Obituary of Catherine G. Brachat

Lee Brachat, of Rockaway, NJ, passed away at home on October 17^th, 2025, at 92 years old.  For many days prior, Lee was surrounded by her loving family, who were comforted by sharing memories of her long life well lived. 

Catherine “Lee” Grace Brachat, born April 8^th, 1933, in Newark, NJ, was the only child of the late Rose and Frank Parotino. Lee graduated 5^th in her class from Eastside High School, but not before meeting her high school sweetheart Arthur (Art) Brachat for their first date on the corner of Broad and Market Streets in Newark.  She learned conversational Spanish and began working in NYC in an import/export office.  Lee and Art married on September 14^th, 1952. Together they lovingly raised two daughters, Denise and Susan, and built a beautiful, traditional young family.  As parents, Lee and Art were strong role models who always respected each other’s opinions.  Later in life, they grew to share their love of big band music and the theater.  It wasn’t surprising to see them dance a quick foxtrot if a favorite song of theirs played on the radio. 

Wherever they called home, they maintained a special group of friends with similar interests and supported Broadway as well as local theater, especially musicals.  Always curious and hungry for knowledge till the end, Lee loved travelling with Art and immersing herself in new cultures.  She eagerly experienced the world through her love of history and willingness to meet new people and try unfamiliar foods.   

Lee was predeceased by her husband of 68 years, Art (1931-2021) and as the heart of her family, she maintained the remarkable legacy they had created.  She is survived by her two daughters, Denise Ferens and Susan Gallico and five grandchildren, Melissa Piscitelli (Vincent Piscitelli), David Gallico (David Bernat), Kayla Gallico (Walker Aspinwall), Gina Chirichella (Nichole Darius), and Marisa Ferens. Lee treasured her precious great granddaughters, Ava and Rosie Piscitelli, who visited often and were amused by the stories and card games “Grandma” shared.   

Lee’s funeral service is on Tuesday, October 21^st from 11 AM till noon at Burroughs, Kohr & Dangler Funeral Home, Madison, NJ, followed by her final internment at Cloverleaf Memorial Park in Woodbridge, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations in memory of Catherine Brachat to the Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey, 175 South Street, Morristown, NJ 07960.