Obituary of Thomas Connolly

CONNOLLY, Thomas H. age 91 of Franklin Lakes, died Sunday June 12, 2011 surrounded by his family. Tom was born and raised in Jersey City. He lived in Ridgewood before moving to Franklin Lakes 50 years ago. Tom was a graduate of St. Peter's College in Jersey City and served his country in the United States Navy aboard the minesweeper USS Pilot during the Pacific Theater. He was the owner of Thomas H. Connolly and Sons, Inc., the first and oldest Marine Manufacturers sales agency in America. Surviving is his loving wife, Helen (nee Willis), his children, Dr. Helen "Sue" Watt (Dr. William Watt), Dr. Tom Connolly (Katherine), Kate Chepucavage (Peter Chepucavage Esq.), Dr. Chris Connolly (Susan), Paul Connolly (Rita) and David Connolly (Mary). Tom also leaves 21 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. The Connolly family will receive friends on Friday, June 17, 2011 from 6:00 until 9:00 PM at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home (www.vpfh.com), 257 Godwin Avenue, Wyckoff. A funeral mass will be held Saturday 11:00 AM at the Most Blessed Sacrament Church, 787 Franklin Lakes Road, Franklin Lakes. Interment will follow in Christ the King Cemetery in Franklin Lakes. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter's College, 2641 John F. Kennedy Blvd., Jersey City, NJ 07306 or Valley Hospice, 223 North Van Dien Ave., Ridgewood, NJ 07450