Probation Association of New Jersey
Walter H. Engelhardt, Jr., 85, died peacefully on May 1, 2024, surrounded by his loving and adoring children.
Born in Newark, NJ, to the late Walter, Sr., and Louise Engelhardt, nee Simpson, he was raised in Elizabeth, NJ, and was a graduate of St. Mary’s High School, Elizabeth, NJ, where he met the love of his life, Anne Doherty. He married Anne in 1966 and the two lived in Clark, NJ, before moving to Bridgewater, NJ, where they settled and raised their family.
Mr. Engelhardt received his Bachelor’s Degree from Seton Hall University before proudly serving his country as a member of the United States Army during the Cold War, and was honorably discharged in 1964. After his military service, Mr. Engelhardt went on the receive his Master of Arts Degree in Education from Kean College. He then worked for the Union County Probation Department for over forty years, retiring as a Principal Probation Officer.
Mr. Engelhardt was extremely active and involved in sports and his community. He enjoyed playing all manner of sports, including football, golf, bowling, horseshoes, baseball, and softball. He had a natural talent and passion for baseball, becoming a standout player in high school for the St. Mary’s Hilltoppers varsity baseball team, enjoying a long, distinguished career with the legendary Elizabeth Braves semi-pro team, and playing on numerous US Army teams during his military service. After his hardball playing days were over, he became heavily involved in numerous competitive softball leagues for the next forty years, playing on several championship teams. Mr. Engelhardt culminated his athletic career with his induction into the Union County Baseball Hall of Fame in 2016. Walter forged life-long friendships and a reputation as a great teammate during his many years on the fields of play.
Walter was also very active in his community. He was a manager and coach for many years with the Bradley Gardens youth baseball program, and was devoted to his Catholic faith, being extremely active in both the Knights of Columbus Linden and Somerville councils, and serving as a Eucharistic Minister and member of the Holy Name Society at Holy Trinity Parish, Bridgewater, NJ for many years.
Mr. Engelhardt devoted his life to his family and enjoyed many summers together in Seaside Park, Long Beach Island and later Forked River, NJ, where they would spend time together on the beach, fishing, crabbing and creating memories with his children, grandchildren and extended family. He also enjoyed attending Philadelphia Eagles and New York Giants games with family and friends as a long-time season ticket holder of both teams. Walter was an avid gardener in his back yard, and enjoyed staying busy and working around the house and on his cars, even into his 80’s. Most of all, he enjoyed the quality time with his family, especially in the last year after the loss of his beloved wife Anne who preceded him in death just last year. He is also predeceased by very special and beloved aunts, uncles, sisters in law and brothers in law.
Surviving are his loving children, MaryBeth Engelhardt, Walter H. Engelhardt, III, and Daniel Engelhardt and wife Sandy, his cherished grandchildren Maeve, Mary, Sarah, and Conal, his dear sister Mary Ann Reilly, as well as his nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, teammates, and many friends.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 8:00PM pm Thursday, May 9, 2024, at Cusick Funeral Home, 80 Mountain Avenue, Somerville.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00AM on Friday, May 10, 2024 at Holy Trinity R.C. Church, 60 Maple Street, Bridgewater. Family and friends are welcome to gather at the funeral home beginning at 9:00AM. Interment will follow at St. Gertrude Cemetery, Colonia.
Elena Mas, 66, of West New York, NJ, passed away on October 14th, 2023. She was the daughter of Anoland Molinet & Pepe Mas, the Life Partner of Lorraine Volpe, the mother of Alexandra Mas Cepero, Justin Mas, Elena Mas Volpe, & Rosa Mas Volpe, and the sister of Marisol Brage.
Elena was born in Cuba on March 16th, 1957. At 8 years old, she & her family fled the Castro regime to pursue life as Americans. At 18, during the mid-70s, Elena bravely proclaimed herself a gay woman. By 22, she had become the first in her family to earn a Bachelor's Degree and went on to earn her Master's in Criminal Justice from John Jay College. Once she completed her education, Elena became a probation officer specializing in juvenile cases. At 24, she met her life partner, Lorraine, after deciding to post a personal ad in the newspaper, The Village Voice. The next few decades were spent building a family together, a triumph for lesbians in the 80s and 90s. With a son and 3 daughters constantly running around, life certainly was never dull. Elena cherished the details of life, always ensuring she dressed fashionably, spoke loquaciously, and wore her heart on her sleeve.
