Carmella Hishmeh

Carmella Hishmeh, 71, passed away on Monday, January 29, 2024, at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital – New Brunswick. Born in South Bound Brook, Carmella was a long-time resident of Bound Brook and the cherished daughter of Anthony and Florence Colanduoni. A proud graduate of Bound Brook High School, Class of 1970, Carmella cherished the many years working at the Somerville YMCA where she endeared herself to both colleagues and the children she cared for. Her warm heart and nurturing spirit left an indelible mark on all those whose lives she touched. Devoted to her faith, Carmella was an active communicant of St. Mary of Czestochowa Church in Bound Brook, embodying the principles of love, compassion, and service. She found solace and strength in her Catholic beliefs. Carmella's vibrant spirit extended to her love for dancing, a passion she shared with friends and family. Carmella was a very kind woman who took great care of her aging parents, and great pride in being a very involved and dedicated grandma to her grandkids, demonstrating the depth of her love and commitment to family.

Predeceased by her parents and her brother Arthur Colanduoni, Carmella is survived by her children Jacob Hishmeh and his wife Erica, and Laura Polakiewicz and her husband Brian; her grandchildren Thomas & Lauren Polakiewicz, Yasmine Hishmeh and an expecting grandchild on the way that Jacob & Erica will be naming in her honor, Carmel Ann; her siblings Donald Colanduoni and Anthony Colanduoni Jr.; her ex-husband Isa Hishmeh, whom she remained close with; her longtime companion, Orlando Pontoriero, and many close relatives and friends.

Cremation was private. The family invites relatives and friends to a memorial gathering on Friday, February 2, 2024, from 4 to 7 PM at Hagan-Chamberlain Funeral Home, 225 Mountain Ave., Bound Brook, with a prayer service beginning at 4:00 PM. This gathering will be an opportunity to share memories, offer support, and celebrate the life of Carmella Hishmeh.