James Vincent DePiero

James Vincent DePiero, aged 87, passed peacefully from this world, in the presence of his loving wife of 65 years and their five children. Jim was born and raised in Park Ridge, New Jersey, first born child of Angelo and Ida DePiero. He attended Park Ridge High School where, at the age of 13, he met the love of his life, Eileen Janice Kraft. Jim loved music and became a skilled saxophone and clarinet player, enjoying membership in a band throughout his high school years. Ever industrious and disciplined, beginning in his early teens, Jim raised mice in the basement of his parents' house, and then sold them for profit. Through this business venture, Jim earned enough money to purchase a car and to finance his higher education at Syracuse University. After three years he was offered acceptance to the New Jersey School of Dentistry and became a student of this institution's first graduating class. Jim was always a man with a plan and on June 8, 1957, he married Eileen and they began a life together filled with love, prosperity and faith. They welcomed five children into their world: James Vincent (Jane) DePiero, Denise Jill (Don) Surdoval, Lauren Jane (Kevin) Davidson, Leslie Eileen DePiero and Jennifer Lynn DePiero. This family of seven grew over the years to include spouses, partners, sixteen grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. Jim liked nothing better than to preside over large family gatherings that spanned the generations. Among family, he was especially known for his impromptu and insightful graces before meals, his stories of life experiences, his wise, calm counsel, and the emotion with which he loved each and every one of us. His love and pride were always evident.

After graduation from dental school Jim founded Chestnut Ridge Dental Associates where he practiced dentistry and served as president and senior partner for 40 years. Professional accomplishments were many and include district and state delegate for Bergen County Dental Association, chairman of the New Jersey State Dental Health, and state delegate to the American Dental Association. After retirement, Jim donated his time and talent practicing dentistry for Volunteers in Medicine on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. As the son of a builder and mason, Jim had a keen interest in building design and architecture. His first project was the family home in Woodcliff Lake and then many other properties in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Eventually he achieved his dream of a home on the ocean where he and Eileen spent many loving years with family and friends. As a Woodcliff Lake resident since 1960, he served as a member of the Board of Health, the Zoning Board and the Planning Board. He was elected to the town council and served for six years, two as its president and police commissioner. He was also elected to the Board of Education where he served for six years, two as its president. Jim was a proud member of Hackensack Golf Club for over fifty years, serving for four years on its Board of Governors. He was a member of the New Jersey Seniors Golf Association. Jim and Eileen were also members of Long Cove Golf Club on Hilton Head Island. They enjoyed hosting family events at these clubs and were ever the gracious hosts.



Jim's life was full and well-lived. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to grow and prosper, rich in love and faith. His devoted family has the greatest admiration for a man whose love, generosity and support were boundless.



Visitation 5-8 PM on Thursday, May 25, 2023 at Robert Spearing Funeral Home, Inc., 155 Kinderkamack Road, Park Ridge, NJ rsfhi.com

Mass 11 AM on Friday, May 26, 2023 at Our Lady Mother of the Church, Woodcliff Lake, NJ. In lieu of flowers please make donations in memory of James V. DePiero to Volunteers in Medicine vimclinic.org