Obituary of James J. Boehmer

James J. Boehmer, a longtime Madison resident, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, November 23, 2024. He was 92.

James was born in Newark on September 22, 1932. He started living with his grandparents when he was 15 years old after living in an orphanage. He met his beloved wife Angelina (née DeSarno) at the Olympic Park skating rink in Irvington, and the couple married on December 7, 1952. After their wedding, James enlisted in the United States Army achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. Being a baker since the age of 9, James spent most of his time in the service in the kitchen baking and cooking for his fellow soldiers.

James’ love of baking followed him after his honorable discharge from the Army. He and his wife first settled in Irvington where they opened Boehmer’s Bakery, and later Coquelles Bakery in Orange, which they ran together for 11 years. Jim’s passion for his baked goods brought great joy to both his family and his customers.

Jim did everything in his life with his family in mind. He and Angelina were completely inseparable and did everything together. James also enjoyed putting together dollhouses with miniatures that he would give as gifts to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His family will forever miss his presence in their lives, but they take comfort in knowing he is now at peace.

In addition to his grandparents, James was preceded in death by his siblings Robert, Jeanette, Alice, Barbara and Florence.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 72 years, Angelina Boehmer; his loving sons, Daniel and James Boehmer; six cherished grandchildren Kelly, James, Nicole, Jessica, Emily and Daniel; twelve treasured great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Services for James will be held privately for his family.