John Joseph Daub

Dear Dad, not a day goes by that I don't think of you and miss hearing yoir voice.You are and always will be my Hero! So hard without you here ,but your love,strength and wisdom will carry me through the rest of my life .You are so very special and one of a kind! Sending to you in Heaven lots of Huggs and kisses,xoxoxox I love you Dad!

When I think of my Uncle John, I think of someone always smiling and a man that everybody loved. Since my brother and I took over his Real Estate Company, I can't even count the number of people that I've met that have had wonderful things to say about him and in all this time, I've never ever met anyone that had any bad memories of him. I've always thought of him as not only my Uncle but as my friend. I will truly miss him and all his words of advise and wisdom.

I love you Uncle John
Kenny

Very few people go through life and have the ability to touch so many lives and leave such a fond and loving memory. Uncle John was just that kind of man. I have so many great memories of Uncle John throughout my life, from family vacations at the beach or the lake, to sleep overs with little John, to the stories he would tell of him and my mother, and later having the privilege to work with my uncle. He was such a kind and generous man, always there to lend a hand. Uncle John gave me my start in Real Estate and amazingly nurtured me into the Broker of the office he built and grew. Not a day goes by that I don't see a little bit of Uncle John in the office, or the way he meticulously maintained the property, or the way he affected so many people so positively. I am constantly referring to myself as "John's nephew", when speaking with anyone who had the good fortune of knowing Uncle John. I still find it amazing how many lives he made better just by knowing him. So, so many kind words of sympathy have been passed on to me by friends, Realtors, former customers, and the list goes on. Grown men and women brought to tears at the knowledge of his passing. Truly a great and special man that will be sorely missed.

Thank you Uncle John, for being in my life and showing me an example of how to touch so many with your good nature. I hope you know just how many people love you.

Love, Steven

When I think of Uncle John, many thoughts come to mind.  All of those memories are great memories, and even if I tried to think of one bad memory I've had with Uncle John , it is not possible because there are none. When I was with Uncle John , whether it be for a UVA football game, fishing, or just hanging out at his house, it was impossible to be upset or not have fun because he was always in such high spirits, and that really did spread to everyone in the room.  He would make people laugh with his funny jokes, entertain anyone who listened to his stories, and when he was not talking, he would listen with a smile on his face. When I grow up I hope to embrace even half of the amazing qualities that Uncle John had.

I love you Uncle John!

Bobby

When I think of Uncle John, many thoughts come to mind.  All of those memories are great memories, and even if I tried to think of one bad memory I've had with Uncle John , it is not possible because there are none. When I was with Uncle John , whether it be for a UVA football game, fishing, or just hanging out at his house, it was impossible to be upset or not have fun because he was always in such high spirits, and that really did spread to everyone in the room.  He would make people laugh with his funny jokes, entertain anyone who listened to his stories, and when he was not talking, he would listen with a smile on his face. When I grow up I hope to embrace even half of the amazing qualities that Uncle John had.

I love you Uncle John!

Bobby

As I sit here early in the morning looking out at the peaceful ocean I remember how I first met you here in the Hamptons in Aug 1992.  The Andris family was celebrating Jeanette's birthday and it was going to be the first time I was meeting the family.  We had a great day and on the drive home I remember commenting to Rob that I thought "everyone in his family was very nice but being especially  impressed with Jeanette's husband John."

As I would come to know almost 21 years later, that was a feeling that everyone had when they met you and even more so as they got to know you!   As I sat at your funeral, everyone who was present could feel the intense love and incredible respect that every single person had for you whether young, old , friend or family.  You were such a humble man and I don't know if you knew the extent of that while here on earth.

As Natalie stated in her talk you were someone we all aspire to be like.  I know that I could never begin to exhibit all the personality traits/qualities that made you who you were but as I continue my journey here on earth I will strive to be like the person you were.  When my time is finished here on this earth I hope that I can earn half the love and respect that you earned by everyone who knew you!  Like all of us I will always miss you but know you will live on in all our hearts forever
Until we meet again someday.....
I love you John!

