Joseph Navas

Joseph Navas

Joseph Navas Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Oct. 25, 2001.
Joseph Navas, 44, dedicated P.A. officer Joseph Michael Navas was trained in life-saving, high-risk rescues.

A 20-year veteran police officer for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Mr. Navas was one of 37 Port Authority officers lost in the aftermath of the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center.

"He probably died trying to save lives when the buildings collapsed," said fellow Port Authority officer Gene Dubelbeiss of Glen Rock, his best friend.

A 1985 graduate of the Port Authority Police Academy, Mr. Navas, 44 of Paramus, joined the Port Authority's Emergency Services Unit at Journal Square seven years ago. He took numerous courses in rescue diving, confined space repelling and chemical and biological counter-terrorism.

He recently helped rescue two mentally disturbed people from the George Washington Bridge, Dubelbeiss said.

"He was trained for rescue diving which he loved," said Karen, his wife of 15 years. He also loved to dive recreationally, ski, work in his garden and spend time with his wife and three children. He coached his 9-year-old son's Little League team.

"He was definitely a true family man, very devoted to his children. He was the best dad. He was a wonderful husband," his wife said.

"He worked out all the time," Mrs. Navas said. He and his fellow officers "were very into keeping themselves safe because they wanted to come home to their families."

A 1975 graduate of Paramus High School, he spent four years working as a plumber for the Port Authority before graduating from the Police Academy. After graduation, he was assigned to Newark International Airport and then to the authority's central police pool.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Navas is survived by his children Jessica, 12, Joey, 9, Justin, 3; parents, Rosemarie and Joseph Navas of Toms River; two sisters, Denise Cenicola of Lake Hopatcong and Lisa Lo Piccolo, of Saddle River; and nieces and nephews.

The family invites friends to join them tomorrow from 6-8 p.m. at Roman Catholic Church of the Annunciation, W. 50 Midland Ave., Paramus. A Memorial Mass will be held 10 a.m. Saturday at the Church of the Annunciation.

A memorial fund has been established for Mr. Navas' children. Contributions may be made to the Joseph Michael Navas Memorial Fund, c/o Jeffrey A. Lovas & Co., CPA, 210 Rt. 4 East, Suite 202, Paramus, N.J. 07652.

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November 27, 2020

Steve Kovach posted to the memorial.

October 28, 2019

Alex posted to the memorial.

September 11, 2018

Eddie Lepselter posted to the memorial.

Steve Kovach

November 27, 2020

I miss u old friend and teammate! From ur captain Steve Kovach!

Alex

October 28, 2019

In memory of a Port authority officer who didn't die in vain on September 11th...
PS: Thanks for your sacrifice, sir.

Eddie Lepselter

September 11, 2018

As I sit here today watching another news special I can't believe it's been 17 years since this horrific tragedy. I don't have the words to make any sense of what happened that day but every year on this day I think of my old friend Lisa and her families tremendous loss. Lisa.. Joey was a hero and always will be. God bless you and your family.

Lindsey Navas

September 11, 2015

In loving memory, today and forever.

S J. Friscia III

May 21, 2015

In Memory
With Honor & Respect.

Lori Billera

August 3, 2014

I can't believe it has been almost 13 years since the tragic events of 9/11 ~ My husband coached our sons Joey and Kenny in Little League when it happened. That night was supposed to be the annual awards dinner and of course the dinner was cancelled! Joe and his son Joey were supposed to be at the dinner with our family. I remember praying that Joe would be one of those that might be found alive in the subway below, but sadly it wasn't so. My son Kenny still has your Mass Card displayed on his desk in his room and I have a small "shrine" in our exercise room ~ we had had a pool party for the team that summer and someone made gift bags for the coaches so I have the white bag they gave big Ken with Joe's Mass Card on a shelf with the trophy they got that year for the 9 year old travel team ~ We will never forget you, Joe and pray for you and your whole family!!! Thank you for your ultimate sacrifice ~ I ordered a flag that flew over the White House and we gave it to your family.

