Obituary of Jack DeAngelis
Jack DeAngelis, age 98, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at New Jersey Eastern Star Rehabilitation and Nursing in Bridgewater, New Jersey. Born on September 3, 1925, to Frank and Anna DeAngelis in Cliffside Park, New Jersey, Jack spent his early years in Cliffside Park before his family relocated to Middlesex, New Jersey, when he was four years old. Jack remained a lifelong resident of Middlesex, deeply rooted in the community he loved.
From a young age, Jack was introduced to the art of carpentry by his adopted father, John Patrick. This early tutelage instilled in him a passion and skill for woodworking that would define his life's work. On July 7, 1943, Jack enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served as a carpenter first mate. His role was critical, as he worked on boats where planes took off and landed, ensuring the safety and functionality of the flight decks. Jack's duties included blocking wheels, nailing down loose planks, and extinguishing fires caused by the intense activity of the planes. His service was marked by bravery and dedication, often under the threat of enemy attack in shark-infested waters. Jack was honorably discharged on May 5, 1946, after serving his country with distinction.
Upon returning home from the Navy, Jack's entrepreneurial spirit was ignited by the generosity of a local lumberyard owner, Mr. Robertson, who loaned him the money to start his own carpentry business. This act of kindness set the stage for a remarkable career. Jack founded Jack DeAngelis LLC and Polaris Holding Corp, both based in Middlesex, New Jersey. Over the years, he built countless homes throughout the area, contributing significantly to the community's development. His craftsmanship was also seen in his work on public buildings, including one of the firehouses and the roof of Our Lady of Mount Virgin Church.
Jack's reputation as a skilled carpenter and a fair, honest businessman earned him the respect and gratitude of many. He mentored numerous individuals, teaching them the trade and helping them start their careers. His love for carpentry was evident not only in his professional life but also in his personal projects, as he often assisted friends and family with their home improvements.
A devout Catholic, Jack's faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was a long-time member of Our Lady Of Mount Virgin in Middlesex and more recently attended St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church in Bound Brook, New Jersey. His commitment to service extended beyond his professional life; Jack was a volunteer firefighter for the Lincoln Hose Company #1 MFD in Middlesex for many years. He would often leave his carpentry work to answer the call of duty, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to his community.
Jack's hobbies reflected his diverse interests and zest for life. He was an avid woodworker, creating birdhouses and wooden reindeer for friends and family, especially during the Christmas season. He had a passion for riding snowmobiles and race cars, and he was a devoted NASCAR fan. Every year, Jack and his oldest son Glenn would attend the Daytona 500, a cherished tradition. One of his most thrilling memories was being driven around Pocono Raceway by a NASCAR driver at the age of 89, an experience that highlighted his adventurous spirit and physical vitality.
Jack's love for racing extended to the local level, where he enjoyed taking his family to Flemington Raceway Park to watch cars race on the dirt tracks. In his younger years, he owned an Indian motorcycle and loved cruising around, embracing the freedom and excitement it offered. Even at the age of 89, Jack's adventurous spirit shone through when he went zip lining in Virginia, completing the entire course and setting a record as one of the oldest participants.
Jack was an extremely patriotic man, always wearing a patriotic shirt and walking around town with his World War II veterans hat on. His pride in his service and love for his country were evident to all who knew him.
Jack is survived by his loving wife, Beth DeAngelis, and his five children: Glenn DeAngelis and his wife MaryAnn, David DeAngelis, Lori and her husband, Paul, Bernadine, and her husband, Jason Provost, and David Fetchko, and his wife, Elizabeth. He is also survived by four grandchildren: Glenn DeAngelis, Jr., Anthony DeAngelis, Michael Nerger, and Evelyn Rose Fetchko, as well as eight great-grandchildren: Holly, Devon, Joseph, Hannah, Jason, Glenn III, June, and Caroline. Jack was predeceased by his siblings, Frank and Josephine.
Jack's life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and integrity. He was a World War II veteran, a master carpenter, a loving family man, and a devout Catholic. His legacy is one of service to his country, his community, and his family. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Rest in peace, Jack DeAngelis. Your life was a shining example of what it means to live with purpose and passion.
All funeral services are being held privately.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Lincoln Hose Company #1 MFD at 615 Mountain Ave., Middlesex, NJ 08846, or to the Wounded Warrior Project, organizations that reflect Jack's values of service and generosity.
