Vincent A. DePeola

Vincent Anthony DePeola, known affectionately as Vinny, was a beloved husband, son, brother, and friend who touched the lives of many with his warmth, humor, and culinary talents. Born on October 3, 1991, in Belleville, NJ, Vinny brought joy to those around him from an early age, blossoming into the life of the party with an infectious laughter that lit up every room he entered.

A proud graduate of Butler High School, Vinny further pursued his passion for cooking at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York City. He made an indelible mark as a chef in the maritime industry, proudly preparing meals for Navy staff during peacetime. His culinary skills were matched only by his ability to bring people together, creating not just meals, but cherished memories of camaraderie and laughter.

While he excelled in the kitchen, Vinny's proudest accomplishments often revolved around the simple joys of life. He was a Couch Jeopardy champion, a testament to his quick wit and love for trivia, and had a special talent for building intricate Legos and immersing himself in video games, pursuits that showcased his creativity and playful spirit.

Vinny's personality was a beacon of light; he was known as the funniest guy in the room and the most selfless person you could meet, always putting others before himself. Among the many memories he leaves behind, his wedding day stands out as a highlight, a moment filled with love as he united with his wife, Lauren Kulik. Together they created a life enriched with laughter, support, and a deep understanding and love for one another.

Vinny's legacy will forever resonate within the hearts of his loving family. He is survived by his cherished wife, Lauren, his father, Vincent Sr. and his fiancée, Nicole Roselli, his mother, Susan DePeola, his brother, Nicholas, his sister, Rachel, his grandfather, Theodore DePeola and his grandfather’s wife, Ann DePeola. Additionally, he leaves behind his mother-in-law, Kimberly Kulik, his father-in-law, Robert Kulik, his brother-in-law, Jack Kulik, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who loved him deeply. In life, Vinny also grieved the loss of his grandmother, Jo Ann Friedman, whose memory he carried with him throughout his life.

The sudden passing of Vinny on February 14, 2025, leaves an unfillable void in the hearts of all who knew him. His vibrant spirit, incredible sense of humor, and selfless nature will be missed dearly. As he is remembered during a visitation on February 18, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM and a funeral service on February 19, 2025, at 11:30 AM at The Morrison Etheridge Funeral Home, Inc. in Butler, NJ, we invite all whose lives he touched to come together to celebrate his remarkable journey and the joy he brought to each of us.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Heart Association would be greatly appreciated.