Late West Orange Town Worker Honored On Super Bowl Sunday

WEST ORANGE, NJ — West Orange town officials gathered last weekend to honor a beloved public works employee who passed away on one of his favorite days of the year: Super Bowl Sunday.

On Sunday – two years after his passing – the township held a dedication ceremony for Joe Pelose at the West Orange Department of Recreation garage on Franklin Avenue.

The building will be permanently known as the Joseph A. Pelose Recreation and Parks Building.

Pelose, a lifelong West Orange resident, died in 2024. He was appointed as director of public works shortly before his passing – a fitting recognition for a resident who devoted four decades of service to the township.

According to West Orange Communications Officer Joseph Fagan, the late township employee first joined the Department of Public Works in January 1984 as a truck driver and wore several different hats throughout his career. Known for his strong work ethic, steady leadership and deep pride in his hometown, he became a respected colleague, mentor and friend to many.

Pelose’s impact on West Orange is lasting and profound, and it is now permanently reflected in the building that bears his name, Fagan said.

It’s no coincidence that the tribute was planned on one of the biggest days of the year for football fans, Fagan added:

“Pelose passed away on Super Bowl Sunday (Feb. 11, 2024), and the date of the dedication was chosen with thoughtful purpose. Super Bowl Sunday had long been Pelose’s favorite day of the year and was a tradition he eagerly anticipated. It reflected his spirited personality and his appreciation for the simple moments that brought people together. It was only fitting that the community would gather on that same day to celebrate his life, his service and the many friendships he formed along the way.”

West Orange Mayor Susan McCartney and New Jersey Sen. John McKeon delivered a proclamation in Pelose’s honor at last weekend’s ceremony.

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