Joseph Edward Bove III was born to Jean and Joseph Edward Bove Jr. on December 1, 1960. He was born to a Polish mother and an Italian father, who were very family oriented. He grew up in a small town in central New Jersey were everyone knew each other and would never say no to helping a neighbor. He started working at age 13 in a bakery and worked at a shoe store during high school. He worked hard and saved his money to buy his own car and, at age 19, an engagement ring.

He finished his schooling in HVAC by the time he was 20 and began working at Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical as a machinist. Later he started his own successful contracting company. He married his high school sweetheart, Renata Bove, at age 21. Together they built a home, which took three years. During the final year of building their home, their son, Joseph Edward Bove IV, was born. Two years later another son was born, Anthony Michael Bove.

Joseph was on the fire brigade at work and felt he should contribute to his hometown of Spotswood, where “A small friendly community” is the motto. He joined the Spotswood Fire Department, rising through the ranks to become fire chief. He was the first chief to hold three terms, and he was happiest answering fire calls. Truly, it was his calling in life, and he died doing what he loved most. Joe saved a few lives—one in a car accident, another man at work, a young girl.

Eleven years after his firstborn son came into this world, he was blessed with a daughter, Jacqueline Elizabeth. Truly a daddy’s girl, today she is following in his footsteps with volunteering for the ladies auxiliary of the Spotswood Fire Department.

Joseph was a kind, humble man who loved his family, friends, and the fire department. He was a man of God and integrity and looked at the good in others. He never said an unkind word about anyone and never judged others, because he knew everyone has a story. Saving lives was easy for him because he valued life. He received a Hero’s Award but never felt he deserved any honor or awards. He did for others out of the kindness of his heart.

He loved the beach and his beach house, fishing, and being a fireman. He could build and fix anything, including his home. He loved the home he built, and he passed away there. He was married for 33 years and knew the meaning of love and faithfulness. His family meant everything to him, and not a day goes by that his family and friends don’t miss him.