James G. Yacenda

With great sadness, the family of James G. Yacenda, 76, of Florham Park, announces his passing on July 2, 2023.

James is survived by his loving and devoted family, Maureen, their daughters, Gabrielle and Jeanine, sons-in-law, Christopher and Matthew, and his six treasured grandchildren, Jonathan, Jacqueline, Jameson, Stone, Scarlett and Summerly, and his sister, Theresa Bocchino, sisters-in-law, Bernice Yacenda and Carol Abbasso and brother-in-law, Frank Cufone, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends whom he loved very much.

James was predeceased by his parents Anna (Juliano) and George Yacenda. His brother, Charles Yacenda and brothers-in-law, Joseph H. Bocchino and Michael Abbasso, and his in-laws, Rose (Rubino) and Francis Cufone.

James graduated from Belleville High School in 1965. He then went on to receive a Bachelor of Science Degree in Economics from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 1969. He proudly served in the United States Army Reserve.

From humble beginnings as a young man in Belleville, James built a real estate empire that included holdings in marinas, restaurants, shopping center development and management, land development, residential development and franchise ownership. He is included in the ranks of the nation's most successful Real Estate Entrepreneurs.

James excelled at everything he set his mind to and was very competitive. At the young age of fourteen he bowled a perfect score of 300. He loved golf and had the ultimate experience of a hole in one. He always enjoyed being with longtime friends at Brooklake Country Club and Adios Golf Club. His personality was unforgettable and he was known for his impeccable style.
James had many favorite charities close to his heart and was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.

James loved the Jersey Shore and spent summers there with his family. When the sun was setting, you could find him at the end of the dock, with a glass of his homemade wine, admiring the view.

Family and friends will cherish memories of countless nights around the piano, listening to James singing "Neil Diamond" ballads. He will be missed dearly by family and friends.

The family wishes to acknowledge with deep appreciation the many expressions of love, concern and kindness shown to them during this difficult time.

All family and friends are invited to celebrate his life at the Funeral Mass to be held in Holy Family Church, 35 Orchard Rd., Florham Park, NJ 07932 on Saturday, September 9, 2023 at 11:00 AM.

Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of Paul Ippolito-Dancy Memorial, 9 Smull Ave., Caldwell, NJ 07006.
For service information or to send condolences online, please visit www.ippolitofuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Donations in memory of James Yacenda would be greatly appreciated and can be made online at cbmcgiving.org or via phone at 973-322-4330. Checks payable to Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center can also be mailed to: CBMC Development Dept., 95 Old Short Hills rd., West Orange, NJ 07052. Donors should note acknowledgment details so that we may properly recognize gifts.