Frederick Eugene Kulawiec, a beloved father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away Dec. 22, 2025. Blessed with a long and outstanding life, Fred was 99 years old.
Fred was born Oct. 2, 1926, in Newark to Antonio and Genevieve (Misiak) Kulawiec. He attended St. Casimir School and Eastside High School. Upon graduating from high school in 1944, Fred immediately enlisted in the United States Army to support the World War II effort. He served honorably in the Pacific Theater with the 2871st Engineer Utility Detachment.
After returning home from the war, Fred enrolled at Seton Hall University, where he earned a degree in chemistry. He began his professional career with Sel-Rex Corporation in Nutley, applying his expertise in metallurgy and precious metals. As the company evolved through acquisitions by Hooker Chemical and Occidental Petroleum, Fred’s leadership and vast technical knowledge led him to the role of regional manager, where he led the East Coast sales team. Never one to remain idle, even in retirement, Fred worked with his son-in-law at Matty’s Auto Parts and Paint, Inc.
In 1958, Fred and his young family moved from Newark to East Norriton, Pennsylvania, where they enjoyed 20 happy years. Wanting to be closer to the ocean, he eventually returned to New Jersey, living in Spring Lake and then Rumson before residing on Longboat Key, Florida.
Fred inherited his lifelong love for the sea from his father, who took him fishing along the Jersey Shore as a young boy. He spent his happiest moments near the water, particularly at his home on Long Beach Island, where he enjoyed boating, fishing and swimming. An avid golfer and gardener, Fred found great joy in the outdoors.
If you didn’t find Fred with a book in his hand, then you’d find him working to build or repair just about anything. Fred’s family will forever cherish the memory of his craftsmanship, which often showcased his problem-solving skills and remarkable knack for restoration.
Above all, Fred was defined by his devotion to his family. In 1953, he married the love of his life, Doris Shirley Gross. Together they raised two daughters. Despite a demanding work travel schedule, Fred never missed an event, however big or small, in his daughters’ lives. This unwavering support extended to his four grandchildren, for whom he served as a constant cheerleader and fixture.
Fred was predeceased by his beloved wife of 44 years, Doris, and two brothers, Milton and Edwin. He is survived by his devoted daughters, Carol Belmonte (Joseph) and Nancy Maloof, both of Fair Haven; his four grandchildren, Bree Biggs (Gavin) of Fair Haven, Celia Bussard (Patrick) of Rumson, Clark Maloof of Hoboken, and Paige Maloof of New York City; and his three great-grandchildren, his namesake Frederick Biggs, Blair Biggs and Palmer Bussard.
Fred’s guidance, encouragement, warmth, humor and love will be missed. His family will forever hold him in their hearts.
Visitation and a Mass were held Jan. 6 at the Church of the Nativity in Fair Haven. Burial followed at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Middletown.
Thompson Memorial Home of Red Bank has been entrusted with the arrangements.
The article originally appeared in the January 8 – 14, 2026 print edition of The Two River Times.
