Obituary of James H. Vanderhoof

James H. Vanderhoof of Hopatcong, NJ passed away on Friday, October 28th at Morristown Medical Center surrounded by his loving family. He was 78 years old. James was born on April 8, 1938 in Dover, NJ to the late Carlton and the late Lucy (Scelsa) Vanderhoof. He worked at DF Well Drilling in Netcong for many years, and he later owned C&V Well Sealing Company. In addition, James worked part-time for the Borough of Hopatcong. James had a long and extensive career as a Hopatcong Fireman. He joined the Hopatcong Fire Department Defiance Engine Company #3 in 1959 where he also served as Captain from 1970 to 1973. He also served as Second Assistant Chief for 2 years and First Assistant for 2 years and became Chief in 1978 to 1979. He then joined Northwood Engine Company #2 in Northwood in 2001. More recently he was past president of the Hopatcong Exempt Association, President of the Relief Association and a Member of Fire Chiefs Association. James was a tireless volunteer and served on the Hopatcong Board of Health for 30 years. He enjoyed snowmobiling, ice fishing, vacationing in Wildwood and boating but most importantly he loved spending time with his family. James is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Edna (Lewis) his devoted daughters, Lori Epstein, Carol Atkins and Jill Gleason & her husband, Thomas, his cherished grandchildren, Rachel, Jessica, Kiersten, Vanessa and James. Additional survivors include his nieces, Kimberly and Shannon and his nephew, James and many dear friends. He was pre-deceased by his sister, Florence Carr. James's Life Celebration will include a visitation on Tuesday, November 1st from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm with a Fireman's Prayer Service offered at 7:00 pm at Leber-Lakeside Funeral Home, 150 Landing Road, Landing, NJ. There will be a Funeral Service on Wednesday morning, November 2nd at 10:00 am also at the funeral home followed by a Fireman's Last Call Procession Service. A cremation will be held privately. For memorial donations, please consider The Hopatcong Fire Department Northwood Engine Company #2, PO Box 25, Glasser, NJ 07837. All funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Leber-Lakeside Funeral Home of Landing, NJ.