Fred Van Lenten Obituary

Fred Van Lenten, 59 of Elmwood Park, NJ passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 14, 2025 while on vacation with his loving wife, Patti, in Puerto Rico, a place he loved.
In addition to his beloved wife, Patricia (nee Laughlin), Fred is survived by his devoted mother, Arlene Van Lenten (nee Stellingwerf) and his sisters, Kathy Ligenzowski (h.Allen) and Barbara Albanese-Reynolds. He also leaves behind his in-laws, Diane Laughlin, Judith Ciulla (h. Robert), Cynthia Mastrocola (h. Reno), and James Laughlin along with numerous aunts, uncles, a niece, nephews, cousins, and countless friends. He leaves his faithful companion, Smokey, to keep Patti company during the many difficult days and years ahead.
Fred was predeceased by his loving daughter Nicole "Nikki", his father, Eugene "Gene", his nephew, Joseph Albanese, and his brother-in-law, Peter Reynolds, as well as his in-laws, Elizabeth and James Laughlin.
It's impossible to sum up Fred's life and impact on others in a few paragraphs. To all who knew him, he was a genuinely kind, warmhearted, outgoing, and giving man who had a tremendous heart, and often went out of his way to jump in with a helping hand. Fred frequently put other peoples' needs above his own; and was the true personification of the expression "empathic to the core". To say he had boundless energy and couldn't sit still is an understatement. Once you met him, there's a good chance you found a lifelong friend.
Born and raised in Garfield, Fred was a very active member in his community. At an early age he developed many lifelong friendships starting as a member of the Cub Scouts. Being naturally community minded, Fred joined the Garfield Volunteer Ambulance Corps and became a longtime member of the Garfield Volunteer Fire Dept. After getting married to the love of his life, Patti, and moving to Vernon, he continued his community involvement by joining the Vernon Volunteer Fire Dept. He often volunteered with Garfield VFW Post 2867, of which is father was a lifetime member. Everyone there knew and appreciated Fred for all that he did. Whenever he was needed he did not hesitate to help with everything from fundraising, organizing special events, coordinating activities, preparing delicious meals, etc.
After graduating Bergen Tech, Fred pursued a career in the printing industry – working for Union Camp and International Paper. His desire to help others also motivated him to pursue a degree from Eastwick College in Cardiovascular Sonography.
Fred was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities. He was passionate about music, practicing with his bass guitar, playing in a band, attending concerts, and DJing special events. And don't get him started about KISS, since he was their number one fan. Fred enjoyed camping, especially at Lake George, his fishing trips to Canada, firemen conventions in Wildwood, as well as annual vacations at LBI with his in-laws. He especially enjoyed his honeymoon and 25 th Wedding anniversary trips to Hawaii. In addition to attending his daughters dance and music recitals, cheerleading and softball games, he loved throwing his annual 4th of July parties and going all out for Halloween. He always enjoyed spending time with his many friends. Over the years, when he was at home he always had one, two or three of his many furry companions to keep him company.
Fred will be deeply missed with each of us cherishing the memories of our time spent with him.
Rest peacefully, Fred, knowing you are loved and missed by so many.
The Van Lenten will receive family and friends on Sunday, June 1, 2025 4:00 until 8:00 PM at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home, 257 Godwin Ave, Wyckoff, NJ. A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, June 2, 2025 at 11:00 AM at the funeral home followed by an interment of ashes at Maryrest Cemtery, Mahwah, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Fred's memory to:
"VFW Post 2867", 340 Outwater Ln., Garfield, NJ 07026 #973-772-4696
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