Joseph M. Cleary, Sr.AGE: 91 • Beach Haven CrestJoseph Michael Cleary, Sr., WWII Veteran - Irvington Fire Captain, 91, of Beach Haven Crest sadly passed away on Sunday, January 29, 2017 at Southern Ocean Hospital. Joseph was born on July 7, 1925 to Mary and Michael Cleary in Newark, NJ. He lived with his family in Irvington, graduated from St. Leo's Grammar School and Irvington High School. Upon his graduation, he served as a Corporal in the US Army during WWII from 1943-1946. Upon his discharge, he attended Seton Hall University and became a fireman in the Township of Irvington. He married Marion (Weisinger) on April 26th, 1947 and together they raised their 5 children. Joe retired from the Irvington Fire Department as a Captain in 1977 and with his family moved to their home on Long Beach Island where he began his second career as Fire Safety Director at Bally's Casino in Atlantic City until 1990. Joe loved to work around his home and was skilled at carpentry and building. His grandchildren would always comment on how strong their Pop-Pop's hands were even as he grew older.Joe was predeceased by his wife Marion, son Patrick and grandson, Christopher. He is survived by his children, Michael (Patricia), Joseph, Jr. (Audrey), Mayanne Shymon (Stephen) and Dennis (Mary). His grandchildren, Brian, Michael (Jessica), Matthew (Sarah), Lauren, Brian (Anne), Kevin, Patrick, Sean, Michael and Stephen Shymon. His great grandchildren, Lilly, Gavin, Connor, Liam, Chloe and Ellis. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Reddington and sister-in-law, Mary Cleary.Services were held Friday, February 3rd, 2017 and Saturday at Bugbee-Riggs Funeral Home, 12th St. & Long Beach Blvd., Ship Bottom, NJ 08008. Funeral Liturgy was offered at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Brant Beach. Burial at St. Mary's Parish Cemetery, Manahawkin. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Deborah Hospital Foundation, P.O. Box 820, Browns Mills, NJ 08015 in Mr. Cleary's memory.