Edward Peter Prokop

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Edward Peter Prokop, who departed this life on September 8, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on November 29, 1932, in Bayonne, New Jersey, Edward led a life marked by resilience, dedication, and love for his family.

He was a kind man with a kind soul - gentle, warm, and always ready to lift someone's spirits. A devoted Catholic throughout his life, he was a proud lifetime member of St. Joseph's Church, where his faith shaped everything he did. He served as a former president and dedicated member of the Catholic War Veterans, the Holy Name Society, Usher for the church and the CYO, giving his time generously as a coach, leader, and parish volunteer. In each of these organizations, he held the position of president as well as member, always leading with humility, pride, and a deep sense of service. He marched in every parade with unmistakable pride, representing St. Joseph's Catholic War Veterans with the dignity and joy that defined him.

He took tremendous pride in his work, spending 42 years with Best Foods - never once taking a sick day. His dedication, reliability, and work ethic were hallmarks of his character, and he carried that same sense of responsibility into every part of his life.

He and his beloved wife Barbara organized the annual senior bus trip to Wildwood, a tradition that brought joy to so many and raised meaningful funds for the church each year. He also coordinated monthly bus trips to Atlantic City, proudly donating the net proceeds to the church month after month. In addition, he loved volunteering and coordinating the annual summer church picnics in the school yard, helping create the kind of community gatherings that brought parish families together.

Known for being a sharp dresser and even sharper with a joke, he brought laughter wherever he went. At family gatherings, he was famous for pulling out the handwritten notes tucked in his breast pocket - a little script for the jokes he'd deliver as he made his rounds from table to table, making sure everyone shared.

He was a kind man with a kind soul - gentle, warm, and always ready to lift someone's spirits. Above all, he was profoundly proud of his children. They were his heart, his legacy, and his greatest joy.

Edward is survived by his beloved children: Chris and his wife Lisa Prokop, Diane Prokop and her partner Jodi Fullers, and Michael Prokop. He was a cherished grandfather to Ashley, Michael, and Christianna Prokop, and a proud great-grandfather to Madison, Bella, and Carmen Prokop. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Edward was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Prokop; and his siblings, George Prokop, Andrew Prokop, Jr., Mary Baran, Margaret Knoop, Helen Kachmarsky, Dorothy Lupo, Irene Prokop, Elizabeth DiGiorgio, Veronica Sileo, Anna Furchak.

Visitation will be held on Monday, September 14, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM in Caiola-Stellato Funeral Home. Mass will be held in his honor on Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at St. John Paul II RC Parish at 10:30 AM,. Interment, to follow, at Holy Name Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Edward's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, continuing his legacy of compassion and service to others.

Edward Peter Prokop will be remembered not only for his contributions to his family and community but also for the warmth and kindness he shared with everyone he met. May he rest in eternal peace.