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Bernard Joseph Ferris Jr.
Bernard Joseph Ferris Jr.
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Bernard Ferris Obituary
Beloved Husband, Dad, Pop, Brother, Uncle and Friend - Bernard Joseph Ferris, Jr. of Lavallette, New Jersey passed away on March 25, 2023, at the age of 78.
Bernie (BJ), son of the late Bernard Joseph Ferris, Sr. and Helen Marie (Maguire) Ferris, was born on May 20, 1944, in Phillipsburg, NJ. He was a proud graduate and basketball player of Phillipsburg Catholic High School class of 1962. During his young adult days, he attended and played basketball for St. John's University and served in the U.S. Army as a Military Police Officer. He met the love of his life, Donna, together they created a beautiful family and operated multiple businesses together. He was a proud owner of Ferris' Café, Jersey House, and Sunny Hunny by the Sea Family Restaurant and Pancake House where he and his family worked side by side for over 40 years.
Family was of utmost importance to him. He was the most dedicated, loving Husband, Dad and Pop. He served as a Father figure and supportive role model to many. Bernie enjoyed eating sweets (his only vice), family dinners, family vacations, boating, beach sunsets, traveling, taking Donna to Dinner and Atlantic City, visiting his great-granddaughters, attending class reunions, catching up with his friends, and watching college basketball as a devout St. John's fan. He was proud to be Irish and enjoyed a good Manhattan. He was a social butterfly who could start up a conversation and befriend anyone.
He was truly one-of-a-kind- a humble, caring, beautiful soul with a powerful presence who could always be counted on no matter what. Everyone loved Bernie. He always encouraged others and being in his presence made people feel better about themselves. Having experienced the loss of his parents at a young age, Bernie did not worry about the little things in life- he focused on living in the moment and valuing his time on Earth with his family. He will be deeply missed by all.
Bernie is survived by his loving wife- Donna Ferris; daughter and sons- Tisa Hatch, Bernard III & Danielle Ferris, and Louis Ferris; grandchildren- Donjae & Christopher Markey, Angelo & Leslie Catanzariti, Piara Catanzariti, Hilary & Matt Alexander, and Scott Hatch; as well as great-granddaughters: Penellopi, Oliviae, Talia, Milania, Madison, Hensley, Dakota, Serenity, and Willow; Sisters- Patricia Balaziuk and husband Oleh, Maureen White and Husband Don,many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is predeceased by his parents; brother-in-law- Carman Muretta; son- Richard Hatch, Jr; nephew- Robert Harper.
In honor of his wishes, services will not be offered. Bernie did not wish for sadness upon his passing and wanted all to remember him as he was - a happy, cheerful spirit. In honor of Bernie's life, think of a happy memory you shared together.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Art
March 30, 2025
Although BJ has been gone 2 yrs., I still think of him often.
Diane & Budd Rall
September 22, 2024
Donna,
So sorry to just find out about Bernie´s passing. We had no idea. May God bless you and provide you with comfort with happy memories of your life together.
Diane & Budd Rall
Craig Hahn
May 18, 2024
I remember Growing up at The Jersey House with BJ along with Richie and Ed! Condolences to the family he was a Great Guy!
Danny Dalrymple
May 11, 2023
I remember BJ and Donna when They owned the Jersey house Sorry to hear about BJ He was a good person Danny Dalrymple
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James kelly
May 8, 2023
Here´s a simple fact, this man was a legend. He gave the best advice, a caring heart, beautiful soul. The world became grayer the day you parted. Our lives forever changed. For the past 4 decades if I needed advice or an ear to listen, he was the guy I´d call. I´ll forever be grateful for our friendship. To Donna and family stay connected I´d love to come visit in an appropriate time with all my heart my condolences
Butch Altieri
April 16, 2023
Donna,
A great guy. My condolences
Butch Altieri
Bob Woods
April 8, 2023
Please accept my condolences
May Bernie Rest In Peace And May Perpetual Light Shine Upon Him
DAVE VINE
April 8, 2023
SO SORRY DONNA AND FAMILY RIP BJ YOU WERE A GREAT FRIEND
Rylee (Price) Durham
April 8, 2023
My condolences to the family at this time. Mr. Ferris will be missed. Sunny hunny was my first job and I worked there for many years. Over the years I got to know Mr. and Mrs. Ferris like they were family. Mr. Ferris could put a smile on anyones face. He always made sure customers were happy and enjoying their breakfast all while walking around in his plaid pajamas! It always made me giggle! He´s the one who introduced me to putting malt vinegar on French fries! To this day I still love it! I will cherish the memories forever, and be thankful to have met such a great person.
