Frederick Geffken

May 22, 1939 – December 1, 2025

Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother, Coach, Community Leader & Marine.

Frederick “Fred” Geffken, born in Newton, New Jersey, and raised in Sparta, New Jersey, where he lived his entire life, passed away peacefully on Monday afternoon at his home in Sparta, surrounded by his wife, Dot, brother Jim, his devoted daughters Leigh, Michelle, son in law Marc and his grandchildren Ashley, Aidan, Nikolas, and Joey. Fred is leaving behind a legacy of dedication, leadership, and profound love for his family and community. Born on May 22, 1939, in Newton Hospital to the parents of Preston George and Edith Neil Geffken. Fred grew up in Sparta and graduated from Newton High School in June of 1957. He immediately followed in his brother Bill's footsteps and joined the United States Marine Corps. It was here in the United States Marine Corps that he was chosen for a select unit. That being the Special Second Force Recon, obtaining a lifelong dream. During this time, he met the love of his life, Dorothy (Dot). Together, they shared 64 years of marriage, just shy of 65, which would have been on this January 2, 2026. Their marriage was a partnership built on love, respect, unwavering loyalty, and commitment.

Following in his father's footsteps, P. Geroge Geffken, Fred served for decades in Sparta as a police officer and eventually became Chief of Police. During his distinguished career, he also graduated from the FBI Academy. He was deeply committed to his community, founding the Sparta Police Athletic League to provide young people with positive mentorship, athletic opportunities, and guidance.

Fred’s dedication to the Sparta community extended far beyond law enforcement. For 33 seasons, he coached the Sparta High School girl’s basketball team, leading them to 693 career wins, three state championships, and numerous league and county titles. His coaching career was inspired in part by his daughter Barbara, who played for him and encouraged him to take up coaching.

At home, Fred was the rock of his family, our pillar of strength. He was the devoted husband of Dorothy (Dot), and the loving father of:

• Dorothy Leigh, whom he protected and loved fiercely, so much so that it still drove her crazy,

• Barbara, whose passion for basketball helped launch his coaching career, and David her beloved husband of 38 years

• Michelle, his cherished “Pumpkin,” who matched his sarcasm from day one and was a daddy’s girl from the moment she was born. Along with her husband, Marc of 28 years, who followed in his father-in-law's footsteps, becoming a Sparta Police Officer for the last 24 years

Fred was a proud grandfather to Ashley, Aidan, Nikolas, and Joey. Joey, whom he referred to as “the strongest and miracle of the family. “His grandchildren were among his greatest joys, and he cherished every moment with them. Brett, Meg, Holly, Lauren, and Anthony also held a significant place in his heart growing up.

Fred also leaves behind his younger brother, James, whom he loved dearly. They shared a lifetime of memories of hunting, fishing, and all-out Geffken boy shenanigans. Jim didn't miss a Friday visit, and there was always silly banter between the two of them. Fred is now reunited with his lifelong friend, William “Bill” Geffken, who passed in 1998 — a loss that deeply affected him. There wasn't a day when we didn’t think or speak of Bill and all their adventures.

Fred’s kindness, humility, and unwavering commitment touched everyone who knew him — from family and friends to players, fellow officers, and neighbors. His legacy is one of service, love, and the many lives he elevated simply by being himself.

Wake: Friday, December 5, 2025 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at Goble Funeral Home 22 Main Street, Sparta, NJ 07871

Funeral Mass: Saturday, December 6, 2025, 10 am at Our Lady of the Lake Church, 294 South Sparta Ave, Sparta, NJ

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to support Marines in need through K9s for Warriors – Marine Support