Donald M. Opitz

Donald M. Opitz

AGE: 87 • Hazlet

Donald M. Opitz, 87, of Hazlet, passed away on Saturday, June 21, 2014 at his home. Donald was born on June 6, 1927 in Summit and grew up in New Providence. After graduating grammar school, Donald went onto become a graduate of Summit H.S. and as a young man was a member of the Merchant Marines. Donald proceeded to join the Marine Corps, serving during WW II and the Korean Conflict, where he was a part of the "Battle of Chosin Reservoir," also known as, "Frozen Chosin," battling in below zero weather conditions. After returning from Korea, Donald married his beloved wife, Mary Lou Svendsen on Dec. 15, 1951. They began their life together in Summit and in 1960, settled in Hazlet to raise their family. While living in Hazlet, Donald worked for JCP&L Co. and became a life-long member of the N. Centerville Fire Co. He was also a life member of the NRA, a member of the NJ American Legion and Chairman of The Bicentennial Parade in Hazlet. Donald was a Boy Scout Leader for Troop #136, in addition to being a leader for the Boys and Girls Explorer Scouts and spent many weekends helping to build Quail Hill Boy Scout Camp.

Donald, fondly known as, "Poppie", by his loving family, was an amazing man. He was devoted to his wife, children and grandchildren. He had a great love for the outdoors, including activities such as, camping, skiing, hiking, and hunting. He traveled the entire U.S. and experienced all of our beautiful country and its land. He also was able to travel over-seas to Europe, England and Denmark. Donald was a loving, caring, and honest man that would do anything for his friends and family. He was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Frances Opitz; his 2 brothers and 2 sisters, and his granddaughter, Amanda Stewart. Donald is survived by his beloved and devoted wife of 63 years, Mary Lou Opitz; his loving children, Karen Danchisko and her husband John of Sayreville, Ronald Opitz and his wife Geraldine of Howell, Kathleen Stewart and her husband Peter of Howell, Diana Burge and her husband Joe of Jackson, along with his cherished grandchildren, Jennifer, John, Amy, Elizabeth, Sean, Laura and Christopher and 1 great grandchild on the way. He will be sadly missed, but never forgotten.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Thursday, June 26th from 2 to 4 & 7 to 9 PM and Friday, June 27th from 10 to 11 AM at the Shore Point Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 3269 State Rt. 35 N, Hazlet. Prayer service at the funeral home on Thursday evening during visiting hours and "Last Call" at N. Centerville Fire Co., Friday at approx. 11:30 AM. In respect of Donald's wishes, he will be privately cremated. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Donald to the Disabled American Veterans, www.dav.org or the N. Centerville Fire Co., 372 Middle Rd., Hazlet, would be greatly appreciated. For information, directions or to send condolences to the family, visit, www.shorepointfh.com.