James Nicholas Pombo

James "Jim" Nicholas Pombo, age 79, of Vernon, New Jersey, died on Sunday, December 1, 2024 at St. Clare's Hospital in Dover, New Jersey.
Jim was born in Paterson, New Jersey to the late James and Lillian Pombo and was raised in Clifton, NJ. Throughout his time as a scholar at Clifton High School (where he was voted Mr. Congeniality) and the C.W. Post Campus of Long Island University, he participated as a talented athlete who played center on his school's football teams for many years.
Jim was a member of the US Marine Corps League Det. 747. He proudly served as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps Reserves. After his time serving his country, Jim found a new career in the garment industry, working as the Division Manager of the Eastern Seaboard for Huckapoo. During his time at Huckapoo he met the love of his life, Irene and the pair were married in 1980.
Eventually, the Pombo family found themselves in Florida and Jim started a new career as an Electrician. In FL, Jim would spend his free time taking his children to the beach, cast net fishing, and of course getting a nice tan. After their move back to NJ, Jim would oftentimes take "trips to nowhere" with his family where they would enjoy scenic drives with one another.
Jim became a dog lover over the years. First there was Penelope aka Penny who was Jim's co-pilot driving to Florida and they became fast friends. Then there was Ginger and she became a little sister to Penny. The girls were followed by two boys Nico, "Jim's best buddy" and Sidney. As well as Scout and Lacey. Finally, Finn arrived with baby sister, Lucy. In total Jim got to really love dogs, even his favorite "Pain in the ass" grandpuppy, Teddy.
Jim had a passion for cars. His favorite purchases to make were on his beloved vehicles, his most recent being a Jeep Wrangler Sahara. Jim could probably be considered a regular at the Chrysler Dodge dealership and never left without a new set of keys proudly in his hands.
Jim had an unwavering love for his family. After his retirement from IBEW Local 102, he spent a great amount of time taking care of his beloved grandchildren. His military training came in handy as he would exclaim "Lets March!" to his granddaughters learning how to take their first steps. Jim was the most supportive father and grandfather, one of many great memories being pool days with his grandchildren as he got his Italian tan on the patio.
Jim will be fondly remembered as the supportive man he was, always able to lend a hand to anybody who needed one. His family will remember his fearlessness and bravery through difficult times, but above all they will remember his unwavering love.
He is survived by his wife Irene Pombo; two children: Nicole Pier (Michael), and James Pombo Jr.; as well as two granddaughters: Alexis and Adriana Pier.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, December 4, 2024 from 4:00-7:00 PM at Whitham-Kanapaux Funeral Home, 20 Keller Ave., Rockaway, NJ 07866. Funeral Mass will be held Thursday, December 5, 2024, 10:00 AM at Our Lady of the Lake Roman Catholic Church in Sparta, NJ. Interment will be private.