Douglas Esposito was a legend. He was loved by everyone who met him. Whether you knew him for a long time or just met him briefly, he made a lasting and positive impact on everyone he came across. He was the first one to make you laugh, and he always encouraged you to be the …
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Douglas Esposito was a legend. He was loved by everyone who met him. Whether you knew him for a long time or just met him briefly, he made a lasting and positive impact on everyone he came across. He was the first one to make you laugh, and he always encouraged you to be the best person you can be. Doug was born in Queens, NY and moved to Englishtown, NJ where he graduated from Marlboro High School. Doug “Spo” went to Missouri Valley College where he played on the football team and was a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity. After graduation, he returned to NJ where he met and married the love of his life, Janice, in 1978. Doug and Janice moved to Kansas City, Missouri to begin his teaching and coaching career and start his family. After that, Doug moved with his family to Colorado and opened up a local pizza place and continued to coach soccer for his girls. They relocated back to New Jersey to be with family, and settled in Holmdel, New Jersey. Douglas retired from Red Bank Catholic HS, but he was so full of energy, and he was always on the go, so he never missed a beat. Doug loved being with people, especially his family. They were everything to him. He was a loving husband to his wife, an amazing father to his girls, and the best grandfather. His friends were so important to him, and he spent hours a day going through his phone list making sure to call and check in on everyone. Doug was always teaching people new things, telling stories, and making people laugh. Doug loved to travel, take care of his plants, lawn, and his garden. He loved to listen to music, dance and cook. He loved to go to the beach, ski, camp, and do anything involving the outdoors. He was one of a kind, and left a lasting impression on everyone he knew. He was a true presence in this world and will be greatly missed by everyone who was lucky enough to cross his path.
On Thursday April 20th, Douglas passed away at his home in Holmdel. Doug was a loveable man that everyone gravitated towards. He was a special light in this world taken too soon.
Doug is survived by his loving wife Janice Esposito; his children Katherine Esposito, Jennifer Esposito, Lisa Meil and her husband Mitch, and Danielle Andolora and her husband Steve; his sister Mary Rael and her husband Jim and nephew Nick; and his beloved grandchildren Dylan, Miles, Lennon, and Julian.
Visitation will be Tuesday, April 25th from 3:00-7:00 PM at the Holmdel Funeral Home, 26 S. Holmdel Rd, Holmdel, NJ 07733. A mass will be offered Wednesday, April 26th at 10:30 AM at St. James RC Church, 94 Broad St, Red Bank.
Mark Hale
left a message on May 2, 2023:
I have 40 plus memories of stories, laughs, tears, lies, inebriation escapades, inebriation journeys, inebriation discussions, inebriation wrestling bouts which he always won and I had 160 lbs on him! Did I mention anything about inebriation??? Beautiful man, beautiful friend… but you all know that. I will always carry him in my heart… Miss him so much as y’all do… I just want to call him one more time… SMD!
Diana McCartney
left a message on April 29, 2023:
Spo was a great man for his short time here on Earth.
Frank DeMarea
left a message on April 26, 2023:
Janice. My heart sank of hearing of SPO passing. I’m cousins of the DeMarea!s and remember Doug at Mo Valley as Dennis Frat bro while I was at William Jewell.
Then having some fun times while your living in KCMO
He was a great person. RIP.
Kathleen Biddle
left a message on April 26, 2023:
Rest In Peace Dougie my prayers go out to his family and friends 💞🙏😢
Sam
left a message on April 26, 2023:
Praying for Douglas and your whole family. God bless you all.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Cristina Steriti
left a message on April 26, 2023:
I’m heartbroken .. I’m sending all my love to the Espo family. Each and everyone of you are such beautiful souls and Espo was an amazing man with an unforgettable spirit. I have so many memories and will cherish them. I will miss you dearly Espo ❤️
Allia Tyson
left a message on April 26, 2023:
In memory of Douglas Esposito, Allia Tyson lit a candle
Allia Tyson
left a message on April 26, 2023:
I’ll never forget riding on those little scooters with a scoop in my hand, and Spo just yelling and laughing. Only a few kids loved scooter scoop ball but he made sure the ones who loved it got to play. He made gym class the best period out of all 8. He will forever be missed and loved dearly 🤍
Paige Miro
left a message on April 25, 2023:
Spo was the most passionate teacher I ever had in my four years at Red Bank Catholic. Truly an amazing person. Every time I go into Red Bank and walk by the park I remember the time he would take us to 7/11 as a little field trip. A great person. Rest in Peace Spo.
megan lodato
left a message on April 25, 2023:
In memory of Douglas Esposito, megan lodato lit a candle
Bob and Rita Schreiber
left a message on April 25, 2023:
I remember meeting Doug and Janice at Pete and Donna's house. What a great family, so nice, and friendly; Doug and Janice made us feel like they had known us forever. I am so sad to hear of Doug's passing. Heaven has an angel watching out for us. You all will be in my prayers.
