Harold E. Tower Jr.

Harold E. "Hap" Tower, Jr., 94 of Cedar Grove, N.J. passed away on Saturday, August 9, 2025.
Born in Newark, N.J. to Harold E., Sr. and Henrietta (née McLellan) Tower, Hap was raised in Newark and went on to live in various locations during his long and dedicated service in the U.S. Air Force. His military career spanned many years and concluded with his service at the Air Force Academy. After retiring from the military, he lived in Jackson before making Cedar Grove his home. Over the years, Hap held a variety of positions, including serving as a Crossing Guard and as a member of the Cedar Grove Ambulance and Rescue Squad. He was a devoted parishioner and eucharistic minister at St. Catherine of Siena Church. Known for his deep love of country, Hap was a true patriot who valued service to others both in and out of uniform.
He was predeceased by his parents; his beloved wife, Margaret "Peggy" C. (née Colavito) Tower; and his dear siblings, Frank, James, and Christina Tower, and Loretta Pavone. Hap is survived by his loving children, Peggy Tower, Harold "Skip" Tower and his wife, Paula, and Michael D. Tower and his wife, Lisa; his cherished grandson, Ryan Tower and his wife, Jessica; and his treasured great-grandchildren, Adriana and A.J.
Funeral services will begin on Thursday, August 14th at 9 a.m. at Shook's Cedar Grove Funeral Home, 486 Pompton Ave., Cedar Grove. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. at St. Catherine of Siena Church, Cedar Grove with interment to follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, E. Hanover, N.J. Visitation will be on Wednesday, August 13th from 4-8 p.m. at the home. Memories and condolences may be shared at shookscedargrove.com.
Donations in Hap's memory may be made to SCS – The Heritage Fund, St. Catherine of Siena, 339 Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove, N.J. 07009. Please make your checks payable to: SCS – The Heritage Fund. Additional information can be found at scscedargrove.org/heritage-fund.