Michael J. Manca, Sr. Obituary (1946 - 2020)

Michael J. Manca, Sr. of Netcong, NJ passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on July 24, 2020, at the age of 73. A Memorial Visitation will be held in Paul Ippolito-Dancy Memorial, 9 Smull Ave., Caldwell, NJ on Saturday, August 1, 2020 from 10 am to 1 pm. There will be an American Legion Short Military Service to begin at 11:30 AM immediately followed by the Netcong Fire Department Service at 12 PM. a Celebration of His Life and Words of Remembrance will begin at 12:30 pm. Mr. Manca was born in Montclair, NJ and resided in his childhood home in West Caldwell for most of his life before moving to Netcong in 2015. Michael proudly served in the United States Navy before being Honorably Discharged. Michael worked many jobs throughout his life. He was employed by the Caldwell- West Caldwell Board of Education and James Caldwell High School as a custodian for over 10 years, retiring in 2012. Michael also worked at Walgreens in West Caldwell where he was a kind and familiar face to customers when they walked in the door. Throughout his life Michael had a love for working with his hands. From building machines to outdoor pallet benches. Michael was a 'Man of All Trades' kind of guy and a "Mr Fix It". He also enjoyed gardening in his younger years. His garden was known throughout the neighborhood for all his vegetables and beautiful flowers every year. He always had a green thumb. Michael joined the Netcong Hilltop Fire Company No. 2 in 2017 and became a member in February 2018. Michael loved being part of a group serving the community. Although he wasn't fighting fire Mike would attend any meeting he could and participate in all Fire Company functions! Anything he could do to lend a helping hand, he was willing! Michael always enjoyed spending time with his family and his animals! Michael is the beloved father of Lorretta Strembridge (David), Brigette Manca, Jason Manca (Emily), Joseph Manca (Kalin), Elizabeth Manca (Dean), Victoria Manca (Sage). He is pre-deceased by his sons Michael Manca Jr and Ryan Manca. Cherished grandchildren, Chelsea, Ian, Dylan, Breanne, Brooke, Olivia, Melissa and Alison "his gator" ; He is pre-deceased by his former spouse, Mary Parr. He is survived by his former spouses, Dorothy Brixius and Lisa Runo, his constant support.