Kevin Barry Oates, Jr.

Kevin Barry Oates, Jr., born on December 11, 1946, in Essex County, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2025, at the age of 78. A devoted family man, Kevin was the beloved husband of Joan Oates, his high school sweetheart and wife of almost 60 years. He was the proud father of four daughters—Marian, Maureen, Lorna, and Colleen—and a cherished grandfather to eight adoring grandchildren who brought endless joy to his life. 

He was a standout student-athlete who excelled on and off the field at St. Benedict's Prep in Newark, NJ. He loved being a "Gray Bee" and remained close with many classmates throughout his life. His success as a wrestler earned him a scholarship to NYU and the designation of National Prep School First Place Winner in his weight class in 1964. In October 2025, Kevin will be inducted into the Newark Athletic Hall of Fame to honor these accomplishments. An accounting major, Kevin graduated from NYU with a BS and earned his MBA from Rutgers University, developing skills that would lead to a remarkable career in the field of reinsurance accounting.

In his retirement, Kevin loved to read, follow politics, watch his grandchildren from the sidelines, and walk his dog, Marty. Most of all, he loved exploring his new home in Waldwick with his forever partner, Joan, finding pleasure in eating at new restaurants and attending local events. Kevin will be remembered for his warm heart, quiet strength, quick wit, and unwavering commitment to his family. He was just 'a great guy.' 

The family will receive their relatives and friends on Wednesday, July 9th from 4-7 pm at Vander Plaat Funeral Home, 257 Godwin Ave, Wyckoff, NJ. A funeral mass will be held on Thursday, July 10th at 11 am at St. Elizabeth's Church, 700 Wyckoff Avenue, Wyckoff, NJ. Interment will follow at Prospect Hill Cemetery, Thomas Avenue, Caldwell, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Kevin's honor to the Marian R. Oates '90 Memorial Scholarship at the University of Scranton at the University Advancement office, 800 Linden Street, Scranton, PA  18510.