Arthur J. Sheldon
Died: Jul 20, 2017
Arthur “Gaylord” J. Sheldon, 84, of Hackettstown, NJ passed away peacefully with his wife by his side on July 20, 2017. He has left those that knew him best with heavy hearts, smiles on their faces, and feeling roughly "60/40" about the whole ordeal.
Art was born on August 17, 1932 in Franklin Borough, Sussex County, NJ to the late Arthur Sheldon and Marge Webber. His step-mother, Anna Madison Sheldon, provided a guiding influence from the age of 13. On September 4, 1954, he married the love of his life, Mary Alice Welsh.
Prior to his marriage, Art served in the US Navy studying weather patterns. Or, as he would describe it: He got a free cruise to Europe and back. In his professional life, he worked for the United States Postal Service and was Postmaster in Hackettstown from 1984 to his retirement in 1992 after 38 years with the USPS.
Art’s main purpose in life was to give service to his beloved Hackettstown community, to which he referred as "Paradise Valley."
These activities included 43 years on the Hackettstown Recreation Commission where he was instrumental in the development of the Hackettstown Pool Complex bearing his name; nearly 60 years working with the Hackettstown First Aid and Rescue Squad; over 40 years on the Hackettstown Parking Authority Commission; the voice of the Hackettstown Tigers High School Wrestling Team for many years; and the Union Cemetery Board.
Throughout retirement, Art remained busy by driving for Hoskings Livery, Callaremi Cadillac, and for family and friends who needed a ride to the local airports because, as he would say with a characteristic shrug, “The car does all the work.”
Art also offered his effortless warmth and kindness as a greeter for Cochran Funeral Home.
He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Mary Alice Welsh Sheldon, his two daughters Peg Sheldon Russack and her husband Doug, and Patty Kitt, his two sons, James Sheldon and his wife Margaret, and Scott Sheldon, three grandchildren, James and his wife Cherise, Erin and her husband JD, and Andrew, and two great grandchildren, Sullivan and Lila. He is also survived by his brother, Bob Sheldon, and his many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother Rick Sheldon.
Family and friends may pay their respects on Tuesday, July 25, 2017 from 4-8 PM at the Cochran Funeral Home, 905 High Street, Hackettstown, NJ 07882. A memorial service celebrating Art’s life will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 26 at 11AM at the funeral home with interment immediately following at Hackettstown Union Cemetery Mausoleum.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering (https://giving.mskcc.org/) in honor of Arthur Sheldon. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Cochran Funeral Home. To send an online condolence, please visit http://www.cochranfuneral.com.
Condolences:
Jim and Judy Dougherty
#78
July 28th, 2017 5:15 pm
Our sincere condolences to the entire Sheldon family. Art was one of a kind and will be truly missed! He was an Angel on Earth who touched many lives and now watches over all of us...
TJ & Michele Henderson
#77
July 25th, 2017 8:30 pm
Our most heartfelt condolences to all of the Sheldon family, and to those whose lives were touched by "Mr. Sheldon". All who knew him had their lives improved, as much by what he did from them, as from the smile he always had on his face and heart.You were always an inspiration. Your positive attitude was endless. God bless you and God speed.
Eric and Karen Rudd
#76
July 25th, 2017 7:39 pm
We sent our deepest sympathy to the entire The Sheldon Family on the loss of a great man. Eric and Karen Rudd
Abby & Bill Conforti
#75
July 25th, 2017 7:07 pm
To the Sheldon Family,
We are truly saddened by your loss. Art was an inspiration and a pillar of our community. It was a privilege to know him.
Gretchen & Carl Kuehner
#74
July 25th, 2017 2:12 pm
What a man! A super man he was. And may I add still is in his new spirit existence. His infectious smile will never fade from memory. Be strong for you will be together again. I saw Srt walking out of the Riverstar Diner the morning of his passing. I regret not jumping out of my car to say hello. I'm saying it now and hope he will know how much we liked this guy.
David Jayne and Linda Bock
#73
July 25th, 2017 11:17 am
Our condolence to the Sheldon family. A Great man,a Great neighbor,truly will be missed
Al and Jen Aquino
#72
July 25th, 2017 10:05 am
To the Sheldon Family, Jen, Veronica and I would like to extend our sincere condolences to your entire family. Words cannot express how saddened we were when we heard the news of his passing. He was nothing but a true gentleman with a warm smile and was always friendly to us whenever we saw him. He was particularly fond of our daughter and was even gracious enough to help us assemble her outdoor playground. We will always think of him anytime we see her in the back yard playing on it. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.
