William J. Strbo Sr.

September 25, 1928 - December 16, 2015

William J. Strbo Sr.,87 passed away on December 16 at his home in Hazlet. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Mildred (nee Pahl). He was the adored father of Debbie Matyas and her husband Ken of Hazlet, Bill, Jr. and his wife, Cathy (nee Steinmacher) of Union Beach, and Joe and his wife, Ellie (nee Clark) of Middletown. He leaves behind his Cherished grandchildren, Bill Strbo III, David Strbo, Katie and Joe Strbo. He also leaves behind his loving nieces, Patty Chupak, Kathy and Emma Guerino and many Friends. Born and raised in Palmerton, PA, he was the son of Albert and Elizabeth (Krna) Strbo. He was predeceased by his siblings, Rosalie Nestler, Josephine Kleinschmidt, Wilhemina Carazo and Albert Strbo. As the first generation child of Czechoslovakian immigrants, Bill was extremely proud of his heritage. He attended Palmerton High School where he was a member of both the football team and the Glee Club. He served in the U.S. Navy for 2 years. Bill then moved to Jersey City where he worked for Iselin Jefferson in New York. It was during this time that he met his future wife. He then lived for a time in East Orange where they began their family. The family moved to Hazlet in 1968. Bill had changed careers and worked for Sevell's Auto Body of Westfield and East Brunswick School system before retiring in 1997. He was a long-time parishioner of St. Ann's Church in Keansburg. he enjoyed his Monday morning bowling league in Hazlet, his pets and playing golf. His greatest joy was spending time with his family whether it was enjoying a family party, attending an event his grandchildren participated in, helping his adult children with home projects or jumping in fallen leaves with his grandchildren. Bill endeared himself to so many people upon first meeting him. He showed kindness to all, was quick to laugh and give a hug. He was the kind of guy where everyone wanted to be on his team or his golf partner. He will be sorely missed by many. Friends will be received 1-4pm., on Sunday, December 20 at the Laurel Funeral Home, 201 Laurel Avenue West Keansburg, NJ 07734. A Funeral Service will be held Sunday, December 20, 2015 at 4:00pm at Laurel Funeral Home. A Interment will follow in the NJ Veterans Cemetery, Arneytown, NJ at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Wounded Warriors Fund in Bill's name. For further information and condolences visit www.laurelfuneralhome.net.