Ernest Francis McNaboe

Ernest Francis McNaboe, age 72, died unexpectedly on Friday, March 17, 2023 following a prolonged illness, throughout which he exhibited remarkable courage and strength. Called “Ernie” by friends and family, he was born on June 9, 1951 to his parents John and Erna (Schrumpf) McNaboe.  A lifelong resident of New Jersey, he grew up in Newark and lived many years in Hillsborough, Manville and Bridgewater. Ernest graduated from Irvington Vocational and Technical High School where he studied drafting and technical design.  He was an excellent draftsman and continued studies at Essex County College. His career led him to work alongside his brothers for Superior Enerquip, an industrial boiler company.  There he was Parts Manager responsible for purchasing, inventory and parts operations.

Ernest was known for his long commitment and dedication to serving the community. He was an auxiliary fireman in Newark and in the Irvington Police Reserve.  He later joined the Manville First Aid and Rescue Squad as a volunteer from September 1988 to December 2001 and was NJ state-certified as an Emergency Medical Technician.  He also held certifications for First Aid, Defibrillation and CPR.  Ernest was a driver and always the first crew to volunteer and respond. He worked his way up the squad ranks eventually becoming Chief in the early 1990’s.  During the same period, he was EMS Director and a NJ-certified instructor at the Somerset County Emergency Service Training Academy responsible for teaching the next generation of volunteers.

In his pastime, Ernest pursued many interests. He was a patron member of the NRA, avid researcher of firearms and a handgun enthusiast who enjoyed target shooting at the local range. Ernest also had a life-long interest in Asian culture and was a collector of traditional handicrafts.  His collection included traditional Asian artworks ranging from silk and paper paintings and drawings, to sculptures, and ceramics, all of which adorned his home and were a source of pride. 

Ernest leaves behind his beloved daughter, Kristy Anne Campbell, and grandchildren Alyssa Campbell, Kyle Campbell and Estelle Hydro whom he adored and cherished.  He is also survived by his loving siblings Fred (Dolores) McNaboe of Boca Raton, FL, Owen (Carolyn) McNaboe of Flemington, NJ, John (Joan) McNaboe of Sparta, NJ, Elise (Stanley Diziekowski – d.) Cobb of Spanish Fort, AL, Patricia (Stephen) Hutton of Ft. Myers, FL, many cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend visitation followed by a memorial at Bridgewater Funeral Home, 707 East Main Street, Bridgewater, NJ 08807 on June 10 from 10-11 a.m. with a memorial service at 11a.m - 12noon.  In lieu of flowers, the family wishes memorial contributions to be made in Ernest’s name to the American Kidney Fund, and tribute wall, www.kidneyfund.org.

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