Jeff Pappalardo

September 11, 2011

Joe, the first time we met was playing Jr Rec Football for Paramus 4-6 grades. I'm coaching that same age group now and brought your Mass card to the game yesterday as I wanted people to remember. Be at peace Joe
Pop

September 10, 2011

Joe was a man of integrity and deep courage. I was fortunate to have a wonderful dinner at his home with his wife Karen, a friend of my ex. I will always remember him and will keep his family in my prayers.
How unselfish are these men and women who protect us daily and at times pay the ultimate sacrifice. We owe all of these professionals and their families a debt of gratitude. Pay forward!

bruce rickert

September 12, 2010

miss u joey been a great deal of time and different world's we played in the sandbox behind my grandpa's house our dads worked together we played in the same rec games in baseball You are truly missed may god bless u and keep

Jeff Pappalardo

September 11, 2009

Joe, Louie sent me a flag that listed all those in Rescue/Fire/Police that left us eight years ago. Of course it hangs on a prominent wall in my home with your Mass card next to your name. My kids point out your name to their friends and then show them your photo in our Rec Rockets basketball team, Paramus Rec football and Westbrook JRHS football team pictures. Be at peace bud.
Pop

Sandi Cuevas

February 20, 2009

Although I did not know any of the dear people who lost their lives on that tragic day, I have a good heart and soul, and both were touched and changed forever with all the events as they unfolded. I never thought that in my lifetime, I would be witness to such a tragedy as that on 9/11, my heart will forever ache for the lost souls on that day, and pray for their families, I don't know if I could personally endure the loss of a loved one to such a violent attack, but know this, I will forever carry these people in my heart and prayers, and pray this proud country of ours will continue to heal, but must NEVER forget! May God bless and keep them close to him, and may the families of these lost souls be forever in our hearts and minds, I know that I shall never forget..."GOD BLESS AMERICA, AND ALL HER PEOPLE"

Doug Abraham

February 11, 2009

Happy Birthday!!!

Joanna Trahanas

September 13, 2008

I only met Joe once or twice, but I knew Karen and her children. Jessica was friends with my daughter, Kali, and both were in my Girl Scout troop. In middle school, Jessica was one of my students the year our nation went into shock and Joe became a national hero. A few years later, her brother, Joey, was also in my class. I still think of the Navas family and pray for them.

Jeff Pappalardo

September 11, 2008

Joe, goose bumps rise from my flesh as I write this note to you. Your mass card still holds it place of honor on my fridge as it has for 7 years. Just wanted you to know that we all think of you every day.
Pop

Allison Ahrens (McCarton)

September 11, 2008

I didn't know Joe... quite honestly, I don't know if I ever even met him. But my father was great friends with him (Bob McCarton). I remember buying my '82 Honda Prelude from Joe - I LOVED that car!
Anyway, Joe will forever be a hero to me & my family. His bravery to sacrifice his life for others will always be remembered.
Even 7 years later, Joe & his family are in my thoughts & prayers.

John Flynn

June 11, 2008

Joe is always on my mind and his memory is always in my heart.

Love to all.

John Flynn PAPD ESU Truck 1

Doug Abraham

February 11, 2008

Hsppy Birthday!!!

Rosanne Capolongo

September 11, 2007

I grew up with the Navas family on Willard Road in Paramus, I was in the same grade as his sister Denise and Cousin Adele. Joey was the same age as my brother Anthony. My families prayes are with the Navas family always.

P Tabbernor

January 14, 2007

In memory....

Katie Forsythe

December 10, 2006

I was a friend of Jessica's one summer a few years ago. I was looking to contact her but found tons of things on her Dad. I will never forget the amazing things she told me about him and although we lost contact, I still think of her frequently and always remember her and her family on 9/11.

Kristine

November 15, 2006

As I stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.

Pasquale Navas

July 12, 2004

God bless all of my family..Joey was a TRUE hero.

Steve Navas

November 15, 2003

It is nearing Thanksgiving 2003, the holiday that reminds me of my cousin Joey. While growing up in Paramus, Thanksgiving was at Joeys house. Food, football and laughs is what I remember about Joey on that day. I will never forget my cousin Joey.

