Joseph Andrew McNamara

1945 - 2016

Joseph Andrew McNamara

AGE: 70 • Middletown

Joseph Andrew McNamara, of Middletown Township, NJ, passed away on July 1, 2016. He was born September 26, 1945 in Dallas, TX to Mary and Joseph McNamara. Raised in Newark, NJ, where he met the love of his life and future wife, Ellen. Shortly after they were married on November 8, 1969, Ellen and Joseph moved to Middletown Township, where they raised two children, Ryan and Christopher, in the home that remains with the family today.

Well known for his passion for knowledge and his strong work ethic, Joseph received a B.A. degree in finance from Seton Hall University, an M.B.A. from New York University, and an M.A. in psychology from the New School for Social Research and attended the Local/State Government Program at Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government.

Joseph A. McNamara led a distinguished career dedicated to public service. His long career included 25-years at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey where he served in variously capacities including Assistant Director of Public Affairs and then as Managing Director of Global Infrastructure Advisors.

In the early 90's, Governor James J. Florio asked Joseph to serve in his administration as Deputy Commissioner for the New Jersey Department of Commerce and Economic Development, which he did for three years.

Since 1996, Joseph has served as Director of both the New Jersey Laborers' Employers Cooperation and Education Trust, a labor-management partnership to create economic opportunities for union construction craft laborers and their contractors, and the New Jersey Laborers' Health and Safety Fund which promotes workplace safety and health initiatives. His unique ability to work well with people with different attitudes and interests made him an ideal coalition builder and developer of policy.

Known by most as Joe Mac, the selfless character, generosity, and friendship he bestowed upon family and friends will forever be remembered with the integrity he brought to every situation. To colleagues, Joe Mac was known equally for his knowledge and superior political acumen as he was for his reliability and humor.

Joseph was predeceased by his amazing parents, Mary and Joseph, as well as by his incredible stepmother, Eileen McNamara. Joseph is survived by his wife, children, and a loving extended family. Joe Mac's big heart brightened the world and those touched by it will never forget his kindness.

Joseph's visitation will be held on Wednesday 7/6 and Thursday 7/7 from 4-8 pm at John F. Pfleger Funeral Home, 115 Tindall Rd., Middletown. A Funeral Liturgy will be offered on Friday, July 8 at 10:30 am at Mary, Mother of God Church, 19 Cherry Tree Farm Rd., Middletown. We welcome all to pay their respects at any of these times. The Internment following the mass will be private.

For more information, to send condolences or for directions, please visit www.pflegerfh.com.