Wayne Szuba

Wayne Szuba, 65, unexpectedly passed away on Friday, October 10th, 2025.

***We respectfully request that no one arrive at the funeral home prior to 4:00 pm so as not to intrude on the family’s private viewing.***

Family and friends are invited to the visitation in the Kowalski Funeral Home, 515 Roselle Street, Linden on Thursday, October 16th from 4:00-7:00PM and on Friday, October 17th, at 10:00 AM. Prayer service will begin at approximately 10:30AM on Friday, followed by a traditional procession to St Gertrude’s Cemetery, Colonia, for the final committal service.

Wayne was born on July 13th, 1960, to parents Chester and Helen (Petrowski) Szuba. He was a proud lifelong resident of Linden until 2020 when he settled in Toms River with his partner Marie. Wayne served his community for many years working for the Linden Department of Public Works, doing various jobs throughout the seasons, and keeping the town running smoothly. He did everything, from leaf collecting to snow removal, over his almost 30 year career. Upon retiring in 2016, he was able to relax and enjoy time with friends and family.

Wayne was usually very social, often sparking up conversations, and very outgoing with those who knew him. He enjoyed hosting parties and gatherings in both Linden, and Toms River, and just enjoyed company. Not just with people, but animals as well. Wayne truly had a special place in his heart for his various animals over the years, most recently his dogs Jenny and Louie, and his cat Lucy. He was also on the water pretty often, taking his boat out of Tuckerton and Sunset Cove on many occasions with some good music playing on deck always. Above all else, he was a loving partner, neighbor, cousin, and friend, and he will be truly missed by many.

Wayne is predeceased by his parents Chester and Helen Szuba. He is survived by his partner of many years Marie Blackford, his cousins Joanne Vito, Mary Ann Valenti, Tommy Kalnowski, Joan Quinter, Walter Dickerhof, Marian Kozicki, and many other nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Wayne's honor and memory to the Friends of Linden Animal Shelter. 

Although he is gone too soon, Wayne will live forever in the hearts of those he loved, and those who loved him.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Wayne Szuba, please visit our floral store.