Marianna
left a message on April 25, 2023:
When I first met Espo in gym class he said we were gonna train hard. I told him not happening. So he made me run laps and do push ups. When he saw i was laying on the ground while everyone else did push ups he shouts "WOAH MARIANNA GET UP GIRL" Spo not happening. He was able to train me up to 11 push ups and one full lap around the gym by the end of the marking period. He said to me when your a senior i'll give you an award for this. He kept his word, 3 years later as a senior I received a letter saying i was invited to attend senior awards night for my PE award. Thanks for always pushing me and believing in me Spo. Sleep well
Marianna
left a message on April 25, 2023:
When I first met Espo in gym class he said we were gonna train hard. I told him not happening. So he made me run laps and do push ups. When he saw i was laying on the ground while everyone else did push ups he shouts "WOAH MARIANNA GET UP GIRL" Spo not happening. He was able to train me up to 11 push ups and one full lap around the gym by the end of the marking period. He said to me when your a senior i'll give you an award for this. He kept his word, 3 years later as a senior I received a letter saying i was invited to attend senior awrfs night for my PE award. Thanks for always pushing me and believing in me Spo. Sleep well
Griswold Family
left a message on April 25, 2023:
In memory of Douglas Esposito, Griswold Family lit a candle
Bob Carskie
left a message on April 25, 2023:
“Spo” what a great person – he was a teammate and friend at Valley. Not only was he hilarious but at times was the voice of reason at MVC. Doug I got a Hail Mary for you coming your way. Bob Carskie and family
Andrea N Pollack
left a message on April 25, 2023:
So sorry for your loss.
Andrea Pollack
left a message on April 25, 2023:
Happy in Margaritaville in Lake Powell
Andrea Pollack
left a message on April 25, 2023:
Photo
Andre Pollack
left a message on April 25, 2023:
My heart is so heavy at the loss of such a great guy. Doug will forever be a friend of mine. I had the lucky privilege of going to Lake Powell with Doug and Janice in 2015. He and Jan fell in love with the lake. I will always remember that trip. The morning we left , Doug and I were on the back of the house boat sad to be leaving. He looked out and said that Lake Powell will always have his heart. I remember like it was yesterday and I will really miss Doug. I'm glad we got to have that time with him. I'm so sorry to the family and my thoughts are with you all.
Danni Drapeau
left a message on April 25, 2023:
Sending the Esposito Family lots of love and thoughts of peace. Doug was one of a kind and I’m so glad I got to know him. His energy was contagious and there was never a dull moment with him. He will live on in all our hearts and memories.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Ciaran McNelis
left a message on April 25, 2023:
Rest in Peace Espo, the best gym teacher anyone could have. Always there to brighten your day with a game he made up for class.
Erika Fuentes
left a message on April 25, 2023:
Douglas will be missed greatly by so many, every memory we have will be cherished. Every laugh and smile he gave us. It’s hard to imagine this is still real. Thank you for making me feel like I was a part of something and the gift of your beautiful family all the people around you. An amazing person, you will be missed dearly. Love you Doug, Erika.
Kellie & Bradford Laskin
left a message on April 25, 2023:
Jenn and family we are so sorry for your loss. Sending you all lots of love. 💙💙💙
Tom (Sandy) & Gina Sandwith
left a message on April 25, 2023:
Our deepest condolences to you Janice and family. So many memories of our times at Valley as students and athletes. I admired him in so many ways. Anyone who spent anytime with him would be a better person for it. In this busy world, he took time for others, giving from the heart-always. On any given day, I felt grateful to have him as a friend. He was so helpful to me on the football field as a great mentor and teammate. Enjoyed the get togethers at Homecoming to see his smiling face and of course the stories. He made the world a better place! Until we meet again, Rest in Peace Doug
Charles N Cook
left a message on April 25, 2023:
When I look back on my time with Doug, I only remember good times. It would be hard to find someone who is so upbeat and genuine as he was. I will always remember our chats on the phone. He was an all around nice guy who will be greatly missed.
