Appel, Ronald (Ron) E., beloved father, husband, and son, passed away tragically on May 4th, 2023, in Oakland, NJ, at the age of 58 due to a motor vehicle accident. Ron was born in Bloomingdale, NJ, to Vernon Charles Jr and Gail Appel. Ron and his father owned and operated Appel Trucking for 40 years, where he worked tirelessly to provide for his family. He was fortunate enough to spend every day working with his father, Vernon Charles Jr and son, Kevin in their family business. Ron was one of a kind, known for his sense of humor, love for his family, and ability to make everyone laugh and feel better. He had a larger-than-life personality and loved getting to know people. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need and was widely respected and well known in the community. Ron enjoyed his motorcycles and trucks, but most of all, he cherished spending time with his family and friends. He was the life of the party and always made any gathering more fun. Ron is survived by his wife, Kristin, parents, Vernon Charles Jr and Gail Appel, brother, Vernon Charles III, beloved children, Christopher (Savannah) and their soon to be born grandson, Kevin, and Craig (Gabrielle), in-laws Tim, Deborah (Ed), Kelly (Jayson), Tim (Rachel), nieces and nephews Keith Jr, Brandon, Mariah, Kaylee, Timmy and Sophia. Ron was predeceased by his brother, Keith and his grandparents. A memorial visitation for Ron will be held at Richards Funeral Home, located at 4 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale, NJ 07457 on Friday, May 12th from 2pm - 4pm and 6pm to 8pm. The family kindly requests donations to be made to a charity of your choice in lieu of flowers. Rest in peace, Ron - may your spirit continue to bring smiles to those who remember you. And to whoever is driving the truck at the pearly gates, we hope you're ready for one heck of a ride! Thanks for the memories Ron, you will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing you. Until we meet again.

Bartlett, James, Firefighter and Friend, 62, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 21st, 2023, in the arms of his devoted wife, Pamela Bayer Bartlett. His sister-in-law, Kristin Bayer was honored to be present. Born on July, 6th, 1960 to his loving parents Ursula and Joseph Bartlett, Jimmy lived a rambunctious young life in Carlstadt, New Jersey, with his five siblings. Jimmy often referenced his childhood and proudly shared that he was known as the “golden child". Courageous and giving, Jimmy served for seven years as a decorated firefighter, member of the emergency squad, certified fire inspector with the Woodridge Fire Department; and for another six years, as a volunteer firefighter, inspector, and chief engineer in Glen Rock, NJ. Following the 9/11 attack at the World Trade Center, Jimmy was called in for emergency response and worked as part of the evidence recovery team. This exposed him, and many of his firefighter brothers, to the toxins that led to his colon cancer diagnosis in February 2022. Throughout his life, Jimmy had a passion for helping others and was often called on in any emergency – weather, fire, or family. He was always there for anyone that needed him, earning him a reputation for being the “go-to guy". One of Jimmy’s many endearing characteristics was that he truly cared about those around him and loved his friends deeply. Friends of Jimmy’s know his commitment to their friendship and the happiness he shared with them. Before he fought his own battle, he stood by several friends as they dealt with cancer, including his brother-in-law Michael, his sister Kathy, and Glen Rock firefighter friend Sonny, even taking Sonny’s beloved dog Molly after his passing. Hardworking and dedicated, Jimmy was proud of his successful 38-year career in the County of Bergen, where he started with mechanics and worked himself into a position of Director of Mechanical Services. His career meant everything to him and made him feel fulfilled. Jimmy was fun-loving and spirited and enjoyed a colorful and ad-venturous life. His firefighter brothers, coworkers and loved ones will affectionately remember his crazy antics, teasing and practical jokes. From pebbles in your Keurig to lawn art on your roof, Jimmy was always playing pranks. (Like the time he put red dye in the fountain of a dear friend and turned it on; the cherub looked like the exorcist!) Nine years ago, Jimmy married the girl next door, Pamela. He called their marriage a love affair and the two often wrote affectionate cards to each other. Together, they bought a house on the lake in Hewitt that they shared with Pamela’s mother, Bettie Bayer, and their three dogs – Zilla, Ruby and Darla. There they welcomed friends and family to join ATV rides, excursions on their pontoon boat and evening bonfires. The lake house is so perfect it even came with the most wonderful neighbors - Glenn and Paola Kreger, and their dog Logan. From an early age, Jimmy had a passion for vintage bikes. He loved to ride and feel the wind in his face. Jimmy even encouraged Pamela to get her license, so she could ride independently by his side; and he proudly worked on them with his dear friend Andy Abbene and his bonus son Dylan Dimick. Jimmy was preceded in death by his brother Bruce Bartlett and sister Kathy Schak; and is survived by his sisters Christine Castellano, Ursula Polignone, and Barbara O’Rourke, his children Barry Bartlett, Nicole Marquez, his grandchildren Cody and Daphne Marquez, his bonus children Dylan Dimick and Courtney D’Agostino, and many in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins. Jimmy leaves behind his wife, Pamela, with a bro ken heart. All will miss him daily and hold onto each memory with love. Visitation will be held at Richards Funeral Home (1440 Union Valley Road, West Milford) on Wednesday, May 24th, 2023 at 2pm-4pm and 6pm -8pm. A funeral service will be held at St. Joseph Church (454 Germantown Road, West Milford) at 11am on Thursday, May 25th followed by burial on St. Joseph’s. Please support our dear friend Jennifer from The Flour Shop for floral arrangements (973 728 9521); donations to St. Joseph’s Church in Jimmy’s memory will be greatly appreciated. There are no words that can express how grateful we are to our friends, who truly became family, for supporting Jimmy through this journey