Kathy Ayres
April 8, 2023
Donna,
My sincerest condolences to you and yours.
Dave Polanki
April 7, 2023
Ferris Family
So sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Ferris. Spent a lot of time at the old house on Cresmont with Lou and BJ. Mr. Ferris was always larger than life just a great guy. RIP
Goodwin family
April 7, 2023
My prayers and thoughts continue to be with the family. Mr. Ferris was my favorite boss. I worked at Sunny Hunny for many summers, and it was always a good time. Mr. Ferris was a kind and gentle man. He always offered great advice, and he was always so thoughtful, asking about family and extended family. He was a beautiful soul. I will never forget his smile in the kitchen when my sister and I would be laughing aloud at 6:00 am, cutting rolls. A good man. Heaven welcomed a man who already had his wings.
Sammy sortino
April 7, 2023
My deepest sympathy to Donna and the Ferris family BJ WAS ONE OF THE GREATEST FRIENDS YOU COULD EVER MEET. HE WAS A REAL GENUINE PERSON. RIP MY FRIEND.
James Kelly
April 7, 2023
This was the young man who impacted so many as gently and respectfully as any human I´ve ever known. Thanks for the memories B. 1961 SPSJ Basketball legend
CINDA Blackwell
April 6, 2023
There are so many wonderful things about BJ to remember. He was a wonderful man always fun to be around. The Jersey House was one of my favorite places to eat and have a good time with friends. He will be missed by all who knew him . So very sorry for your lose. Condolences
Kenny Kane
April 6, 2023
To Bernie's Family
I am very sorry for your loss. B J was the best of PCHS. God bless Bernie.
Denise Eustis
April 6, 2023
Rip BJ sorry for your loss ferris family
Ryan January
April 6, 2023
Love ya Bernie !
Shot pool like a doctor!!!!
Great memories !
Grubby Slack
April 6, 2023
R. I. P.
Brother
Nancy colavito
April 6, 2023
Bernie had become a friend and a fellow fan of St John´s basketball
He was always so kind and warm as we saw him the last few summers. We will truly miss him and miss seeing his kind smile. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Donna and the whole family. May you all find the strength and love in each other to get you through this difficult time.
Sincerely Vinnie & Nancy Colavito
Bruce Parkhill
April 6, 2023
BJ was the best of the best!
RIP old friend.
Dawn and Terry Merante
April 6, 2023
We never saw BJ that he wasn't cheerful and joyful--
he was a happy soul. Donna and family--we share your grief. God Bless.
Doreen Cronce (Graner)
April 6, 2023
Donna and family so sorry to hear about BJ'S passing. He was a wonderful and funny man. He will be missed. Rest in Peace BJ
Joe Attinello
April 6, 2023
Donna , Pat and family , I can´t believe my friend Bernie is gone . He really was one of the best man I ever knew. A nother guy from the flats is gone . Rest in peace my friend, you will always be in our hearts
Lynn DaVanzo Korp
April 6, 2023
My deepest condolences to you, dear cousins. Eddie and I loved BJ and I´m sure they both will have a lot to talk about up there.
Francis "Chunk" Tersigni
April 6, 2023
My Dear Cousin Donna. Very sorry to hear of BJ's passing. There are no words available when trying to describe what a kind,thoughtful and gracious man as he! Please call me at your convenience. Much love to you and the family .
Bradley L Stout
April 6, 2023
Donna and Family
Deepest sympathy for BJ's passing. We will do as he asked and recall the good times, celebrate his life, and wish eternal peace for him.
Brad & Barb Stout
Robert J. Miklas, AT2AC, USN, 1963-1967.
April 6, 2023
You have made your last march down the lonely dusty trail. You stand relieved from your post. A job well done fellow veteran. America thanks you for your service to our country in the defense of freedom. The final bugle has sounded and taps is about to sound ending a successful career as a nation´s defender. Farewell fellow veteran. A Navy Vietnam Veteran.
Art Durazzi
April 6, 2023
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Susan & Keith Zwicker
April 6, 2023
The Ferris Family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. Know we care and certainly share in your loss. Growing up at the Ferris household holds very fond memories of BJ for which always brings heartfelt love and laughter. BJ may you rest in eternal peace knowing how much you were loved. You will certainly be missed.
