James E. Maher “Jim”, 77, passed away on Sunday, June 3, 2012, a resident of Old Tappan for 38 years, graduated from Fordham University and the Ohio State University Executive Training Program. He was married to his wife, Irene, for 54 years and was a devoted father of Michael, married to Barbara; Kevin, married to Maria; Mary Hill, married to Gregg; Anne LaMastra, married to Steve; and Matthew, married to Molly. Jim has 14 grandchildren: James, Christopher and Sabrina Maher; Chloe, Hope and Erin Maher; Christian, Johanna and Jessica Hill; Gwyneth, Connor and Phineas LaMastra; and Allie and Megan Maher. Brother of Br. Edward Maher and Therese, married to James. Jim was employed by Standard Register, Systematic, and Unified Data Products before he became president and part owner of Hygrade Printing until he retired.
Jim was a man of wit and charm whose charity, volunteer spirit and selfless commitment was truly exceptional. He was a dedicated member of St. Pius X Roman Catholic Church for many years, serving in many capacities, including Eucharistic Minister for 32 years, high school youth group leader for 5 years, Finance Committee Chairman for 19 years, CCD grade school teacher for 4 years, and head usher at the 8 AM mass. Jim was elected and served as a Councilman in Old Tappan from 1996-2001 as a member of the Old Tappan Party, and he was instrumental in improving the town parks, particularly Stone Point Park. He was chairman of the borough of Old Tappan’s recreation commission for 10 years, providing exceptional leadership to the borough’s athletic, social and cultural programs. Jim happily gave much of his time to the youth of Old Tappan as coach and officer for Old Tappan Baseball, youth soccer and youth basketball leagues. He also served as secretary and president of the Old Tappan Lion’s Club and generously gave his time to drive the senior’s van. He also initiated the Senior Advisory Board, whose purpose was to educate seniors in the town and assist them with any problems they might have.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday 10:00 AM at St. Pius X RC Church, Old Tappan with interment to follow at Old Tappan Cemetery. Visiting hours are Thursday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Anthony R. Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Avenue, Northvale.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Old Tappan First Aid Corps at 4 Russell Avenue, Old Tappan, NJ 07675 or to Life Choice Hospice, 65 E. Route 4, River Edge, NJ 07661.