Obituary of Paul F. Pelka

Paul F. Pelka, of Byram Township, NJ, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 7, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was 89 years old. Paul was born on November 26, 1936, in Dover, NJ, to the late Paul and Veronica Bahring Pelka. A longtime resident of the Byram Township area, Paul was employed for many years as an engineer with Sarnoff Research in Princeton, NJ, before retiring. He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army National Guard. In his younger years, Paul enjoyed snowmobiling, skiing (Water & Snow), and riding his motorcycle. In more recent years, he found great enjoyment swimming in his pool and spending time at his timeshare in Aruba. Above all else, however, Paul cherished the time he spent with his devoted and loving family. He will be remembered for his kind heart, the love he shared with those closest to him, and the many wonderful memories he created throughout his life. Paul is survived by his devoted sister, Judy Marshall; his stepchildren, Christopher Freda and his wife, Sandy; Dianne Snell and her husband, Mike; Mark Freda; Sean Freda and Louis Freda; as well as his step-grandchildren, Amanda, Alyssa, Ryan, Kyle, Tyler, Mason, Isabella, Austin, and Grace. He also leaves behind many loving cousins and dear friends who will miss him dearly. Paul was predeceased by his beloved wife, Judith Pelka, in 2008. Paul's Life Celebration Services will include a Memorial Gathering on Saturday, August 15th, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., with a Prayer Service offered at 2:30 p.m. at Leber-Lakeside Funeral Home, 150 Landing Road, Landing, NJ 07850. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.