Obituary of Albert Dauito Barnabei

Albert Dauito Barnabei, 91, of Atco, NJ, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2021. Albert was born and raised in Vineland NJ by his late parents Mary (Dauito) and Anthony Barnabei, along with three brothers and eight sisters. He graduated from Vineland High School in 1947. In 1952, he married Nancy M. Yacovelli, and together they raised six children. Albert was a proud City of Vineland Police Officer for over 30 years, where he achieved the rank of sergeant and received several commendations, including for his work in the Detective Unit. He was also assigned to the arson unit. For many years, Sgt. Barnabei served as a delegate for the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 8. For 34 years, Albert served as a volunteer fireman for the City of Vineland Company #4, retiring as Assistant Chief. He was sent to Rutgers University for extensive training in arson investigation as the Fire Department was establishing its first Arson Bureau in 1968. In 1982, he was awarded the Fireman of the Year Award. Living a stone's throw from Company #4, Albert took great pride in the maintenance of the grounds and facilities. It was common to see him at the station, with his children in tow, cutting the lawn, cleaning the hall, or washing the fire trucks. Beginning in 1974, Albert was actively involved in the Loyal Order of the Moose in Vineland and later in Port St. Lucie, FL, where he and Nancy retired in 1986. Albert was elected governor of Port St. Lucie Moose Lodge #513 three times, was District President, and attained the degree of Pilgrim, the highest honor of the Order. Albert also served on many committees and held elected offices, while he and Nancy volunteered tirelessly on community service efforts, all the while loving his participation in the kitchen cooking and serving at dinners and events. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Vineland and Saint Lucie Catholic Church in Port St. Lucie. His greatest joy in life was his family. He was proud of and boasted about his children to anyone who would listen. Albert and Nancy loved visiting with their children and grandchildren and travelled to many different states to share holidays, graduations, and weddings. Albert was an avid gardener who grew a variety of vegetables, fruit trees, and roses, which he delighted in sharing with family and friends. Albert also enjoyed playing in the Vineland Men's Slow-pitch League, horseshoes, fishing, and card games. Family and friends called Albert by his nickname, "Herk". Albert was predeceased by his beloved wife of 66 years, Nancy (Yacovelli) Barnabei. He is survived by his children: Patricia Ricciardi, Vanessa Barnabei, Cynthia Papa, Andrea Bolhuis (Randy), Albert Barnabei (Dawn), Nancy Jean Barnabei (John Masciantonio); 11 grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and sister, Margaret Jacobson. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Donations in memory of Albert may be made to: Moose Charities, Inc. 155 S. International Drive, Mooseheart, IL 60539-1100. ARRANGEMENTS are under the supervision of Rone Funeral Service, 1110 East Chestnut Avenue, Vineland, NJ 08360 To send online condolences please visit our website at www.RONEFUNERALSERVICE.com