Biagio Colandrea's Obituary
Biagio Colandrea, of Cinnaminson, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, May 25, 2026. He was 86 years old.
Born in Monte di Procida, near Naples, Italy, to the late Michele and Saletta Colandrea, Biagio was one of six children and the last surviving of his five siblings.
A gifted and dedicated chef, Biagio spent many years cooking aboard passenger and cargo ships that traveled throughout Europe and around the world before beginning a new chapter with his family in the United States. Known for his exceptional talent in the kitchen, he took great pride in his craft and in bringing people together through food. To those who knew him, his cooking was unforgettable and among the very best they had ever tasted.
In 1982, Biagio immigrated to America with his beloved wife of 55 years, Pasqualina “Lina” (née Scotto di Santolo), and their son Michael, settling first in Brooklyn, New York. After welcoming their second son, Dominick, the family later made their home in Cinnaminson, New Jersey.
Together, they built Montegrillo Cucina Italiana in Pennsauken, New Jersey — a business created through determination, sacrifice, and family. More than a restaurant, it became a place where memories were made, traditions were shared, and generations gathered. It remained one of Biagio’s greatest sources of pride.
Above all, Biagio was devoted to his family. Outside of the kitchen, he found peace and happiness tending to his garden and caring for his beloved fig tree, which brought him great joy over the years. He took pride in helping things grow — whether through a meal, a business, a garden, or the family he built. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, quiet strength, generosity, and the love he showed through caring for others and bringing people together around the table.
Biagio is survived by his wife, Pasqualina “Lina”; his sons, Michael (Assunta) and Dominick; his cherished granddaughter, Aurora; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss him deeply.
Relatives and friends are invited to gather on Sunday evening, May 31st, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and again on Monday morning, June 1st, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Givnish of Cinnaminson.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Charles Borromeo Parish at 10:30 AM on Monday, June 1, 2026, followed by entombment at Lakeview Memorial Park Mausoleum.
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