ties to some of the greatest memories of my life, with my father, playing sports and him often being one of the coaches of our teams. And the same was true for my sister."
Daniel Girlando Sr. is survived by his wife, Lucille; son Daniel Girlando Jr. and his wife Angela; daughters Crystal Teran and her husband, Angel, and Leena and her husband, Armstrong Paulraj; grandchildren Hope, Sadie, Alexis, Miguel Jr., Elianna, Joanna and Abigail; brothers James Girlando and his wife, Sue, and John Girlando, and many nieces and nephews.
This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Woodland Park NJ dedicates tree, plaque to volunteer Mr. G
