Joseph Stanley Michalik

Joseph Passed away on August 4, 2021.

Joseph was born in Orange, New Jersey on January 13, 1930. He was the son of Walter and Josephine (Godleski) Michalik, and is predeceased by his sister, Stella (Michalik) Brzoska and his brother, Walter Michalik Jr.

After graduating from Orange High School, Joseph enlisted in the United States Navy serving his country during the Korean War. He was proud to have been a “Tin Can Sailor” on the Destroyers USS Mt. Olympus, USS Taconic, and the USS John Hood. Joseph was a long time member of the American Legion.

After receiving an honorable discharge, Joe was employed by Prudential Insurance Company for 32 years as an IBM computer operator. Following retirement, he enjoyed working for ten years as a grounds keeper for Shackamaxon Country Club.

Music was Joe’s passion. He played the drums and accordion in numerous bands. His own band “Jersey Joe”, included his wife and often his children as members. He passed his love of music onto his children, all of whom studied musical instruments and learned to dance the polka.

He was happily married and in love with his wife of 62 years, Rosemarie (Engelhardt) Michalik who he managed to make smile every day. He will be dearly remembered by his four children and their spouses, Diane and Ronald Bonner, Joseph M. and Lucinda Michalik, Lisa and Martin Assuncao, and Irene and Kenneth Saulino, for his wry smile, which always indicated a joke was coming. His sense of humor never failed to brighten anyone’s day. His child-at- heart nature was at its best with his grandchildren; Jason and Joshua Bonner, Anna Michalik, Melissa and Julia Assuncao, and Emily and Keri Saulino.

A lover of animals, Joe had a long list of beloved pets. From his childhood of dogs and his pet squirrel Tommy, to his most recent loving furry companion, a rescue dog, Josie.

Joseph was a loyal husband, a dedicated and loving father and grandfather, and a kind and helpful neighbor. He was unpretentious, playful, and accepting of all. The world is a better place for having him in it.

The family would like to graciously thank the staff of Fellowship Village of Basking Ridge for their sensitive care, support, and dedication during his final days with us.

The family suggests memorials in Joseph’s name be made to:

 Somerset Regional Animal Shelter (srasnj.org)

100 Commons Way, Bridgewater, New Jersey 08807 or

 St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org).

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