Joseph DeKasar

Joseph A. De Kasar (Coach D), 92, passed peacefully at Morristown Memorial Hospital on September 4, 2025, after living an amazing and active life.

Joe, the beloved husband of the late Eleanor (nee Stewart), is survived by his daughter Christine Humiston and Son in Law, Erin, as well as 8 nieces and nephews and many grand nieces and nephews.

Joe was born in Newark, raised in East Orange and was a long time Whippany resident. He was a graduate of East Orange High School and Upsala College.

While at Upsala College, Joe was Vice President of Phi Alpha Phi Fraternity and Co-captain of the football team. He earned AP Little All American Honors as a Senior.

Joe served two years in the Army where he played football for Fort Dix.

Following his military service, Joe coached football at Upsala College for 2 years as well as owning, coaching and playing for the Essex Ramblers, a semi-professional football team.

Joe had an outstanding career as a Life Insurance Underwriter working for Colonial Life Insurance Company, Bankers National Life, New Jersey Life and retiring from Guardian Life Insurance Agency as Assistant Vice President. He held the PLMI and AALU degrees during his career and was given the 2003 Field Service Award from Guardian.

During his working years Joe was active in Community and Summer theatres where he played many roles and won several acting awards.

Following retirement from the insurance industry, "Coach D" started a second 20+ year career as an assistant coach in football and baseball and substitute teacher at the Morristown Beard School. Joe credited his interaction with the students, coaches and faculty of Morristown Beard for his longevity, claiming he stole a bit of life from each of them.

A visitation will be held on September 20, 2025, from 3 to 7p.m. at the Bradley-Braviak Funeral Home, 49 Whippany Rd, Whippany, NJ. Condolences in the form of donations in Joseph's name may be made to: Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter, 194 State Rt. 10, East Hanover, NJ, 07936.