On Saturday September 26, 2015 Mildred R Abate passed away peacefully at the age of 97. Mildred was predeceased by her husband Frank. She is survived by her sons Paul and his wife Ginny, and Richard. She also leaves behind as her Grandchildren, Jeanette and her husband Nicholas, and Stephen. Mildred was truly a renaissance woman! In time in the 1950s and 60s when a working mother was unique. Mildred worked successfully in banking at several major institutions until she decided to retire at age 80. She was noted to be an exceptional Ballroom dancer, gourmet Italian cook and an avid bowler! "A faithful Wife, a dedicated Mother and Grandmother. We are all so much better for knowing Mildred. Heaven is that much brighter now because of her presence. We love you and we will miss you. You will live forever in our hearts.” In lieu of flowers, the Family asks that donations be given to The Cedar Grove Ambulance and Rescue Squad, 651 Pompton Ave, Cedar Grove, New Jersey 07009. Friends and family are asked to visit, on Wednesday September 30th from 4 to 8 pm, at Halpin-Bitecola Brookdale Funeral Home, 1284 Broad St in Bloomfield. A funeral mass will be held on Thursday, October. 1st at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 60 Byrd Ave in Bloomfield. Entombment will take place at Immaculate Conception Cemetery immediately following the service.