Thomas J. Kopec
Thomas J. Kopec, 77, of Manasquan, formerly of Clifton, fell asleep in the Lord on Saturday, May 22, 2021. Tom graduated from Clifton High School in 1961 and earned his BS from Rutgers University, where he was a member of the swim and fencing teams. Later, he was a paratrooper and medic in the United States Army Special Forces. He wore his green beret with pride.
Thomas J. Kopec, 77, of Manasquan, formerly of Clifton, fell asleep in the Lord on Saturday, May 22, 2021. Tom graduated from Clifton High School in 1961 and earned his BS from Rutgers University, where he was a member of the swim and fencing teams. Later, he was a paratrooper and medic in the United States Army Special Forces. He wore his green beret with pride.
He was an avid fisherman, who shared his wisdom and fishing stories with all. He loved all animals, but he had an extra space in his heart for his dog, Dundee. Music was also a big part of Tom’s life. Not only did he love listening to all genres of music, he enjoyed playing the guitar.
Everyone knew Tom could be found at his favorite spot overlooking Fisherman’s Cove in Manasquan, NJ. He was a friend to many; his door was always open.
Tom had a strong presence and was the patriarch of the family. We will profoundly miss his wisdom, honesty, caring heart, and witty humor.
Beloved husband of Ingrid for 54 years, and devoted father to Terri Geeza (Ralph), Gina Ramunno (Lou), Lori Amati (Joe), Christina Rose (Ken), and Peter Kopec. Cherished grandfather to 10 grandchildren: Justin, Amanda, Gabriella, Jacqueline, Joseph, Anna, Jordan, Olivia, Connor, and Spencer. Dear brother-in-law to Sylvia Van Ness and loving eldest brother of Robert (Paula), Richard (Janet), and John (Tricia).
Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 27th, from 4 to 8 P.M., followed by a funeral service on Friday, May 28th, at 10:00 am. Both services will be held at Holy Resurrection Orthodox Church, 285 French Hill Road, Wayne, NJ 07470. Interment following to Mount Hebron Cemetery in Upper Montclair, NJ.
In lieu of flowers the family asks donations to be made in memory of Thomas to the
Veterans Association of America, Inc. P.O. Box 309 Audubon Station, New York, NY 10032 vetsaa.org, or to Turning Point New Jersey 680 Broadway, Suite 104 Paterson, NJ 07514 Attn: Stacy Greene, turningpointnj.org/donations.
