Obituary of Richard S. Doochack
In loving memory of Richard S. Doochack, 86, who passed away on Sunday, September 17, 2023, at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, New Brunswick. A native son of Green Brook, Richard later resided in Raritan, before finding his forever home in Bridgewater, NJ, in 1973.
Richard wore the navy blue with pride as he served our country during the Korean Conflict, stationed off Turkey's coast aboard the USS Abbot. His commitment to service continued in the reserves in his beloved New Jersey.
While he dedicated many years as a boiler operator at American Cyanimid in Bridgewater, Richard's heart found joy in the doughnut shop he established with his cherished wife, Cindy. Mr. D’s Doughnuts became not just a place for treats but a community cornerstone. For thirteen heartwarming years, Richard's enthusiasm for celebrating holidays, contributing to local causes, and sharing stories with patrons made the shop a special place.
In the embrace of family, Richard lovingly took on the title of "Pop pop," a testament to his unique character and the playful bond he shared with his grandchildren. A man of many interests, Pop pop's younger years were filled with flights in the sky and sails on the water. His keen eye never missed a garage sale, and he had a distinct penchant for regular visits to Home Depot and Shoprite. Beyond these quirks, his entrepreneurial spirit thrived in refurbishing homes, with his latest project being a Florida home at age 82. However, his greatest joy was connecting with people, always eager to exchange stories and smiles.
He is predeceased by his wife, Cindy; daughter, Deborah Dawn Cherneski; siblings, Gail, Jane, and Stephen; and parents, Stephen and Julianne Doochack.
His legacy continues through his daughters Cindy Morgan (Norman), Julie Summers, and Diana Vacca (Vince); seven grandchildren Joshua (Jess), Sarah (Victor), Morgan (Dominick), Athena, Natasha, David, and Nadia; and seven great-grandchildren Lilly, Azalea, Magnolia, Salem, Sophia, Hazel, and Nico. His memory is also cherished by his sisters, Francine Mizeski and Julianne Grillo.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, NJ. A celebration of Richard's life will follow the next day on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests memorial donations to the Susan G. Komen Foundation at komen.org.
