**In Loving Memory of Albert Mattera**

Albert Mattera, a beloved resident of Burlington, NJ, and past resident of Lawrenceville NJ, earned his angel wings in the quiet hours of November 30th, 2023, at the age of 77. Born on March 28th, 1946, in the picturesque town of Barano d'Ischia, Italy, the son of Antonio and Maria DiOrio Mattera. Alberto (Albert) graduated from Princeton High School and Somerset Vo-Tech, Class of 1966. Albert married his high school sweetheart Elaine Niper, and they celebrated 57 years together in July. Albert's life was a testament to love, family, cooking, gardening, and the simple joys that enriched his days.

A man of compassion, Albert had a special connection with animals, particularly horses and dogs. Whether riding through the countryside or enjoying the company of a loyal canine friend, Albert's love for animals added a unique and heartwarming dimension to his life.

Albert enjoyed his many fishing adventures with his family throughout the years and his time hunting with his Grandsons and friends at the Four Seasons Rod and Gun Club. Many years of competitive dirt track racing with his family and his car #6A was a testament to his determination and commitment to the activities that he loved. He also loved to cook, especially his Christmas Eve fish dinner with his Family. Albert was also member of the Esquire Elks Lodge, The Valley Lee Riding Club, The Trenton Kennel Club and NJ English Bulldog Club.

Albert dedicated much of his life to building Als Service Center in Lawrenceville, NJ undoubtedly leaving an indelible impact on the community. His benevolent mannerisms, as well as his enjoyment and ability to have a conversation about anything with anyone at any time, forged lifelong friendships with many of his customers exemplifying his commitment to friendship and service.

In addition to his parents, he was pre-deceased by his sisters, Giuseppina Mattera, Dolorinda Matarese, Vincenza Mattera, Giovanna (Nina) Mattera, and his Brother Aniello Mattera.

Albert is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Elaine, and their three adoring daughters, Lisa Barone and her husband John of Columbus, NJ; Christina Mattera-Black and her husband Kevin of Surf City, NJ; and Amy Butler and her husband Steve of Burlington, NJ. His influence extended to his 11 cherished grandchildren: Joseph and his wife Pilar, Nicholas, Caylin, Olivia, Guliano, Steven, Gavin, Christian, Grant, Julianna, and McKenna. His sisters, Antonietta Maria, Michela and husband, Gunther, Giorgetta and her husband, Angelo, and his two brothers, Vincenzo Salvatore and his wife, Concetta, Armando and his wife, Rosetta, and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, December 11, 2023 at 11:00AM in St. Paul Parish, 214 Nassau Street, Princeton, NJ.  Burial will follow at Franklin Memorial Park, 1800 Rt. 27, North Brunswick, NJ.  The Mattera family welcomes all those who wish to join them in celebrating Albert's life.

Visiting hours at Kimble Funeral Home, 1 Hamilton Avenue, Princeton, NJ are Sunday, December 10, 2023 from 1:00PM to 4:00PM and Monday from 9:30AM to 10:30AM.  Family and friends are invited to pay their respects too and share their memories of Albert.

As we bid farewell to Albert, may his warm heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering kindness be remembered. May his soul find eternal peace, and may the shared memories bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

Memorial contributions to Surf City Volunteer Fire Co#1 & EMS, 713 N. Long Beach Blvd, Surf City, NJ 08008 are appreciated.