James S. Van Gorder, Jr. of Highland Lakes, NJ (formerly of Ridgefield, NJ) passed away peacefully on May 22, 2018. He was 86 years old.
Born in Clark Summit, PA on December 12, 1931 to parents Violet (Bevan) and James S. Van Gorder.
James served in the Army in Germany during the Korean War.
James was married to Patricia (Augustitus) Van Gorder. James and Patricia would have been married 62 years next month (June 24, 1956).
He worked as a printer with the Graphic Communications Union Local. As a printer, James worked for American Book in Saddle Brook, NJ and Scott Printing in Jersey City. He loved his work. He also worked as a funeral director assistant and driver for Blackley Funeral Home in Ridgefield, NJ for many years.
James was a life member of the Ridgefield, NJ Fire Department where he served as Chief for several years. He also was a member of the Ridgefield VFW. He loved spending time at the lake and being outdoors. He loved his former cat Charlie.
James is survived by his wife, Patricia Van Gorder; three daughters: Pamela Boschert of Westwood, NJ; Lauren Buhowski of Phillipsburg, NJ; Diane McNulty of Oakridge, NJ; two sons: James S. Van Gorder III of Florida, NY, and Thomas Van Gorder of Highland Lakes, NJ; a brother, Fred Van Gorder of Newton, NJ; 11 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by a daughter, Sandra in 1964.
Visitation will be on Monday, May 28, 2018 from 4-7p.m. at Lazear-Smith & Vander Plaat Memorial Home, 17 Oakland Ave., Warwick. A funeral service will be on Tuesday, May 29 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by interment in Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Tenafly, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Our Lady of Fatima Church (184 Breakneck Rd. Highland Lakes, NJ 07422) would be appreciated by the family.