It is with profound sadness that we say goodbye to Joseph McAleer II (65), of Aberdeen, New Jersey. Joe was born on April 15, 1960, to Joseph and Anne McAleer in Bayonne, NJ. He graduated from Matawan Regional High School, class of 1978. In 1979, Joe joined the United States Marine Corps. There, he was ranked Corporal while stationed in Oahu, Hawaii, out of Camp H.M. Smith. Joe moved back home to NJ and joined the New Jersey Transit Police and later finished out his career working for Aberdeen Township.
What was supposed to be “something to do for the summer” turned into the greatest love story. On January 3, 1981, he married Barbara, the love of his life, and they shared 44 wonderful years together. Joe was a devoted family man and took pride in the family he and Barbara created. Together, they had two beautiful daughters. Kristina (McAleer) Page and her husband, Richard Page, gave him the most precious gift — the title of “Grampa” to Riley and Morgan. Kolleen (McAleer) Siebel and her husband, Peter Siebel, will continue that gift, as they are expecting their first child in January.
Joe is survived by his brother, Kevin McAleer (Cathy), and his sister, Marybeth Mickalay (John). He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Joyce Kaiser (John) and Nancy Kays (Chuck), and was predeceased by his sister-in-law, Andrea Cherne. He leaves behind many adoring nieces and nephews.
Joe will be remembered for his vivacious personality and his love of hunting, fishing, and the beach. You could always find him at a flea market or enjoying a slot machine at the casino. Nothing made Joe happier than being with his family, watching his granddaughters play softball, and relaxing with his dog, Lucy. In the words of Jimmy Buffett, “If there’s a heaven for me, I’m sure it has a beach attached to it.” May Joe be there at a tiki bar with a rum bucket in his hand.
Visitation will be held at Holmdel Funeral Home, 26 S. Holmdel Rd, Holmdel, NJ 07733, on Monday, June 30th from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a service at 6:30 PM. The family will host a celebration of life in Joe’s honor at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation at Tunnel to Towers Foundation in Joe’s memory.