Joseph H Staigar

Joseph H. Staigar, 97, of East Hanover, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on August 30, 2023.

Joseph was born in Saratoga Springs, NY, on a farm, in humble means.  He later lived in Hillside, NJ and East Hanover, NJ.   He was employed by Heil Trucks and Kaiser Aluminum Corporation. He was an avid carpenter, artist, gardener, fisherman and hunter.

He was called to duty at 18 years old and willingly enlisted his service in the U.S. Navy during WWII in the Pacific arena.  There he took part in intensive action during the battle of Okinawa fighting kamikazes to save his fellow Navy men and supported the Army and Marines during their amphibious landings, for which he was awarded the Silver Star Medal for Valor in Combat.  He loved to tell his stories of those experiences to his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, other family members, friends and acquaintances, who listened intently in amazement.  He was the last surviving crewmember of his ship; Landing Craft Support Ship (LCS) #61, nicknamed the “Mighty Midget”.  Sadly, he was the Last Man Standing. We all salute him for his honorable service.   

Beloved husband of 70 years to Jean (Wojcicki) Staigar.  Devoted father of Joseph Staigar, his wife Donna, and Karen Staigar.  Cherished grandfather of Jennifer Forino, her husband Paul, Lauren Jarger, her husband Erik, and Rachel Staigar.  Also survived by 5 great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

Joseph was pre-deceased by his parents Martin and Mary Staigar, and was the last surviving of 6 siblings. 

Visitation at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Tuesday from 4-7pm.  The funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, 9:45am at St. Rose of Lima Church in East Hanover, followed by the interment at Holy Cross Cemetery in N. Arlington. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Joseph’s name to the Wounded Warrior Project,(www.woundedwarriorproject.org), see donation box below for link.

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