Joseph J. McManus

Jefferson Twp.:   Joseph James McManus passed away peacefully in his home In Lake Hopatcong, NJ., surrounded by his beloved children.

Joe was a devoted and loving husband to his wife, Joan Elizabeth Manes of 58 years, who passed in 2009. They were blessed with eight children, 14 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren and a great great grandson on his way.

Born the third of four sons to Grace and Bernard McManus, he was raised in the Flatlands section of Brooklyn, NY, where he attended P.S.203 and Midwood High

School. It was in the 2nd grade that he first met Joan, the love of his life. At age 14, he served in the NY State Guard during WWII. After graduating high school in 1947, Joe enlisted in the U.S. Army, during the Korean war from which he was honorably discharged in 1950.

Joe was a dedicated employee of the NY Telephone Company for 40 years and served as an administrator for The Telephone Pioneers of America in South Florida, which is an organization dedicated to charity and service. He retired in 1991 where he and Joan enjoyed winters in South Florida for many wonderful years.

Joe was a talented singer and musician. He lived each day with a song in his heart. He was a master of harmony, both in song and in life. He played a mean ukulele. Joe and Joan hosted many family and friends at their infamous singalongs and holiday gatherings where love and joy were abundant. 

 Joe was a man of deep faith, devoted to his family and friends, and he could not have been prouder of his Irish heritage. He was a man who loved and was loved in return.

He was gregarious, and his sense of humor and wit endeared him to all who knew him. He loved life with a passion and shared that passion with his family and friends. He will live forever in his family’s heart.

Twas heaven here with him.

Visitation will be held 5-9pm on Wednesday June 17, at the Bermingham Funeral Home, 216 S. Main St., Wharton.   A Funeral Mass will be held 10:30am on Thursday at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church in Lake Hopatcong.  

Joe will be laid to rest with his wife Joan at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery in Wrightstown.

In lieu of flowers, donations made in Joe's memory, to the American Cancer Society, United Cerebral Palsy or Parkinson Research Foundation would be appreciated.

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