Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Joseph Szostak Obituary
AGE: 81 • Caldwell
Joseph Szostak, 81, of Caldwell passed away onWednesday, Feb. 22, 2017.
A memorial visitation will be at Paul Ippolito-Dancy Memorial, 9 Smull Ave., Caldwell, on Sunday, Feb. 26, 2017 from 2 to 4 p.m. For directions or to send the family condolences please visit, www.ippolitofuneralhomes.com.
Born in Plains, Pa., Mr. Szostak was a resident of Fair Haven, N.J., for over 35 years, where he also served as Mayor from 2002 to 2006. He moved to Caldwell 7 years ago.
A Music Professor at Brookdale Community College for over 25 years, he was a founding member of the college music department, as well as music director and conductor of the Monmouth Symphony Orchestra for seven years. He led and conducted the Monmouth Conservatory Youth Chorus on a European tour and was a music critic for the Red Bank Register.
He was also a member of the auxiliary of the Fair Haven Volunteer Fire Company.
A devoted father and grandfather, who loved his family above all, enjoyed good food, traveling, and the outdoors. Mr. Szostak was a generous, kind, gregarious, sensitive man whose door was always open to whoever needed his help. He made the world a brighter place with his humor, warmth, and love.
Surviving are his loving children, Martin and his wife, Gayle McCarthy, Phillip, and David and his wife, Jennifer; cherished grandchildren, Grace and Leo, and former wife, Barbara Armbruster. He was predeceased by his siblings, Anna, Florence, Helen, Mildred, Frank and John Szostak.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Szostak
Sponsored by Paul Ippolito - Dancy Memorial.
Joan Benincasa
February 17, 2025
Still miss you Joe - and the songs, and the lace curtains and piano in your living room where you gave me voice lessons, and the cups of hot water and honey, and Puddles and Creampuff, and how much you made Halloween and Christmas fun for your students - the caroling and the decorations, and your patience teaching voice lessons to someone who wanted to sing but really did not have that God-given talent, but had the chance to try in your Brookdale Community College Oasis events. Thank you. Rest in Peace.
Marti Egger
February 17, 2023
I will always remember Joe and treasure the memories. There was never a hill too high to climb or a challenge he couldn´t overcome. RIP my good friend and condolences to his wonderful family. Marti
Alice Houston (aka, Graham)
January 19, 2021
My condolence to Mr. Szostak's family. Saddening hear of his passing. Thought of him today as I have throughout the years. Googled his name to find he's gone. He was loving hearted as he taught me to use my voice "soar like Barbara Striesand". I will always appreciate his motivational influence at BCC (1977-79). May he Rest In Power. Love and Light Sent Here and Now. ❣
Michele Maxwell Brannock
April 19, 2020
Joseph was a devoted music teacher and created of the Ocean Township Chorus. He was a marvelous instructor and led many young people to appreciate the beauty of music and its many forms. I have such joyous memories of the many programs he created at Ocen Township. Much love to all who adored him.
Marti Egger
February 17, 2020
I think about Joe all the time and how he was able to change everywhere he was for the better. He was a wonderful friend to me and many others. He was passionate about things, always looking out for people. And he LOVED his family so much. He is missed every day. Peace to Joe and all who knew him and love him.
Joan Benincasa
February 17, 2020
I miss Joe allot. I often think about what a completely knowledgeable and talented person he was - no one knew as much about music as he did nor could teach it to others as well as he did, how much he loved Halloween and Christmas, how much he loved animals, his Oasis events at BCC - what an interesting, smart and dynamic person he was. He was fun. Rest in peace Joe - and Puddles and Creampuff.
Michael Presti
September 10, 2018
Joe,
You were the closest of friends to me. We knew each other better than anyone it seems. Late Friday nights around the piano singing and just enjoying each others company. Trips to NYC for dinner and a theater, then long walks on the west side and crashing when we had to many. It was pure decadence. I didn't know much then, what I know now and I pray for peace for you. May your soul be at rest. I did enjoy our time together.
As you always said...C YA.
