Obituary of Vincent J. Mandala

Vincent J. Mandala, 63, loving husband, devoted father, and beloved grandfather, passed away peacefully in his home on Staten Island on May 31, 2022, surrounded by family. Vinny was born in Brooklyn on June 26th, 1958 to Ann and Joseph Mandala. He was one of five siblings. He graduated from Xaverian High School in 1976 and Wagner College, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 1980. Vinny enjoyed sports, playing baseball, track and wrestling growing up, and he carried his dedication to and passion for fitness throughout his life until his passing. He joined the New York City Fire Department in 1979, where he served for 42 years. In that time, he earned a department-wide reputation for being a humble and respected leader and a caring friend. He retired as a 9/11 hero in 2021 at the rank of Deputy Chief. Vinny married the love of his life, Joan on June 2, 1985 and together they raised 4 wonderful sons. Vinny dedicated his life to his family. From family dinners, to youth sports, to the problems of everyday life, he always put family first. He dove head-first into everything they did. No accomplishment was too small for him to be proud of and no problem was too big or too small for him to come help with. When his children decided to play hockey, Vinny learned how to skate so he could coach. He spent countless summer days on the baseball field with his family throwing batting practice to his boys or coaching games at Mid-Island Little League. He was beloved as a coach by everyone, both on and off the field, displaying the same kindness, humility and approachability as he did everywhere else. In retirement, he loved watching baseball on TV and trying to beat yesterday’s time on his daily walks, but he mostly loved being a grandpa to his two grandchildren. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Joan Mandala, his four children, and his two grandchildren: Christopher Mandala, his wife Alexandra & their son Vincent, James Mandala, his wife Korin & their daughter Josephine, Thomas Mandala & his wife Megan, and Mark Mandala. Additionally, he is survived by his four siblings Jerome Mandala, Joseph Mandala, Judi Fitzgerald, and Michael Mandala. His life is a shining example of a role model and he will be deeply missed by his family and friends In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Vincent’s memory. Visitation will take place at Matthew Funeral Home on Sunday, 6/5/2022 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM & 5:00 to 8:00 PM and Monday, 6/6/2022 from 2:00 to 4:00 PM & 6:00 to 9:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday 6/7/2022 at 10:30 AM at St Teresa of the Infant Jesus R.C. Church on Staten Island, followed by interment at Resurrection Cemetery.