Sidney Zamer

Sidney Zamer, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on December 12, 2024. He was born and raised in Morristown, New Jersey, and spent the majority of his life in Livingston, where he lived with his loving wife, Linda, for nearly 60 years. From a young age, Sid showed a remarkable talent for music. He began playing the clarinet at 10 years old and was recognized as the “most talented clarinetist” in his school system. Sid performed solos at many events, both in and out of school. After high school, Sid served as a corporal and band director in the U.S.Army inAtlanta, Georgia. Following his discharge, he pursued higher education at Columbia University, earning advanced degrees in clarinet, conducting, and music education.

Sid’s first job after college was as Director of Music at Watchung Hills Regional High School, where he conducted the high school marching band and orchestra and directed popular school musicals. Later, Sid became Director of Music and Drama for the Kearny School District, where he expanded the marching band from 30 to over 100 members, and performed in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. During his teaching career, Sid spent summers directing youth camps with his wife throughout the Northeast.

Sid was passionate about travel and adventure. He and Linda visited 12 European countries, returning to Italy three times. Their summers were often spent on Long Beach Island with their three children and six grandchildren. A lifelong lover of music, he regularly visited Tanglewood to enjoy world-renowned orchestras and conductors, and spent weekends in the Berkshires enjoying art shows, craft fairs, and local theater.

Sid will be remembered as kind, loving, and patient with his children. He always encouraged them in their pursuits and instilled the values of respect, honesty, and achievement. In his later years, Sid enjoyed playing tennis and golf with lifelong friends. He was known for his humor and wit, often delighting friends, family, and even restaurant staff with jokes and stories from years past. After retiring, Sid developed a passion for cooking. He loved experimenting with new recipes, his favorites including soups, stews, Chinese food, clam chowder, matzoh balls, and his signature key lime pie.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Linda; his three children, Barry Zamer, Lauren Lobel, and Joshua Zamer; his daughters-inlaw, Diane and Deborah Zamer; and his six cherished grandchildren, Lily, Anna, Zachary, Benjamin, Harrison, and Jacob. A private celebration of life will be held for close family and invited guests to honor Sid’s memory. Burial will be private.