Columbus, OH — Natale M. Luchento, 97, died peacefully at home on June 8, 2022, in Freehold, N.J.

Mr. Luchento was born June 4, 1925, in Jersey City, N.J., a son of the late Josephine and Gennaro, both immigrants from Italy.

He was a Marine Raider Sharp Shooter in the Pacific Theatre during World War II. He was awarded the Purple Heart after being wounded in battle for his bravery during combat.

He was a part of the greatest generation who went to war without reservation, didn’t look for handouts, worked hard and built this country into the greatest nation in the world.

A devoted husband and father, he worked alongside his son Thomas in the Standardbred business, breaking and training horses, and then later in life in the kitchen of Luchento’s Country Italian Restaurant in Millstone, N.J., where famous salads and dressings were loved by all.

Mr. Luchento is survived by his son, Thomas (Carol); brother, Bobby; grandchildren, Thomas, Gary, Kristen Roselle, Janet Reaser, Michael and Amanda Price; great-grandchildren, Victoria, Isabella, Julia, Valentina, Allison and Damien. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carmella; sons, George and Michael; and great-grandson, Nicholas.

Family and friends are invited to attend the visitation at Freeman Funeral Home, 47 E. Main St., Freehold, from 10-11 a.m. on Friday (June 10). A Funeral liturgy will be held at the Co-Cathedral of St. Robert Bellarmine, Freehold, at 11:45 a.m. on June 10. Entombment to follow at Maplewood Cemetery.

To leave a condolence or find directions, please visit www.freemanfuneralhomes.com.