Geri and George Stagg
#71
July 25th, 2017 7:27 am
We are so saddened to hear of Art's passing. That smile is unmatched and will be missed by all we knew and loved Art. I was privileged to run many a Squad call with him many many years ago.RIP to a wonderful man.
Our condolences to the Sheldon family.
karen arnold
#70
July 24th, 2017 9:10 pm
Deeoest condolences to the Sheldon family upon the loss of such a wonderful man who is a legend in Hackettstown. I so admired all his community services and the friendly, upbeat person he always has been. It is so difficult losing a parent. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Chris & Heather Long
#69
July 24th, 2017 8:24 pm
Peg, Doug and family - we are so very sorry for your loss. Wishing you peace and strength during this difficult time. Just remember loved ones never go away...they are always by our sides and live on in our hearts forever.
Carole and Hank Deibel
#68
July 24th, 2017 7:48 pm
Dear Mary Alice, Peggy, Patty, Jim, Scott,
Although it has been nearly 30 years since we have been away from Hackettstown, our family remembers fondly that special person Art Sheldon.
We feel badly for the sadness you feel at this time.
Rose & Bob Piereth
#67
July 24th, 2017 4:48 pm
Our thoughts & prayers are with the entire Sheldon Family. It was an honor to have known Art. We will miss his smile, kind words & his wit. Bob & Rose Piereth
Patricia (Peterson) Geyer and Polly Peterson Boyce
#66
July 24th, 2017 3:19 pm
Sending our deepest condolences to the Sheldon family. Art was such a sweet soul and is remembered fondly.
To the Sheldon Famiily
#65
July 24th, 2017 8:21 am
Al and I send our deepest condolences to all of you. It is so sad to think another true Hackettstownian has joined the ranks of our most precious citizens. He was just one of those people who gave off sunshine when he smiled at you. Our lives were so intermingled with events that were interlaced with Art''s comfort and encouragement , we feel privileged to celebrate a life that was devoted to his family, friends and commmunity Heaven has once again gained a beautiful angel. Our hearts and love go out to you all and we pray you will find comfort in the memories you all will share
Love Al and Linda Ries
Mary Rogers
#64
July 24th, 2017 7:55 am
Please know that our thoughts are with all of you during this time of sorrow. Our deepest sympathy for your loss. Your father was a great man!
Sincerely,
Mary, Denon and Mariah
deborah woolley
#63
July 24th, 2017 12:33 am
Paul my boyfriend found Art through mutual friends to drive us into NYC and more . We admired his spirit, humor , and will to keep working and helping others. Its so sad your heart gave up before you were ready. Our sympathy to the family and your so many other dear friends. ART- we love and miss you always , Paul and Deb.
Robert & Joanne Stiff
#62
July 23rd, 2017 8:51 pm
Our sincere condolences to Mary Alice and the Sheldon family on your loss. Art was a positive influence in "Paradise Valley" and an old, old friend.
Bob & Joanne Stiff
Len Richards
#61
July 23rd, 2017 7:54 pm
To the Sheldon Family, Kahlil Gibran once observed, "I slept and I dreamed that life is all joy. I woke and I saw that life is all service. I served and I saw that service is joy.
David Bryk and family
#60
July 23rd, 2017 6:22 pm
I want to express my sympathy to the Sheldon family on the passing of Arthur Sheldon. Even though years have passed and miles have separated me from Hackettstown Mr. Sheldon was one of those Outstanding Individuals who always stood out. He always has the communities best interests at heart. His passing is a loss for the family but also for Hackettstown. You and Your family will be our thoughts, prayers and good wishes.
Arlene Bailey
#59
July 23rd, 2017 6:12 pm
So sorry & sad that GOD needed Art @ this time .We needed him to keep us all smiling ...What a great guy to everyone !! He sure will be missed by us all ! Prayers ,Love & Peace to the Sheldon Family ...
Richard C. Hare & Tracy Hare
#58
July 23rd, 2017 6:11 pm
Condolences to all of the family. Art was a terrific guy and gave much to the Hackettstown Community and will be truly missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dona Shaw
#57
July 23rd, 2017 5:12 pm
My deepest condolences to Peg and Doug Russack and the entire Sheldon family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. I first met Art when he was the Postmaster at Hackettstown Post Office. He will be missed by everyone who knew and loved him.
Dave Scolnick
#56
July 23rd, 2017 4:27 pm
To the entire Sheldon family, my most sincere condolences on the loss of such a wonderful man. I was honored to have known him and his wry sense of humor. I enjoyed seeing him every time he came to the emergency department. He will be sadly missed.
