Victor T. Makarewicz

Victor “Ted” Makarewicz – also known by those he loved as Tadeusz, Teddy, Daddy, Grandpa, and by many, simply “Ted” – passed peacefully from this world on June 29, 2020 after a brave battle with cancer.  He was blessed with the joy of being surrounded by his family for Father’s Day and his final days.

Ted was born in Bad Essen, Germany in 1946 and spent most of his childhood in Belgium.  He immigrated to the United States with his family when he was a teenager. They settled in Newark, NJ, where Ted and his high school soccer team (Irvington Tech Hornets) were All-State champions.  He went on to play soccer with the Polish Falcons Soccer Club in Somerville.  Ted accepted an apprenticeship with Western Electric, and would then spend the entirety of his career working as a machinist and CAD programmer for “Ma Bell” and her offspring – first in New Jersey, and later in Massachusetts (where he developed a dogged passion for the “American football” New England Patriots).  He proudly earned a bachelor’s degree from Merrimack College.

Above all else, Ted adored his family.  He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Helen (Kwasny) Makarewicz; 3 children and their spouses, Monica and Sean Coakley, Bonnie and Kevin Paton, Roman and Trisha Makarewicz; 8 grandchildren, Brianna, Michael, Andrew, Nicholas, Katerina, Savannah, Adam and Lillian; 2 brothers, Joe and wife Kathy Makarewicz, and George and late wife Betty Makarewicz.  He is predeceased by his parents, Wiktor and Jozefa Makarewicz, and his sister Bozena.

In addition to having a big heart and a quick wit, Ted will be remembered for his life-long passion for music -- which ranged from playing the accordion and perfecting his melodious whistle, to collecting and playing “oldies” records on his vintage jukebox.  Ted also loved crabbing, flea markets, Looney Tunes, and anniversary trips to Aruba with his One True Love.

The family sends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who provided love, support and prayers during this difficult journey, especially as the challenges intensified due to the Covid virus.

Viewing and visitation will be on Thursday, July 2, 2020 from 8 to 10 AM at Barnegat Funeral Home, 841 W. Bay Ave., Barnegat. Funeral Mass to follow 10:30 AM at St. Mary’s Church, Barnegat.  Private cremation to follow. (www.BarnegatFH.com)

Those wishing to make donations in Ted’s memory may send them to St. Vincent De Paul Society, c/o St Mary's Church, 747 W Bay Ave., Barnegat, NJ 08005.

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