Life story

"Donald William Harkin Obituary
Donald Wiliam Harkin, a longtime resident of Pompton Lakes, passed away April 21, 2026 at Chilton Medical Center with his beloved partner, Kathy, holding his hand.

He was a proud son of Brooklyn, born July 16, 1936 to William and Rose Byrne Harkin. He spent many years in Brooklyn before moving to New Jersey in 1968.

Graduating from St. Francis Prep and St. Francis College in Brooklyn, Donald built a successful career in market research, serving as Executive Vice President with Ehrhart-Babic Associates, Inc. He was a man of intelligence and dedication, respected in his profession for his insight and leadership.

A devoted partner, Donald shared over 30 years with Kathy “Cakes” Marosits. Together, they built a life rooted in companionship, loyalty, and deep affection.

In addition to his parents, Donald was predeceased by his brother, Peter Harkin, and his sister, Rosemary Fritz, along with her husband, Alan.

He is survived by his lifelong partner, Kathy Marosits; Daughter Maria and Grandson Robert; other family members, including his nieces, Eileen (Peter), Eleanor (Frank), and Elizabeth (Kevin), and his nephews, Peter (Christine) and Tony (Jessica), along with their families, as well as Kathy’s sister Karen (Larry) and their son Steven, all of whom will remember him fondly.

Donald had a wide range of interests that brought him joy throughout his life. He was an avid newspaper reader and a lifelong New York Yankees fan, even while growing up with the Dodger’s still in Brooklyn! The NY Giants and NY Knicks were also “his” teams. If you could kick it, hit it, bounce it, or bat it he wanted to watch it! He had a passion for cooking, especially his famous sausage and peppers, roast beef, London broil (rumor has it that the meat flipped itself over in his marinade!) , apple pie, pound cake, and a cheesecake that was outstanding.

He also enjoyed classic entertainment, including a good movie, Broadway shows, the Great American Songbook, and the timeless music of Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett. He could hear a great tune and know who the arranger was from Gordon Jenkins to Nelson Riddle.

Donald will be remembered for his quiet strength, his ability to make people laugh with a joke or a story -he had many - and the simple joys he shared with those around him. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, April 25th, 2026, from 3-7pm at Scanlan’s. A Memorial Mass will take place at St. Mary’s Church in Pompton Lakes at 1:00 PM on Friday, May 1, 2026. Please meet at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the St. Mary’s Food Pantry or Building Fund or to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

Good night, sweet prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest…."