Donna

I don't remember this,but I remember someone telling me this story. When I was younger I had speech problems and i would mumble alot.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE SERVICES:

Uncle, Dad, My Husband, Popup, Brother, Neighbor, and Friend. Though each us of may call him by a different name, we are all here joined together to celebrate the life of John Joseph Daub. It's hard to describe a man who meant so many things to so many people.
Uncle John was compassionate, loving, forgiving, curious, patient, charming, kind, a great listener, funny, honest. He will forever be someone we all aspire to be like. No matter what life threw at him, he would learn from it and be better for it, always finding the silver lining. He always put others first, even if they hadn't done the same. He treated everyone with equal respect, no judgments or preconceptions. He took you at face value and loved you for it.

THEME 1 – Humble Beginnings & Qualities

Uncle John's life started from humble beginnings. At age 17 he entered the Navy. After four-years of seasickness and an honorable discharge he raised three children. His life would be complete when he found his soul mate, Jeanette, at a nightclub in New Jersey.

THEME 2 – Love

Through the years Jeanette and John's love has inspired everyone around them. His wife said it best … ‘John lived by the cardinal rule to love your neighbor as you love yourself.' Uncle John demonstrated this love on a daily basis with simple gestures. He always cooked a perfect breakfast: the bacon was straight and crispy, the eggs were yolky, and the bagels were golden brown dripping with butter. He always told an animated story: time would stand still and you would feel like you were there watching him at target practice in preparation for getting those pesky squirrels, roped in with his “yous guys” and his facial expressions. He always listened: he made you feel like he genuinely cared about you…he listened to stories about video games, baseball tournaments, recitals, relationships. He always inquired about small moments and big events going on in our lives.


THEME 3 – Silver Lining / Learn from Uncle John

When we first received the news back in the fall that Uncle John was very sick it was devastating and difficult to find a silver lining. As usual Uncle John found it for us. We realized that in the treasured time he had left, he was able to learn how much he was liked and respected by his family and friends.

Aunt Jeanette had prepared a “roast” for him where she invited his loved ones to read their favorite John stories. I shared how I loved picking the cotton from in between his toes, while my Aunt Donna thanked him for transforming her stark house into a warm and inviting home with fresh coats of paint. The funniest story of course came my Aunt Linda when she described in great detail how Uncle John drew the line when they were building their “dream” kitchen back in Oradell. After a Viking stove, subzero refrigerator, and marble countertops, he decided that adding a second line of green tiles was just too much.

After everyone read their stories Uncle John whispered to Aunt Jeanette, ‘I guess people really like me.'

Uncle John, what you may have missed is that people didn't just like you; they loved you and always will.

My Uncle John story is about one very special Thanksgiving Dinner. Daddy was hosting at 81 (or should I say Linda was hosting) and the whole family was there. And yes, there was lots of noise and excitement, being the “quiet” group that we are, and before I knew what was happening Jeanette was engaged!

I honestly do not remember any of the details; I was so overjoyed (although I am sure that John does) like:
Did we know that John was proposing that night?
Did John ask Jeanette to be his wife in front of us all?
Did John get down on one knee?
Did Jeanette know that John was going to ask her to be his wife?

I don't have a clue. But what I do remember clearly, truly like it was yesterday, was the expression on Jeanette & John's face. I can close my eyes and see their smiles that showed their beloved love and true joy! John you made my sister very very very happy that night 25 years ago! And I knew that night that your love story was just beginning!


