David B. Wasilenko

David Wasilenko, 64, of the Township of Washington, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 7, 2021. Beloved husband of Deirdre (Powell), devoted father of Brian (Ashley) and Michael (Holly). Adoring grandfather of Leo, Declan, Nolan and Nathan. Dear brother of Linda Troiano.

David was born in Latham, NY, where as a child he developed a lifelong passion for sports. He attended Shaker High School, excelling at both basketball and baseball. To this day, he remains one of the Capital Districts leading high scorers in basketball. David went on to attend Marist College where he graduated with a degree in History and left with an additional prize, his wife of 40 years, Deirdre.

David and Deirdre settled in the Township of Washington where Dave devoted his life to his family and friends. For many years he ran the town’s basketball program and was on the board of the baseball program. He started the Jersey Jaguar’s AAU basketball team and coached his son’s teams to many prestigious tournaments including 6 National Tournaments, the Adidas Big Time and IS8. There isn’t a child he coached who isn’t the better for it. He taught sportsmanship, toughness, teamwork and valuable life lessons.

David was a computer consultant who designed systems for Mercedes Benz, Volvo USA, the State of NJ and Bergen Transport. In recent years, he became Operations Manager for Bergen Transport at Port Newark. In addition to sports, Dave had many interests. He loved traveling with family and friends to Kauai, Ireland, Wyoming and Disney World with his grandchildren.

Dave was a man of great integrity, empathy, and kindness, who always had time to stop for a chat or lend a word of encouragement. He was genuinely interested in people and always sought out their goodness. He was a great friend to everyone he met and was loved by all. The outpouring of support Dave’s family received during his illness is a testament to his goodness.

The family will receive their relatives and friends on Friday, October 15, 2021, 4pm to 8pm at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Rd., Westwood, NJ

A mass celebrating Dave’s life will be held on Saturday, October 16, 2021, at 11 am at Don Bosco Prep HS. 492 Franklin Turnpike, Ramsey, NJ