Parsippany Valentine's Day Spotlight Couple: Mike & Dee dePierro

Parsippany has its fair share of prominent lovebirds, but this couple stands out among the rest, especially as we anticipate Valentine’s Day.

In this installment of our salute to Parsippany pairs, we'll find out what makes Councilman Michael J. dePierro and Parsippany Municipal Committeewoman Dolores M. dePierro so sweet. 

The Sweethearts

Michael J. dePierro, 30-year member and former president of the Parsippany Township Council, former member of Board of Education and Planning Board, Air Force veteran, life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion, retired systems manager of Bell Telephone Laboratories
 
Dolores M. dePierro, Member of Parsippany Municipal Committee, 12-year administrative assistant at St. Teresa of Avila Church in Summit, former medical assistant for Dr. Larry Schuster and administrative assistant for the Ravin Sarasohn law firm

Mike dePierro speaks for the couple to Patch.

So, how did you two lovebirds meet?

MD: I met Dee at her friend’s party in Pelham, N.Y., when she was 16 years old. I didn’t know it at the time, but she told her friend that she was going to marry me. I’m not sure when I decided that, but we were married three years later on Sept. 17, 1960.

How long have you been together?

We have been together for over 55 years and married for over 52 years. Our three children have blessed us with 10 grandchildren. They are raising their children with the same family values that they learned from us.

What’s the secret to a successful and happy relationship?

There is no secret to our successful and happy relationship: Not only do we love each other, we are best friends. Dee and our children have always supported my efforts as an elected official and as a community volunteer.

What famous couple do you emulate?

The couples that we emulate are not famous. They are our parents, who were great role models for Dee and I.

Why did you settle in Parsippany, and how long have you lived here?

We settled in Parsippany 48 years ago when Bell Telephone Laboratories made me an offer that I could not refuse. As our children moved through the Parsippany schools, Dee and I got more and more involved in school and community activities. We loved Parsippany and made a commitment to preserve and improve the quality of life in our township.

What’s your favorite romantic night out in Parsippany and why?

We prefer to dine locally, when possible, but political and community obligations force us to attend many banquets and dinners. A favorite and romantic night for us is to dine at home together. Dee is a great cook and I prefer her cooking over any restaurant. Besides, we enjoy each other's company.