Douglas W. Freuler

DOUG W. FREULER 

April 8, 1943

Douglas Freuler of  Iselin, NJ, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2026.  Doug was born in Bound Brook on April 8, 1943.  He is preceded in death by his parents Lillian Young Freuler and Wilfred Freuler, his sister, Lillian Jane Freuler Tigue, and his adopted uncle Walter Magill.  He grew up in Bridgewater, and lived in the general area for much of his life.  As a child, his parents were the purveyors of "Freuler's Grocery Store" in the Finderne neighborhood.   He leaves behind his beloved partner of 25 years Tami Sharkey, her children Christina (Brian) and  Shawn (Kristy), and numerous life-long friends and relatives. Doug began his musical career on piano and guitar in the year of 1957.  In his early days, he would always practice two hours a day, knowing that music was going to be his future livelihood.  In 1959, he began playing in the Somerville Jazz Band, under the direction of Claude Chapall, Jazz Band Director and one of Doug's inspirations.  Shortly after, he was offered a teaching job at the Plainfield Music Center, the beginning of a lifetime journey of teaching.  For almost 64 years, Doug taught over 100K private lessons, wrote numerous music books (some for Warner Bros.), and studied  music nearly every day of the week.  Going back, he also entertained thousands doing side jobs playing in a band at local clubs, and did DJ gigs at various places. One of his DJ gigs was with 'Single Faces' company which held singles dances throughout parts of NJ.   He also ran country western dances in Bayonne. Approaching 80 years old and having to deal with serious health issues, he decided it was time to retire.  Doug had a stellar life being able to study with some of the greatest music teachers - Rudy Schramm at Carnegie Hall, Dennis Sandoli, Sal Salvadore, and Don Sebesky.  He had a strong passion for antiques and classic cars, and had a collection of his own.  He also had much-loved show dogs and horses when living in Tewksbury Township.  Doug always spoke about how much he enjoyed teaching his students and was so proud of their accomplishments. Doug had strong love for music, as well as a strong love for his lifetime partner Tami to the last of his days. He touched many peoples hearts with his caring, kindness, patience, and other special qualities.  He was truly one-of-a-kind.  He always said "I Did it My Way". A celebration of Doug's life will take place 12 Noon on Thursday, January 22, 2026 at the Finderne Reformed Church, 581 Bridgewater Avenue, Bridgewater, NJ 08807. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Bridgewater Funeral Home, 707 East Main Street, Bridgewater, NJ 08807. 

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