Joseph R. Berecz

Joseph R. Berecz, age 77 of Bloomingdale, passed away Tuesday, May 4, 2021 with his family gathered at his bedside. He has lived in Bloomingdale since 1977.

Joe was born in Hungary and lived on the shores of Lake Balaton where he often explored the vast forests near his home. Living under Soviet occupation in Hungary after World War II, Joe's grandfather taught him to fish as a young boy, and he developed a lifelong love of fishing and nature as a result. Joe’s family was able to escape Hungary after witnessing the revolution in Budapest. They passed through Western Europe, and eventually into The United States. As a 12 year-old, Joe had already learned to appreciate simple things in life, that one might otherwise take for granted.

Joe's family settled in The Bronx, where he learned English, and graduated City College with a degree in Political Science. Joe was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1968, and served two years stationed in Alaska.

During his time in the Army, he met Linda Stamboulian. They exchanged letters almost daily while he was in Alaska.  They were engaged after he returned from service, and married on June 9, 1974 at St. George’s Church in Paterson. After a honeymoon in Cape Cod, they began living in Clifton, NJ before buying a home in Bloomingdale.

Joe adored Linda, cherished his children, and was always an encouraging father. He especially adored his grandchildren. He was impressed and amazed by everything they did, and they each brought him immeasurable happiness. Despite struggling with his health during his final months, Joe always maintained a smile and stoic resolve with his family. They will all miss him very much.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Linda of Bloomingdale, his two children; Keith Berecz and his wife Allison of South Orange, and Dawn Turrin and her husband Reed of Butler, four grandchildren; Lily and Mia Berecz, and Blake and Faye Turrin, a sister; Veronica Sandor of Arizona, a niece; Emese Sandor, and a nephew; Lazlo Sandor and his wife Courtney and their children.

Donations in Joseph’s memory can be sent to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital or St. Leon Armenian Church in Fair Lawn.