Major General John Henry Voorhees

Chandler Major General John Henry Voorhees was born to John and Mabel Voorhees on August 12th, 1936 in New Brunswick, N.J. He was a distinguished graduate of ROTC, and earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Rutgers University in 1958.

'General John' led an exceptionally successful military career that eventually resulted in him achieving the rank of Major General. A highly decorated warrior, the general received the Legion of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, thirteen Air Medals, and the Defense Distinguished Service Medal in service to his country.

John knew that his military success was God's provision; and shortly before his retirement, he experienced the personal, transformational power of Jesus Christ on his life. He devoted himself to serving God through Prison Fellowship Ministries and his church board. In his walk with Christ, John became a mentor to many, and a friend to all who met him.

Though the rigors of a successful career often pulled him away from the home, John loved his family dearly. Second only to his love for Jesus was his love for his wife, the former Jeanine Carter. He was the proud father of two adoring children, his daughter Melanie Kroeger and his son John. Through the years, his kids gave him nine grandchildren to love. He often expressed how blessed and privileged he was to have his family around him. They took care of him as he made his transition to eternity on February 1, 2018…

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing." II Timothy 4: 7-8

Funeral services will be held on Friday February 9th at 4pm (there will be a viewing at 3pm) at Crossroads Nazarene Church, 2950 West Ray Road, Chandler, AZ

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic on Feb. 7, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for John Voorhees

18 Entries

Chaplain Greg Millard

March 31, 2025

John volunteered to minister to men in the Maricopa County Jails for many, many years. I was honored to talk with him about life and the love for Christ. Many times he spoke to me of his dear "bride," that is, is loving wife. Since I have spoken of my wife, as my bride. See you in the Kingdom John. Chaplain Greg

Kevin and Lyn Willers

September 24, 2020

I worked at DCAS in Fullerton and he was the commander in Los Angeles. He heard that my new husband, an Airman Basic, received orders for Eielson AFB Alaska with the Marine Corps station handling our move. Most of the move fell on my shoulders and I received the cold shoulder from the Marines. The General told me if I had problems to call him, I did, the Marines thought I was joking until I put the NCOIC on the phone with General Voorhees. From that point on I had no problems and everything went well. 40 years later we have never forgotten his kindness.

Elizabeth Hegyes

September 2, 2020

Now 2020 and I was just reviewing old federal employment records. The General was my Commander at DPSC Philadelphia in the eighties. He was a compassionate commander and a hands-on Commander. You could find the General making his rounds around 6:30am. Where were the federal employees? Not at their desks working, but in the cafeteria across the street. The General knew and
wanted to know what was brewing in the hallways and offices of DPSC. I personally felt his presence and welcomed his comforting comments about my work and special projects. Sad to learn of his passing. I still keep his military USAF picture in my scrapbook. The General was an imposing figure and a credit to the military. Thank you General Voorhees. Lib.

ROGER LOCANDRO

December 15, 2018

JOHN AND I WERE THE SAME AGE A DEAR FRIEND. WE FOLLOWED EACH OTHER THROUGH NBHS AND RUTGERS UN.
HE WAS ONE OF THE SMARTEST AND NICEST PERSONS I HAD EVER KNOWN. EVERYONE LIKED AND ADMIRED HIM.
GOD BLESS HIM AND MAY HE REST IN PEACE.
ROGER R. LOCANDRO-PhD, RUTGERS PROFESSOR AND DEAN.

William Slezak USAF (ret)

March 8, 2018

I was sorry to hear of Gen Voorhees passing. Our military careers crossed three times first in Udorn RTAFB, then Hq USEUCOM finally at Wright-Patterson AFB OH. My fondest memory was his invitation to Thanksgiving dinner at his home in Patch Barracks Vaihingen Germany. Words fail me but allow me to quote Matthew 25:21 "well done, good and faithful servant".

Robert Cole

February 12, 2018

God provided men in my life to fill the father figure of input and wisdom when it was needed. MajGen Voorhees encouraged me and gave me sound wise words whenever I asked. He and his wife always were loving and my passed wife Sharon and I were friends of Melanie and family. Look forward to seeing him soon on the other side.

Robert Cole
US Army (ret)

February 12, 2018

I hold John is high esteem and will honor his memory always.
I am thankful for John's service and sacrifices to our country.
May the Lord's loving presence bless Jeannine and the family with peace and comfort.
Tynette Housley

February 12, 2018

I had the distinct pleasure of being MajGen Voorhees aide in Philadelphia back in the late 80s. He was a wonderful man, an outstanding officer, and someone I looked up to the rest of my career.

LtCol (ret) Mike Schissel

Gary Ransom

February 10, 2018

John was a role model in my life. Gloria and I are deeply touched by his passing. He grew up 5 or so blocks from me in New Brunswick. I joined the Air Force because of him.

John and his Voorhees Family have always been in my daily prayers and always will be. He was my cousin.

Gary & Gloria Ransom

Donald and Clara Miller

February 9, 2018

we were so sorry to hear aout John when you called. Our prayers go out to the family for
peace comfort and strength.

Evangelist Lillie Foy

February 8, 2018

Dear Family of ('Uncle') John Henry Voorhees. Fondly remembered, for his gentle-kind spirit; and his great welcoming smile. When ever he visited N.J.~ WE would have an assurance that his humorous-jokes, would have us holding our sides. Lol. Thank God for him allowing me to fondly call him ~'uncle John'; alone with his niece, Debbie and family in NJ. Prayers of sincere condolences to the Voorhees family.

Rosa Franklin

February 8, 2018

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High, Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty, I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress, (I am sure John Voorhees said) "My God in Him I will trust.. He is with the Lord.
My prays are with the entirer family.

The FTD Treasured Memories Standing Spray

Harold Busch

Sent Flowers

Van Fernandez-Campfield

February 7, 2018

To the Voorhees Family,
We are so sorry for the loss. Gen. Voorhees was stationed at McClellan AFB in the 80s when my father Col. Willliam Campfield was the base commander there. He spoke very highly of Gen.Voorhees and wanted to also send his condolences. My god be with all at this time.

February 7, 2018

Jeannine, Melanie, and John, Jr.:

I am so sorry to hear of John's passing. When we were neighbors at Forest Ridge, Ohio, (oh, so long ago), I had a few opportunities to talk to John at your home. He was always such a gentleman, smart, kind, and knowledgeable. I never forgot him or you. At this difficult time, may God hold you and your family close to him.
Cecilia T. Best
32002 N. 20 Lane
Phoenix, Arizona
951 427-250

Bernald Porter

February 7, 2018

May the many memories he helped create find root in your heart and bring special recollection to your mind as you both mourn and celebrate his distinguished military career... and may God bless you as you deal with his passing.