05/31/2026
We are saddened to learn of the passing of former Sandyston Township employee, DPW Foreman, Alan “AD” Delea. While AD retired from Sandyston Township in 2013, he began his employment in our Township in 1987. Over those 26 years, AD was the constant on our road department seeing our Township through the good times and bad, all types of emergencies, weather-related events, road projects, building repairs, and always at the ready for fire related incidents both in our Township and throughout the County.
A life-long resident of Sandyston, AD is known for his caring and kind manner, sense of humor, hard work, dedication, volunteerism, expansive knowledge of the fire service and commitment to his family and friends. AD served for over 50 years on the Sandyston Township Volunteer Fire Department, serving as Chief for 25 years. Thinking back over that time, AD was there at the ready, no matter what time of day, seeing our residents and business owners, and the fire department, through many tough times. Whether it was fires or motor vehicle accidents he handled every call with dedication and calm. And we remember the countless fire department fundraising events he worked, side by side with members, raising funds for the department.
Starting in approximately 1998, AD worked with the Township Committee in the planning and construction of the Sandyston Township Municipal Building and Fire Department, collaborating with many members at the time in the creation of the current home of our fire department. With the collaboration of AD, department members and the Township Committee, they brought ideas and research that would result in a beautiful home for our volunteer fire department. The municipal building/fire department complex was dedicated in 2004 and the fire department moved across the street into their new home….. and since that time it has proven to be not only an integral emergency center in our community but place our fire department has been able to grow and flourish now and into the future.
Most importantly, AD was the happiest in his garage or at home…. surrounded by his family and friends enjoying a cold beer, offering a sly smile and a chuckle, laughing, joking, reminiscing, tinkering on any number of projects.
Please join us in offering condolences to his wife Laura, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, extended family and friends.
Thank you for everything, AD❤️.
Obituary:
https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/branchville-nj/alan-delea-12907088
