Obituaries
Retired Watchung Hills Principal James Florek Dies at Age 84
Services set for Thursday for longtime educator and Korean War veteran.
James J. Florek, 84, died Jan. 26 at Green Knoll Care Center.
Mr. Florek was born in Ashley, Pa., and resided in South Bound Brook before moving to Bridgewater in 1958.
He began his educational career as a teacher, then vice-principal, and retiring as principal—all with the Watchung Hills Regional School District of Warren Township.
He graduated from Kings College, Pa., where he play varsity football for four years and received his masters in Education from Rutgers University.
A Korean War veteran, he served as a staff sargeant in the US Air Force from 1948 until 1952.
While living in South Bound Brook and Bridgewater, Mr. Florek coached Little League championship teams and instilled in his players a love for his favorite team, the NY Yankees.
Surviving are his wife of 58 years, Louise; two sons James and Bruce (wife Kim); and his granddaughters Erin and Rachel. His only brother, Joseph Florek, predeceased him.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, at the Immaculate Conception Church, Somerville. Entombment to follow at Resurrection Mausoleum, Piscataway.
Visitation will begin 8:30 a.m. Thursday morning at the Cusick Funeral Home, Somerville, before Mass.
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