Michael A. Ferrara

Michael A. Ferrara, 61 of Wall Township was called home, Tuesday June 29, 2021, after a long courageous battle with cancer.  He was lovingly cared for by the amazing staff at JSUMC, ICU team, where he was given the respect, and dignity he deserved as he took his final breath, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Long Branch, Michael grew up in Neptune City.  Michael attended Neptune High School graduating in 1978 and earned his Bachelor’s degree in 1993 from Kean University. He graduated from the Monmouth County Police Academy in June 1981.

Michael met his wife Cindy while a foot patrol officer in Long Branch in 1981.  They were married in October 1985.

Michael was hired, in 1997, by the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office where he retired in 2008.  Michael earned many certifications and attended many trainings during his years as a police officer and detective.  He made a positive impact on many of the people he encountered through his work.  He was a SORA instructor and received the prestigious award of Policeman of the Year, 1992.  Michael was a member of Long Branch PBA Local #10 and Monmouth County Detectives PBA Local #256. 

Following his retirement, Michael found a love of working with teen mother's at the DCF School in Tinton Falls and most recently at CCMCO in Neptune where he worked with adults with special needs.  Mr. MIKE was his name, they loved him and he loved them.  

Michael is predeceased by his loving grandmother's Luella "Mimi" Hartman and Dorothy "Dot" Ferrara and a very close cousin James Hyers and Aunt Evelyn Hyers.  Also, his loving in laws Roger Bourgoin and Florence Bourgoin. 

Michael is survived by his wife of 36 years Cindy and two sons Matthew 34 and Marc 26.  His loving sisters in law and their partners Patricia Januszeski and Frank Januszeski, Marchelle Laura and Marc Meccia, Jill Scataglia and Joey Scataglia  His amazing and loving nieces,  Michelle and Jennifer Scataglia and their fiancees Nick Vamvas and Joe Sicignano and Isabella Brock as well as his loving pets Barney and Buddy.  

Michael has many loving nicknames, Grunkle, Pinky, and of recent times Iron Man, Warrior, Hero, Miracle man (by his dr.) and the fighter because of his bravery and courage battling this disease.  

A special thanks to our amazing church family at West Grove United Methodist Church for all your prayers and support.  Our Rev Kim for her love and support, to our "Jill" for going to every doctor appt and for being our voice of reason, and to the BEST family in the world.   MICHAEL loved you all and so do we!!!!

A memorial gathering will be held on Wednesday, July 7 from 6 pm until the time of the service at 7:30 pm at the West Grove United Methodist Church, 102 Walnut Street in Neptune. In lieu of flower, donations may be made to Center for Great Apes, P.O. Box 488, Wauchula, FL 33873. The family invites you to leave a letter of condolence by selecting the Tribute/Guestbook link above.

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