Walter John Pawelek Jr. (Wally), 79 of Manchester passed away on Saturday, October 19, 2024.  He was born in Passaic, raised in Wallington, and later resided in Elmwood Park, Nutley, Edgewater Florida, and Toms River before moving to Manchester. Wally was employed for 30 years by Roche in Nutley, initially beginning his career as a lab technician. His true calling came later in life, after receiving an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification. He became Chief of the Roche Emergency Rescue Squad. As an EMT, Wally also rode with the Elmwood Park Volunteer Ambulance Corps and the Nutley Volunteer Emergency and Rescue Squad.

Despite his gruff exterior, those who knew Wally would tell you that he had a truly kind and generous heart. While raising his children, Wally’s favorite vacation destinations were Disney World and the Jersey Shore. He enjoyed shooting pool and playing softball and golf. He was an excellent cook and spent much time collecting cookbooks and watching cooking shows on TV. Wally was an avid reader and trivia master who had auditioned for Jeopardy! and showed no mercy when playing Trivial Pursuit with his family.

Wally was predeceased by his cherished wife of 32 years, Kathryn (nee Dacey) in March 2024. During their marriage, the two enjoyed traveling to Las Vegas, Atlantic City, and participated in International Rescue and Emergency Care Association Conferences. Wally was also predeceased by his parents Walter John Sr. and Marie (nee Tudor) Pawelek and by his grandson David August Hiscano.

Wally was the loving father of Nancy Hiscano and husband Dwight of Summit and Susan Pawelek and partner Michael Warren of Highlands whom he shared with his first wife Ruth Ann. He was the proud grandfather of Andrew and Daniel Hiscano. Donations in Wally’s memory can be made to Meals on Wheels of Ocean County. https://csimow.org/donations/.