Bill Would Name June 1 'Bob Popovics Day' In Honor Of Bayville Icon

BERKELEY, NJ — For decades, Robert "Bob" Popovics was a staple of the Jersey Shore community. Born and raised in New Jersey, the longtime Seaside Park resident owned and operated Shady Rest in Bayville for years, as well as being well-renowned in the fishing community.

After his tragic death this past November, local officials have created ways to honor him. Berkeley officials recently declared that June 1 would be named Robert "Bob" Popovics Day in town. The date was chosen because that's when the roses are in bloom at Shady Rest. And a proposed bill from the 9th Legislative District aims to expand it so that day is celebrated statewide.

"Bob has made numerous contributions to his community, the State, and the United States. Bob proudly served his country with the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War," Sen. Carmen Amato, Asm. Brian Rumpf and Asm. Greg Myhre said in a statement.

"Additionally, having taken over the establishment from his parents, Bob and his wife operated the Shady Rest restaurant in Bayville, New Jersey," the delegation said. "Bob was also well-renowned in the fishing community for being an avid fly fisherman, master fly tyer, and the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Pop Fleyes, a custom fly tying and educational company. His fly designs have been considered groundbreaking and his community meetings led to the creation of the Atlantic Saltwater Flyrodders."

The delegation has introduced bills in the State Senate and Assembly to name June 1 in honor of Popovics. Both bills are awaiting consideration.

"To recognize Bob's numerous contributions to the New Jersey community in which he lived, the fishing community, and the United States, it is altogether fitting and proper to designate June 1 of each year as 'Robert 'Bob' Popovics Day' in New Jersey," the delegation said.