David Steven Hartstein

A loving family man who lived life to the fullest, David will always be remembered for his sharp wit, adventurous spirit, and generous heart.

David passed away peacefully at home on November 21st. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Jaclyn Hartstein; his daughter Aimee Hartstein and son-in-law Marc Wasserman; his son Scott Hartstein and fiancée Sharon Litwin; and his grandchildren Sophie Hartstein, Maeve Hartstein, and Ari Wasserman. David is also survived by his brother Samuel Hartstein and sister-in-law Marion Hartstein.

David spent more than 55 years as a family law attorney, building a long and respected career that also included service as a municipal judge in Alpine. He adored the exchanges he had with his colleagues and tenants; his office was like his second home. His clients loved him for his legal expertise, caring nature, and genuine thoughtfulness.

A connoisseur of the good life, David loved exploring—whether on an African safari, a visit with his world-famous tailor, or a shopping trip to Williams-Sonoma. He was the consummate host, finding immense joy in gathering friends and family around the table to share the gourmet meals he loved preparing. Constantly seeking adventure, David was always game to try something new, whether it was trekking to Ireland to fly fish, learning how to roast a suckling pig, or embarking on a mini-muffin antiquing tour of New England. David enjoyed an array of interests, including skiing, traveling, the pursuit of historical knowledge, English culture, country-western music, and finding the best deals on eBay.

Ever the gentleman, David was kind and thoughtful, fun-loving and spontaneous, and will be greatly missed forever.

A funeral service will be held at Gutterman and Musicant Jewish Funeral Directors, located at 402 Park Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601, on November 24, 2025, from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm.

Following the funeral service, a committal service will take place at Cedar Park and Beth El Cemeteries, 735 Forest Ave, Paramus, NJ 07652, on the same day from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

Shiva will be held at the home of Aimee Hartstein and Marc Wasserman at 324 Redmond Road, South Orange, NJ.

Shiva on Monday will be private. Shiva will resume on Tuesday from 1 pm–8 pm with Minyan at 6:45 pm and Wednesday from 1:00 pm–6:00 pm with Minyan at 4:45 pm.

Donations in David’s memory can be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in honor of Dr. Mark Dickson, whose incredible care enabled David and his family to share many more treasured years together.