Paul DePass

Paul J. DePass, beloved husband, gifted classical pianist, and devoted music preservationist, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at Morristown Medical Center, with his wife by his side.

Born in Manhattan, NY, Paul was the son of the late Ernest and Henrietta DePass and was raised in Bridgewater, NJ. A prodigy from a young age, he began playing Mozart on the piano at six and soon after performed in a Leonard Bernstein Young People’s Concert. He often accompanied his mother, an accomplished opera singer, in her performances—a partnership that deeply influenced his musical path.

Paul studied at The Curtis Institute of Music and went on to enjoy an international career as a classical pianist and composer. He toured Japan and many parts of the world, and in 2008, he recorded the Henselt Piano Concerto with the St. Petersburg Symphony in Russia.

In recent years, Paul continued the work he began with his father in audio preservation and restoration, passionately maintaining the quality and sound of recorded musical performances. His contributions to classical music extended through his collaboration with the IBLA Foundation in New York, where he supported emerging talent and advanced the careers of gifted musicians.

For 35 years, Paul served faithfully as Organist and Cantor at St. Mary’s of Czestochowa Church in Bound Brook, sharing his music and devotion with the local community.

Paul is survived by his loving wife, Stephanie, of Bridgewater, and their cherished American Staffordshire Terrier, Grace, along with many caring family members and friends whose lives were touched by his artistry and kindness.

The visitation will be held on Monday, May 19, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Bridgewater Funeral Home, 707 East Main Street, Bridgewater, NJ 08807. Prayers will be offered at 9:00 AM on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the funeral home, followed by a 10:00 AM Mass at St. Mary of Czestochowa Church in Bound Brook.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Somerset County Regional Animal Shelter, 100 Commons Way, Bridgewater, NJ 08807.

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