George F. Gessitz

NEWTON - George F. Gessitz, 86, of Newton, died Feb. 13, 2013, at Newton Medical Center. George was born in Coplay, Pa., had lived in Newton since 1957 and was a United States Navy veteran.

He worked as a machinist for Schneider and Marquard in Fredon and retired as a highway inspector for the New Jersey Department of Transportation.

George was a member of the Newton VFW, Post 5360; member of the American Legion, Post 56 in Newton; life member of the NRA, and he was a life member of the N.J. Fire Chiefs Association.

He was the last surviving founding member of the Fredon Fire Department where he served as chief. He was an avid fisherman, camper and hunter. For those who hunted the Whittingham Tract, George was the elderly gentleman who hunted pheasant near his favorite tree.

George was predeceased by his beloved wife of 62 years, Margaret (Buchfeller) Gessitz (Jan. 3, 2013).

He is survived by his devoted daughters, Rosemarie Davenport and her husband, George, of Newton, and Carol Ann Cruts, and her husband, Denis, of Hampton; loving grandchildren, George Davenport and his wife, Angela, of Alexandria, Va., Gregory Davenport and his wife, Rachel, of Pittsburgh, Pa., Kaitlyn Cruts and Jason Cruts, both of Hampton. George also is survived by his beloved great-grandson, Austin Davenport; sisters: Hilda Polzer and Cecelia Kostick; and brother, William Gessitz.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to: Fredon Volunteer Fire Department, 436 NJ 94, Newton, NJ 07860; or VFW Newton, Post 5360, 85 Mill St., Newton, NJ 07860.

A memorial service will be held in April for George and Margaret. The Goble Funeral Home, Sparta, is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be sent to www.goblefuneral.com.