Flemington, NJ – Joseph Northrup Conover, 80, entered into eternal life on Friday, June 2, 2023. Born in Orange, NJ, son of Robert and Janet Conover, he was raised in West Caldwell and spent most of his adult life in New Providence before moving to Flemington in 2011.

Joe attended Northeastern University and earned a degree in mechanical engineering while also completing the ROTC program. He proudly served his country as a Captain in the Army Corps of Engineers, specializing in pontoon bridge construction. In 1967, he was stationed in Germany where he was accompanied by the love of his life and cherished wife, Kathleen. While there, they made friendships that spanned two continents and nearly six decades.

An engineer by trade, Joe was organized, pragmatic and a methodical thinker. He earned an MBA from Seton Hall University and enjoyed a long and successful career as a corporate engineer, a project manager and as an entrepreneur. He embraced technology and loved using it to keep things running smoothly. Both his kids and his grandkids marveled at his ability to help with math homework because he unfailingly remembered the principles and formulas he had learned at their age. Joe was often called upon for his expertise as a trusted advisor for important decisions. He knew how to fix many things and solve most problems.

Joe had a great sense of humor and was known for being kind, gentle and generous. He was truly liked and respected by all who knew him. Joe always took the high road, regardless of whether it was deserved. He was a believer in the power of positive thinking and his glass was always half full. Although he maintained a fit and healthy lifestyle, he faced significant health challenges in later years, but you'd never know it by speaking with him. Joe never once complained. When asked, "how are you" his typical response was, "I'm well, thank you." And he meant it.

Joe enjoyed playing golf, traveling, watching Yankee baseball and being at the Jersey shore. He thought that traditional retirement was overrated and in his 70's he enrolled in law classes at Seton Hall as a means of engaging his brain and remaining active. But his favorite pastime was simply spending time with his wife and family. He was grateful for the countless meals made to his liking by Kathleen and enjoyed at home. His grandkids, who were a source of utmost pride, remember the good times spent at the shore playing cards, being in the pool and enjoying Pop's famous chocolate milkshakes.

Those who will deeply miss him include his beloved wife of 56 years, Kathleen (nee McClellan); children Colleen Harris of Clinton, Kelly (Bret) Robison of Flemington and John (Jill) Conover of Basking Ridge; brother, Steven Conover; and seven cherished grandchildren, Kyle, Jack, Connor, Nadia, Crosby, Joseph Northrup II and Anna.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation at Countryside Funeral Home, 724 Route 202 North, Three Bridges, NJ on Tuesday, June 6, from 4-7 p.m. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, June 7 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Roman Catholic Church in Three Bridges. Committal words and military honors will follow at church. The disposition will be private.