Obituary of Joseph R. Hunchak

“The kiss of the sun for pardon, the song of the birds for mirth, one is nearer God’s heart in a garden, than any place else on earth.”

Joseph R. Hunchak, the heart and soul of our family, passed away suddenly on Monday, November 18 th . Although our hearts are broken, we know his spirit will never leave us.

Growing up in Jersey City, Joe was one of three children to bless the Hunchak family. He married and settled in East Hanover where he worked hard to provide a good life for his late wife, Anne, and their family.

He was a language arts teacher dedicating nearly four decades to the Newark Board of Education and hundreds of students. His enthusiasm in the classroom and outside was always evident. He could tell a story
better than most and boy did he have some! Joe was larger than life.

Joe was the most devoted partner, adoring dad, and supportive Pop who never missed a chance to show his pride for his family. Recently, he celebrated the joy of becoming a Great-Pop, a beautiful addition to his cherished legacy. Joe was a figure at every one of his grandchildren’s games, dance recitals, and musicals. Pop never missed a single event.

Joe was a gardener like no other. Every year, he carefully started his plants early, nurturing them with love and attention, transforming his garden into a colorful and delicious bounty. His tomatoes were endless throughout the season, his flowers always bold. Therapy for Joe was time in the garden.

His talents extended beyond the soil; he was a skilled woodworker who crafted stunning gifts with his hands and heart, leaving behind tokens of love for those lucky enough to know him.

Joe was an avid golfer and was proud to tell everyone that he had not one, but THREE holes-in-one! If he wasn’t golfing with Cheryl, the perfect Saturday for them was spent at Monmouth Race Track. He loved the ponies and the thrill of it all.

Above all, Joe’s greatest joy and priority was his family. He was certainly blessed when he met Cheryl Chester many moons ago. Cheryl brought him much luck on the golf course, at the track, and in life. Their devotion to each other has not only been a blessing to them but to the entire Hunchak family. Joe’s unwavering love, warmth, and devotion will remain in their hearts forever.

Joe will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered for the life he built and the love he shared.

He leaves beautiful memories to his loving partner of 20 years Cheryl Chester; his son and best friend Joseph Hunchak (Leean); daughters Sharyn Hunchak (Jarrod Davidek) and Katherine Hunchak; his grandchildren Michael Hunchak (Brittany), Dustin Hunchak, Carolina and Kayla Hunchak and Jake and Riley Davidek; his great granddaughter Savannah Rae; his brother Ronald Hunchak (Nina); step-children Brian (Debra) and Carie (Peter); his loyal canine Vinnie and many more loving relatives and dear friends.His dear sister and brother-in-law Lorraine and Clifford Schumann passed before him.

Friends and relatives may visit on Saturday, November 23 rd from 12 noon – 4 pm. A service will begin at 3 o’clock. In his honor, we encourage you to plant something in your garden, create something special to share with someone you love, or keep after that hole in one.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Hubert’s Animal Center, 575 Woodland Avenue, Madison NJ 07940.