Behrle, Ann, 89, formerly Ann Noble, Anna Zivkovich died peacefully on Friday, May 26 2023 after a life of love and kindness that was shared by many loving family members, friends and everyone she touched. Born in a coal mining town in Fayette County, PA, Anna Zivkovich was the daughter of Djuro (George) Zivkovich and Anna Krewasky and siblings to brothers Mel, Eli, Peter, Steven and sisters Martha, Dorothy and Zora.  Ann graduated from Brownsville High School, Class of 1952 and enrolled at the University of Maryland after graduation.  It was there while living with her sister Martha and her husband Bob that she met and soon married Paul Noble, with whom she had 3 boys and was later married to Frederick Behrle, each for 27 years.  She obtained an associate degree in accounting from Dominican College, class of 1983, and was employed by Spring Valley High School as Attendance Clerk for years where she always saw the best in everyone and helped many to graduate on time. Later she worked at East Ramapo Board of Ed, was the bookkeeper for Firestone Tire in Spring Valley and she retired from her last job at Michael J. Porro & Co. a financial advisory firm in Old Tappan, NJ. She was a brilliant bridge player and was always the center of social activity for many friends and of course, her family.  She could cook enough for an army on any occasion and she made the finest southern fried chicken in all the land.  She had an infectious laugh and absolutely cherished children, any children.  Most of all she was kind to everyone she encountered and loved to laugh with you. She is survived by her sons Paul W. Noble, James K. Noble, and Michael A. Noble and grandchildren Brian Noble, Kevin Noble, Jeremy Noble, Brett Noble, and Lindsey Noble, and great-grandchildren Lev, Emmett, Maya, and Luke. A visitation is scheduled for Thursday, June 1 at Richards Funeral Home, 1440 Union Valley Rd., West Milford NJ from 4-8pm. The funeral service will take place on Saturday, June 3 at St. Georges Serbian Orthodox Church, 296 Old Route 21, Carmichaels, PA from 11:00 with mass at 12:00 and all are invited to share a meal at Dolfi’s Restaurant in Masontown immediately following the burial service.  In lieu of flowers we ask that you make a donation in her memory to the Center for Food Action,192 Demarest Ave., Englewood, NJ cfanj.org