Cousin Charles
Donna
left a message on April 24, 2023:
Im not sure how we will learn to live on without you…but the reality is we will. I believe your legacy is in how you loved and how everyone you took into your life became a part of you, of your very heart. Lol… In my mind I questioned whether it would be a good thing for my buddy Jan to date you…those were crazy days! But, the wheel if life took a spin and you won…in Janice you found everything and and the four beautiful Espo’s completed you both. There are no words other than you will be so greatly missed… rest easy my dear friend. Until we meet again ♥️🕊🕊
Terri Dreisonstok Lawson
left a message on April 24, 2023:
As a college friend, I remember Doug always laughing and having a smile on his face, whenever I saw him on campus.
Janice, it was truly a pleasure meeting you at our Homecoming reunions…. The two of you were a darling couple, together. You always had a smile on your face, too! Doug will be missed by all of us.
With Love ,
“T”erri Dreisonstok Lawson
Frank & CindyKnapfel
left a message on April 24, 2023:
We have ben friends for over 57 years, I will miss your stories, phone calls and visits to Florida. I will not say goodbye but see you again. My broken heart goes out to Janice and his daughter, grandchildren and friends, There will never be another like you bro God bless you until we meet again
Maureen Conklin
left a message on April 24, 2023:
I am so sorry to hear about Doug‘s passing. Please know that you were in my thoughts and prayers. Sending love and hugs. Maureen Conklin.
Colleen and Steve
left a message on April 24, 2023:
Our deepest sympathy. May God rest his sole!
Gallo
left a message on April 23, 2023:
Every experience with Dougie left me with a better appreciation for the joys of life. His affinity for the good times and ability to be present in the moment are things we should all strive to make pillars in our lives. Doug was a mountain of fun every time I saw him amongst family and friends, and his legend will live on forever.
Jim Tygrett-DeNuzzi
left a message on April 23, 2023:
We were in rival fraternities in college at Valley but we became and remained fast friends. We had a connection since we both came from Jersey. Spo I will miss you at Homecoming talking old times, the handshake, and the hug. To Janice and the family my heartfelt condolences. What a beautiful man he was. …….”Tyg”
Jenny Harper Himmelman
left a message on April 23, 2023:
My deepest condolences to the Esposito family. I grew up in Poets Corner (Englishtown, NJ) and was friends with his younger sister Mary. Much time was spent at their house in the summer and I remember Doug being home from college and his motorcycle. He was so cool and seemed to enjoy hanging out with us! Thoughts and prayers with you all during this most difficult time. May his memory be a blessing.
Sara Gaurmer & Family
left a message on April 23, 2023:
In memory of Douglas Esposito, Sara Gaurmer & Family lit a candle
Brent, Megan, Harrper, knox
left a message on April 23, 2023:
All our love
Roman J Jaworowicz
left a message on April 22, 2023:
Doug was a good man, friend, father and family man. It's so hard to believe he is gone. I just spoke to him the other day and he was so Spo; Excited, upbeat, funny and full of life. I remember when Demo flew into to Buffalo, NY from KC when we were in college then Demo & I drove to New Jersey picked up Spo & his Harley then the three I found us drove back down to Marshall MO hauling Spo's Bike all that way. We had a great time. Spo will be missed as he was " One of a Kind of Great Person!" So many memories and not enough space or time to write about. May God Bless his wife Janis and the entire Esposito Family! You will be miss My friend Roman & Molly
Bill Schmedes
left a message on April 21, 2023:
A Great man we’ll miss Love you Candace a nd Billy
Barbara Gina and frank
left a message on April 21, 2023:
In memory of Douglas Esposito, Barbara Gina and frank lit a candle
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Mark Hale
left a message on May 2, 2023:
I have 40 plus memories of stories, laughs, tears, lies, inebriation escapades, inebriation journeys, inebriation discussions, inebriation wrestling bouts which he always won and I had 160 lbs on him! Did I mention anything about inebriation??? Beautiful man, beautiful friend… but you all know that. I will always carry him in my heart… Miss him so much as y’all do… I just want to call him one more time… SMD!
Diana McCartney
left a message on April 29, 2023:
Spo was a great man for his short time here on Earth.
Frank DeMarea
left a message on April 26, 2023:
Janice. My heart sank of hearing of SPO passing. I’m cousins of the DeMarea!s and remember Doug at Mo Valley as Dennis Frat bro while I was at William Jewell.
Then having some fun times while your living in KCMO
He was a great person. RIP.
