Angela R. Saponara

(nee Ruggieri) On July 21, 2025, of Washington Twp. Age 85. Beloved wife of the late Nicholas. Devoted mother of Mario Saponara and the late Nicholas Saponara (Theresa). Loving grandmother of Nick (Megan) and Tori (Ted). Proud great-grandmother of Arlo. Dear aunt of Mae Onesti, Matthew Onesti (Alysha), Emmie Onesti, Siena Onesti.

Angie was born and raised in South Philadelphia, graduating from St. Maria Goretti High School.  She grew up in what was a typical Italian household, learning traditions she would carry with her throughout her lifetime.  She developed a love of cooking at an early age and was well known as a talented cook among her family and friends.

In 1960 she married Nick, her husband of 62 years.  Along with her sister and many cousins, Angie and Nick settled down and made their home in Whitman Square.  Their closeknit family gathered every Sunday to share a delicious dinner along with many stories and much laughter.  She knew no greater joy than feeding her loved ones a delicious meal! Her love language was cooking, and she shared it with all those she cared for.

When her children were young, she had several odd jobs; she worked at a bank, as a bookkeeper, and at a local newspaper.  In 1982, she found her “true love”, opening and running the Custard Shack.  She loved the challenge of starting a business and quickly learned the skills to make it successful. Running the Custard Shack, and later the Produce Shack, also allowed her to work alongside her two sons, which brought her great joy. She cherished the relationships she formed there with customers, vendors, and employees, many of whom were like family to her.

When the casinos opened in Atlantic City, she found another love – gambling and playing Blackjack. She loved going down the shore for a weekend and treating her family and friends to good meals and fun times. When she couldn’t be at the casino, you could find her playing Rummy in the back room of the Custard Shack. No matter her age, she was a tough competitor at any card game you could challenge her to!

Above all else, she was a wonderful mother who would do anything for her sons. For those she cared for, there was no limit to her love and generosity. Whether it was offering a small treat from her candy bowl or insisting that you stay for dinner, everyone was treated like family in her home. Despite her tough exterior, she will always be remembered for her big heart.

Family and friends are invited to attend her viewing Saturday, July 26^th 9:00 – 10:30 AM at St. Charles Borromeo Roman Catholic Church, 176 Stagecoach Rd., Washington Twp. Mass of Christian Burial 10:45 AM. Entombment All Saints Cemetery, Newfield.

“A Life Well Lived Is Worth Remembering”