Michael Pona, Jr.

Michael Pona, 62, passed away peacefully at home on October 26, 2019 surrounded by his family. Michael was born and raised in Bayonne, New Jersey and relocated to raise his family in Manahawkin in 1986. He proudly served the State of New Jersey as a State Trooper for 23 years, retiring in 2009. Michael was diagnosed with Huntington's Disease in 2008, the disease that eventually took his life.

Michael was predeceased by his parents Michael and Dorothy. Left to cherish his memory are his Beloved Wife of 39 years, Terry (Nee: Fetchko), his Devoted Children Deneen Emanuel and her Husband Michael, and Lauren DeStasio and her Husband Jonathan. He is also survived by his Cherished Sister Michele Barbito and Brothers Jim and Joe. The light of his life were his grandchildren, Eric and Matthew Emanuel. Michael enjoyed his time coaching his daughters' softball and basketball teams through Stafford Recreational Department. He treasured crabbing with his friends and going away on family vacations. The family would also like to thank Safe Harbor Homecare and Bayada Hospice for their unparalleled care and who helped give the family hope and comfort until the end.

Relatives and Friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass on Monday, November 4th at 10:30am at Saint Mary’s of the Pines Church, 100 Bishop Lane, Manahawkin, NJ 08050. In lieu of flowers, it was Mike's request that donations be made to Huntington’s Disease Society of America (< click here, or visit at https://hdsa.org/).