James Leo Bennett, Jr.

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of James Bennett Jr., beloved husband, son, father, uncle, grandfather, and friend. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones. 

Jim was born on July 7, 1937, to Anna and James in Valley Stream, New York, and was raised on Long Island. He attended Cranwell Preparatory School, where he formed lifelong friendships and began shaping the values that guided him throughout his life. He went on to attend the University of Notre Dame, proudly becoming an alumnus of the Fighting Irish - a connection he celebrated with great pride throughout his life.

Jim participated in ROTC while at Notre Dame and went on to serve in the Army Reserves. He attained the rank of Captain and spent time stationed at Fort Dix, New Jersey, a service that he carried with quiet pride throughout his life. 

Jim spent his professional life at McBee Systems, dedicating an incredible 46 years to the company. Through hard work, integrity, and a natural gift for connecting with people, he rose to become Vice President of Sales and Marketing. His leadership, loyalty, and steady presence left a lasting impact on colleagues and clients alike.

Beyond his career, Jim was deeply involved in the Waldwick community. He was active in the Waldwick Baseball and Softball Association, coaching his children throughout their youth and later continuing his love of the game as an umpire. His calm demeanor, fairness, and genuine enjoyment of the sport made him a respected and familiar presence on the fields.

Jim also cherished the outdoors, especially fishing. Some of his happiest memories were made on the waters off Long Island, sharing countless fishing trips with his brothers‑in‑law, father‑in‑law, and nephews. The family lore of “sharks and the big fish” became a beloved story retold for generations - capturing not just the excitement of the moment, but the laughter, camaraderie, and joy he brought to every outing. He shared that love of fishing with his son, daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren, who were always ready for the next trip on his boat or simply casting lines off the dock in the backyard. This became especially true after he and Dolores retired to Bayville, New Jersey, where their home became the heart of so many cherished family moments. 

Jim continued his lifelong connection to the water as a proud member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, devoting countless hours to instructing boating safety and navigation classes, helping others learn to enjoy the water responsibly. He also patrolled the waters of Barnegat Bay, New Jersey, offering support, guidance, and a steady presence to fellow boaters. 

Jim leaves behind his children: Christine (John); Jacqueline (Paul); Elaine (Scott); Eileen (Bart); and James Jr. He is survived by eight loved and adored grandchildren: Justin, Brandon, Nicole, Michelle, Stephanie, Danielle, Melissa, and Michael, as well as many loving nieces and nephews. 

Jim was predeceased by his beloved wife, Dolores; his sisters Helen, Patricia, and Eileen; his parents, James and Anna; and his son‑in‑law, Bart.

Family and friends are invited to attend the visitation on Monday, July 6, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home, 257 Godwin Ave, Wyckoff, New Jersey.

A funeral mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 10:30 AM at St. Luke’s Church, 340 Franklin Turnpike, Ho‑Ho‑Kus, New Jersey.

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