Thomas J Leider

Thomas James Leider, known affectionally as "Tommy," passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on July 10, 2024, at the age of 70 in Sparta, New Jersey.  Born on December 1, 1953 in Saddle Brook, New Jersey, Tommy grew up to be a man of numerous talents and profound kindness.

Tom devoted over 25 years of service to the Saddle Brook Police Department as a police officer, a role he carried out with the utmost pride and dedication. Along with his career in law enforcement, he ventured into entrepreneurship with Lawns by Leider, combining his love for landscaping with his business skills. In true Tom fashion, he always kept himself busy; even after retiring, he continued to work part-time, driving cars for BMW of Newton. But he often said that his favorite job was being a father to his two daughters.

A man of many interests, Tom especially loved traveling. He traveled all over the country in his RV visiting National Parks, historic sites, and countless NASCAR and Indycar races. He especially loved going to Iowa to visit his daughter Megan, antiquing with his daughter Amy, browsing Amish craft stores in Lancaster, and going on adventures with his girlfriend Debbie.

Tommy is survived by his daughters Amy and Megan (Lucas Maselli); his brother, James "Jimmy"; niece, Rebecca; step-grandson, Israel, and many loving cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Jacob & Dorothy; sister, Diane; and former spouse, Denise. Special thanks to Kyle Freundlich and Madison Perkins for their love and support of the family.

Gathering and visiting hours will be held on Sunday, July 14 from 3-7 pm at the Kugler Funeral Home 311 5th Street Saddle Brook, New Jersey. A church mass is scheduled at St. Philip the Apostle Roman Catholic Church 488 Saddle River Road Saddle Brook, NJ at 9:30am on Monday, July 15, followed by burial at George Washington Memorial Park in Paramus, NJ.

Tommy’s life was marked by his caring nature, adventurous spirit, and unwavering dedication to his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.