JACK FULPER
April 6, 2023
my condolences to family and friends
i met bernie when i moved to south main street at 8 yrs old... i was watching the bigger boys playing football at the old town lot by tonys hot dog stand.. one boy had to go home... and bernie said hey you want to play...naturally i jumped at the chance not knowing anyone there. anyways is what i wanted to say was from that day on bernie was like a mentor to me, a real class guy , who also was funny,, when i ever was around these giant of guys always let me play , even though i was younger and way smaller than everyone else
they went to phillipsburg catholic school and i went to atlantic city later in life to watch them play for the catholic basketball championship,,where they lost in a shot that just beat the buzzer...i was a fan of bernie , he treated everyone as ab equal,,, dont think you could find one person who didnt love him
REST IN PEACE MY GOOD FRIEND,,,,YOUR HEAR WITH ALL OF US IN OUR HEARTS
Jacki Quick Russo
April 6, 2023
Please accept my heartfelt condolences in the passing of Uncle B. Its been years since I saw him but I will always remember his huge heart and larger than life presence. My prayers are with you all as you navigate this difficult time.
George Gazzana
April 6, 2023
Donna and family,
B. J. was a classmate and friend from the 3rd grade through H.S. graduation at Phillipsburg Catholic. We had the great experience of growing up "down the flat". B. J. will be missed by everyone who knew him. He was a great friend, classmate and most importantly, a great human being. May he rest in peace.
Sergeant Major (E-9) Larry E. Williams, US Army/ Retired
April 6, 2023
Sir,
I did not know you personally, however I would be honored to "Thank You", for your dedicated and honorable Military Service; to OUR Country.
At a later date, we will meet in that "SPECIAL PLACE" which GOD has reserved, for ALL of those who have stepped forward; to serve THEIR Country in a Military Uniform.
May ALL of GOD'S Blessings, be with your Dear Family!
" WELCOME HOME ".........
Sergeant Major (E-9) Larry E. & Mrs. Sheila M. (LaBar) Williams, US Army/ Retired (Tennessee)
(Formerly from the Area)
Susan Gosnell Hunt
April 6, 2023
Donna and family,
I am so sorry for your loss, BJ was a wonderful human being. To love him is to hold him in your heart forever, may your memories console you and make you smile during this terrible time.
Love
Susan Gosnell Hunt
Ann Marie n Ben
April 6, 2023
You will be missed by all but in our prayers May God give you His love n bring you into His presence of love peace n eternal joy
Ann Marie. N Ben
Charles & Karen Becker
April 6, 2023
Donna and family,
I grew up with BJ and his sisters. He was the only one on the block who had a TV in those days and at 6PM we would gather there to watch , If I remember right , it was called Frontier Playhouse. Haven't seen him in years since he moved away. He was one of the nicest guys you ever wanted to know. He will be greatly missed by anyone who knew him. Prayers are with the family.
Perry Pellicotti
April 6, 2023
My deepest sympathy to the family... BJ was a wonderful man who will be greatly missed... May he RIP
Cheryl Schaible
April 5, 2023
Donna and family I am so sorry to hear of BJ passing..BJ was such a kind and wonderful person..So many memories of working with both of you many years ago and also vacationing with my kids for many years on New Jersey Ave in Lavallette NJ..Rest in Peace BJ..
Sherrie Viscomi
April 5, 2023
Donna and Family
I am truly sorrow to hear of the passing of BJ. He was a great friend for many years. He was in our wedding and spent many Sunday dinners at my in-laws Bessie and Nick Viscomi from Mercer Street. My sincere sympathy and may he RIP.
Sherrie Viscomi
Mary and Bill Vanya
April 5, 2023
Dear Donna and Families,
Please accept our heartfelt condolences in passing of my classmate and friend BJ. Its been years since we saw him. He never changed, that beautiful smile and that friendly way about him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very difficult time
Barbara Lovelace
April 5, 2023
So sorry to loose such a good friend. A very good person Bernie was the best and will always be remembered with love. Prayers for the family.
Jamie Roy Royannas daughter
April 5, 2023
I am so so incredibly sorry to hear this, so sorry. All my luv to each of you. God bless.
Bob Pfeiffer
April 5, 2023
So sorry to hear of Bernie passing. We had some great times together. He was a good guy.
Sherry Larison (fichter)
April 5, 2023
BJ you were one in a million rest easy my friend ❤
Harry Unangst
April 5, 2023
May you rest inPeace Bernie.
Chan Bottiglieri
April 5, 2023
One of the good guys. Rest in peace.
Albert Ahearn
April 5, 2023
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Anthony Tolotta
April 5, 2023
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
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