Joseph Edward Hess

(New Milford,NJ) Joseph Edward Hess, 79, passed away on March 23, 2024. Born on July 28, 1944, in Manhattan, NY. Raised by his parents, Joseph & Marie, in Teaneck, NJ. 

Joe attended Bergen Catholic for his high school education, and later pursued higher education at St. John’s University. Shortly after, he became a teacher at New Milford High School for the next 30 years. During those years, Joe was the head coach for mens varsity basketball and women’s soccer. He also became assistant coach for William Paterson University and an East Coast Scout for the NBA. During and after teaching, he officiated many County & State Track Championships (indoor and outdoor). 

After teaching, Joe spent 10 years as the Borough Administrator for Bergenfield. One of his proudest accomplishments was starting the “Bergenfield After School Program”, which provides quality childcare to the youth of Bergenfield. He was also the SID Director and longtime Recreation Director of Bergenfield. Through his organizing of summer camp programs, field trips, and various other activities in the town, he enriched the lives of thousands of youth in Bergenfield. 

Later in life, his greatest passion was horse racing, particularly harness racing, and over the years he has been the owner of many Standardbred race horses.

Above all, Joe was a family man, who relished his role as patriarch of his large family. He was most proud of the family he built with his beloved wife of 27 years, Elaine. Father to Deborah Miuccio (Gary), Resa Javier (Andy) & Joseph Hess (Steve). Step-Father to Jeannette Polowski (Eric), Nicole Argenzia (Pat) & Ronny Taylor (Stacey). His 14 grandchildren - Gary (Jack), Anthony, Julia (Matthew), Kyle (Jennie) , Andrew, Nina, Jake, Nikki, Lauren, Rachel, Skye, Rylan, Dominik & Francesca. And his 4 great-grandchildren; Ava, Mark, Viviana & Giana. He is also survived by his sister Dorothy Jabel, her children Eileen Jones (Drew) and Michael Jabel (Susan). 

Joe devoted all his time to his wife, family, and faith. He was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Oradell, where he worshipped regularly. 

He will be remembered for making a difference in the lives of all that crossed his path. His family and friends will forever miss his loving, empathetic and easy going nature.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his memory to the Saint Labre Indian School https://tinyurl.com/Saint-Labre-Indian-School or the Native American Heritage Association https://www.naha-inc.org/donate/

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