Lovingly,
Michael
Kerri Danskin
May 17, 2018
I just thought of Joe Szostak when I passed a few pink flamingos just now. They are forever an emblem of his work in FH to me. I am sad to know that he has died. I was a news reporter when he became mayor and just loved the person he was and the warmth he had for the town and its people. Before he took office, he was always good for a public comment at the council meetings, typically bugging the council in the way that only a person demanding public officials do their job can. Lots of love to his family. This obituary is spot-on in its description of the kind of guy he was.
Daniel Waite
May 14, 2018
Mr. Szostak was one of the most influential teachers in my life. I had the pleasure of being in his music class at Thorne Jr. High school in 1968. He taught me more about music in one semester then I have learned in the rest of my life. Thank you for the good times Mr. Szostak. Rest in peace.
Al Natanagara
April 13, 2018
I only just learned of Joe's death while searching for him online. He was my voice teacher at Brookdale, and my private voice teacher. Joe was THAT teacher for me--the one who changed everything. He taught me how to use my voice as an instrument, how to be a true musician, and how to be a member of an ensemble. I went on to study voice at Berklee, and I have sung in bands and studios for decades. I have kept Joe's teachings in my heart all this time and I am sad to hear of his passing.
Laura Lippstone
October 22, 2017
Just thinking about being in Joe's elementary school chorus a lifetime ago.
I was all of about 12, and we were tasked with learning an exotic collection of songs from all over the world -- including a Russian anthem that had my Russian grandmother in nostalgic tears at our performance.
He was an exacting conductor, acting like he was at Carnegie Hall instead of Ocean Township School. I never did, and never will, forget him.
Joan Benincasa
October 9, 2017
Feeling nostalgia for yesteryear, I decided to drive by Joe's home in Fair Haven last week and surprise him with a visit from a former singing student (1993-1995), but something didn't look right. There were bicycles in the front yard and the Halloween decor was so different - so I didn't stop.
I hoped I wouldn't find what I found this morning - this memorial. I should have visited him sooner and more often.
Even though I did not have a very good singing voice, he welcomed me into his Brookdale Oasis program. Some of my happiest and more hopeful moments were vocalizing as he played his grand piano in that front semi-circular room with the windows adorned by lace curtains.
His dog Puddles, his cat Creampuff, and a mug of warm honeyed water were staples of every visit. Then, I lost my job and then he retired from Brookdale. So, it ended.
Now, I will never be able to visit him and I mourn that loss.
My condolences to his children - he always spoke of you with such pride and love.
Adrienne Wigdortz Anderson
March 4, 2017
To Mr. Szostak's family and friends, please accept my condolences. I was one of Mr. Szostak's students at Dow Avenue School. He was a talented and dedicated teacher, who made a positive impact on my life. He provided me and others with many opportunities to participate in the performing arts. He set the bar high for our chorus, insisting on professionalism. With his guidance, encouragement and mentoring, we were able to meet the challenge. Our concerts were awesome! My mother, too, was a fan of Joe's and enjoyed taking his classes at Brookdale. I'm thankful he was part of my life and will always remember him fondly.
Ginny Moore
March 3, 2017
I seem to remember Joe, Mr . Szostak back then, as arriving at Thorne Jr. High the same year I did, 1966 or 67. He was an amazing, energetic and encouraging teacher.
He brought me out of my insecure place in adolescence to a place of modest accomplishment through choral training. He had a huge impact on me and a great number of my fellow choir members. To this day 50 years later I remember him with fondness and gratitude for enlarging my life and giving my future a positive direction.
He was the kind of teacher and influence every parent prays for. I know he respected his students and I can say that I respected himGinny...still do. God bless his soul. He was a very fine person.
Cathi "Marangos"
February 28, 2017
Joe Szostak was such a kind friend and loving man. He attended Grandfriends day at school with my children and they relished in his attention. Each year he would accept the invitation and say This time I really will wear my pink tutu.
Joe warmly opened his home to citizens of Fair Haven and prepared the most amazing buffet dinners. His home featured photos of many musicals he produced; he shared behind the curtain stories and had a lot of love for his boys and all his students.