Bychek, Margaret, Where to begin? In this case, it starts with an end. An end to the life of our Mother and Mom, Margaret Bychek. She turned 96 a few months ago, was in relative good physical health by the standards of a 90-year old. But gradual memory loss over the last 12 years or so hastened her deterioration. A proud graduate of Butler High, Class of ‘46, was born and grew up in Bloomingdale. She worked at Ward’s Drugstore where she met our father, Michael, fell in love and married. Marge, as he called her, also worked for the phone company in Paterson. They lived a brief time in Passaic before having their first child and bought a home in Clifton, had a second and then a third child. During this time, they became members of Belle Vista Methodist Church.  Dad become the Treasurer and Mom taught Sunday School for 30 plus years. In those days, you knew everyone in church and where they sat. We were third row, right side until the kids joined Dad in the Choir, which left Mom to occupy our pew.  The family spent countless hours helping out with the Fall Fair, with Mom selling the tickets, the boys selling soda and everyone pitching in to build and take down and store the booths. Cutting grass, tiling the floor of the Fellowship Hall, running movie nights, dinners and square dances were only some of the activities in which we took part. The mid 60’s had Mom taking a job at Montclair State College at the Faculty/Student Co-op. They ran the cafeteria and bookstore in the Student Center and student fees went through their office. By the time she retired in 1995, she had risen to the position of President in the organization. Unfortunately, Dad passed away in 1993, but Mom never slowed down. She was very active with the Seniors, taking bus trips, cruises and traveling on her own. Nothing ever stood in her way if she wanted to do something. 2006 found Mom buying a 2 bedroom apartment at Cedar Crest in Pompton Plains. Again, she was active taking advantage of trips offered and activities in which she excelled including Wii Bowling and Golf. She was even featured in advertising for the community. While her life is at it’s end, she leaves behind family that is still growing because of her love and devotion. Margaret is survived by her children David and wife Jackie, Janice Brady and husband Don, predeceased by her son Allen in 2020, survived by his wife Cheryl. Grandmother of six, Chris Brady and wife Stanislava, Alison Bychek Becker and her late husband Chris, Mark Brady and wife Dana, Brian Bychek and wife Shaleen, Carolyn Aspinall and husband Steve, and Eliza Bychek. Great Grandmother of eight, Nicole, Stephania, Mila, Emmie, Colbie, Zoe, Tanner and Ren. Visiting hours Friday June 2, 4-8 pm at Richards Funeral Home, 4 Newark-Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale. At the request of the family burial will be private.

Decker, George E., 84, passed away suddenly May 29, 2023 in Pennsylvania. Born in Sussex, NJ to the late Frank and Susan (Sutton) Decker he resided in Bloomingdale his whole life. George worked as a Carpenter Contractor before retiring.  Beloved husband of Mary (Whritenour) Decker, loving father of Georgianna Casey and husband James, Jerry Decker and wife Lori. Grandfather of Michael Grasso and wife Vicki, Megan Vandenbos and husband Nicholas, Taylor Decker, James Casey III and wife Meaghan. Great Grandfather of Michael (MJ) and Dominic Grasso, Wyatt and Parker Vandenbos, Eimile and James Casey IV. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his siblings Martha Walker, Edward Decker, Virginia Witty, Bertha Conklin, Solomon Decker, Frank Decker, Jr., Lillian Marion, Carolyn Shepherd, Stephen Decker, John Decker. An avid reader, hunter and fisherman, lifetime member of the NRA and American Artillery Association. Loved to hear a good story and tell them. Visiting hours Thursday June 1, 2-4 and 7-9 pm at Richards Funeral Home, 4 Newark-Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale, NJ Funeral Mass, Friday 10 am at St Anthony's Church, Butler. Friends please meet at church. Interment to follow at Mt. Salem Cemetery, Wantage.

