Jeffrey Dieterle

Jeffrey "Jeff" Dieterle, 58, of Nutley, N.J., passed away on July 9th, 2024. Visitation will be on Monday, July 15th, 2024 from 4-8 p.m. at Levandoski-Grillo Funeral Home, 44 Bay Ave., Bloomfield, N.J. A service will be offered at 7 p.m. Cremation will be private at Rosedale Crematory, Montclair, N.J. Valet parking will be available at the funeral home for the visitation. Memories and condolences may be shared at levandoskigrillo.com.

Born in Montclair, N.J. to Edward and Dorothy Dieterle, the youngest of 5, Jeff lived in Bloomfield before settling in Nutley. His talents began to flourish at the age of 14 when introduced to the world of music and learning to play the trombone. Jeff earned entrance into many high school honor bands during high school. In his junior year of high school, Jeff was awarded a scholarship to Interlochen Center for the Arts and Music in Michigan. From there he was awarded a full scholarship to Michigan State University where he was a part of the Spartan Marching Band. In 1987, Jeff was accepted into the prestigious Walt Disney All-American College Band.

Jeff earned his degree in Music Education from his beloved Michigan State University and began his 29-year tenure with the Bloomfield Public School System as the high school Band Director and then as an elementary instrumental music teacher.

Jeff was the founder and leader of Total Soul. He dedicated his time and talent creating the perfect party band that included a group of extremely talented musicians and singers. He also founded Soul Party Sound where he was the lead sound engineer for many local bands.

As a talented trombonist and member of the Chops Horn section, Jeff played with many great artists such as John Legend, Mariah Carey, Patty Labelle, Stevie Wonder, Alicia Keys (MTV Unplugged), Ray Chew (Macy’s 4th of July Celebration), Lesley Gore, Bowzer of Sha Na Na, Michael J. Fox & Joann Jett (Jackie Robinson Foundation), R&B artists at The Apollo and so many more.

Predeceased by his parents, Edward and Dorothy (nee: Brown), and brothers-in-law, Arthur Pabst, and John Lloyd. Jeff was also predeceased by his faithful companions, Louie and Tiki.

He is survived by his loving, supportive, and patient wife, Marie (nee: Farese), and his adoring sons of whom he was most proud: Eric Edward, Bryan Philip, and Roger Mark. Jeff was happy to welcome Natalie Fariello (Eric’s fiancé), and Emma Logan (Bryan’s fiancé) to his family. He is also survived by his cherished siblings, Edward Jr., Gail Pabst, Lynn Taylor (Kenneth Taylor), and Janice Lloyd.

He was loved by his many nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces and great-nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that for those who wish can make a donation in his memory to the American Heart Association at heart.org, or any charity that you prefer.

Jeff, You're right... Marie