324 New Jersey Avenue Absecon, NJ

LeRoy Harry “Roy” Birkbeck

Friday September 18, 1925 - Wednesday May 19, 2021

Obituary

LeRoy Harry Birkbeck (Roy) 95, of Absecon, NJ passed away peacefully in his home after a full and happy life. He was born in Philadelphia on September 18, 1925 to Harry and Mary Jane (Hunter) Birkbeck. The family moved to Pleasantville in 1935, where Roy graduated from Pleasantville High School in 1943. At age 18 he enlisted with the 186 Engineer Combat Battalion of the US Army. In 1944 he shipped out to England, then France, Belgium, Netherlands and finally Germany where he was in the Battle of the Bulge. Later, he traveled to Vienna for the Army Occupation before his discharge in 1945. While in the Army Reserves LeRoy began his studies at Glassboro State Teacher’s College where he met Joan Campbell, the love of his life, at the first dance/social they each attended. He transferred to Rutgers University graduating in 1950 with a degree in electrical engineering. He began his career at Atlantic City Electric Company moving up the ranks, retiring after 35 years as Chief Engineer. He and Joan were married in 1950 and began their loving life together raising four children in Absecon, where he designed and built their home. Roy was active in the Absecon JC’s, served on the Absecon School Board, participated in the local AARP, and along with Joan joined several local Square Dance Groups. His position as an Elder, Deacon, as well as Trustee of the Absecon Presbyterian Church, brought him a great deal of personal satisfaction. Throughout his life Roy always had a love for the beach and was an avid fisherman. He and many friends and family would often be found on his boat out in the back bays of Absecon Island. He and Joan enjoyed traveling throughout the 48 continental states and visited many countries in Europe as well. They both loved going to new places, and learn new things, especially at the Presidential Libraries. In 2011 he took the trip-of-a-lifetime with his daughter, Diane, to Australia and New Zealand. Family was always a priority in his life and caring for Joan at home, during her twenty-year battle with Alzheimer’s, was an example of his character and devotion to family. After her passing he remained active in church activities, enjoying luncheon outings with many friends, as well as the theater. He loved to entertain and would be comfortable with many groups of people. He is predeceased by his parents and his sister Ruth Curtis. He leaves behind his children: Diane (Mary), Barry, Carl (Pattie) and Keith (Wendy). Seven grandchildren: Kristina (Brad) Norris, Barry Jr., Keith Jr., Jennifer, Margaret, Brian (Mindy), and Meghan, as well as 9 great-grandchildren. We will join in celebrating his life on Wednesday, May 26th at the Absecon Presbyterian Church, 208 New Jersey Ave., Absecon. Viewing will be from 10-12 followed by a service at noon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Absecon Presbyterian Church or VFW Memorial Post 9462 of Absecon. Arrangements are by Parsels Funeral Home of Absecon. For online condolences, please visit www.parselsfh.com.

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Parsels Funeral Home, Absecon, NJ

Parsels Funeral Home
324 New Jersey Avenue
Absecon, NJ, 08201

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