Michael J. Lota, 47, Of Glen Rock

Editor’s note: The following obituary was originally published on the Van Plaat Funeral Home’s website.

Michael J. Lota, 47, of Glen Rock, died peacefully at his home Friday, Nov. 20.

Lota was born in Ridgewood and lived in Glen Rock for the past 47 years. He was an avid motorcycle enthusiast, fisherman, and commercial diver.

Michael loved his family and his time with them at the beach, at home and in everyday life. He excelled playing the drums and loved music. He will be remembered for his laughter, culinary skills, and the ability to tell a good story. Most of all Michael will be remembered for being a kind, thoughtful friend, caring human being, father, husband, brother, uncle and son who only wanted the best for all.

Michael leaves behind his loving wife of 22 years, Cynthia Meier Lota, and his adoring daughters Melanie and Amanda. He also leaves his mother, Dr. Helena Lota Farrell, his father, Dr. Joseph A. Lota and his wife Theresa of Pompano Beach, Fla, his mother and father-in-law, Carlton and Susan W. Meier, his brothers, Dr. Christopher G. Lota, Dr. Joseph A. Lota, Jr., Joseph Farrell and Michael Farrell. He also leaves his sisters, Teresa Ficca and Halina Ehnstrom. Mourning his loss is his step-father, Dr. Joseph T. Farrell, his sisters-in-law, Dr. Nathalie Lota, Alison Lohr, Jennifer Lota, Therese Farrell, Erika Friedman and his brothers-in-law, Tom Ficca and Steve Ehnstrom. Michael’s nieces, Morgan, Rachel, Sophia and Madison Lota in addition to Jackie, Thomas, Joseph, Kathryn, Lisa, Logan and Lukas, Uncle George Mancini, and his cousin Geralyn Mancini.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Michael’s name can be made to the Glen Rock High School, Music Dept., 600 Harristown Road, Glen Rock, NJ 07452.