Obituary of James Gordan Phelan

James Gordon Phelan, 74, of Manchester, NJ, passed away after complications from surgery on Friday, May 19, 2017. He was born In Mount Vernon, NY to Jim and Helen Phelan.

Jim served in the USArmy and was a Vietnam Veteran. After honorably serving his country, he went on to college and graduate school and began his career with International Paper, travelling extensively overseas and enjoying the cultural aspects of each country.

After almost 30 years, he began a second career in teaching in Hartford, Ct., where he enjoyed guiding students in finding their future careers. He was beloved by his students and colleagues alike.

After finally retiring, Jim enjoyed simple pleasures like reading, swimming, sitting at the beach in Spring Lake, and reading the Sunday NY Times.

Jim is survived by his wife of 25 years, Barbara (Henry) Phelan, his stepson, John Crickellas of California and grandsons, Jagger and Jake. He is survived by his brother William Phelan of New Hampshire and nieces, Mamie and Abigail. He also leaves behind his in-laws Alan Henry and Jennifer Henry, Joseph Henry, Walter, Nancy and Ryan Spiess, Joseph, Mary Jo, Amanda and Brittney Mattos, and his beloved little dog, Gracie.

Services will be private and are being handled by Ocean County Cremation Services. Jim will honorably rest in Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Cemetery in Wrightstown, NJ.

Sleep well Jim, til we meet again.

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