John Von Essen

1944 - 2016

John A. Von Essen
April 29, 1944 - November 20, 2016
Palmyra
John Anthony Von Essen, 72, passed away on Sunday, November 20, 2016 at his home. Born in Massapequa Park, N.Y., he was the son of the late John A. and Kathryn (Mortimer) Von Essen. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lori (Sheeley) Von Essen in 2004.
John attended The Cooper Union and earned his undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering. He went on to earn his Masters degree in Chemical Engineering at Penn State University. He was a renowned chemical engineer in his field and traveled the world working on large-scale engineering projects in the mining, water treatment, and paper industries. Later on in his life, he switched careers and opened Palmyra Consultants working as a tax preparer and accountant. He was well known in the community for his 20 years of work. John was also a member of the Campbelltown American Legion and very much enjoyed socializing with his friends. In his free time he enjoyed playing pool, golf, and chess. In his younger years he also enjoyed rock climbing, tennis and racquetball. His favorite place to travel was the Caribbean, especially Aruba and St. John, where he was an avid snorkeler.
He is survived by two sons, Harris E. Von Essen (Melissa D.) of Plymouth Meeting, and John A. Von Essen Jr (Miriam P.) of Lafayette Hill; three grandchildren, Jordan, Eliza, and Jacob; and his girlfriend of nine years, Rochelle H. Engle.
A Memorial Service will be held at 12:30 p.m.on Monday, November 28, 2016 at Rothermel-Finkenbinder Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 25 W. Pine St., Palmyra, PA 17078 with Reverend Samuel Fry officiating. Visitation will be held from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association at www.Lung.org
www.RothermelFuneralHome.com