Richard Zitelli

October 27, 2003

As a former friend and neighbor from Roosevelt Blvd. in Paramus, my heart goes out to Joey and his family. I have a picture and story of Joey that was in the Bergen Record and I have it posted on my wall at work. I placed a small American Flag over his picture. When someone sees this, I let them know this was a freind of mine who gave his life so others may live. The courage that Joey and others displayed on September 11, 2001 will NEVER be forgotten. Our country took a tremendous hit that day, but because of Joey, we are stronger that ever. No one should ever forget his family, and he will be a hero for all eternity.

Maryann Day (Swarbrick)

September 11, 2003

Karen,



We go way back to middle and high school. On this 2nd anniversary of 9/11 I wanted to let you know that you and your family are in my families prayers all the time. I think of you so very often and ask Catherine about you all the time. I have told my children so much about you. Although you may not know this you were such a special person from my middle & high school days. So much of that time was difficult for me and you were ALWAYS a friend. I have never and will never forget how you were there for me. I can only imagine the pain and loss you and your children go thru each day. Noone should have to feel that. I know that someday you will all be together again and it will be in a much safer and better place. Joe is now among the angels and I belive he watches over you and yours everyday. How blessed you are to have been married to such a wonderful man. A HERO. The world is a better place because of people like Joe and you. I know your children will carry on his legacy. Someday when you are ready I would love to hear from you. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN. An old friend from Westbrook and Paramus High.



Maryann

michele arluna (macari)

September 12, 2002

Dear Karen,

I'm sure you won't remember me but I worked with you one summer at the GU corp. when you were newly married. My name is Michele. I am from Ringwood,NJ. I heard your husband's name yesterday (9/11/02) on the television and I knew I had heard it before because I remembered your name. You were so patient, kind and helpful to me and I remember you telling me how concerned you were about your husband's safety being that he was a PA police officer-especially when he worked late at night. I know that was a long time ago-I think 14 or 15 years ago. I am so sorry for your loss and I hope you know that you have an angel in heaven and I pray that you and your family are doing ok and enjoying all of the happy memories. Be well and God Bless you and your family.

Michele (Macari) Arluna

Encinitas, California

Shawn B. Doherty

September 11, 2002

Our prayers are with you each and

every day forever.

Mickey David Weinberg

September 9, 2002

Karen,

I think of you often and hope all is going as best as possible. I know you have alot of support from your family. I am sorry for your loss and may each day get a little easier. My prayers are with you.

linda demarco(paquette)

September 7, 2002

i grew up with Joey's sister Lisa.I spent alot of time at the Navas"s house.. I still remember Joey yelling at us to stay out of his room...my best wishes go out to his family..I really miss you guy's and im very sorry for your lose.



Linda DeMarco (Paquette)

MENA DE MARCO

September 7, 2002

REMEMBERING JOEY ON THIS ANNIVERSITY. HE WILL BE IN MY PRAYERS AS WILL THE NAVAS FAMILY. GOD BLESS THEM ALL.

Lori Abruzzo(DeMarco)

September 7, 2002

joey and i go way back, we went to westbrook jhs and high school together, we had the best of times, his friendship made my days in paramus most memorable. he was a good friend and neighbor, the football games were the best. i do have pictures, ill try to get them online for you, my best to all of his family, miss you joey!

Janet Bradler

September 7, 2002

I grew up with Joey's sister Lisa. I have good memories of the Navas family. They were always nice to everyone. I never knew what a courageous job Joey did until September 11th. I'm so proud to have known him. I know Joey is in heaven. I pray for the Navas family everyday. I know the pain you are going through. God Bless you & may knowing you will see Joey in heaven bring you peace.

Michael and Carol Ivanir

August 26, 2002

To Karen and family:

Not a day goes by that we don't think about Joe, his courage and his love of life, his family and especially, little Joey, who played with my son on the Paramus Straps Youth Hockey team. Joe was an inspiration, not only to my son, whose team Joe coached, but to everyone who knew him. We will never forget him and what he has done for his country.

Laura Andrucki - Izzo

August 17, 2002

To the Navas Family, No one can lighten the pain you are in - no words, or actions. You are not alone in your loss - other families who have lost stand with you. Joe is an example of what is best in us. Others live because of his actions. I pray for you, his family, that your hearts will heal.

