David J. Zelesnick Sr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of David J. Zelesnick Sr., 81, on Saturday, September 13, 2025, peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. Born in Somerville, NJ, David was the son of the late Edward and Mary Zelesnick. He grew up in Manville, NJ, before settling in Hillsborough in 1972, where he and his wife, Julia (Judy), built a legacy of love and family. David married his beloved wife, Judy, after they met at her cousin’s wedding. They were parishioners of Mary Mother of God Catholic Church in Hillsborough, and were married for 55 cherished years. David was predeceased by his beloved wife, Julia Zelesnick (2023); his brother, Edward Zelesnick Jr. (2009); his sister, Mary Zelesnick (2001); and his cherished son-in-law, Thomas S. Onderko (2025). He leaves behind a legacy of love and strength in his children: Christine Onderko, Hillsborough, N.J.; David Zelesnick Jr. (Jennifer), Montgomery, NJ; Lynn Messner (Eric), Manville, NJ. He was also a proud grandfather to six adored grandchildren: Michael and Natalie Onderko, Ella and Blake Zelesnick, and Tyler and Chloe Messner. After earning a B.S. degree from Rider University, David pursued a wide range of entrepreneurial and professional endeavors. He first owned a pool hall in Manville, then became one of the early business owners to bring amusements and vending to the Seaside Heights boardwalk. Later, after leaving his role as a senior underwriter and division manager at Allstate, David and Judy founded their family vending business. Through vision and dedication, they grew L.A. Services into a successful food services and vending company. David served as President and Chief Operating Officer until the business merged with a national company, where he continued working until his retirement in 2010. His professionalism and leadership left a lasting impact on his community and industry for over 40 years. Growing up, he spent summers at his parents' shore house in Forked River, where he loved to go boating, crabbing, and fishing. Before selling his first home and purchasing another in 1998, in Hillsborough, he loved hosting pool parties and games of horseshoes. Over the years, he played in racquetball leagues, frequented annual ski trips in Vermont, and rarely missed his weekly golf outings, even up until his passing. He especially treasured his time in Sanibel, Florida, and created countless memories with family and friends in Cape May. The Zelesnick home was known for always being open for drop-ins, where no matter the season, everyone would enter to see David grilling outside on the porch. His family was his greatest pride; he never missed a chance to see his grandchildren perform in recitals, concerts, or sporting events. His young, adventurous spirit, friendly nature, and warmth touched the lives of all who knew him. To know David was to be blessed by his generosity, his laughter, and his unwavering devotion. His absence leaves an ache beyond words, but his love will live on forever in the hearts of those who had the privilege to be known and loved by him. May he rest in eternal peace, knowing he was deeply cherished and will never be forgotten. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial visitation at Ketusky Funeral Home, 1310 Brooks Blvd, Manville, NJ, 08835, on Sunday, September 21, 2025, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. The Funeral will be on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. from the Ketusky Funeral Home, followed by a 9:00 a.m. Mass at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church (Christ the Redeemer Parish), 98 S 2nd Ave., Manville, NJ 08835. Burial will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Hillsborough, NJ.

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David J. Zelesnick Sr.

December 16, 1943 - September 13, 2025