Donald J. Congdon

Donald J. Congdon, age 94, of Ocean Township, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2026.

Donald was born on August 29, 1931, in Orange, New Jersey, to Arthur and Margaret Congdon. After graduating from Montclair Academy in 1950, he proudly served in the U.S. Army Signal Corps from 1953 to 1962. During his military service, he spent time in Korea, Japan, Italy, and at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey.

Following his service, Donald pursued a career in hospitality, working at the Harbor Island Spa in Long Branch, New Jersey, and the Adams Hotel in New York City. He later worked at the Medical Arts Center Hospital in New York City until his retirement in 1993.

In his later years, Donald greatly enjoyed watching any New York sports team on his big-screen television. He especially cherished attending holiday meals with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Donald was predeceased by his parents, his wives, Jean Morris, Catherine Rescigno, and Margrit Sonst, and his siblings, Arthur Stanley Congdon Jr. and Douglas Congdon.

He is survived by his children: Karen Blaney (Congdon) and her husband, Tom Blaney, of Eatontown, New Jersey; Nancy Caterina of Jackson, New Jersey; and Mark Congdon of the Philippines; as well as his sister, Patricia Frenaye (Congdon).

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the Visiting Nurse Association of Central Jersey for their compassionate care during Donald’s final year. They also wish to thank the Township of Ocean Department of Human Services for providing senior transportation for medical appointments and weekly shopping trips to Wegmans—fondly referred to as “Weggies”—the highlight of Donald’s week. These services enabled him to live independently well into his 90s.

Funeral services will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to:

• Visiting Nurse Association of Central Jersey Hospice, https://vnahg.org/support-hospice/

• Shriners Children’s Hospital, https://donate.shrinerschildrens.org/

Services are entrusted to Jersey Shore Cremation Service, 43 Taylor Avenue, Manasquan, NJ - JerseyShoreCremation.com