John Althiser, Jr

John Althiser, Jr., 88, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2026, in Cary, North Carolina with his daughter and son in law by his side. Born on June 23, 1937, in Kingston, New York, John was the son of the late Charlotte Myer and John Althiser Sr. He grew up in Saugerties, New York, where he graduated from Saugerties High School. As a young man, he was an apprentice to a local carpenter which afforded him a skillset that helped forge his adult life as the family's handy man.

During his professional life, John dedicated over 50 years to a remarkable career at IBM. Starting at the age of 18 on the typewriter assembly line, he steadily advanced through the company to become a senior-level project manager. Despite not holding a college degree, John's humble yet exceptional work ethic, dedication, and contributions were widely recognized. His retirement ceremony was a testament to his impact at IBM, where he received an Award of Excellence for his performance, loyalty, and integrity.

A proud member of the Army Reserves during his early years as a newlywed, John selflessly served his country through annual training commitments. His service was a source of pride and reflection throughout his life. His life was forever changed by the time spent among other reservists and his love for his country would never falter.

John's personal life was filled with love and devotion. He married Marlene "Cookie" Cooke Althiser, who predeceased him in 2012. His family was his life's focus and he lovingly and tirelessly dedicated his time to providing for his two girls, Laurie and Heidi. Once the girls were grown John and Cookie shared many cherished memories, including their joint passion for golf. John participated in weekly rounds with a local men's league and enjoyed countless games alongside Cookie. Their winters spent in Pompano Beach, Florida were highlights of their lives together.

An avid car enthusiast, John owned over 45 vehicles throughout his lifetime and delighted in attending car shows and staying informed about the latest models through his subscriptions to car magazines. He also took pride in maintaining his yard with meticulous care and could be found out among the shrubs daily! He was known as a grill master who hosted memorable summer cookouts for family and friends on his backyard deck. John was the type of neighbor everyone loved to have. He would be the first to provide assistance with a project, loan a needed tool or watch over the homes and property of his neighbors when they were away.

John was deeply rooted in his faith and actively involved in church communities throughout his life. As a young adult, he was a member of the Saugerties United Methodist Church choir and served as a youth ministry leader alongside Cookie, organizing youth group outings for several years. Later in life, he continued his dedication to music and worship as part of the choir at White Plains United Methodist Church in Cary.

John is survived by his daughter Heidi Judd; son-in-law Roderick Judd; granddaughters Jessica Judd and Jasmyn Judd; brother Gary Althiser; sisters-in-law Mona Althiser and Judith Lovell; brothers-in-law Don Lovell and Steve Cooke; nieces Rebecca Althiser Thomsen and her family, Tina Buono and her family; nephews Stephen Cooke Jr. and his family, Anthony Cooke, and cousin Stacey Every. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Marlene "Cookie" Cooke Althiser(2012); daughter Laurie Althiser Baker (2022); mother Charlotte Myer; and father John Althiser Sr.

In addition to his professional achievements and personal passions, John will be remembered for his caring nature, honesty, generosity, and warm smile that greeted everyone he met. Diagnosed with dementia in 2023, he spent the final years of his life in a memory care facility but continued to exemplify patience, tolerance, and acceptance. His enduring kindness served as an inspiration to all who knew him. He will be fondly remembered as the best kind of man any man could be.

May John's memory bring comfort to those who loved him and inspire others to live with the same grace and warmth that defined his life. At his request, there will be a private memorial with immediate family. If you would like to pay your respects, we ask that you make a donation to the Dementia Alliance of NC in his name. https://dementianc.org/about-us/?form=DANCDonate