Hipolito Lagares Jr., age 68, of Vineland, NJ., passed away on Saturday, January 22, 2022 at the Hospital of University of Pennsylvania. He was born on September 22, 1953 in Utuado, Puerto Rico. He was a devoted husband, father, brother and loving grandfather.

Hipolito worked for the New Jersey Department of Labor for over 40 years. He was also a Deacon for the Diocese of Camden for over 25 years. He served at the Parish of the Holy Cross in Bridgeton, New Jersey. Hipolito was a wonderful cook and baker; he jokingly referred to himself as "Chef Lagares." He was an avid reader of history and news and, of course, cookbooks. He adored his grandchildren, who he referred to as his "pride and joy," Oliver and Amelia Dwight. His family will miss his quick wit, stubbornness and terrible jokes.

He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Loida (Cordero) Lagares and his two children, Nelson Lagares and Monica Dwight-Lagares; and his two "little ones," Oliver and Amelia Dwight, along with his mother-in law, Maria Josefa Torres. Also, his eight brothers, Pedro Juan Lagares, Orlando Lagares, Reynaldo Lagares, Miguel Lagares, Osvaldo Lagares, Ramon Lagares, Jesus Lagares, Domingo Lagares; five sisters, Rita Marie Androver, Carmen Anna Collazo, Adela Lagares, Milagros Lagares and Luz Minerva Reyes. He also has many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Hipolito and Gloria (Maldonado) Lagares Sr. and one brother, Jose Lagares.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 27, 2022 at 7:00 PM from the Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home 1024 E. Landis Ave. Vineland. Burial will be private. Family and friends may gather on Thursday from 6:00-8:00 PM, at the funeral home.

Please visit www.wbfuneralhome.com to send online condolences to the family.

Arrangements are by the Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home, Vineland.