Robert “Mike” Cusick

It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to a truly remarkable man, Robert “Mike” Cusick, who passed away at the age of 59. Mike’s journey through life was marked by his generosity, skilled hands, love for fishing, and deep connections with family and friends.

Born in Bayonne, NJ, to Bob and Gail Cusick, Mike’s family moved to Wayne, NJ, when he was just a baby. Wayne became not just a place on the map but the backdrop to 55 years of his vibrant and meaningful life. He attended Wayne Hills High School, where he laid the foundation for lifelong friendships and a strong sense of community. After his time at WHHS, Mike joined his father at Schindler Elevator, where he dedicated 40 years of hard work and commitment to the trade. Many of Mike’s childhood friends joined him in this endeavor, forging bonds that extended far beyond the job site. 

Mike was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back, a trait that reflected his generosity and compassion. His hands were not just skilled but magical, capable of turning ordinary moments into extraordinary ones. Whether it was fixing a leaky faucet or lending a helping hand to a friend in need, Mike’s hands were an extension of his heart that was always ready to assist others.

A passionate fisherman, Mike found solace and joy by the water, where the rhythmic cast of his line mirrored the steady beat of his kind heart. His love for fishing was a shared passion that created lasting memories with those closest to him. 

Above all, Mike adored his two daughters, Allie and Nikki, with a love that knew no bounds. He had them wrapped around his fingers just as surely as they had him wrapped around theirs. The bond they shared was filled with laughter, shared projects in the garage, trips to Lake Champlain, summer weekends in LBI, and countless hours spent swimming in the family pool. Mike’s love for his girls was evident in every moment they spent together.

In 1990, Mike met the love of his life when he was on his way to a friend’s wedding. He stopped in a salon to get a haircut, where he struck up a conversation with the hairstylist, Karen. In a bold move, he asked her to attend the wedding with him that day. With a laugh and a kind refusal, Karen declined, and Mike went on his way. Fate, however, had other plans. They crossed paths a few weeks later at the Lakeside, where Mike managed to slip Karen his number. This chance encounter marked the beginning of a beautiful relationship that would span 34 years and bless them with two wonderful daughters.

Family was an integral part of Mike’s life. He was predeceased by his beloved mother, Gail Cusick, for whom the sun rose and set. 

Mike is survived by his devoted wife, Karen “Peanut” Cusick, who stood by his side through thick and thin. His legacy continues through his daughters and their families: Allie Safir and her husband Rob Safir of Flanders, NJ, and Nikki Cusick and her fiance Matt Minnehan of Newton, MA. A source of profound happiness and pride for Mike was his beloved grandson, Bobby Safir. Their short time together brought insurmountable joy in the last year of Mike’s life.

He is also survived by his father, Bob Cusick of Brant Beach, NJ, who imparted wisdom and guidance throughout his life and served as his best friend and fishing buddy. Mike’s siblings and their families mourn his passing: Missy and Tom Mathisen, and Karen and Mark Raiser of Wayne, NJ, each sharing a unique connection with him that time cannot erase. Mike was a cherished uncle to Kaitlin Raiser, Robbie Raiser, and Brooke Moran, who will fondly remember the special moments they shared with their uncle.

May he rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love that he so freely gave to others.

Those wishing to make donations in lieu of flowers are asked to consider St Jude Children's Research Hospital