Beersie and Bogy Beers
#55
July 23rd, 2017 3:38 pm
Our condolences to the entire Sheldon family...Art was one of a kind...Whenever you saw him, he always had that friendly grin on his face. Hackettstown has lost a great man....
Hazel Roosevelt and Family
#54
July 23rd, 2017 10:00 am
I offer sincere condolences to all the Sheldon family. And to Cousins Peg and Doug Russack, I know how much you loved your Dad and how you will miss your daily conversations with him. May God walk with all in your family during this sad time and give you strength to remember the good times and always know how blessed you have been to have had such a special Dad to guide you along in your life. God Bless you all.
Shelley and Rich Russack
#53
July 23rd, 2017 9:07 am
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of your wonderful family.
May he Rest In Peace.
Love you.
Sharon Gregory
#52
July 23rd, 2017 8:39 am
One of the nicest people I have met. Kind and gentle friend. Prayers to his loving family.
Jean Feller
#51
July 23rd, 2017 8:06 am
Mary Alice and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Art provided many services to the Hackettstown community over the years. He will be greatly missed. Love, Jean Feller
Matt
#50
July 23rd, 2017 8:05 am
RIP Art you been a great person and always had good smile on your face. It been fun times with you going on squad calls in town with you.
The Sheldon family I am sorry to hear about your loss and may god be there for you and always. My deepest sympathies to everyone. Just know he been a great person to everyone and well be miss lot :)
Connie Lord Drum
#49
July 23rd, 2017 7:06 am
So very sorry to hear of the sudden loss of your Dad - especially after seeing him just 2 wks ago at my Dad's visitation at Cochran's. He was a wonderful man and so well respected and admired in our home town. Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers during this sorrowful time. Connie Drum and Family
Chuck Pierce
#48
July 23rd, 2017 5:24 am
Whenever I would be standing in line at the post office, Mr. Sheldon would see me and go get the package that I was waiting for. He was one of the nicest, friendliest men I ever met. God bless his family.
Raquel Luff Kay
#47
July 22nd, 2017 10:35 pm
My deepest condolences to the Sheldon family. I am so sorry for your loss and will be keeping you in my thoughts & prayers.
Laureen and Phil Timbrell
#46
July 22nd, 2017 9:58 pm
Art will always be remembered for having a smile on his face and kindness in his heart . Hackettstown will truly miss his presence for he left his mark everywhere. Our condolences to the whole Sheldon family
Nicol Tillou
#45
July 22nd, 2017 9:24 pm
What a wonderful man. His smile made me smile! RIP Mr Sheldon. To the whole Sheldon family... KNOW that Hackettstown may have lost a wonderful man...but also gained a guardian angel!!!
Ginny Peterson
#44
July 22nd, 2017 9:17 pm
Sheldon Family - My deepest condolences for the loss of a genuine gentleman who was loved by many in Hackettstown and about. Always had a smile and time for those he came upon. RIP Art. Ginny Peterson
LIBRARY RUE DU
Nancy Eick-Mehrbach
#43
July 22nd, 2017 8:29 pm
I am so very sorry to hear that Art has passed. I recently saw him. I am so glad I got to give him a big hug! He was a wonderful gentleman! I will always remember his beautiful smile! I will miss you my friend!
Tammy Culp
#42
July 22nd, 2017 8:02 pm
Peggy, Our sincere condolences go out to you and your entire family for the loss of your father - Tammy and Ardys Culp
Sandy Snyder OBrien
#41
July 22nd, 2017 7:43 pm
So sorry for your loss. Art was a great man. Always a smile on his face. May he rest in peace.
Don and Doona Pace
#40
July 22nd, 2017 7:43 pm
Sorry to hear of his passing praying for his family and friends
Stanley Gibbs
#39
July 22nd, 2017 7:29 pm
So sorry for your loss. I always looked forward to seeing him.
Maryann Andreychak. Debbi Black, Mary Black
#38
July 22nd, 2017 7:07 pm
We always enjoyed your father's company. We will miss his sense of humor and his local knowledge. Hackettstown is a. better place because of him and his family. May he truly Rest In Peace.
Donna Herrera
#37
July 22nd, 2017 6:54 pm
Mr. SHELDON WAS A VERY, VERY NICE MAN..AND A VERY KIND AND GRACIOUS NEIGHBR TO RAUL AND I FOR A BRIEF TIME. MY SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY.
John Fenimore
#36
July 22nd, 2017 6:51 pm
Never anything less than a perfect gentleman who always had a smile and a good word who raised a terrific family. A big loss for the community.