A trailblazer for LGBTQ+ families & an advocate for criminal justice, we are heartbroken to say goodbye. She lived life ahead of the curve and paved the way for the next generation.
A Mass will be held on Thursday, October 19th 2023 at 10:30am at St. John the Evangelist Church in Leonia, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to West New York Leones Cubanos de Hudson Lions Club, PO Box 56, West New York, NJ 07093.
Jeanette Garner passed away peacefully at home on Monday, July 17, 2023 at the age of 70.
Jeanette was born to parents Esther and Dennis McRae on April 27, 1953 on an Army base in Germany. After receiving her Master’s in Criminal Justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, Jeanette dedicated her life to helping troubled youth during her time working at the Monmouth County Probation Office until her retirement in 2022. Jeanette married her loving husband Daniel Mory in 1996 and enjoyed a happy marriage with him as long-time residents of Asbury Park, NJ.
Jeannette is survived by her husband Daniel, her mother Esther, her son John Garner, and her step-children David and his wife Diane of Hillsborough, NJ, Adam and his wife Kimberly of East Brunswick, NJ, and Nicole Mory of East Brunswick, NJ, along with grandchildren Michael, Brandon, Ryan, and Connor. She is also survived by her nieces Jennifer Rodriguez and Devon McRae. Jeanette is predeceased by her father Dennis and her brothers Dennis and Ronald McRae.
Visitation Friday July 21, 2023 9:00 am- 11:00 am Buckley Funeral Home 509 Second Ave. Asbury Park, NJ. 07712. Entombment immediately following. Woodbine Cemetery. Oceanport, NJ. 07757
Frank R. Affrunti Jr., 52 of Little Egg Harbor, NJ passed away on Monday July 3rd, 2023. Frank was born in Stratford, NJ and spent many years living in Marmora, NJ before moving to Little Egg Harbor 3 years ago. Frank retired as a Probation Officer for the State of New Jersey and enjoyed watching The Price is Right, collecting trains and good food.
Frank was predeceased by his father Frank R. Affrunti Sr.
He is survived by his loving wife of 19 years AnnMarie Affrunti, daughter Emma Marie Affrunti of Little Egg Harbor, NJ, son Nicholas Alexander Affrunti of Little Egg Harbor, NJ, mother Marie Affrunti, brother Adam Affrunti and wife Irene of Las Vegas, NV, sister Christina Cook, mother-in-law Maria Mantovano, father-in-law Roland Mantovano, brothers-in-law Mario and Michael Mantovano and sister-in-law Theresa Mantovano.
Visitation will be held on Saturday July 8, 2023 from 2-4pm at Maxwell Funeral Home 160 Mathistown Rd. Little Egg Harbor, NJ 08087. Cremation will be private.
Laurie Ann (Wendel) Vedral, beloved mother, treasured wife, cherished sister, Aunt and loyal friend, went to be with the Lord on Friday, August 19, 2022. She was born to Mildred E. and Robert A. Wendel on December 17, 1959 in Camden, NJ. Laurie graduated from Sterling High School in 1978 and went on to attend and graduate from Trenton State College in 1983 with a degree in Criminal Justice. She worked for the State of New Jersey for 35-years as a Senior Probation Officer and retired in July of 2020. Laurie married David Vincent Vedral in 1989 and welcomed Jacob Vincent Robert in 1995 and Tyler David Chan in 1996. She enjoyed traveling, crafting, camping, walking and visiting friends and relatives. Laurie and Dave settled in Galloway Township, NJ and participated in church, scouting and school activities. Laurie was known for an energetic work ethic, sense of humor and love of nature and animals. Laurie is survived by her husband, Dave, her two sons; Jacob, (his fiancé Bethany Opie) and Tyler, her sisters, Diane Wise of Ellicott City, MD and Gail Wendel of Vincentown, NJ, her brother Rick Wendel of Shalimar, FL and nephews and nieces.
Dennis D. Occhipinti, Aman of great faith; he loved being with family Dennis D. Occhipinti, 73, husband, father, grandfather, friend, entered into eternal life on Saturday, May 14, 2022 at RWJ University Hospital in Hamilton surrounded by his family. Born and raised in Elizabeth, NJ,
Barbara J Browning, a resident of National Park, New Jersey, passed away on Tuesday, January 4, 2022. She was 59.
Todd Benintente, 58, of South Amboy died on Tuesday September 14, 2021 at Raritan Bay Medical Center, Perth Amboy. Born in Orange he lived in Jackson before settling in South Amboy. He was employed as a Probation Officer in Ocean County for 30 years.
