Barbara Jane Cerrato
One of the first female regional managers for Pontiac, 84
Barbara Jane Cerrato, age 84, of Lakewood, N.J., passed away on Aug. 24, 2019.
Barbara was born to Jennie and Peter Cerrato on May 25, 1935, in Newark, N.J. She had two older sisters, Rose Marie Cerrato Yacavone and Anna Cerrato Freda.
Barbara was the beloved "cool" aunt to her five nephews and nieces, David Yacavone, Tina Yacavone Swanbeck, Robert Freda, Carol Yacavone, and Barbara Russell.
Barbara was a remarkable woman of her times, starting as an executive secretary for Pontiac and progressing up to become one of the first female regional managers. She started in New Jersey and was promoted to New York, Springfield, Ill., and Detroit, Mich.
During her spare time in New Jersey, Barbara was also an actress in the Montclair theater group, starring as the lead in several productions. She always enjoyed the arts and attended numerous plays, symphonies, and concerts, especially if it involved Frank Sinatra! She was a stylish lady who loved driving her new Pontiacs!
Barbara retired after more than 30 years with Pontiac and moved to Gaithersburg, Md. She migrated back to her roots in New Jersey four years ago.
She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, and her nephew, David Yacavone. She will be sadly missed by her surviving relatives, Bob, Tina, Carol, and Barbara, as well as numerous great-nephews and -nieces.
A graveside service for Barbara will be held at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in East Hanover, N.J., on Sept. 9, 2019, at 11 a.m. Barbara's services are under the direction of Van Hise and Callagan Funeral Home, 812 Arnold Ave., Point Pleasant Beach, N.J. 08742.