Maria Massa Metzger, 60, passed away peacefully at home on August 13th, surrounded by her loving family, following a courageous four-year battle with ovarian cancer.
Maria was born and raised in Prince’s Bay, Staten Island. She graduated from Tottenville High School and went on to attend NYC College of Technology (City Tech) in Downtown Brooklyn, where she studied dental technology. Maria was a highly skilled dental laboratory professional who specialized in the hands-on craftsmanship and fabrication of crowns, partial dentures, full dentures, and dental implants.
Throughout her career, Maria also worked as a housekeeper at Eger Nursing Home. She especially enjoyed spending time with the seniors, listening to their stories, and caring for the residents. More recently, Maria retired from her position as a school aide at P.S. 69, where she worked for more than 18 years. She loved working with the children and took great pride in making a positive difference in their lives. During those years, she formed many wonderful friendships that she cherished.
Maria and her husband moved to the Travis neighborhood of Staten Island, a community she came to love dearly and where they would raise their family. She became deeply involved in the neighborhood and formed many lasting friendships. Maria was an active member of the Travis Fourth of July Celebration Committee, where she helped organize the annual parade and took on a variety of responsibilities for 24 years. In 2024, the Travis community honored Maria by selecting her as the Grand Marshal of the parade. She was overjoyed and deeply honored to receive such a special recognition from the community she loved.
Maria had many passions and hobbies throughout her life. She was a member of the Ladies of the Great Kills Yacht Club, where she served as Commodoress in 2012 and led the ladies’ auxiliary as well as hosted countless gatherings for both children and adults. When Superstorm Sandy struck Staten Island, Maria played an important role in the cleanup and recovery efforts.
An avid boater, Maria also loved kayaking, sailing, and fishing. She enjoyed walking along the beaches, searching for sea glass and other sea-worn treasures, and had a special affection for classic cars. She spent countless hours alongside her husband working on and restoring old cars and trucks—projects they enjoyed together.
Maria was happiest when she was keeping busy. When she wasn’t relaxing on her boat, she could often be found tending to her garden. She especially loved sunflowers and cacti, and took great joy in growing fresh strawberries and sharing them with her family. Maria also loved music and attending concerts. Over the years, she had the opportunity to see hundreds of live shows and performances. She was a devoted parishioner of St. Anthony’s Church in Travis.
Family was at the heart of Maria’s life. She treasured her husband and best friend, Gabriel Metzger, and cherished every moment spent with her children, Mariah Gambino and husband Joe, Gabriel Jr. Metzger, Jared Metzger, and Cory Metzger. She is also survived by her beloved sisters, Doreen Traut and husband Peter, Deborah Perroth and husband Glenn, and her mother, Maureen Massa.
Above all, Maria adored her granddaughter, Sabrina Gambino, who held a very special place in her heart. The love they shared was truly precious to her.
Maria was a truly unique and special person, known for her generous spirit, positive outlook, and wonderful sense of humor. Her smile could light up a room, and her warmth made everyone around her feel welcome. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories, friendships, laughter, love, and countless lives that she touched along the way. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.