French, Marian F., 92, of Branchville, NJ passed away May 9, 2023. Born in Bloomingdale, NJ to the late Gommert and Edna (Reardon) Lindenberg, she lived there for fifty seven years. Edna worked for Amerace Corp., Butler, and was a member of the Bloomingdale United Methodist Church. Beloved mother of Jeff French and his wife Jenifer, and Tim French. Sister of Genevieve Osterhoudt. Also survived by six grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. Predeceased by her husband, Edward in 2011. Visiting hours Monday 9-11 am at Richards Funeral Home, 4 Newark-Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale, with a service at 11 am. Interment to follow at Laurel Grove Cemetery, Totowa.

Gagas, Carolyn May of West Milford on Sunday, May 21, 2023. Born in Newark, NJ to the late Alfred and Florence (Ambs) Spatt. A resident of West Milford for the past 44 years, Carolyn was employed by General Ceramics of Haskell, NJ until her retirement in 2006. Surviving are a step-granddaughter, Jennifer Rhodes and a great granddaughter, Emma. Predeceased by her husband, Anthony P. and sisters, Donna Spatta and Ida Schober. Funeral arrangements under the direction of Richards Funeral Home, 4 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale, NJ.

Hunt, Andrew T., after a long hard fought battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease), Andrew passed away quietly in the early morning hours of Friday, May 12, 2023, with his parents at his side. Andrew was a tele-data worker, and a member of IBEW Local 102. Andrew enjoyed vacationing with family in upstate NY, fishing and grilling on the pontoon, he loved to laugh, but mostly Loved his daughter Isabella Hunt (7). Andrew is survived by his daughter, Isabella Hunt (7), his parents, Gerald and Linda Hunt, his brother, Zachary Hunt and his wife, Brittany along with their two children, and brother, James Hunt. Also survived by his grandmother, Helen Cubby, along with many uncles aunts and cousins. There will be a celebration of life at the Awosting Association Clubhouse on Sunday, May 21,2023 from 2:00 pm until 6:00pm and is located 35 Long Pond Road , Hewitt, NJ. in lieu of flowers, to honor Andrew’s wishes, the donation link below is provided to help with his daughters education.
https://www.troweprice.com/usis/go-tuition-gift/national-529/677c04ecfe1f466cbe4c540be329c78c

Mancuso, Louis C., 62, of West Milford, NJ on Monday, May 22, 2023. Beloved husband of Michele (Ruocco) Mancuso. A resident of West Milford for the past 24 years, Louis was employed as a postal handler in Ridgewood, NJ and Glen Rock, NJ. Surviving in addition to his wife is a daughter, Emily. Also surviving are a brother, John and a sister, Andrea, both of Washington Twp. NJ and mother, Carol Ann Mancuso. Pre-deceased by his father, Joseph, in 2005, and a brother, Marc,in 1983 . Friends may call at Richards Funeral Home, 1440 Union Valley Road, West Milford, NJ 07480 on Friday, May 26 from 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM. Funeral mass at St. Joseph’s Church, 454 Germantown Road, West Milford at 10:30 AM. Internment will follow at George Washington Memorial Park, Paramus, NJ. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Emily’s Education Fund.

Miller, Walter J., 86, passed away May 25, 2023. Beloved husband of Dorothy Miller (Meyer). Born in Butler, NJ to the late Jesse and Evelyn (Little) Miller he lived there all of his life. Walter was a swimming pool contractor that he operated along with his brother Albert, A &W Pools. Loving father of Robyn Matyisin and husband Jeffrey, Peggy Ottervanger and husband William, Connie Roberto and husband Andrew. Brother of Albert, Harold and twin brother Charles, eight grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. Predeceased by twelve siblings, Eleanor, Stella, Georgeanna, Josephine, Edna, Elizabeth, Harvey, Arthur, Jesse, Ernest, David, and Robert. Visiting hours Saturday May 27, 1-4 pm at Richards Funeral Home, 4 Newark-Pompton Turnpike, Riverdale, NJ 07480 In lieu of flowers, please donate to The American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org, or to a charity of your choosing.