I love you with all my heart
Your sister Vivian

John, I cannot believe that you have left us. I am sad that we did not keep in better touch though out the years. When last we spoke you sounded well and we talked about how our lives had led us on different paths. I remember our days at Aunt Wee's, Florence and all the family getting together. I remember your wedding day like it was yesterday, where have those years gone. Remember Uncle Henny and his cataract surgery, who ever thought we would see all the things we did. I will always remember our fun times together as teenagers, the parties we attended and the many fond memories. I was always so proud of your accomplishments, you did good John. Tell the rest of the family I send my regards. Until we meet again. I love you John, Cousin Frances............

Dear PopPop,

I'd like to take this time I have to thank you for everything you have ever done. Thank you for giving me my amazing father and for putting this family back together whenever it was broken. You have taught me so much and I don't think there are ever words that I could drop out of my fragile little mouth to thank you enough. You held my hand like a hero when I was a little girl and taught me how to be brave. You have taught me to work hard because life isn't always going to give you what you want. I'll never forget the moments we spent at your beautiful house in Virginia hiking and looking over the mountains. The 7-hour car rides killed me but it was always worth it to run into yours and grandma's arms as soon as we pulled down the driveway. You made me feel like this life was a fairytale. You have rewritten my story by being my grandfather, my role model, and most importantly my best friend. You always told me that one day I'll grow up and meet a boy and he'll be my prince charming. But I always knew you would forever be my king. A part of you will always be with me. I'll look back on photographs and birthday cards and smile. Smile because you gave me everything I needed and taught me everything I needed to know. You gave me endless love and I hope you feel as if I have returned that favor and loved you with all my heart. You will forever be my always. I love you.

Love,
Claudia

I don't really remember when I first met Uncle John, but I'm not sure it really matters. In fact, that may be a testament to the type of man Uncle John was. When you meet him, it's as if you've always known him.

I've only known Uncle John for a fraction of the time that his whole family did. In this small amount of time, however, I observed and learned a lot about him. He did and accomplished many things with no extra push. He did it all himself and because of that he makes his family very proud. It is because of his family, however, that Uncle John could do a whole lot more. He touched the lives of each and every family member in all different ways. He was a friend, a hand and ear to everyone at any time. Most importantly, he became your everything.

What I will take away from my time in knowing Uncle John is that no matter what, I will need to be very strong if I am going to be the man that I am supposed to be. Family problems happen. Business deals work out, but often fall through. Friends come and go. Illnesses happen. What one would think to be norm, suddenly no longer is. But even with all that, a man must persevere. When the weight of the world is on my shoulders, I still need to find it in my soul to make light of the situation and make others around me laugh.

I hope that my heart is as full as his. I hope that I can be there for others as he was. I hope that I can be my wife and family's everything.

I'm very thankful for the time that I had with Uncle John. There are not many people in this world like him. Everyone who knew him is lucky to have the opportunity. Everyone else is lucky for all the new Uncle Johns to come from those that aspire to be him.

With love,
Joe

It's hard to think of my favorite memory with uncle John, because every time I was with him was a good Memory. I loved everything about uncle John. I loved how he had a warm and genuine heart and he would go out of his way to help others. I loved how he made you feel special and important when you talked to him. I loved all his self-determination and how he wouldn't stop until the job was done. Some of the best memories with uncle John though, are his stories. I can remember when I would take car trips to New York and he used to tell stories for hours. I also remember in Disney, since I was too chicken to go on the rides, uncle John would sit on the bench with me. I also loved just going over to his house and spending time with him. I hope that I can be somebody like uncle John. I hope that I can be somebody that everyone loves and never has one bad thing to say about. I will forever remember uncle John. He will truly be missed, but I know he is watching over us all in heaven.

Love, Brittany

There are many things that come to my mind when I think about John—a family man, a loving husband, an all around genuine guy, a meticulous painter, a cute New York accent, a good meal—but for some reason, one of the things that always pops into my head when thinking about John are his awesome hugs. John knows how to say I love you and I miss you all with one very tight squeeze. Thinking about his hugs has always and will always make me smile. It's just one of the many reasons I love John.

