Joseph G. Breen

Joseph Gerard Breen, formerly of River Vale, passed away peacefully on March 10 at the age of 81. Affectionately known as Joe, Jay, Dad, and Poppa Bear, he is already missed immensely by his loving and devoted wife, Janet; his son, Michael, and his wife, Melissa; his daughter, Stephanie, and her husband, Chris; and his three grandchildren, Natalie, Quinlan, and Aidan.

Born to Agnes and Joseph Breen, Joe grew up in Palisades Park alongside his seven siblings. He attended Cliffside Park High School, where he met his beloved wife, Janet. Joe enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1964 and served until 1970, attaining the rank of Corporal. He completed one tour in Vietnam, where he managed refrigeration in the camps and also served on the front lines. During his time in the Marines, Joe was known as a formidable boxer and an accomplished martial artist, earning a black belt in karate.

Upon returning to New Jersey, Joe founded All County Air Conditioning and Heating. The company’s first office—complete with a sheet metal shop—was located in the basement of Joe and Janet’s home in Bergenfield. As the business grew, it moved to Tenafly, then Montvale, and ultimately to Hackensack. Joe’s son Michael later took over the company and continues to carry on his father’s legacy.

Joe found great joy in his work, summer afternoons at Stonybrook Swim Club in Hillsdale, and family vacations to Seaside Park with his parents, siblings, nieces and nephews—often riding his motorcycle down the shore with either Stephanie or Michael riding tandem. He was a firearm enthusiast and shared that passion with his children and grandchildren. He loved going to the movies with Janet—choosing earlier showtimes as the years went on—and dressing as Santa Claus for his grandchildren each Christmas. His family is blessed with many lifetimes of memories to cherish, share, and laugh about.

A service was held on March 15 at Becker Funeral Home in Westwood. In front of a packed room of family, friends, current and former employees and customers, Joe was eulogized by his children and honored with Marine Corps military honors. A celebration of life followed at Domani Restaurant.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Semper Fi & America’s Fund.