Stuart Neil Katzanek, 71, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2026, surrounded by his family who loved him deeply. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories that they will carry in their hearts forever.
Stuart was born on December 11, 1954, in Brooklyn, New York, to Bernard and Rita Katzanek. He began his college education at Brooklyn College, where he served as president of the House Plan Association, before transferring to Long Island University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. He spent much of his career as a systems analyst before embarking on a second career as a real estate agent. He also volunteered for many years as a soccer coach, helping young players develop their skills and a love for the game.
Stuart shared 46 years of marriage with the love of his life, Sharon. Together, they built a life centered around the family they cherished so dearly. He was a devoted father to his daughters, Kate Rattner and her husband, David, and April Trus and her husband, Andy. He was also a proud Papa to his five beloved grandchildren: Samantha, Carter, Joseph, Benjamin, and Asher. Stuart is also survived by his sister, Janis Ventre, and her husband, Roy. He was predeceased by his parents, Bernard and Rita Katzanek.
Stuart will be remembered for all the things that made him uniquely himself: faithfully cheering for the New York Giants, challenging his mind with a game of chess or a puzzle, playing his guitar, and listening to the Beach Boys, the Beatles, and other classic rock favorites. He enjoyed a good steak and had a particular fondness for Oreos and chocolate donuts from Dunkin’—simple pleasures that will always bring a smile to those who knew him best.
More than anything, Stuart will be remembered for his devotion to his family and the love he had for those closest to him. His memory will live on through Sharon, his daughters, his grandchildren, and everyone fortunate enough to have known and loved him.
Funeral services for Stuart will be held on Wednesday, September 16, at 11:00 a.m. at Bloomfield-Cooper Jewish Chapel, 44 Wilson Avenue, Manalapan Township, New Jersey. Friends and family may arrive beginning at 10:15 a.m.
Burial will follow at Beth David Cemetery, 300 Elmont Road, Elmont, New York.
The family will sit shiva at the Katzanek residence, 9 Anthem Street, Monroe Township, New Jersey, during the following times:
● Wednesday, September 16, from 6:00–9:00 p.m.
● Thursday, September 17, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. and 6:00–9:00 p.m.
● Friday, September 18, from 1:00–4:00 p.m.
● Saturday, September 19, from 6:00–9:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Stuart’s memory to the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