Of course, I can't think about John without thinking about Jeanette. I read somewhere that the name “Jeanette” is the female counterpart to the name “John” which pretty much says it all about how these two were made for each other. As a couple, Jeanette and John have always been a great role model for what true love really looks like. It's been an honor to be a part of that true love for such a long time.

Jeanette and John cuddling on the couch… Jeanette and John whispering in each other's ear… Jeanette and John going to bed early together… Jeanette and John… I love them dearly.

Love Nak

It's hard to think of a childhood memory that Uncle John wasn't in. Every birthday, holiday, recital, graduation, even cheerleading competition, he was there. And he didn't just passively attend these events, that wasn't his style. He would be the first one to give me a high five or ask questions about what had just taken place. He would always act impressed with what I had just accomplished, find the silver lining even when I had lost or been disappointed. Uncle John felt like my own personal cheer squad. You could count on him for a wink, a hug and a tickle, most of the time in that order. And he always had a smile on his face.

Uncle John was compassionate, loving, forgiving, curious, patient…… He will forever be someone I aspire to be like. No matter what life threw at him he would learn from it and be better for it, again he would find a silver lining. He always put others first, even if they hadn't done the same. He treated everyone with equal respect, no judgments or preconceptions. He took you at face value and loved you for it. He was one of the good ones.

Food may have been his passion, but his egg fried rice is not what I will miss the most. It's the stories. Even if he could only tell the same stories over and over again, I'd listen. As much as we all knew how well he paid attention to us when we were speaking, I don't know if he quite understood how much we all listened to him. When Uncle John was telling a story it was like time stood still. Everyone within ear shot would be gathered around the table, even the children because the stories were always PG. He'd rope you in with his “yous guys” and facial expressions. There was drama, suspense, humor and humility. And at the end his famous smile. I could sit all day listening to Uncle John stories and never get bored. He lived a full and adventurous life that he shared with us through his stories. I can only feel blessed that he chose to share them with me.

Love, Megan

Jeanette, my thoughts and prayers are with you and with your family. Please remember that you are not alone and that your faith, family and friends will be there for you in your time of need. God Bless

Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family during this time of loss.

Please accept our heartfelt sympathy on the passing of John. He was a lovely man and will be missed by all who knew him.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

At times I look at my life and I wonder what others think of me. My parents raised me to be independent person and not put too much thought into the value others assign to you. They instead focused on the only thing that matters, having family know your heart.

From the first time I meet John, I knew he was a quality man. A person who is intelligent, kind and a person who has an inner peace that I believe only comes from a full life.

I have always felt as though John has been a member of my family. I proudly call him my friend and a man whom I respect and in fact even love.

When the day comes that John is called home before God, I hope he knows how many people will miss his smile, his presence and graciousness. I have tried to tell him not to be afraid as the transition to the next life is simply a right of passage. The only sadness is from the waiting others will have to endure before they enjoy your full presence.

I am not afraid for you as I believe in my heart you will join my family in heaven and later I see you again. I will miss you, but in the end I call you family and look forward to sharing with you my life's adventures.

Love
Jim

When most people go on a trip or vacation one of the things many look forward to is the extra hours of sleep that they are going to get from the usual 6 am wake up time. When the family would go to visit Pop Pop however, sleeping in was the last thing that you wanted to do. From the time that I was about 11, my father would tell me, “If you get up early in the morning and come downstairs, your Pop Pop will tell you a bunch of cool stories about when he was young.” So, when we would go visit, we did not even need an alarm clock to be sure that we would wake up early. Your body just knew that you wanted to be one of the few up sitting in the sunroom. When you crept downstairs in the quiet of the morning, you would hear his comforting voice already relaying a tale of jumping trains across the country or working your butt off to be sure to make a good living. Then, I would plop down on the chair next to him, or on his lap. The difference was, when he told his stories, he knew how to use his words to create a scene fifty years in the past. The story would envelop you so you felt as if you were living what he lived. That is a quality that not many people possess but it is one he was kind enough to pass on to my own father. I know that the stories I've heard on those early mornings are ones I won't forget and ones that I have already shared with people I've met in my life. I know that I will continue to share his stories because they are ones worth telling.