Michael S. Reilly, 71 of Kearny passed away at home on September 8, 2021.
Jeffrey Gross, 65, of Toms River, NJ passed away at his home on Thursday August 19, 2021 after fighting a courageous battle with leukemia. Jeff was born and raised in Jersey City until moving to Toms River 25 years ago. He was a graduate of St. Peter’s Prep High School and St. Peter’s University, both in Jersey City. He worked as a probation officer in Monmouth County for 23 years until retiring in June 2021. Jeff was an active member and assisted with many charitable events with the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh. He was a champion weight lifter and a gym enthusiast. He was an avid Los Angeles Rams football fan and San Francisco Giants baseball fan. He loved Mrs. Walkers ice cream.
Joseph William Robortaccio, 42, of Lafayette, NJ passed away on Monday December 7, 2020 at Newton Medical Center.
Born in Livingston, NJ on November 9, 1978 to Mario and Gail (Brombacher) Robortaccio, Joseph was retired from his position as a Probation Officer in Sussex and Morris County. He graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Rutgers University. Joseph excelled in various forms of martial arts. He was an avid reader. Joseph was always willing to lend a helping hand, but most of all, he was a loving son and brother.
Survivors include his beloved parents, Gail and Mario, loving brother Michael and his dear wife, Julie, his precious nieces Leah and Charlotte, Uncle Rocco and Aunt Renate and cousins Peter, Raven, Xavier, David and Monica Robortaccio and Michelle, William and Brian Brombacher.
A memorial service may be held at a later date. Arrangements are entrusted to Leber-Lakeside Funeral Home, 150 Landing Road, Landing, NJ. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Joseph's memory to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org.
David Yennior, 73, of Belleville, N.J., passed away on December 15, 2020, at the age of 73. Son of the late Lloyd and Dorothy Yennior, David is survived by his beloved wife, Anne Hirs, his four sons, Joel, Paul, Todd and Ross Yennior, and his seven grandchildren. He also leaves behind three siblings: brothers, Larry and Chris Yennior, and sister, Peggy Houck, as well as several cousins, nieces, nephews and other loved ones. Born April 19, 1947, in Almont, Mich., David attended Oakland University, where he played as an original member of the Golden Grizzlies basketball team (now Division I, NCAA). David later earned an M.A. in Sociology from Montclair State University, and a Certificate in Public Administration from Kean University. David began his career as a History teacher in West Orange, N.J., before transitioning to his 36-year career as a Principal Probation Officer in Essex County, N.J. Dedicated to his role in public service, David was proud of the many individuals and families he assisted through his work in probation, and while serving as a Family Mediator for the NJ Judiciary. Recognized for his leadership with the Probation Association of New Jersey (PANJ), David was outspoken in addressing concerns and improving conditions within the workplace. Following his retirement, David served as a Labor Consultant for the Probation Association of NJ, as a secretary for the Fraternal Order of Police, and as President of the Valley Crest Condo Association. A strong advocate for the environment and for progressive social values, David was engaged in local and national politics, and served for 10 years as the Chair of the Gateway Group of the NJ Sierra Club where he focused much of his attention on revitalizing the Passaic River. David possessed an engaging and outgoing personality, and enjoyed forming new friendships. A music lover and an avid supporter of live jazz and blues music, David was a regular patron of NJ/NYC music venues, and he enjoyed sharing his enthusiasm with musicians and with fellow patrons. David also enjoyed spending time outdoors, and swing/ballroom dancing with his loving wife, Anne. Due to the social restrictions of the Covid pandemic, plans for a memorial service will be set at a future date. Expressions of sympathy in David's memory can be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org.
Stephen J. Hennessey, 60, of Toms River, NJ passed away on Saturday September 3, 2016 at home.
Stephen was born in Lakewood, NJ he lived his whole life in Toms River.
Stephen was a Probation Officer with Monmouth County for 30 + years.
He was a parishioner of St. Luke's RC Church, Toms River, NJ.
Predeceased by his father Radcliffe Hennessey and his brother in-law Robert Catron.
Stephen is survived by his mother Eleanor (Gehringer) Hennessey of Toms River NJ, his brother Radcliffe Hennessey and his wife Gail of Harpursville, NY, his four sisters Kathleen Catron of Manchester, NJ, Nancy Klock and her husband Gary of Cuba, NY, Melanie Simpson and her husband Joseph of Venice, FL, and Maureen Tillander and her husband Steven of Beachwood, NJ and also his nephews Marc Simpson and his fiance Grecia, Jacob Klock and Joshua TIllander.
A funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday September 7, 2016 9:15am St. Luke's RC Church, Toms River, NJ. Entombment will follow to Ocean County Memorial Park, Toms River, NJ. The Timothy E. Ryan Home for Funerals 145 St. Catherine Blvd. Toms RIver, NJ is in charge of the arrangements.
Condolences may be sent by visiting: www.ryanfuneralhome.com
Stephen J. Hennessey's Obituary
Cary P. Clayton, 71, of Neptune, died Friday August 8, 2014 at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune. He was a Probation Officer for Monmouth County before retiring. Mr. Clayton was a veteran of the US Army, a member of the American Legion and he received his Bachelor of Arts Degree from James Madison University. Surviving are his sons, David and his wife Julie of Robbinsville and Cary P. and his wife Kimberly of Hamilton, his life partner, Pamela Murphy of Lake Como, his sister Judy Dusche of Tennessee and his 5 grandchildren, Max, Emily, Winston, Konrad and Lennox.
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Semper Fidelis – Always Faithful - Harold E. LaSalle, 76, of Holiday City South section of Berkeley Twp., NJ passed away on Thursday July 24, 2014. Born in Jersey City, NJ, where he was a lifelong resident then lived in Lakewood, NJ for 3 years before moving to Berkeley Twp., NJ in 1996. Harold was a retired NJ State Investigator, Probation Officer, Kraft Foods and former Port of NY & NJ Authority Police Officer. He was a parishioner of St. Maximilian Kolbe RC Church Berkeley Twp., NJ where he served as Eucharistic Minister and Lector. As a veteran, he proudly served his country in the US Marine Corps and was a Fourth Degree Knight of the Archbishop Damiano Assembly. He was predeceased by his lovely and devoted wife of 39 years Frances LaSalle (Enright).
Patricia R. Spruill, 61, passed away on Nov. 17, 2013, after a brief illness. The celebration of her life will be held today (Friday), Nov. 22, 2013, at St. Luke A.M.E. Church, 146-151 Clinton Ave., Newark, N.J., commencing at 6 p.m. Visitation will be held at the church from 4 to 6 p.m. Interment will be held on Saturday at 10 a.m. at Lake View Memorial Park, Cinnaminson, N.J. Arrangements are by Whigham Funeral Home. Patricia was a native of Newark and had resided in Willingboro, N.J., for many years. She had recently retired as a court services supervisor for the State of New Jersey after 32 years of service. She leaves to cherish her memory a daughter, Robyn T. Spruill; her mother, Marian Hankerson; her father, Frank Robinson; one sister, Karen R. Morgan; two brothers, Dr. Frank E. Robinson and Gilbert A. Robinson; and also a special aunt, Margaret Wright.
Published in Star-Ledger from Nov. 21 to Nov. 22, 2013
MURREL, STEPHANIE IRENE - of Egg Harbor Township, was born on April 5th, 1954 in Somers Point. Stephanie departed this life on Wednesday, June 19th, 2013. She was the beloved daughter of the late Barbara I. Murrel and Richard W. Murrel. Stephanie was educated in the South Jersey Public School System and graduated from Ocean City High School in 1974. She attended Atlantic Community College and Trenton State College where she received a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice. Stephanie soon joined the Judiciary Court System in 1987 gaining 25 years of service. She started out as a clerical worker and later advanced to the level of Senior Probation Officer. Stephanie loved her work and helping people. Stephanie enjoyed shopping, dining out and just talking with friends. There was nothing that was more important if you needed her time. She may not have had the answer but she had an ear. Those that were close to her understood and respected her opinion. She had a very loving heart. Stephanie w as a sister and friend, and she will be sorely missed. She leaves to cherish her memory: Richard R. Murrel of Egg Harbor Township; Harry S. Murrel of Pleasantville; Keith A. Murrel of Hanover, MD; Tracy K. Murrel of Cranford, and Doris E. Murrel of Cheltenham, MD, as well as a host of other relatives and friends. Her Funeral Service will be offered Thursday morning at 11 o'clock from Heavens Way Baptist Church, 5082 Treemont Ave., Egg Harbor Township, NJ where friends may call from half past ten o'clock until the time of service. Burial will follow in Lincoln Memorial Park, Mays Landing, NJ.
