Born in Hoboken to the late Elizabeth T. (Smith) and Peter Heller. In his early years he held a number of jobs but after graduating from Jersey City State. His main profession was serving bravely at the Port Authority of NY and NJ as a police officer for 18 years, retiring in 1993. He enjoyed making others laugh, grilling and was an avid sports fan.
His passion was carried on as a football coach where he coached defense for 40 years, including at Bayonne High School, Don Bosco Prep, Rutherford Jr. Football, William Paterson University, St. Peters Prep, and the Paterson Knights.
He also served as a regional College Football Scout for Penn State and the Nebraska Cornhuskers.
He held memberships in American Legion Post 138 in Lyndhurst, Knights of Columbus Council 1 Rutherford. But spending time with his grandchildren and family that gave him his biggest joy.
He is survived by his wife, Eleanor; children, Peter B. Heller Esq. and his wife Rosann Heller Esq., and Dr. Michelle Heller-Barlekamp, and her husband Jay Barlekamp; his grandchildren; Emily Heller, Patrick Barlekamp.
He is predeceased by his brother, Thomas Heller.
Family will receive friends on Friday 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at Calhoun-Mania Funeral Home, 19 Lincoln Ave., Rutherford. Funeral mass is Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Church of St. Mary, 91 Home Ave. Rutherford. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to ST. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 262 Danny Thomas Pl. Memphis TN. 38105
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