Luke Penta

September 9, 1921 - January 23, 2010

Luke Penta, Died January 23 at the St. Barnabas Hospice at Monmouth Medical Center surrounded by his family. Born in Orange he lived in Kearny before moving to Highlands in 1953.      Along with his wife Rose, he owned, designed, built and managed Clearwater Pool on Route 36, Middletown for 25 years. Mr. Penta was also employed as a butcher.      He served his Country in the Coast Guard for four years during WWII. He later became an active member, and is past commander of the VFW Post 6902 in Highlands, and an Inspector for the VFW District 6.      Mr. Penta was elected to serve on the borough council in 1971, serving a three year term and serving as Chairman of the police committee. He served many years as the Commissioner of the Highlands Housing Authority, and was a member of the Highlands Police Department Special Police Officers. He is a communicant of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Highlands and has been chairman of the Ushers Committee for decades, until stepping down late last year. He was an active supporter of the former OLPH School PTA and was a frequent volunteer for all church programs and activities.      He is predeceased by one Sister Susan Casperson, and three Brothers Gerard, Vincent and Chester.      Surviving are his wife of 62½years Rose Penta of Highlands; 3 daughters Irma Fahrer of Middletown, Joan McCoy and her husband Peter of Atlantic Highlands, and Barbara Penta of Highlands; 1 son Wayne of Highlands; Grandchildren Nicole and Todd Fahrer and wife Mandy and Nicholas, Timothy and Cameron Penta and great grandchildren, Nikki, Cindy, Melanie, Kaitlyn and Savanna Rose. He is also survived by a brother Charles and his wife Terry of Oakland, A sister Betty Merendo of North Arlington and numerous nieces and nephews.      Friends and family are invited to call at the John P Condon Funeral Home in Leonardo on Monday January 25 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm. A Funeral Mass will be held on January 26 at 10:30 am from OLPH Church in Highlands. Cremation Services will be private. In Lieu of flowers donations may be made to Saint Barnabas Hospice 300 Second Ave Long Branch NJ 07740.