Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home

23/08/2025

When we experience a death, a funeral service helps fill several needs that begin the healing process. Take a deeper look into these needs to see how funerals help us in our grief.

22/08/2025

Charles A. Smith, Jr.

Charles A. Smith, Jr., age 76 years, former long-time Flemington resident, passed away on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center - Mainland Campus, Galloway Township, NJ, surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 18, 1949, in Flemington, NJ, he was the son of the late Catherine (Malone) Smith and Charles A. Smith, Sr.

He was a 1968 graduate of Hunterdon Central Regional High School. Upon graduation, he entered the United States Marine Corps, serving at the height of the Vietnam War. He completed two combat tours with the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, flying on Medevac helicopters. After serving from 1968-1971 with distinction, he was honorably discharged from active duty.

Charlie dedicated his life to his craft as a plumber, having learned the trade from his father. His career included employment at the Princeton Plasma Physics Lab and culminated in his role in the Maintenance Department of Hunterdon Medical Center as a plumber and fire suppression technician. His commitment to excellence in his work earned him the respect and admiration of his peers.

An avid outdoorsman, Charlie cherished moments spent fishing, hunting, and boating, particularly in the picturesque state of Maine. He found peace in the natural beauty of Flying Pond in Mount Vernon, ME, where he enjoyed family trips each summer since 1966. His love for the outdoors was matched by his passion for music; Charlie was a talented drummer who played professionally as a teenager alongside his dear friend from New York Avenue in Flemington, Danny Federici, who later became the keyboard player for Bruce Springsteen's E-Street Band. From performing on shows like Sally Star and Larry Ferrari to sharing great memories with legendary musicians like B.B. King, Charlie's youthful exuberance for music left a lasting impact on his life.

Charlie's character was underscored by a genuine optimism and remarkable meteorological knowledge, allowing him to forecast the weather with a unique flair. A dedicated member of the Flemington Fire Department for 35 years, Charlie held various roles including Fire Chief and was also actively involved with FDNY's Rescue 5 in Staten Island, NY. His commitment to public service extended to memberships in the American Legion - NJ Post 0159, VFW Post 7856, and the Marine Corps League, Rockland, Maine Detachment.

Charlie is survived by his loving wife, Margaret "Margie" Troost; his son, Charles "Austin" Smith, III, and his wife, Linda; along with two wonderful grandchildren, Lucy Jane and Austin James. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Judi Smith, who passed away in 2006.

A visitation will be held on August 30, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ. Following the visitation, a funeral service and firemen's service will commence at 1:00 PM in the funeral home, followed by military honors and burial at St. Magdalen Cemetery, Flemington, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Charlie's memory may be made to the Travis Mills Foundation by clicking the link below.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822. For further information or to send an online condolence. please visit www.holcombefisher.com.

View Charles A. Smith, Jr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

21/08/2025

Do you know the importance of mourning? Everyone's journey is unique, but it's an important process as we take time to express our thoughts and beliefs about life and death.

20/08/2025

What are your favorite memories of the fair!?

Did you know we are celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the fair this year? 🎉

There are several special events and giveaways planned for the entire fair week to celebrate and commemorate this important milestone!

Every day, a limited number of special edition coloring books (put together by the 4-H clubs) will be given away in the animal barns and tents. At the Junior Leaders soda trailer you can find special edition 25th anniversary koozies being given away (while supplies last). We also have commemorative pins that will be handed out during the fair!

And today, Wednesday, 8/20 at 3:30pm, we invite you to join us at the gazebo at the main entrance for a special cupcake giveaway! 🧁

Help us celebrate and remember 25 great years of the fair all week!

20/08/2025

Most airlines allow cremated remains on board as carry-on or checked baggage, but the container holding the remains must pass through the x-ray machine or it will not be allowed through security. Cremated remains can also be air-shipped as cargo but only by "known shippers." In addition, to transport remains on an airplane you must provide a death or cremation certificate for the cremated remains in order to carry them on board.
Interested in learning more about cremated remains? Get our complimentary handout today, Cremation: Things To Consider here: http://holcombefisher.celebrate-life.us/choosing-cremation/

19/08/2025

Mark E. Fisher

Mark E. Fisher, a cherished son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2025, in his lifelong hometown of Flemington, NJ. Born on April 13, 1963, a former resident of Iowa and Neshanic NJ, Mark was a Hunterdon County resident most of his life. His life was a testament to kindness, humor, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys that nature brings.

Mark dedicated his career to the art of nurturing plants and flowers, showcasing his expertise as a gifted nursery worker. His passion for botany was evident in his consistent use of Latin names for plants and flowers, a skill that set him apart during his years working for various local nurseries. He notably concluded his career at Garden Gate Garden Center, Flemington where he was a beloved team member.

Outside of work, Mark found solace in the great outdoors. He was an avid fisherman, enjoying countless trips to local lakes and rivers, and spending memorable summers in Canada, particularly at Norcan Lake in Eastern Ontario. It is there that adventurous tales were born, including the amusing incident of losing his fishing pole on one trip, only to miraculously return the following year to recover it!

A man with a big heart and an excellent sense of humor, Mark was a kind soul who brought laughter and light to those around him. He had a wide array of interests that included listening to old country music and the rock band Rush, reading thrilling mystery novels, and sharing stories by the campfire. When not immersed in nature, he loved playing cards and was an enthusiastic spectator of NASCAR races, and passionately supporting teams like the New York Yankees, Green Bay Packers, and New York Giants.

Mark's culinary talents shone through in his cooking, and he took great pride in bringing Christmas gifts to his cherished nieces and nephews, a tradition that highlighted his loving nature.

