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Omer M. Cakirer, 83, of Denville, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at Morristown Medical Center.
Born on October 28, 1942, in Bolvadin, Turkey, Omer was the son of the late Suleyman and Fazile Bulbul Cakirer.
He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Ankara University in 1966 before immigrating to the United States at age 26. After arriving, he studied English at Columbia University and continued his academic journey with great determination, earning his Ph.D. in Food Science from Rutgers University in 1974. He took great pride in his education, his professional accomplishments, and the life he built through hard work and perseverance.
He built a successful career as a Senior Manager of Infant Feeding for H.J. Heinz Company in Pittsburgh, PA, where he was respected for his dedication and strong work ethic.
Omer was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who treasured every moment spent with his family. He enjoyed playing tennis, listening to Turkish music, and creating lasting memories with those he loved. His humor, wisdom, and unwavering love for his family will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia A. (Hartsell) Cakirer; his two daughters, Melis Cakirer and her husband, Felipe Vilhena, of Denville, New Jersey, and Melinda Cakirer and her partner, Vahid Ehsani, of Providence, Rhode Island; his cherished grandchildren, Cecilia Vilhena, Maya Vilhena, and Sosha Ehsani; and his loving brother, Durmus Cakirer.
In addition to his parents, Omer was predeceased by his siblings, Ibrahim Cakirer, Sukran Demirel.
Family and friends are invited to meet on Friday, July 10, 2026 at 9:30am at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ. Funeral procession will take place from the Funeral Home to Evergreen Cemetery in Clinton, NJ where a graveside service will take place.
Omer’s family will forever cherish his love, guidance, and the many
wonderful memories he leaves behind. His legacy of devotion to family, perseverance, and compassion will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
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