Esther Torres, 55, of Sayreville, went home to be with the Lord on June 3, 2013. Born in Brownsville, Texas, she resided in Jersey city with her husband and family most of her life before moving to Sayreville. Esther received her bachelors degree in criminal justice and worked as a Senior Probation Officer for the State of New Jersey for 28 years before recently retiring. She enjoyed reading, traveling and taking a run to exercise. She was most happy spending time with her family and her beloved grandchildren. She was a loving wife, mother, and grandma.
She was predeceased by her mother Maria Juarez. Surviving her is her husband of 35 years Anibal Torres; son Alex Torres; grandchildren Genesis and Kristian; daughter-in-law Alexandra Torres; father Isaias Juarez; brothers Benny and Ernie Juarez; sisters Rebecca Soto and Mary Savitsky; brother-in-law David Fresse, Nelson Fresse and Hector Lugo and sisters-in-law Rosalina Bautista, Darlene Fresse, Jeanette Fresse, Olga Fresse and Carol Juarez.
Margaret Faughnan, 69, retired Senior Probation Officer- Monmouth County, of Holmdel,NJ, passed away at home Sunday May 27th, 2012. Margaret was born in Brooklyn, New York and resided in Long Island before moving to Holmdel. Margaret was predeceased by her husband Joseph Faughnan, a brother Leland Perry, and a brother-in-law Brian Cassidy. She is survived by her sister-in-law Mary Cassidy of Holmdel: a step-brother James Mauritzen and his wife Kathy of Lake Carmel, New York; a sister Jan Pridgen of Colorado; and a sister Norece Embody and her husband Bill of Tennessee. Margaret is also survived by her loving nieces and nephews Diane and her husband John Callari and their son Aidan; Mark and Lindsay Cassidy and their son Mason; and Kerry Mauritzen.
Margaret had become a recent member of the First Presbyterian Church of Matawan. Margaret recently retired as a Senior Probation Officer, NJ State Judiciary.
Nancy A. Pollinger, 58, of Middletown passed away Sunday, Dec. 19, 2010 at Riverview Medical Center, Red Bank. She was born in Staten Island, NY and lived in Towson, MD, Bay Village, OH, before moving to Middletown, NJ 32 years ago. She graduated Marietta College in 1974 with a BA degree in Psychology and was a member of the Sigma Kappa Sorority. She retired in 2009 after a 28-year career in the Superior Court, Family Division in Freehold. She held various positions, including Director of the Juvenile Crisis Unit, Juvenile Team Leader and Senior Probation Officer. She was also an active member of the Youth Services Commission as well as a number of juvenile justice committees. After retiring, Nancy continued serving her community volunteering on the Juvenile Detention Alternatives Steering Committee. Nancy was a member of the New Jersey Probation Officer's Association and Middletown Policeman's Wives Association. Nancy loved animals, enjoyed reading, gardening, her annual vacation to Cancun, Mexico and her 1976 AMC Pacer.
She is survived by her mother, Audrey C. Moodie, Middletown, NJ; sister and brother-in-law, Sheila and Ronald Ohnmacht, Little Egg Harbor, NJ; brother and sister-in-law, Steven and Laurel Moodie of Albuquerque, NM; nieces and nephews, Ronald, Nancy, Steven, Audrey and Kelley; great nieces and nephews, Rebecca, Aiden and Landon. She is also survived by her friend and former spouse, John F. Pollinger of Palm Coast, FL. Nancy was preceded in death by her father, Captain Steven Moodie (2004) and her brother, Bruce Moodie (1961).
Friends and relatives will be received at King of Kings Lutheran Church Middletown, NJ from 4-7 PM on Wednesday, December 22 with a service at 7:00 PM. Arrangements are under the direction of the John F. Pfleger Funeral Home, 115 Tindall Rd. Middletown, NJ. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Monmouth County SPCA Eatontown, NJ. For more information, to send condolences or directions, please visit www.pflegerfh.com
Senior Probation Officer Vincent Walker passed away untimely on July 22, 2009. He was a Officer in the Atlantic VicinAge and was also past PANJ President of the Atlantic City Local for many years prior to his recent medical retirement. He was a member of the PANJ labor contract negotiations Executive team in past. He was a friend to his co-workers and colleagues and to many of us who knew him as a member of the State-wide PANJ Executive Board. At his formal retirement ceremonial on Nov 18,2008 many of his colleagues and fellow PANJ members paid tribute to him as well. He will be remembered by many of us a good friend and who was very proud to be called a Probation Officer. PANJ expresses it deep regrets and sympathies to his mother Joan and Family.