Joseph M. Iselin

Joseph M. Iselin 

Joseph Iselin, a Navy veteran, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2024, at the age of 87. Born in Passaic, New Jersey, October 17, 1936, he was the son of the late Catherine M. (McCrae) Iselin and Joseph Iselin, Sr. He grew up in Nutley before moving to Whitehouse Station at the age of 12, graduating from Flemington High School in 1954. After service during the Korean War, he pursued his studies in electronic systems and embarked on a 40-year career with United Telephone Systems, later known as Sprint, where he worked until his retirement.

Joseph met his lifelong love, Ruth Cornwell, at a dance in Hightstown, NJ. Together, they danced their way through 60 years of marriage, winning dance contests and enjoying travel, their home, and life in Hunterdon County.

An avid sportsman, Joseph remained active well into his later years—skiing into his 70s, cycling, kayaking, fishing and playing nightly tennis games until age 81. He loved traveling, having visited over 33 countries and much of the United States. An amateur artist, he left his children numerous paintings of scenes from his travels, both at home and abroad.

A devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Joseph cherished family, sharing his time, talent and treasure for which they are eternally grateful—whether playing games, leading outings and excursions, or readily lending his many talents to assist with projects. 

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Ruth in 2019, and is survived by his two daughters and sons-in-law: Lynn and Robert Ozimek of Flemington, and Amy and David Chewey of Virginia Beach. He also leaves behind his grandchildren: Abbey Ozimek Diaz, Kyle Ozimek, Breanna McCormick and her husband David, and Davis Chewey and his fiancé Amanda; as well as his great-granddaughter, Arianna. Additionally, he is survived by his two sisters, Claire and Catherine, along with much-loved nieces and nephews.

Private family services will be held at Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ, followed by a burial with military honors in Prospect Hill Cemetery, Capner Street, Flemington, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10306.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822. For more information or to send an online condolence, please visit his Tribute Wall at www.holcombefisher.com.