Michael George Boudjouk

Michael George Boudjouk, age 86, of Pompton Plains, NJ, formerly Wayne, NJ, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 14, 2022 with loving family members at his side.

Mike was raised in Paterson, NJ, and was one of four children born to Anthony and Nadema Boudjouk. Mike attended Parochial schools, and while a student at St. John Catholic High School, took a part-time job at Paterson’s Irving Pharmacy. His curiosity was piqued as he watched the pharmacist compound medications, and Mike soon decided he would study pharmacy in college.  Mike attended St. John’s University in NYC, working towards his Chemistry degree. When Mike felt a need to serve his country, he put his studies on hold in 1957 and enrolled in the United States Army.  After serving two years active duty in Germany as a Medic, Mike served the next four years in the reserves, and was awarded an honorable discharge.

Mike attended evening classes at Fairleigh Dickinson University while working full-time at Shulton Inc., and was awarded his Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry in 1963.  Mike went on to work at other companies in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry including Warner Lambert, Lautier Fils, Gentry International, and Crompton & Knowles. In 1976, Mike founded his own company, Medallion International, Inc.  His wife, Amy, and two of their children, Michael and Paula, would also contribute to the success of the company.

Mike was active in many organizations, but those nearest to his heart were Pompton Lakes Elks Lodge #1895, and the International Federation of Essential Oils and Aroma Trades. An active member of IFEAT for over 35 years, Mike was an integral part of its conference and planning committees, and served as Chairman as well as President. Mike’s work ethic and integrity were his trademarks in the flavor and fragrance industry, and he was a mentor to many.

After meeting at a dance in January 1960, the love of his life, Amy, became his bride in 1961. The following year, their first child, Suzanne, was born.  Their family grew as Mike and Amy then welcomed Michael J., followed by Paula a couple of years later.
Mike was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather.  He doted on his family, and showed his affection by purchasing greeting cards and gifts to note special occasions. There were places of honor in Mike’s heart for his sister-in-law Addie and her husband Matt, his sons-in-law Mike and Darren, daughter-in-law Jane, and friends Bob, Lenny, Wayne, Basil, Amos and Lou.

Fluent in English, German, Arabic, Flemish and French, Mike loved to travel, and while building his business, thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to visit numerous countries, often with Amy at his side.

Mike faithfully attended Sunday mass at St Mary’s RC Church in Pompton Lakes for almost 60 years.

Fresh water fishing, golf and long walks on the Boca Grande beach were some of Mike’s favorite activities.

Mike will be remembered as a gentleman with a quick wit and a sparkle in his eye, and for his devotion to those he loved.

Mike is survived by his wife Amelia (nee DiGiacomo) of Pompton Plains, his daughter Suzanne Bloom and her husband Mike of Wayne, his son Michael J. Boudjouk and his wife Jane of Wayne, his daughter Paula Symington and her husband Darren of Pompton Plains, two grandsons, Michael M. Bloom, and Michael D. Symington, his sister-in-law Adelaide Sciortino of Ocean Isle Beach, NC, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.  He was predeceased by his two sisters; Victoria Carr, and Agnes Boudjouk, and his brother Joseph Boudjouk.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mike’s memory may be made to the Boca Grande Historical Society, 170 Park Ave, Boca Grande, FL 33921, http://www.bocagrandehistoricalsociety.com St. Basil Melkite Church, 15 Skyview Dr, Lincoln, RI 02865, or the charity of your choice.