Does Fair Haven still have the music program he instituted (as a supplement to rec sports)? Can young people still sign up at borough hall to shovel snow for seniors? I loved that Mayor Szostak invited youth groups to Council meetings and opened with a song. He'd then invite the young people, and their parents, to stay for the meeting and add their knowledge and experience to Council discussions.
My most recent memory of Joe is racing table top arm bikes at Riverview and eating fine chocolate. He was so very proud of his grandchildren and displayed their photos and art with pride.
Though we missed him dearly, how wonderful that he lived close to his beloved grands in recent years.
See you on the other side Joe. I'll look for a flamingo.
Betsy Stout FOEHL
February 26, 2017
I, too, am so sorry to hear of your dad's passing. He was a wonderful, funny, caring man. He was my music teacher at the Dow Avenue school in OT for 4 years in the early 60s. He made music 'fun' for all of us! After having our class learn all the words to the music from "The Sound of Music", he took us all in to the broadway production in NYC... a first for most of us. It was so much fun, and even more so because we all knew all of the words! He also masterminded our 8th grade graduation which included wonderful patriotic songs... the piece de resistance being having us dressed in red, white or blue gowns, forming a giant flag in the stands... it was GREAT!
Years later he beame my mayor in Fair Haven. My sister & I had a store in downtown named Penny Annie... and he would always stop by to 'see if we were a nickel yet'. He always wanted to know how we thought the town was doing, and if he could do anything to help, going door to door to find out... You could also see him each year volunteering at our annual Fireman's Fair, a friendly face usually in the 50/50 booth....
One other thing that I will always remember your dad for is the posture advice that he gave way back in grade school to help us sing better. He told us to do the following with our shouldres to help us sit straighter and sing better.... UP, BACK, DOWN! I raised my children saying that to them time and time again and even reminded childhood best friend of those words just the other day.
Please know, though, from these rememberances what an influence your dad had on my and many others' lives. In the end, what a wonderful thing to accomplish!
Radia Perlman
February 26, 2017
I was recently asked who my favorite teacher was, and without hesitation, I knew it was Mr. Szostak, my music teacher in the Dow Ave School. I've had some great teachers, but Mr. Szostak stands out. A combination of brilliance, passion, dedication to every one of us, and humor. I am so grateful, and I will miss him.
Bruce & Diann Fowler
February 26, 2017
It was an honor and a delight to spend time with this wonderful man.
Marti Egger
February 25, 2017
Joe was the most caring and generous person with a giant personality. He worked very hard on behalf of his town where he became Mayor and changed the town for the better. He is very much loved by his group of concerned citizens who will forever be grateful for everything he did and for his friendship and caring for everyone. Our thoughts and prayers to his family and may he always have his beloved music with him.
February 25, 2017
Mr.Szostak was my music teacher at Dow Avenue School. I remember trying out for the Chorus and all the practices we had in preparation for our eighth grade graduation program in 1962. I fondly recall his kindness and attention to the smallest details. My sister, brother and I have spoken of him so many times over the years. He was a special teacher and I am grateful to have learned from him. My deepest sympathy.
Tobi Okun Cannelli
Annapolis, Maryland
Wanda Schacht Wohlin
February 25, 2017
As his student at Thorne School in 1969, Mr. Szostak gave me a love of music that has lasted my entire life. Because of him I became the lead soloist at my church and I learned to play the guitar and piano. My prayers are with you at this time but know that he touched many lives and made them better. Surely he is conducting an angel choir now.
Kurt Rossbach
February 25, 2017
Mr. Szoztak was the first teacher to make our chorus class relevant. He took song's like "Walk away Renee'" and had us try to decipher the lyric's, and "Yellow Submarine" for any hidden meaning in the song. He also gave me my first solo at Thorne. I still sing to this day because of what he wrote in my 1969 Thorne yearbook... "Continue to sing as a vocation or ad vocation" He was a great man whom I have thought about often over these 62 years of life. He will be missed!
Janet Kay Hayes
February 25, 2017
Mr. Szostak was my music teacher at Dow Ave grammar school in Ocean Township in 1964. He directed our 8th grade graduation ceremony and made it so memorable that it is one of my favorite school memories. He was a gentleman and gave me a love of music that I still have. He made the world a better place with his dedication and the lives he enhanced with his own love of music. So sorry for your loss.
