James Joseph Berweiler, 73, of Belford, passed away peacefully May 30 at his home surrounded by his family, after a courageous, year-long battle with lung cancer. He was God’s faithful servant to the end. He was born in Elizbeth to the late Joseph and Virginia Berweiler.
Jim touched the lives of those around him with his kindness and generosity. He never hesitated to help a friend or even someone he didn’t know at all, in any way he could.
Jim graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1965.
Jim served in the United States Air Force, at the rank of sergeant, from 1966 to 1970. He served a tour of duty at Phan Rang Air Base during the Vietnam War in 1968. Jim was proud to have served his nation and was a loyal patriot. He wore his Vietnam Veteran hat proudly wherever he went.
Jim retired from Linden Motor Freight after 35 years and continued to hold many other part-time jobs. He truly enjoyed his most recent job as a Middletown Township School crossing guard.
Jim was a lifelong New York Yankees fan.His favorite holiday was Christmas which earned him the title of Father Christmas. He was also as patriotic as they come; Jim was Christmas and America all in one.
He is survived by his adoring wife of 48 years Jean Berweiler; his son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren, Patrick, Alexandra, Joseph and Patrick; his daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren Nancy, Ryan, Grace and James; his sister Kathy Dugan and numerous nieces and nephews.
Jim will be laid to rest at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery in Wrightstown.
Due to the current health crisis, the family will hold a memorial at a later date this summer when everyone can gather to celebrate Jim’s life. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Jim’s memory to Samaritans Purse Operation Heal Our Patriots at samaritanspurse.org.
