A funeral mass took place Jan. 3 at Immaculate Conception Church for Harold, V. Shea, Jr., a former longtime resident of Secaucus. He passed away Dec. 26. Residing in Waldwick since 2011, Mr. Shea was born in Jersey City and educated in the public school system, attending Dickinson High School. He dropped out in his senior year to serve his country and enlisted in the Marine Corps during WWII. After his honorable discharge, he was employed by the NY Shipping Association as a deep-sea cargo checker. He completed his high school education, at night, receiving his diploma from St. Peters.
He married Regina M. Schmitt of Secaucus in 1952. Their son Harold F. Shea was born in 1957. In 1952 Harold was appointed to the Jersey City Police Dept., assigned to the motorcycle squad for 15 years. He was promoted to full detective until his retirement in 1980 after receiving seven departmental commendations and an honorable mention. Harold later worked for the Alps Restaurant.
Mr. Shea was pre-deceased by his wife Regina in 1983; his son Harold F. Shea; and his longtime companion and sweetheart Rose J. Bruno, of Secaucus. Mr. Shea was supportive and active in many organizations. He was past state president of the NJ State Lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police, Local Lodge 4. Past president of the Homer Harkness detachment of the U.S. Marine Corps, member of the NJ State Honor Legion, member of NJ Retired Police and Firemen Association and member of Secaucus American Legion.
Harold was also V.P. of the Green Dolphin Condo Association in Tarpon Springs, Fla., where he joined the popular ranks of “Snowbird” in 1985.
Harold is survived by his sister Joan Miele and family of Jackson; the Schmitt family of Secaucus, the Bruno family of Waldwick, the Pavlovich family of Allendale and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Services arranged by the Mack Memorial Home, Secaucus.