Dan Hillyer
February 25, 2017
I'm so very sorry to read of your Dads passing. He was a wonderful man and a great Vocal coach. He gave me so many opportunities during my years at BCC. Although I lost touch with him over the years he was never far from my thoughts... God Speed to you Joe, Heaven has gained a Musical Angel... Dan Hillyer
Nancy Scharff
February 24, 2017
Joe was our choral director at Thorne Junior High School. He encouraged me to do my first solo at one of our school concerts. I will never forget this gifted and wonderful musician. I also had the opportunity to sing with The Monmouth Conservatory Youth Chorus on our European tour, under the direction of Joe and Felix Molzer. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, at this difficult time.
Kevin Langan
February 24, 2017
Joe was my music teacher in Thorne Jr. High School in Middletown, NJ for Grades 7-9, and then I went with him to Europe in the summer of 1972 as a member of The Monmouth Youth Chorus.
He inspired me to study voice and pursue an opera career which I continue to this day. My career encompasses over 1400 career performances with most of the opera companies in North America and many in Europe over the last 38 years. He came to see me sing at The Metropolitan Opera in 1990 and New York City Opera in 2001.
I owe him a great deal. His love of music opened my eyes to the world of singing and opera.
I will always be in debt to him and loved him for what he gave to me.
May he rest in peace. He inspired a great many people and opened our hearts to music. What more could someone do in their lifetime than Joe did.
Diane Grady
February 24, 2017
So sorry to hear of Joes passing , He was my voice teacher at Brookdale and director of the Monmouth conservatory choir. I remember his children as babies since I babysat them, I hope you remember all the talent he had and the love that he gave to all of his students. Prayers of comfort to all of you He will be missed
Betsy Taylor Palmer
February 24, 2017
Mr.Szostak was our music teacher in Dow Ave School.What wonderful memories I have.Band,chorus,appreciation of music.We all loved this great man.I still love and remember the lessions we learned.I speak of him often.I know he is leading and teaching the Angels.
Ruth Blaser
February 24, 2017
Joe was a wonderful, warm, witty, talented friend, who surprised many when he decided to run for Mayor of Fair Haven--and won! He brought a "non-political" flavor to the Borough during his tenure in that he was very approachable and available--a real "people person". We miss him!
Peggy Todd Bowen
February 24, 2017
I had Mr Szostak for a music teacher in the Dow Ave School. He made a group of 8th graders sound like a professional choir for our graduation. He worked us hard and we came away learning so much more than music.
Jacqueline Barclay
February 24, 2017
May Joe rest in peace, and may the Szostak family be comforted. He was a light in this world.
February 24, 2017
I'm so sorry to hear about Joe's passing. We were friends for many years in his work at Brookdale and with the Monmouth Symphony Orchestra. He will be greatly missed. Marjorie Koharski, Neptune, NJ
Melissa Stryker
February 24, 2017
Mr. Szostak was my grammar school music teacher at Ocean Township Dow Ave. School. He was inspirational. He created wonderful musical programs that had all students involved. I then saw him again at Brookdale when I worked there. A memorable person. My condolences. Melissa Stryker
Mary Batistick
February 24, 2017
My prayers are with the entire Szostak family. Joe was my friend and music teacher. His love of music was inspirational and his warmth and pleasant personality added a marvelous dimension to his relationships with all. I will always remember his wonderful classes at Brookdale and his Sunday afternoon shows. He was passionate about all of his endeavors and he will be greatly missed.
Lisa Ericson
February 24, 2017
To the Szostak family, I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of your father. My mother was Jean Ericson. Way, way back, she worked with Joe at the Monmouth Conservatory of Music, but also respected and admired him as a good friend. I remember your father as a kind, warm-hearted soul whose love of music shown through everything. May your many lovely memories bring you peace.
Showing 1 - 35 of 35 results
Make a Donation
in Joseph Szostak's name
Memorial Events
for Joseph Szostak
Feb
26
How to support Joseph's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Joseph Szostak's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
