Obituary of Robert Lax

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert A. Lax, 88 of Park Ridge, NJ formerly of Ridgefield Park, NJ on February 26, 2024.  Born in Hudson County NJ, Bob was born on February 11, 1936 to Oscar and Miriam Lax.

Bob graduated from Emerson High School and enlisted in the US Army where he served with the 82^nd Airborne Division as a paratrooper.  After an honorable discharge, Bob became a member of the Ridgefield Park Police Department where he retired as a detective.  He then became an Ironworker for Local 483 and an Executive Board member.  Never a guy to slow down, even after retirement, he worked at Jersey Tractor Trailer with his dear friend Bill Oliver.

Bob had many passions in life but none more than sports, especially football.  He was a founding father of the Ridgefield Park Midget Football League where he sat on the board.  He also dedicated many years to coaching the Midgets.  He was a well-loved and well-respected football coach at Don Bosco Prep, Marist High School, and St. Joseph’s High School.

He married the love of his life, Adele on May 3, 1958 at St. Francis Church, Ridgefield Park where he served as an usher until 1985.  Bob and Adele then went on to have three children, Robert Lax of Paramus, NJ, Laurie and husband James Southard of Park Ridge, NJ and Leslie Lax of Tampa, FL.  His pride and joy of his life were his seven grandchildren, Robert Lax, Amanda Lax, Matt Gutjahr, Taylor Lax, Mark Gutjahr, Michael Gutjahr and Mack Gutjahr.  He is also survived by his three great grandchildren, Landon Lax, Colton Lax, and Emma Lax.  Bob also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.  He is predeceased by both is parents as well as his brother Raymond whom he idolized.  They lovingly await his return to Heaven.

Services will be held at Vorhees Ingwersen Funeral Home, 59 Main Street, Ridgefield Park, NJ  on Thursday, February 29, 2024 from 3 pm to 8 pm.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be at Our Lady of Mercy Church on Friday, March 1, 2024 at 10 am where Bob was an usher and congregant for the last 40 years. Please meet directly at church

Bob’s departure comes as a deep wound since he was loved by so many.  He lived a life of service to others.  First as a soldier, police officer, and coach.  He was always quick with a smile, handshake, and a hug.  He was truly a giant among men.

The Lax family would like to take this time to thank all of Bob’s friends and family for their support throughout our journey.  However, we have a VERY special thank you to Bob’s amazing caregivers:  Michelle DeVito and Tracy Myack.  The care and compassion that they bestowed upon our father was such a blessing and words will never be able to express our gratitude.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

2 Timothy 4:7