Breck Paul Benja, 76, of Hackensack, NJ and formerly of Old Tappan, NJ, passed away on Thursday, January 11, 2024.
The son of Emil and Bette, Breck was born in Jersey City and grew up in Englewood cliffs and a graduate of Long Island University.
Breck was the long-devoted husband of the late Gail (nee Eisenberg). Loving father of Breck J. Benja and his wife, Carol of Hackensack, NJ and son Eric Benja of Red Bank, NJ . He was the extremely proud grandfather of Blake, Brandon and Gavin.
Breck, the owner of Cambell & Gardiner in Lyndhurst, NJ, was a second-generation licensed customs broker.
He was at heart a family man, devoted to spending time with his children and grandchildren, who were the light of his life. Breck was also the dear friend of Christine Pappavasilou. A devoted poker enthusiast, Breck was a good friend to his many fellow players over the years. Breck will be dearly missed by all.
Visiting hours are Monday, January 22, 2024 from 4-7 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Ave, Northvale, NJ. A Funeral Service will be held Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at 10 AM at First Reformed Church of Palisades, Fort Lee, NJ with interment to follow at George Washington Memorial Park, Paramus, NJ. www.pizzifuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers, donations in Breck’s memory may be made to First Reformed Church of Palisades, https://www.frcpal.org/giving/
As we say in the ‘tribe’ may his name be a blessing. I didn’t know him, but I know you, and I’m sure you are a shining example to carry on his memory. I am not in town then to join you in your grief, but my heart is aching for you.
I’m so sorry and sad. Breck was a wonderful man, father, grandfather and my dear friend. I’ll always remember our families gathering around the pool and having BBQ’s. Going on vacation,holidays. The list goes on. We were and are family. Breck and Eric ,Carol you’ll carry him in your hearts and he’ll live forever. Remember all the wonderful memories. He will be missed and always love. Call me anytime. Love you all!! Love, Dorothy
Brian and I send our condolences to you and your family. We really enjoyed living alongside our wonderful Fernwood Drive neighbors ….. great memories ❤️. FYI ….. Arlene was also born in Jersey City.
Breck and I were close friends for many years beginning when we attended Fort Lee H.S.
We vacationed with our wives (Gail & Ana) countless dinners in NY and Jersey many times at each others homes.
We grew apart over recent years as I live in Florida. I’ll always consider Breck one of my very best friends in my life Breck JR could probably attest to that. I’m so sorry and regretful that we didn’t talk to each other the past few years. I will miss him and feel fortunate having many wonderful times together. God Bless his soul may he rest in peace
Charles Charllis
My deepest condolences to Breck Jr. and family. As one of the original Monday & Friday night card game regulars many years ago I’ll always remember the many laughs we shared even when we lost. May his memory be eternal.
Very sorry to hear this.
My condolences. I fondly remember learning how to swim in their pool as a kid. Gail and Breck were always so kind and hospitable. The BBQ’s were always a fun time!! He will be missed.
ill always remember riding in brecks red convertible with gail when we were growing up in englewood cliffs about 1965. playing basketball at the rubins house at night..started the big poker game at vinny panettas house that lasted over 20 years. that was over 50 years ago..i moved to florida in 1975 and we lost touch but emailed every now and then. we went to puerto rico when we were 19..first time we ever flew on a plane..he threw up on the plane..never let him live that down. never had a friend like him again. i am sure i will see him soon…rest in peace and say hi to gail for me. you were a cool breeze always remembered.