The Zehnbauer Family
#35
July 22nd, 2017 6:42 pm
Mary Alice and the Sheldon Family, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.e of sorrow. With deepest condolences, The Zehnbauer Family
John and Marianne Wurtemberg
#34
July 22nd, 2017 6:31 pm
Art was the epitome of what one would hope a great man would be. The world will never know a more wonderful, fun, and giving soul. I will miss seeing Art on medic 'jobs' and in his spot at the counter at the Riverside Diner. All our love, thoughts, and prayers go out to the family.
Kathy Grogan
#33
July 22nd, 2017 6:17 pm
So sorry to hear. Thoughts and prayers to the family.
John and Dolores Stocker
#32
July 22nd, 2017 4:47 pm
Our deepest sympathy to the Sheldon Family. We knew Art for many years, always a friendly greeting and a smile. Just a week ago I was talking to him about the old times. Art, You will be missed.
Kathy Rich
#31
July 22nd, 2017 4:02 pm
To the Sheldon family, What a loss for family and community. Art always had a quick wit and he always had a kind word when I saw him at work. He always made me laugh, he was a true gentleman and treated everyone with respect, and it was mutual. There will never be another Art Sheldon. Prayers for peace to his family. Kathy and Joe Rich
Jennie Landsberger
#30
July 22nd, 2017 3:13 pm
Gaylord, my dear wonderful friend and joy since 1950. Sis
CHICK AND LINDA DIMICELI
#29
July 22nd, 2017 2:46 pm
Our condolences to the Sheldon family.Art was Hackettstown.He did so much for the kids and people of town for many years. Always greeted you with a smile and a little humor.He was a great man and he will be missed.
Kevin & Eleanor McCann
#28
July 22nd, 2017 2:36 pm
We are sincerely sorry for the loss of Mr. Sheldon He was such a warm friendly man & be sadly missed
Ted, Brenda, T.C., and Matthew Zellars
#27
July 22nd, 2017 1:54 pm
Our condolences to the entire Sheldon family. We have known "Gaylord" our entire lives. As I child I'll always remember the good times that my parents used to have with Gaylord and Mary Alice. And boy did they have a good time! Gaylord took us to the airport numerous times and never wanted any payment. We had to throw it on the front seat as he was leaving. We will miss Gaylord as will the entire town and all the lives he touched. Rest in peace Gaylord.
Lew/Gail Richards and FamilyLJ
#26
July 22nd, 2017 1:12 pm
MARY ALICE AND FAMILY---So SORRY OF READING OF THE PASSING OF ART---HE WAS A GREAT MAN TO KNOW---ALWAYS HAD A LOT OF LAUGHS WITH HIM---HE WILL SURELY BE MISSED BY THE COMMUNITY FOR ALL THAT HE HAS DONE FOR THE TOWN---MARY ALICE YOU AND THE FAMILY ARE IN OUR PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS AT THIS SAD TIME
Julianne Weinmann
#25
July 22nd, 2017 12:35 pm
My heart and prayers go out to the Sheldon family. My sincere sympathy for the loss of your father. May you be comforted by your precious memories. Love, Your friend, Julianne
Claudia Conway & Butch Petersen
#24
July 22nd, 2017 11:13 am
Art meant so much to the town of Hackettstown. From his time on the Recreation Committee, Parking Authority and Rescue Squad to the time he was Postmaster. (And all the other things in between) He always had a smile and kind word no matter what the circumstances might have been. No words can express how deeply sorry we were to hear of his passing. He will surely be missed.
Know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Rosemary Cunningham
#23
July 22nd, 2017 11:03 am
My condolences go out to your entire family. I have so many fond memories of your family and growing up in the neighborhood. Art always had a smile and kind words for those of us who grew up on your street. You are in my prayers.
Matt and Jill Whitehead
#22
July 22nd, 2017 10:40 am
We were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Art Sheldon. Always a gentleman. Always a smiling face and a genuinely positive outlook on life. He will be missed by all who had the pleasure to know him. May God Bless him
and his family and keep him on God's loving arms. Amen.
Al and Mary Stumpf
#21
July 22nd, 2017 10:28 am
Peg and Family,
So sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Your Dad will remain alive in all of your hearts and minds.
Arthur Sheldon
#20
July 22nd, 2017 10:14 am
Our condolences to the Sheldon family. He was a great guy and will be missed.
Sending prayers to the family.-Joan & Fred Melberger.
Joy and Lester Snyder, Sr.
