Obituary of William R. Hefele

William R. Hefele, Jr. passed away on Saturday April 18, 2020 at JFK Medical Center in Edison.  He was 90 years old.  William was born and raised in Garwood.  He has resided in Colonia for over 65 years.  He proudly served his country in the US Navy from 1949-1953.  He served during the Korean War on the aircraft carrier USS Philippine Sea (CV-47), during which he served over two years overseas in Atsugi, Japan.  He received the Korean Service Medal, United Nations Medal, and Good Conduct Medal.  He began his working career as a Carpenter at Floyd's Schroppie in Garwood before working as a Warehouse Supervisor first for Food Fair in Linden, then for Twin County Grocers in Edison.  He retired in 1995.

William loved fishing, working on cars, woodworking, and most of all spending time with his family.  His love for his family, his children, and grandchildren was astonishing, but his love for his wife was unmatched, beautiful, and awe-inspiring. He will always be remembered for his extremely strong handshakes, and his big bear hugs.

He was pre-deceased by his parents, William R. and Marguerite (Williamson) Hefele.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Frances (Kelly) Hefele of Colonia, three children, William M. Hefele and his wife Jennifer of Fairlawn, Barbara LoCoco and her husband Thomas, Sr. of Avenel, and Susan Hondo and her husband Ronald of Monroe Twp., four grandchildren, Jessica, Rebecca, and Ronald Hondo, and Thomas LoCoco, Jr., one sister Mildred Villa of Arkansas, and many other extended family members including loving nieces and nephews.

Out of respect and concern for public health and safety, funeral services and interment are to be held privately at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers and for those who desire, memorial contributions may be made to The American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org.

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