Joseph D. Gleicher, D.M.D.

Joseph D. Gleicher, D.M.D, 74, of Asbury, NJ, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, January 16, 2021, after a long and courageous fight with Parkinson’s Disease.

Born November 23, 1946, in Newark, NJ, the son of Ruth (Fenias) and Abraham (Al) Gleicher, Joe graduated from West Orange Mountain High School in 1965, where he was active in student government and varsity sports, and probably the most beloved student in his class.

An avid baseball fan and player, Joe was a key member of the Mountain Rams baseball team, playing shortstop with artistic grace, and running the bases with speed and agility.  Passionate about the NY Yankees, Joe later kept an autographed photo of Mickey Mantle on the wall of his dental office.  Winters you could find him on long track skates gliding effortlessly around Vincent’s Pond. He was also a superb dancer.

In 1969 Joe earned his BA from Hiram College and afterward went on to Tufts University where he earned his Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry. He founded North Hunterdon Dental Associates in 1984, in Clinton, NJ.  

Due to Joe’s professionalism, excellent dental skills, and the meticulous care he gave to his patients — and his sincere concern for each and every one of them — his practice thrived and quickly grew. His patients, associates, and employees loved him; the warm ambiance at North Hunterdon Dental was rare indeed.  Going to the dentist became a pleasure rather than a chore.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife Patricia (Tricia) Harris, M.D., and their daughters  Sarah and  Anna Gleicher – they were the lights of his life.  Joe is also survived by his sister Cindy Coppola of Annandale, NJ, and her children, Frank Coppola, Judy (Coppola) Bright, Gail (Coppola) Kreitzer, their spouses, and children.  Joe dearly loved them all.  

Joe is also mourned by Tricia’s family—her parents, 3 sisters, and their spouses and children.  He leaves many dear friends who will miss him deeply.

One could not find a better friend than Joe. A beacon of kindness, and empathy, Joe was a role model for all who knew him.  Walking with Joe around Clinton, where his dental practice served the community, one could palpably feel the love and respect he garnered.  

Constantly greeted with waves and smiles wherever he went (smiles that Joe helped people keep), Joe never lost his humility. Warm, witty, and generous, Joe was a beloved public figure in town.

Simply, Joey Gleicher was one-of-a-kind, a remarkable human being.

Joe’s life and happiness were extended by Erica Silva and Celia Leite, who lovingly cared for him in his last years. His family and friends will forever be grateful for their compassion, devotion, and optimism. 

The family will be sitting shiva/having visiting hours at their home on Friday January 22, and Saturday, January 23, 2021 from 1pm -5pm.  Those who are able to attend are asked to please maintain social distance and wear masks.

A memorial service will be held later this year.