Richard J. Bilka Sr.

Richard J. Bilka Sr., 83, fondly known as "Gramps", passed away at home on Friday, February 23, 2024.  Rich was born on December 30, 1940 in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, where he was raised.  On October 23, 1963, he married the love of his life, Billie Catherine, and they began their life together in Hazlet, where they raised their family.  In 1985, they settled in Holmdel.  In his spare time, Rich enjoyed going to train shows and flea markets.  He loved to fish and spend time with his son-in-law, Frank.  He had the best vegetable gardens and grew the best tomatoes around.  He was also known to make the most delicious stuffed peppers and potato salad.  Rich loved family dinners with his children and grandchildren.  Anyone who knew Rich, knew his door was always open and he would always be there to help them.

Rich began his career as a tinsmith with National Lead and continued on with other companies such as American Cyanamid, Webcraft, and Merck, before retiring in 2003.

He was predeceased by his parents, Steven and Anna (Wallace) Bilka, his beloved wife, Billie Catherine (Hovis) Bilka, and his son, Richard J. Bilka Jr.  Rich is survived by his loving daughters, Cristine Anderson and her husband, Frank, of Hazlet, Sandra Bilka of Hazlet, and Susan Gardner and her husband, John, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and his adoring daughter-in-law, Tara Bilka-McSeaman.  Rich also leaves behind his dear brother, Steven Bilka and his wife, Rita, of Port St. Lucie, Florida, his cherished grandchildren, James Bilka, David DeMarco and his wife, Vanesa, Sarah DeMarco, Richard Bilka III, Shawn Bilka, John Gardner Jr., Stephanie Gardner, and Nicholas Gardner.  Rich was lucky enough to also have three great grandchildren, Nicholas, Emma, and Christopher DeMarco.  Rich will be greatly missed by everyone that knew and loved him, and never forgotten.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Wednesday morning, February 28, 2024 from 9:00 to 10:30 AM at Shore Point Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 3269 State Highway/Route 35 North, Hazlet, New Jersey 07730.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Wednesday morning, February 28, 2024 at 11:00 AM at St. Benedict Roman Catholic Church, 165 Bethany Road, Holmdel, New Jersey 07730.  In respect of Rich's wishes, he will be privately cremated.  For information, directions, or to send condolences to the family, please visit, www.shorepointfh.com. 

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