JAMES PUHALSKI OBITUARY

James (Jim) John Puhalski, 63, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family on June 5th, 2022.
Jim was born with his twin brother Joseph on September 8th, 1958 in Trenton, NJ. He was the youngest of six children to Stanley and Lottie Puhalski. He attended St. Anthony's Grammar School and High School, where he earned "Athlete of the Year" and was a member of the 1975 State Championship baseball team.
He graduated from Trenton State College, where he excelled as a tight-end (#80) and was a leading pass receiver of the 1980 Conference Championship Team. In 1983, he was invited to try out for the Cleveland Browns (#13) and played in the 1983 NFL Hall of Fame Game.
He then went on to earn a spot and graduated with the 102nd class with the New Jersey State Police in Sea Girt, NJ (#4098). Jim would go on to serve the public as a State Trooper with "Honor, Duty and Fidelity" for almost 27 years. He was notably a patrol supervisor and squad leader, as well as a member on the NJSP detail that responded to the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
After retiring from the New Jersey State Police, Jim served in numerous other positions dedicated to public safety, to include Security Supervisor at the Atlantic Club in Atlantic City, Account Manager for Securitas at Tanger Outlets in Atlantic City, and Safety Officer at Alder Middle School in Egg Harbor Township.
Jim enjoyed a variety of hobbies in his lifetime, including fishing on his boat, skiing, growing his vegetable garden, relaxing at the beach in Long Beach Island, and attending his childrens' sporting events.
He is preceded in death by his father and mother and is survived by his twin children, Tara and Thomas (Tommy) Puhalski, beloved girlfriend Elizabeth (Beth) Sarkos, sisters, Carol, Pat and Linda (Steve), brothers Robert (Rosalyn) and Joseph (Mary), and numerous loving nieces, nephews and cousins.
Jim is remembered as a devoted father, brother, boyfriend, uncle and good friend to many. He would be described as one who had a personality larger than life, appreciated the little things and always told it like it was. He had an admirable work ethic, and would often say "If you work, you get paid and I'll give you a buck two ninety."
Most notably though, he is remembered as our hero.
At his request, services will be private.

Published by Wimberg Funeral Home - Galloway on Jun. 8, 2022.