Local builder, real estate developer
Following a long illness, Warren North of Ocean City, NJ passed away peacefully on Wednesday January 25, 2023 at the age of 86.
Born in Philadelphia, PA, in 1936 to the late Warren Earl North, Sr. and Kathryn Greiner North, Warren moved to his family’s “fisherman’s cottage” in junior high school. Warren graduated from Ocean City High School in 1954, where he lettered in football and track. While attending Ursinus College, he lettered in football and track and joined the Zeta Chi Fraternity. Warren graduated from Ursinus in 1958 with a degree in Business. After returning to Ocean City he joined his father in his woodworking business, expanding into home building around the island. Warren later expanded the business into Upper Township and the surrounding area, remaining in the building and real estate business for over 65 years.
Warren spent many years refereeing local high school and Division I college football. Warren was a member of the National Football Officials’ Association and the South Jersey Chapter of Football Officials. Warren was named the Official of the Year by the South Jersey Chapter of the National Football Club in 2002. Warren was the President of the Atlantic County Chapter from 1971-1972.
Warren was a member of the Ocean City Masonic Lodge, serving as the Worshipful Master in 1965. Warren was a member and Past President of the Ocean City Rotary Club. Warren also served on the Board of Directors of several local banks, finishing up with First Fidelity Bank. Warren was a Lieutenant on the Ocean City Beach Patrol, being inducted into their Hall of Fame in 2022.
Known for his competitive spirit, Warren was an accomplished athlete in football, track, ocean rowing, volleyball and raquetball. When Warren eventually hung up his spikes, you could see him running on the Boardwalk and attending his kids many sporting events.
Warren is survived by his sons Richard W. North, Christopher A. North, daughter Susan North Shirk (John) , sons Warren Earl North, III, Derrick T. North, Sr., Gunnar H. North and daughter Bonnie North McCoy (Matt). Grandchildren Alexis North, Jason C. Shirk, Gretchen North Shirk (Ryan Johnson), Rain D. North, Lilah J. North, Derrick T. North, Jr. and Colter B. McCoy. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews.
His Funeral Service will be offered Wednesday, February 1st at 12 Noon from The Godfrey Funeral Home of Palermo, 644 South Shore Road, Palermo, NJ where friends may call from ten o’clock until the time of service.
The family would like to thank Warren’s caregiver Cindy Oduro for her endless care and love.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish to remember Warren can make a donation in his memory to the Ocean City Masonic Lodge.
Arrangements are by The Godfrey Funeral Home of Palermo. For condolences to the family, visit www.godfreyfuneralhome.com
