Obituary of Francis Leo Xavier Biegen

Francis L. Biegen has passed from this earth after a long life of loving others and being loved by them. Born January 28th, 1929 in Union City, NJ, Francis of Manalapan grew up in a family of seven children, his mom and dad. Later in his youth he and his family spent their summers on "Paradise Hill," at their tiny cabin, running through the forests and swimming in the creeks of East Jewett, NY. Many of his most wonderful memories were made there. Francis graduated St. Peter's Prep and St. Peter's College in Jersey City. He served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean conflict participating in operations in the North Sea and the Carribean. After his honorable discharge, Francis was married to the love of his life, Bernice Daub and settled on Grace Drive in Old Bridge, New Jersey. On Grace Drive Bernice and Fran, made many of their greatest friends, and with them created a neighborhood that was a wonderful place for the children. Francis had a long career in the steamship industry and made dozens of friends from around the world. He loved to travel for work and pleasure and made trips to Europe, the Caribbean and two very memorable trips to Namibia and South Africa. Francis was a long time Member of the Knights of Columbus and a member of the St. Gabriel's choir. Francis enjoyed his work and travels but was always anxious to get home to his wife and children. His home was where his love centered with his very large extended family, countless friends and immediate family. He loved a good party filled with the people he loved. Home is where Francis Biegen died Monday, surrounded by a family and by love, a family and love that would not have been there but for the love he gave to all of us. Francis was predeceased by his parents, brothers and sister, and his son In-law, Christian Schunack. He is survived by his dear wife Bernice, his children Lisa Schunack, Lauren Badal, Suzanne Lahetta, James Biegen and David Biegen, his brother Quentin and his sister Jean. We, his countless friends are all incredibly sad, yet incredibly happy that this guy was our guy. His life was about nothing other than love and friendship. His Lord must have been very happy with him when he showed up at the "Pearly Gates." Forever on Paradise Hill dad. Forever on Paradise Hill. There will be a memorial at Freeman's Funeral Home, 344 Route 9 North, Manalapan, from 4:00 to 8:00 pm on Friday, Jan. 15th. A memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, Jan. 16th at 11:00 am at St. Gabriel's Main Church, Route 79, Marlboro. In lieu of flowers we are asking that donations can be made to Cabaret for Life or to the family to defray medical costs for Francis' Son in law Carl.