Joseph A. Kalazinskas, 82, of North Wildwood, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2025, at Cooper Cape Regional Medical Center in Cape May Courthouse. Born on November 6, 1942, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Joe devoted his life to service—both to his community and his country. He attended Marshall University in West Virginia, Joe went on to serve proudly in the New Jersey Army National Guard. He dedicated much of his professional life to public safety and civic duty. He retired from the Wildwood Water Utility and served with distinction as a career lifeguard, eventually becoming Captain of the Wildwood Beach Patrol.  Upon his retirement Joe Kelly also received a Proclamation from the City of Wildwood, NJ. His commitment to the safety of others extended beyond the shoreline—Joe was a volunteer firefighter with the Pine Avenue Station House in Wildwood and a member of North Wildwood Civil Defense.  Joe was also a proud member of the Elks Club of North Wildwood, where he forged lasting friendships and continued his lifelong commitment to community involvement. An avid surf fisherman Joe’s presence was a familiar and welcome one along the shores and streets of Wildwood. 

      Joe is survived by his beloved sister, Carol Grasso, and her husband Jack; his sister Jacquelyn Burke Ansell; his nephews Paul Grosso and Michael Burke; his niece Kelly Petrie; great-niece Sayler Burke; great-nephews Josh Grosso, Noah Grosso, Jude Grosso, Reilly Burke, Jordan Petrie, Zach Petrie, and Dustin McGarvey.

       Private graveside services will be held. A celebration of Joe’s life will take place at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joe’s memory to the Cape May County Animal Shelter or the Animal Welfare Society in Cape May Courthouse, New Jersey. Condolences at ingersollgreenwoodfh.com