Fred Lefkovic

CRANFORD - Fred (Fernand) Lefkovic, 92, passed away on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Overlook Medical Center in Summit.

Born in Brussels, Belgium, to Abraham and Bertha (née Davis) Lefkovic, Fred was a proud yet deeply humble Holocaust survivor. During World War II, he, his parents, and his five older siblings endured countless near-death experiences, constantly on the move to escape Nazi persecution. With extraordinary perseverance, resourcefulness, and the help of many courageous individuals along the way, Fred, his mother, and his siblings survived. His father, Abraham, was taken by the SS and tragically died of typhus in a French work camp hospital.

In 1948, Fred, his mother, and siblings immigrated to the United States under the Displaced Persons Act, sponsored by relatives on his mother's side. The family settled in Hillside, NJ, where Fred graduated from Hillside High School in 1953.

Together with his brothers, David and Manny, Fred co-owned People's Market in Newark and later Bob's Market on Walnut Avenue in Cranford. One of the hallmarks of Bob's Market was its delivery service, which allowed Fred to connect more personally with customers and to notice when someone might need a little extra attention. After the close of Bob's Market, Fred went on to co-own Toby's in Bloomfield, continuing his lifelong work in family businesses.

Fred was a longtime member of Temple Beth El in Cranford, where he and his beloved wife Ruth built a rich and connected community. Together, they were true partners - Ruth as the family's "social director" and Fred as her devoted counterpart. He adored her deeply, and their marriage was defined by respect, humor, and love. Extended family and friends were often struck by how down-to-earth Fred and Ruth were. Their home was not only a source of security for their children, but also a place where others felt they could always be themselves. With doors always open and a spirit that was easygoing and welcoming, Fred and Ruth created a home that drew people in with warmth and comfort.

In his neighborhood, Fred was a familiar and friendly presence, faithfully taking his morning and evening walks, always stopping to chat with friends and neighbors. Down-to-earth and approachable, he had a gentle warmth, a good sense of humor, and a twinkle in his eye. His grandchildren brought him great joy, and he delighted in sharing laughter and simple pleasures with them.

Fred was predeceased by his beloved wife, Ruth Lefkovic, daughter, Donna Hadad, and parents. He is survived by his children: Todd Lefkovic of New York, NY; Bertin Lefkovic and his wife, Robin, of Jamesburg, NJ; and Debra Abrams and her husband, Joshua, of Providence, RI; as well as his cherished grandchildren: Aron, Sari, Lucy, Marta, Rachael, and Jacob.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at King Solomon Memorial Park, 550 Dwasline Road, Clifton, under the direction of Mount Sinai Memorial Chapels.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Jewish Family Service of Central New Jersey.