James Francis Applegate

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, James F. Applegate (Jim). He was born and raised in Toms River and passed away peacefully surrounded by his family after a brief illness. He was 86 year and died in the home that he had built to raise his family. He is predeceased by his son Jimi, his parents Joseph and Florence (nee Tansley); his brother Joseph and sister Luanna; his twin brother John (Jack).

Jim graduated from Toms River High School in 1957. After high school Jim served in the U.S. Army with an honorable discharge. Jim was a dedicated and hard worker. He grew up assisting his family with their businesses which included long hours tending to the chicken farm and at Applegate’s Gulf located on Route 37 and Clifton Avenue, Toms River, NJ. working as a mechanic. Jim had a passion for vehicles, especially Fords. His 1938 Ford V8 5 window coupe was named Henrietta. Friends and car enthusiasts would find him and Henrietta at different car shows in the area. He had a vast knowledge of older automobiles and was sought out for his knowledge. Jim belonged to several auto clubs that were affiliated with Early Ford vehicles, which include Ford, The Greyhound v8 Club; The Vintage Automobile Club of Ocean County; The Early Ford V8 Club of America Region 38-Garden State; a and The Coffee Clutch, a Saturday morning gathering with other local men that share the passion for vintage vehicles and fun. He was a true New York Yankees fan and enjoyed NASCAR racing. Many considered Jim as their friend and mentor with his vast knowledge of many things and his willingness to help others. Jim retired after 30 years from Caldwell’s Diving of Toms River where he worked as a fabricator in New Gretna, NJ., and was a member of local 25. He previously worked in construction with John Miller, Island Heights, NJ, as a carpenter where he completed several home renovations and new construction; he also worked for Ciba Geigy chemical plant.

Jim leaves behind a family who he loved and was very proud of. He is survived by his daughters Georgene, Laureen and her husband Don Mohr, his son David. Also survived is his sister Carole Hedinger, his sister Donna Lau of and his brother Michael. He is also survived by his 7 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, his loving companion Terri Frielingsdorf, nieces, nephews, neighbors and close friends.

Visitation will be held Saturday, June 24, 2023 at Anderson & Campbell Funeral Home from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. The funeral service and Military Honors will take place at 4:00 PM at the funeral home.