Kathleen Biddle
left a message on April 26, 2023:
Rest In Peace Dougie my prayers go out to his family and friends 💞🙏😢
Sam
left a message on April 26, 2023:
Praying for Douglas and your whole family. God bless you all.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Cristina Steriti
left a message on April 26, 2023:
I’m heartbroken .. I’m sending all my love to the Espo family. Each and everyone of you are such beautiful souls and Espo was an amazing man with an unforgettable spirit. I have so many memories and will cherish them. I will miss you dearly Espo ❤️
Allia Tyson
left a message on April 26, 2023:
In memory of Douglas Esposito, Allia Tyson lit a candle
Allia Tyson
left a message on April 26, 2023:
I’ll never forget riding on those little scooters with a scoop in my hand, and Spo just yelling and laughing. Only a few kids loved scooter scoop ball but he made sure the ones who loved it got to play. He made gym class the best period out of all 8. He will forever be missed and loved dearly 🤍
Paige Miro
left a message on April 25, 2023:
Spo was the most passionate teacher I ever had in my four years at Red Bank Catholic. Truly an amazing person. Every time I go into Red Bank and walk by the park I remember the time he would take us to 7/11 as a little field trip. A great person. Rest in Peace Spo.
megan lodato
left a message on April 25, 2023:
In memory of Douglas Esposito, megan lodato lit a candle
Bob and Rita Schreiber
left a message on April 25, 2023:
I remember meeting Doug and Janice at Pete and Donna's house. What a great family, so nice, and friendly; Doug and Janice made us feel like they had known us forever. I am so sad to hear of Doug's passing. Heaven has an angel watching out for us. You all will be in my prayers.
Marianna
left a message on April 25, 2023:
When I first met Espo in gym class he said we were gonna train hard. I told him not happening. So he made me run laps and do push ups. When he saw i was laying on the ground while everyone else did push ups he shouts "WOAH MARIANNA GET UP GIRL" Spo not happening. He was able to train me up to 11 push ups and one full lap around the gym by the end of the marking period. He said to me when your a senior i'll give you an award for this. He kept his word, 3 years later as a senior I received a letter saying i was invited to attend senior awards night for my PE award. Thanks for always pushing me and believing in me Spo. Sleep well
Marianna
left a message on April 25, 2023:
When I first met Espo in gym class he said we were gonna train hard. I told him not happening. So he made me run laps and do push ups. When he saw i was laying on the ground while everyone else did push ups he shouts "WOAH MARIANNA GET UP GIRL" Spo not happening. He was able to train me up to 11 push ups and one full lap around the gym by the end of the marking period. He said to me when your a senior i'll give you an award for this. He kept his word, 3 years later as a senior I received a letter saying i was invited to attend senior awrfs night for my PE award. Thanks for always pushing me and believing in me Spo. Sleep well
Griswold Family
left a message on April 25, 2023:
In memory of Douglas Esposito, Griswold Family lit a candle
Bob Carskie
left a message on April 25, 2023:
“Spo” what a great person – he was a teammate and friend at Valley. Not only was he hilarious but at times was the voice of reason at MVC. Doug I got a Hail Mary for you coming your way. Bob Carskie and family
Andrea N Pollack
left a message on April 25, 2023:
So sorry for your loss.
Andrea Pollack
left a message on April 25, 2023:
Happy in Margaritaville in Lake Powell
Andrea Pollack
left a message on April 25, 2023:
Photo
Andre Pollack
left a message on April 25, 2023:
My heart is so heavy at the loss of such a great guy. Doug will forever be a friend of mine. I had the lucky privilege of going to Lake Powell with Doug and Janice in 2015. He and Jan fell in love with the lake. I will always remember that trip. The morning we left , Doug and I were on the back of the house boat sad to be leaving. He looked out and said that Lake Powell will always have his heart. I remember like it was yesterday and I will really miss Doug. I'm glad we got to have that time with him. I'm so sorry to the family and my thoughts are with you all.
Danni Drapeau
left a message on April 25, 2023:
Sending the Esposito Family lots of love and thoughts of peace. Doug was one of a kind and I’m so glad I got to know him. His energy was contagious and there was never a dull moment with him. He will live on in all our hearts and memories.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Ciaran McNelis
left a message on April 25, 2023:
Rest in Peace Espo, the best gym teacher anyone could have. Always there to brighten your day with a game he made up for class.
Erika Fuentes
left a message on April 25, 2023:
Douglas will be missed greatly by so many, every memory we have will be cherished. Every laugh and smile he gave us. It’s hard to imagine this is still real. Thank you for making me feel like I was a part of something and the gift of your beautiful family all the people around you. An amazing person, you will be missed dearly. Love you Doug, Erika.
