Joseph Fircha Jr. of Barnegat, NJ has gone home, leaving behind a circle of those who loved him.
The chapters of his life were many; these are some of them.
Joseph spent his working life as ['auto body mechanic in New Brunswick'] — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
Love, when given fully, leaves its mark on every life it touches.
Joseph Fircha Jr., age 89, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026. He was born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, and was raised in Edison, New Jersey.
Joe lived a full and vibrant life defined by his dedication to family, his love of the water, and his strong work ethic. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy from September 1955 to September 1957 as a Third Class Petty Officer Aviation Mechanic. During his service, he was stationed out of Sanford, Florida, and traveled the Mediterranean Sea aboard the USS Intrepid, USS Coral Sea, USS Forrestal, and USS Saratoga.
After returning home, Joe built a long and respected career as an auto body mechanic in New Brunswick, later working for Public Service (PSE&G) for 20 years before retiring.
Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Corliss McCredie, and his siblings, with whom he shared his early years as one of four children.
Together, he and Corliss enjoyed a life full of travel and adventure, exploring the world on cruises, including memorable trips to Moscow, through Russia, and the Panama Canal. They also spent many cherished years at their timeshare in Aruba along with snowmobiling in New York state.
For over 35 years, Joe called Barnegat, New Jersey home, where he lived on a lagoon and embraced his passion for saltwater fishing, Crabbing & Clamming on his boat "Bad Boys" in the Barnegat Bay. He was a proud member of the Fish Hawks fishing club, where he enjoyed competing in tournaments, winning several, and forming lasting friendships with fellow anglers.
Joe's home was always open-a gathering place filled with laughter, celebration, and love. Whether hosting his children, grandchildren, or extended family, it was not uncommon for more than 50 people to come together, creating lifelong memories.
He is survived by his son Joseph Mark Fircha and his wife Joyce and his daughter, his grandchildren, Janel Lockner and her husband Tom, and Julie Fircha; and his great-grandchildren, Everett Lockner and Juliet Lockner. He is also remembered by his extended family and many dear friends.
He will be remembered as a man who truly lived life to the fullest-someone who found joy in family, friendship, and the simple pleasure of being out on the water with a fishing rod in hand.
His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the memories he created with those who loved him.