He is survived by his brothers and sisters-in-law, William and Brenda Fisher of Lehighton, PA, and Robert and Susan Fisher of Phillipsburg, NJ; his brother, David Fisher of Flemington, NJ, and his sister and brother-in-law, Laurie and James Backowski of Upper Black Eddy, PA; his dear nephews, Robert Fisher of Philadelphia, Matthew Fisher of Easton, PA, and Joseph Backowski of Perkasie, PA; and his niece Danielle Backowski of Perkasie, PA. He also leaves behind his loving cousin, Bonnie DeCleene and her husband, Emile of Flemington, NJ.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents, William Fisher and Margaret (Pucha) Fisher, whose love and guidance shaped the man he became.

His passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his memory will forever inspire those he touched with his kindness, laughter, and love for nature. Mark E. Fisher will be greatly missed but fondly remembered.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main St. Flemington NJ 08822. For further information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.

View Mark E. Fisher's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

18/08/2025

How do we respect the wishes of our deceased loved one for a “simple” or “no fuss” funeral, while still meeting our own needs to mourn? Remember that gathering together to mourn can look like a family dinner, or outdoor picnic, as well as a more traditional larger gathering at a church or community center.

18/08/2025

K***s "Judy" Pietruszka

K***s "Judy" Pietruszka, a beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday evening, August 15, 2025, at the Serenity Hospice Unit at RWJ-Hamilton Hospital. She was 69 years old. Born on March 25, 1956, in Newark, NJ, Judy was the daughter of the late Ali and Margaret (Grundmann) Stas.

A proud graduate of Irvington High School, Class of 1974, Judy’s career was marked by her reliability and commitment. She began her professional journey as a clerk and purchasing agent for the VA Medical Center in East Orange, NJ, before advancing to a contract specialist position for the Department of the Army at Fort Monmouth, NJ, where her trusted security clearance attested to her integrity. Following her time in government service, she applied her talents to several catering and food service companies and ultimately found a fulfilling role as a sales associate at Macy's in Bridgewater, NJ, from 2004 until 2021. Yet above all, Judy cherished her most important role as a devoted mother, taking time to raise her two children during their formative years.

Judy was known for her enthusiasm for Christmas, a time of joy that she passionately celebrated year after year. In 1991, she and George settled in Flemington, NJ, where she took pleasure in the rural beauty of Hunterdon County and delighted in observing the backyard wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and rabbits.

In her community, Judy was an active communicant of St. Magdalen de Pazzi Roman Catholic Church, where she shared her faith and commitment through teaching CCD for more than a decade. Despite her occasionally reserved nature, she had a warm spirit that drew friends to her effortlessly. Judy was fluent in German, reflecting her diverse interests and commitment to continuous learning. Among her many hobbies, she was an avid reader, constantly filling her Kindle with romance novels.

Judy is survived by her loving husband of 40 years, George Pietruszka; her two beloved children, Joseph Pietruszka and Victoria Pietruszka; and her four sisters.

The memory of Judy Pietruszka will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her, as she leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion, and a profound impact on her family and friends. She will be missed dearly.

Visitation will be held on August 21, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, located at 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822. Following the visitation, a funeral service will take place beginning at 12:00 Noon also in the funeral home. Judy will then be laid to rest at St. Magdalen Cemetery, North Main Street, Flemington, NJ, at 12:45 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Planned Parenthood Federation of America or Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center by clicking the links below.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822. For further information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.

View K***s "Judy" Pietruszka's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

18/08/2025

When deciding on memorialization, consider unique options, such as a memorial bench, located in the cemetery or even along a favorite walking path or park. A lasting place to remember a loved one as well as adding a beautiful outdoor seating space can make for a meaningful reminder.

16/08/2025

Planning ahead for a funeral gives peace of mind; knowing final wishes will be carried out and removing the burden on family members. Contact us and we can start planning together.

16/08/2025

Deborah "Debbie" Weiss

Deborah “Debbie” Weiss passed away suddenly on August 15, 2025, in Flemington, New Jersey. She was 79.

Born on February 4, 1946, in Brooklyn, New York, Debbie lived a life defined by deep love, creativity, and unwavering devotion to her family. She was the cherished wife of Ronald Weiss, her beloved partner for over 60 years. They married young, when Debbie was just 19, and their bond remained strong and joyful throughout their lives together — a rare and beautiful love story.

Debbie was a loving mother to Scott Weiss and Mark Weiss, and a proud grandmother to Justin, Kristen, Rachel, and Jared Weiss. The recent and untimely passing of her son Scott is an unimaginable loss that adds to the sorrow felt by all who knew and loved her.

Known for her warmth, humor, and generous heart, Debbie brought light into every room she entered. She had a deep love for her family, and she lived for her children and grandchildren. Her creativity shone through in her love of knitting and doll-making, and her cherished doll collection was a reflection of her imaginative spirit.

Debbie had a playful and silly side that endeared her to everyone. She adored animals, had a soft spot for old horror films and classic comedies, and was a loyal Yankees fan. Her sharp wit and great sense of humor brought joy and laughter to countless family gatherings and everyday moments. And, of course, she never passed up a good shopping trip.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial contributions be made in Debbie’s name to the North Shore Animal League, a cause close to her heart. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her kindness, her sparkle, and the love she gave so freely.

Graveside services and entombment, conducted by Rabbi David Fine, will take place at the Sanctuary of Abraham & Sarah Mausoleum, Paramus, NJ.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822.

For further information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.

View Deborah "Debbie" Weiss's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

15/08/2025

Animal lover, grandmother, generous friend... How do you want to be remembered?