Kellie & Bradford Laskin
left a message on April 25, 2023:
Jenn and family we are so sorry for your loss. Sending you all lots of love. 💙💙💙
Tom (Sandy) & Gina Sandwith
left a message on April 25, 2023:
Our deepest condolences to you Janice and family. So many memories of our times at Valley as students and athletes. I admired him in so many ways. Anyone who spent anytime with him would be a better person for it. In this busy world, he took time for others, giving from the heart-always. On any given day, I felt grateful to have him as a friend. He was so helpful to me on the football field as a great mentor and teammate. Enjoyed the get togethers at Homecoming to see his smiling face and of course the stories. He made the world a better place! Until we meet again, Rest in Peace Doug
Charles N Cook
left a message on April 25, 2023:
When I look back on my time with Doug, I only remember good times. It would be hard to find someone who is so upbeat and genuine as he was. I will always remember our chats on the phone. He was an all around nice guy who will be greatly missed.
Cousin Charles
Donna
left a message on April 24, 2023:
Im not sure how we will learn to live on without you…but the reality is we will. I believe your legacy is in how you loved and how everyone you took into your life became a part of you, of your very heart. Lol… In my mind I questioned whether it would be a good thing for my buddy Jan to date you…those were crazy days! But, the wheel if life took a spin and you won…in Janice you found everything and and the four beautiful Espo’s completed you both. There are no words other than you will be so greatly missed… rest easy my dear friend. Until we meet again ♥️🕊🕊
Terri Dreisonstok Lawson
left a message on April 24, 2023:
As a college friend, I remember Doug always laughing and having a smile on his face, whenever I saw him on campus.
Janice, it was truly a pleasure meeting you at our Homecoming reunions…. The two of you were a darling couple, together. You always had a smile on your face, too! Doug will be missed by all of us.
With Love ,
“T”erri Dreisonstok Lawson
Frank & CindyKnapfel
left a message on April 24, 2023:
We have ben friends for over 57 years, I will miss your stories, phone calls and visits to Florida. I will not say goodbye but see you again. My broken heart goes out to Janice and his daughter, grandchildren and friends, There will never be another like you bro God bless you until we meet again
Maureen Conklin
left a message on April 24, 2023:
I am so sorry to hear about Doug‘s passing. Please know that you were in my thoughts and prayers. Sending love and hugs. Maureen Conklin.
Colleen and Steve
left a message on April 24, 2023:
Our deepest sympathy. May God rest his sole!
Gallo
left a message on April 23, 2023:
Every experience with Dougie left me with a better appreciation for the joys of life. His affinity for the good times and ability to be present in the moment are things we should all strive to make pillars in our lives. Doug was a mountain of fun every time I saw him amongst family and friends, and his legend will live on forever.
Jim Tygrett-DeNuzzi
left a message on April 23, 2023:
We were in rival fraternities in college at Valley but we became and remained fast friends. We had a connection since we both came from Jersey. Spo I will miss you at Homecoming talking old times, the handshake, and the hug. To Janice and the family my heartfelt condolences. What a beautiful man he was. …….”Tyg”
Jenny Harper Himmelman
left a message on April 23, 2023:
My deepest condolences to the Esposito family. I grew up in Poets Corner (Englishtown, NJ) and was friends with his younger sister Mary. Much time was spent at their house in the summer and I remember Doug being home from college and his motorcycle. He was so cool and seemed to enjoy hanging out with us! Thoughts and prayers with you all during this most difficult time. May his memory be a blessing.
Sara Gaurmer & Family
left a message on April 23, 2023:
In memory of Douglas Esposito, Sara Gaurmer & Family lit a candle
Brent, Megan, Harrper, knox
left a message on April 23, 2023:
All our love
Roman J Jaworowicz
left a message on April 22, 2023:
Doug was a good man, friend, father and family man. It's so hard to believe he is gone. I just spoke to him the other day and he was so Spo; Excited, upbeat, funny and full of life. I remember when Demo flew into to Buffalo, NY from KC when we were in college then Demo & I drove to New Jersey picked up Spo & his Harley then the three I found us drove back down to Marshall MO hauling Spo's Bike all that way. We had a great time. Spo will be missed as he was " One of a Kind of Great Person!" So many memories and not enough space or time to write about. May God Bless his wife Janis and the entire Esposito Family! You will be miss My friend Roman & Molly
Bill Schmedes
left a message on April 21, 2023:
A Great man we’ll miss Love you Candace a nd Billy
Barbara Gina and frank
left a message on April 21, 2023:
In memory of Douglas Esposito, Barbara Gina and frank lit a candle
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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