Obituary of Leonard Leslie Zwerver

Leonard Leslie Zwerver, age 96, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family and devoted caregiver, Phyllis, on March 10, 2025. Beloved husband of Doris (Foley) Zwerver, (for 72 years!) Loving father of Peggy Zwerver (Tom Baker), Lynne Karinja (Rick), and Leslie Fant (Ricky). Adoring grandfather of Ashley, Patrick, Brittany, and Kyle. Doting great-grandfather of Rhea, Jack, Brooke, Rory, P.J., and Billie. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Dear son of the late Baltus and the late Edith (Flanagan) Zwerver.

Born in Paterson on April 19, 1928, he lived in West Paterson (the name he preferred – not Woodland Park) in the house that he built in 1953, before moving to Pompton Plains 2 years ago. He was always a DIY kind of guy and kept very busy with a multitude of projects in and around the house.

Len was very proud to have served in the US Navy from 1946-1948, where he was stationed in the Philippines. After apprenticing for several years, he took ownership of Regal Stamp & Seal Company in Woodridge and East Rutherford, for over 35 years before retiring in the 1990's.

He loved being a part of a service organization. These included: being a member of the West Paterson Fire Department, serving as a past master of the Little Falls Masonic Lodge (75 years), member of the American Legion, becoming a potentate aide of the Shriners (50 years). With the Shriners, he was part of the Shepherd's Club where he volunteered to drive children to their doctor's appointments at the Shriner's Hospital for Children in Philadelphia. Something that he was very proud of doing.

After retirement, he became a member of Upper Montclair Country Club where he made many friends and fell in love with the game of golf.

Len was very outgoing and would talk to everyone he came in contact with. Telling jokes was his specialty and loved being the center of attention. Especially if he could sing his favorite song, "It's Hard To Be Humble". He will be missed.

The family invites you to attend a memorial gathering at the Festa Memorial Funeral Home 111 Union Blvd., Totowa on Saturday, March 15th from 2-5 PM. Cremation is private at the request of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations to Shriners Hospital for Children, 3551 N. Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19140, in his name would be appreciated.