Oscar Galdi

Obituary

Oscar Galdi, 81 of Garwood, New Jersey, passed peacefully in his sleep on March 24, 2022. Born in Castelforte, Italy to parents Francesco and Olivia (née Volpe), Oscar developed resiliencyearly in life when he and his family were forced to flee their home for years by the destruction of World War II. He began providing for his family as a teenager, which kicked off his long and successful career as a hairstylist.  After learning how to cut hair in Italy as a means to support his family, Oscar set off for England to train as a stylist and hone his craft.  Having receivedmultiple awards in England, Oscar recognized that he could build a career as a stylist and moved to New York City in 1965to train at the Ingrid School of Hair Design and work in Manhattan.  It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Betulia (née Massimo).  After getting married in 1967 and starting a family, Oscar moved to New Jersey to actualize his dream – owning his own business. Very quickly, Oscar’s Haircutters became a successful business in downtownWestfield, where Oscar operated for decades and made lifelong friends. His clients and his profession were his passion, which he enjoyed until his final day.

Oscar’s family and close friends knew him as a selfless, positive, loving leader who inspired others with his quiet strength. His love for his entire family, especially his fourgranddaughters, was known to all.  His presence and smile will forever be missed, but his positive view of life, love of family, integrity and strong character will be carried on by those he inspired.  

Oscar is survived by his wife of 54 years, Betulia, sons Frank and Anthony, daughters-in-law Angelike and Adelina, and granddaughters Olivia, Christina, Antonia, and Alessia. He also leaves behind his sister Aurora and brothers- and sisters-in-law Luigi, Joseph, Marty, Renato, Denise, Adele, Tony, Vincent, and Stella and beloved nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by brothers and sisters Licia, Ada, Evelina, Emilio, Fernando.

Visitation will be held Sunday, March 27th from 2pm to 8pm at Higgins and Bonner Echo Lake Funeral Home in Westfield, New Jersey. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral on Monday, March 28th, with a mass beginning at 10am at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Garwood.