Obituary of Charles M. Crescenz

Charles Crescenz, 71, of Island Heights died peacefully at home on Wednesday morning. He was loved by all who knew him. He was kind and generous man who would go out of his way to help anyone in need. He was an avid lover of golf and football. He enjoyed traveling the world with his devoted wife. Most importantly, he loved to spend time with his wife, children and grandchildren. Charlie was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA but the family's summers were spent on the beach in Sea Isle City. He graduated from Cardinal Dougherty High School before serving in the Marine Corps from 1966-1968. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War where he earned several medals, including a Purple Heart, the National Defense Service Military Medal, the Vietnam Service Military Medal, and the Combat Action Military Ribbon . After returning home, he began his career with the New Jersey State Police. In 1981, Charlie married his wife, Marie, and they later relocated to Island Heights, where they have since resided. In 2015, Charlie retired from the Department of Criminal Justice. He was a member of American Legion Post 129 and the Marine Corps League. Charles is predeceased by his father, Charles Crescenz II, his mother, Mary Crescenz, and his brother, Michael Crescenz. He is survived by his wife, Marie Crescenz, their 2 children and their spouses: Evan Bergstrom and his wife Gina Shaw of Montclair; Jeffrey Crescenz and his wife Jessica of Toms River, and their five grandchildren: Annika, Adrian, Katia, Colin and Henry. He is also survived by four brothers: Peter, Steven, Joseph and Christopher. A Funeral Mass will be offered on Friday, June 21st at 3pm at St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, 685 Hooper Avenue, Toms River followed by a memorial service and repast at the American Legion Post 129, 2025 Church Road, Toms River. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his name to the Children's Organ Transplant Association. Checks payable to: COTA American Legion Post 493 Attn: Lenny Hart 420 Radio Road Little Egg Harbor, NJ 08087