Angie Campbell

May 7, 2002

**********GOD BLESS YOU**********

April 28, 2002

ALWAYS HONORED NEVER FORGOTTEN

JOSEPH MICHAEL NAVAS WAS A MAN OF GREAT COURAGE.

YOUR FAMILY LOVES AND MISSES YOU. YOUR MEMORY WILL LIVE ON IN US FOREVER.

REST IN PEACE MY BROTHER, REST IN PEACE!

April 28, 2002

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."

John 15:13

Nicholas LoPiccolo

April 23, 2002

I miss Uncle Joe! I wish Justin will come over some day.

Marisa LoPiccolo

April 23, 2002

Uncle Joe you were the nicest uncle, you are a hero. I love you.

Victor Joseph LoPiccolo

April 23, 2002

My Uncle Joe is a true rescue hero and I miss him.

Aunt Karen I love you and I love Uncle Joe.

Anonymous

March 13, 2002

DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL HERO..JOSEPH NAVAS AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..STAY CLOSE AND NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK..MAY JESUS AND ST.JOSEPH GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN

February 11, 2002

I pray that God could just give me one more chance to hug Joey or hear him say, "Hey Lynne" again. I go to sleep thinking a dream could fulfill that prayer, but it doesn't happen. Today is Joey's 45th birthday. God tells us that if we think about the things that are true, honorable, right, pure, lovely and good, then the peace of God, which transends human understanding, will stand guard over our hearts and minds. I believe "My cousin Joey" had these qualities and has left a legacy and blessings to our family. Our family will never be the same without Joey. I will keep looking for you Joey in my dreams as I am trying to find peace.

Nancy Basenese

January 30, 2002

Dear Karen and the Navas family - I didn't know Joe except through your brother Art and his wife Kate. But I would like you to know there are prayers for you, your children and the family coming from my heart.

mary llauger

January 27, 2002

MY WISHES THE NAVAS FAMILY......are to hold your hearts everyday in my prayers and ask for all of you to be blessed....with the peace that passes ...all understanding...that peace that only THE ALMIGHTY can and will give you...i love you dearly. ROSIE JOE FREDDIE JEANNIE BOB & FA. NAVAS SISTERS KAREN& CHILDREN

Bob and Sharon Navas

January 26, 2002

Not a day goes by that I don't think of Joey and Karen and Jessica and Joey and Justin. Our own son, Joseph M. Navas, always looked up to his cousin, Joe. Joe will always be a hero and his family's hearts are filled with pride and sorrow. His honor is unquestioned and his deeds will live on through those who remember. I'm including a photo of the four Joe Navas' taken at his cousin Adele Hook's house in Paramus this summer, July 4, 2001. Our love, The Navas' in Nebraska.

Fred and Jean Navas

January 22, 2002

Joe, we always loved you as a nephew. Since 9/11 we now love you because you are a Hero, Role Model and a true Christian. As a Hero you saved countless of lives. Not only on 9/11, but everyday doing your job. We love you as a role model. Husband, Father and friend. We love you as a Christian. The highest mark of a Christian is to give your life for someone else. Sleep well. Our thoughts and prayers will protect you forever.

Joesph Navas stood for lIberty justice and our freedom

Loreen Llauger

January 22, 2002

Hi, my name is Sofia I am with my friends in this picture on the far right i am seven years old and i am proud to be american thank you Joe Navas
Sofia Zubi....this is submitted for me by my aunt Loreen

God Bless the Navas family

Loreen Galvano

January 22, 2002

Dear Joey, and his most dearest wife Karen and children my heart and love goes out to you may the Lords peace and understanding bless your hearts and keep you in his light Joseph Navas will never be forgotten i will always talk of him even though we have never met i feel very close in spirit to the Navas family God Bless and keep you in his light forever in his holy name.....
may God protect the Navas family forever and cover them with his blessings of peace and love always
God Bless America and thank God for Joseph Navas for his heart mind and spirit
Loreen Llauger, Galvano