#19
July 22nd, 2017 9:03 am
Mary Alice and family....No words can express how saddened we are to lose our longtime friend. No one will ever replace that quick wit and smile of "Gaylord"...Always a gentleman, always willing to lend a helping hand...always smiling no matter what problems or heartache he might be having at that particular time. You will be so very much missed...R.I.P. Art...Joy and Les Snyder
Mike & Chris Gibbs
#18
July 22nd, 2017 8:50 am
Our condolences to the entire Sheldon family. I had great respect for Art and have many lasting memories of him through School, Working along side of him on many Squad calls. A great big void has been made in the town of Hackettstown. RIP Art!
Jerry & Linda DiMaio and Family
#17
July 22nd, 2017 8:47 am
Dear Mary Alice Sheldon and Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time of such a great loss. Please know that Mr. Sheldon("Art") was loved by the entire community and everyone who was fortunate enough to know him .He will be sadly , as well as, fondly missed by all. Please accept our heartfelt condolences , love and prayers. Sincerely, Linda, Jerry DiMaio & Family
Bob Kehler
#16
July 22nd, 2017 8:28 am
So sorry to hear about the passing of Mr. Sheldon. He played a big part in the lives of so many people and was truly one of the great men of Hackettstown. My deepest condolences to the Sheldon family.
Susan (Gibbs) Lindsay
#15
July 22nd, 2017 8:26 am
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Sheldon Family during this difficult time. I remember Mr. Sheldon who always had the biggest smile on his face to everyone he knew.
Janet Murphy
#14
July 22nd, 2017 8:24 am
Gaylord was the nicest person. He would do anything for anybody at anytime of the day. He was the best neighbor and was always there for us when we needed him. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Liz Iacampo Palumbo
#13
July 22nd, 2017 7:11 am
I am heartbroken to hear of the passing of a really, really nice man. I will forever think of him in the post office, yelling "hello neighbor!" as I came in the front door. Hoping wonderful memories of him will comfort those who love him. Such a sad loss.
Christine LaBadie
#12
July 22nd, 2017 5:06 am
I was very saddened to hear if the passing of Art! I have never met a more kind giving man ever! His volunteerism to our town in many committees inspired me to help. I first met him as a postmaster at our Post Office. From my family to the Sheldon family our deep condolences. He will surely be missed in this town. Love to you all.
Susan Piagesi
#11
July 21st, 2017 6:13 pm
My deepest sympathies to all of the Sheldon family on the loss of Art, a true gentleman. I know how much you will miss him. Sending prayers and hugs.
Susan Piagesi
#10
July 21st, 2017 6:11 pm
My deepest sympathies to all of the Sheldon family on the loss of Art, a true gentleman. I know how much you will miss him. Sending prayers and hugs.
Peg carolan
#9
July 21st, 2017 5:26 pm
So very sorry for your loss, Patti. Your dad was a sweet man always smiling when he bought patients to our Ed. He will be remembered with love
Dave Tynan Sr.
#8
July 21st, 2017 5:12 pm
Condolences to the entire Sheldon family. A terrific man dedicated his life to Hackettstown... Rest in Peace Art !!!!
Teri Stone Cichlar
#7
July 21st, 2017 5:00 pm
It was an honor and pleasure to have known Art. Always a warm smile and a kind word. My deepest sympathies to the entire Sheldon family.
Teri Cichlar and family
Paul & Robin Wallace
#6
July 21st, 2017 4:33 pm
Dearest Sheldon Family, my Wife Robin and I are saddened to hear of your Father's passing.
Mr. Sheldon was a true Town treasure, and will be deeply missed by the many organizations He was not only part of, but a valued and cherished member.
We ask the LORD who alone can comfort to hold you all in HIS hands and comfort you, May HE Make HIS Face To Shine Upon You All And Give You Peace.
May GOD Bless
Paul & Robin Wallace
Warren & Betty Wilson
#5
July 21st, 2017 2:54 pm
So sorry for your loss our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Mary Painter
#4
July 21st, 2017 2:52 pm
My sincere condolences to the Sheldon family. Art was such a familiar face and kind man. My children and I remember him fondly.
Diana & Richard Smiecinski
#3
July 21st, 2017 12:56 pm
An honor to have known Art
marty and judy O'Hora
#2
July 21st, 2017 12:15 pm
Our condolences go out to all the Sheldons.Gaylord was a great guy and will leave a huge void in everyone's life.Our thoughts and prayers to all the Sheldons.
Cathy Clarke
#1
July 21st, 2017 11:56 am
The Sheldon Family - We are so very sorry to hear the loss of your father. He will be deeply missed. We are sending our our deepest sympathies and caring thoughts your way during this most difficult time. - The Joe Clarke Family
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