Obituary of Vince Pogorzelski

Vincent “Crawdad” Pogorzelski, of Denville, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at home on January 15, 2026 with his wife by his side. He had shared 99 years of wisdom, quick wit, quips, and unforgettable memories with family and friends.

He was born on December 13, 1926, in Harrison, New Jersey, to Peter and Katherine (Strychaz) Pogorzelski, and was raised in Harrison, where he graduated from Harrison High School, Class of 1944.

Shortly after graduation, Vince answered the call to serve his country. He was a World War II veteran of the United States Navy, serving from September 18, 1944, to July 1, 1946, as a Radioman Third Class. During his service, he sailed on ten different vessels, most notably aboard the USS Pennsylvania. Vince was deeply proud of his military service and genuinely appreciated being thanked for it.

Following the war, Vince pursued higher education and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from St. Peter’s College in Jersey City, New Jersey. A remarkably intelligent and self-motivated man, he was a lifelong learner who believed strongly in educating oneself. He often said, “You should know a little bit about everything,” and he lived by that philosophy.

Vince began his career as a computer programmer straight out of college, working in the then up-and-coming computer industry. He contributed to two patents as well as co-founding two companies, before retiring in 1985, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and leadership. 

The most life-altering job was at Philco where he met his future wife, Diana. They were married for 67 years. Together, they raised their daughters in West Orange, New Jersey and Mountain View, California before spending 50 years in Randolph, New Jersey. They have spent the last four years at The Oaks at Denville.

Vince was the proud father of four daughters and an even prouder grandfather. He thoroughly enjoyed his grandchildren, and they enjoyed him right back. He had a wide circle of friends that included colleagues, handball partners, and neighbors.

Vince found joy in simple, meaningful pleasures. He faithfully read The New York Times each day and never missed completing the crossword puzzle, and he was an avid reader of The New Yorker. He loved a classic martini—gin, dry, on the rocks, no fruit—and would surely hope you think of him when you enjoy your next one. Rarely without his walking stick, he was always himself.

During the summer, Vince was always in his garden where he was ahead of his time in his zeal for composting. He was a self-taught home cook, and his family will especially miss his lasagna, pork butts, kielbasa soup, and homemade pickles. He was renowned for his Crawdad Sauce and his Crawdad Toast.  He also loved taking drives to the family’s Cape house.

Vince was the son of immigrants and was a proud Polish American.  He built a life defined by service, intelligence, curiosity, and love. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the family he cherished.

Vince is survived by his wife, Diana Pogorzelski; his daughters, Brett (Paul) Morganelli, Dana (Tim Willke) Pogorzelski, Stacey (David Fiol) Pogorzelski, and Gena (the late Jim Ponichtera) Pogorzelski; his grandchildren, Brian (Katherine Lee) Morganelli, Matthew (Brooke) Morganelli, Bridget Willke, Jane Willke, Elena Morganelli, Jack Willke, Harry Pogorzelski-Ponichtera, and Leah Pogorzelski-Fiol; and his great-grandchildren, Charlie, Millie, and Vincent. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. He was predeceased by his parents and his five siblings.

Private services will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Interfaith Food Pantry of New Jersey, Interfaith Food Pantry Network, 2 Executive Drive, Morris Plains, NJ 07950 or by clicking here. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.normandean.com. His family will cherish the memories forever.