Yvonne Llauger Zu'bi

January 20, 2002

Dearest Joesph,

My heart goes out to you and your family. I know that your service

to the innocent people you went to help in the World Trade Center did not go in vain. Your wife and children will become strong one day to carry your legacy for many generations to come. My faith in God and eternal life believe's that your in heaven with my beloved daughter Christina. In 1995 I had a tragedy too, my 25 year drowned getting lost on a Jet ski in the ocean. No one was there for her to find her in her last dying hours and days I prayed for someone like you to search for her. I know now after reading your life and dedication to helping people in distress.That our world lost a great man. Your Mother and Father are my God parents we played together as babies. What a legacy you leave for your wife children Mother and Father. With heart felt sympathies to the Navas family and friends and comrads for a great loss, very great loss. I am deeply sorry for your pain and suffering you are going through now. Your in my thoughts and prayers,

Yvonne Llauger Zu'bi

mary llauger

January 20, 2002

joey....god bless your heart.....your missed by the world we have learned what a beautiful life is all about...siempre fideles mary llauger irvine ,ca

Marion Main

January 15, 2002

There are few people you meet in life that you can honestly say you can't think of one bad thing about them...Joey was one of those guys. He was great for practical jokes, but never mean or hurtful, made any assignment you had in school with him fun, and obviously went on to make the world a better place for his family and society at large. Thank you Joey, and I hope someday your wife and children can find some peace with their huge loss. You can never be replaced, but the gift you leave is that A big part of Joey lives on in all of them.

Deborah Bogosian

January 15, 2002

My name is Debbie Bogosian and Joey and I go way back to elementary school together.Joey was always a great kid, we used to laugh together and sometimes even fight together but we always came out smiling.Joey was the kind of kid that everyone took a liking too, he was just that kind of easy going person.After I had moved out of Paramus in 1972, many of my friendships were lost but I assure you, NEVER FORGOTTEN.Although I had never had the pleasure of meeting his wife Karen or his children,my sincere sorrow is with you.Always keep Joey alive in your hearts and hold on to every memory.Joey may have left this world as a Police Officer but I know will return as an Angel and Iam proud to have known a man filled with such courage and strength. My love is with all his family at this time. Sweet dreams my friend....

Judy Greco

January 15, 2002

Karen, I hope that you read this guest book. I graduated with Joe and although I didn't know him well, I do remember that he was a really nice guy. We have added a tribute page for Joe to the PHS Class of 1975 web site. Please e-mail me if you get a chance to check it out. I was at the Annunciation that Friday night with the hundreds of others who came to pay their respects and I could see how hard it all was on you. My prayers are always with you and your children! Judy

Irv&Rose Richardson

January 14, 2002

We will never forget all those brave people who gave up their lives on Sept 11,2001.Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family always.Though I never met Joe I felt like I knew him all my life.God Bless you and your family.

Teresa Jahn

December 18, 2001

We thank Joseph for dedicating his life to protecting and helping people. Such a dedication comes with a huge caring heart filled with warmth of his fellow man. May Joseph's caring attitude, life and love live on in his loved ones. We are extremely sorry for your loss of Joseph. Our hearts cry with you.

America Cries

We see your sorrow-

and our hearts cry....

We can not erase your pain

but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-

-the American people-

are beside you.

We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,

the strength that gives you courage,

and the words to lighten your spirits.

And when we are left speechless

may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts

to ease your sorrow.

May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-

-the American people-

face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn

Dixon, IL

richard chaffin

November 21, 2001

hi. my name is richard chaffin. i am a sophmore at edmond memorial high school in edmond oklahoma. in my ap european history class, we chose a person who was killed in the terrorist attacks. everday, we pray to that person, and everyday we do a good deed to help that persons legacy live on. i read josephs story, and it seemed to click with me. i carry around the story thaty ny times printed about joseph everywhere i go. i would like to get in touch with joseph's family, and help them any way i can. if you will email your childrens childrens chrismas list, i will try to fill the gap left by his lost by buying them christmas presents. thank you for reading this, and please email me back.

And thank you joseph, by showing this country what real courage is.

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November 27, 2020

Steve Kovach posted to the memorial.

October 28, 2019

Alex posted to the memorial.

September 11, 2018

Eddie Lepselter posted to the memorial.