Thanks! Love you!
Becky

At some point in time I had run into a few bumps in the road as some may call them. When I ran into my biggest bump and was super down Pop Pop did not hesitate to come to make sure that I would be doing well. Pop Pop has done nothing but ever try to be there for me in my life. He has always shown concern for my health mentally and physically. I have so many fond memories of my Pop Pop. His stories are always fascinating and spending time with him was always wonderful. And even when I would be doing something like playing a videogame that he did not understand in anyway he would sit and try to show interest even though I was just sitting there babbling on about nothing. This is all over the place but another great memory is of when me and him spent the day on the back deck and shot the pellet rifle for about a full day. It was so much fun and when he said I had a great shot, I felt awesome. Pop Pop is an amazing man and if I were to sit here and think these few sentences would turn into an essay.

Love, Johnny

There are so many things that I could say about Pop Pop. The love he has for us and has shown for us is truly incredible. When Johnny was struggling a few years ago, he took the time to spend with him in New Jersey. That visit changed his life and I was able to witness it with my own eyes. I watched my brother turn into a stronger man and better person, and Pop Pop can take credit for that. As for me, He never minded watching me change into a million different outfits after we came home from shopping, even if it took hours. And he always would tell me how beautiful I looked no matter what I put on. I loved that no matter how much the other boys would complain, Pop Pop would not.
I loved when we used to go hiking. I would think that I was in such tiptop shape, but then Pop Pop would zoom past me. He would smile and laugh the whole way making us all feel like we were the older ones.

One of my favorite memories though was waking up in the mornings at your house. Becky told me that if we got up early, Pop Pop would be awake and tell us stories about him growing up. We learned so much about him in those mornings that I will never forget. He told me about his first jobs in the bowling alley setting up pins and I thought it was the coolest thing. I love you so much Pop Pop. He always makes me feel special and will always listen to what I have to say. And I know he is proud of me. I hope I can do all the things I want in my life for him.

Love, Rachel

I know that we didn't have a traditional start to our family, but Pop Pop was always very accepting and welcoming to me. I remember especially the times when Johnny was a baby. We would go and visit him about every other weekend. Johnny grew up in his house, too, and shared many special times with Pop Pop. I remember Johnny learning to walk. He would crawl to the center of the TV room, stand up, and run to Pop Pop, who was sitting on the floor by the couch. He would fall into Pop Pop's arms laughing. He did that over and over again.
Johnny liked doing chores with Pop Pop. I even have pictures of Johnny washing cars with Pop Pop outside the Oradel house. Pop Pop also collected golf balls from the fringes of the gold course near his house. He would give them to Johnny to play with. He liked to bounce them. One time, Johnny stood by the open refrigerator, took out an egg, and yelled “golf ball”! He even tried to bounce it but that didn't work out so well.
I also remember Pop Pop coming to help Johnny out when he was having some trouble his freshman year of college. Pop Pop came and stayed for a week and just talked to him. Johnny really loved the time that he was able to spend with Pop Pop and it really helped him get better.
My kids also loved the times that we visit with Pop Pop and he tells the stories about his family after we finish breakfast. Becky loved hearing about old family stories.
We love you, Pop Pop!

Mary Jane

There was a time when John said what seemed to be a very simple thing to me: "Don't worry I got your back". That one statement defines John and what he is all about. John spends all of his thoughts and energy making sure everyone around him is taken care of in every way.

If you ever were at the house when someone was there to do some work you would see that person being well fed and taken care of before they got to work. He never had a problem getting any contractor to call him back in a town where they never return a call.

There are alot of great things about John that I could say but there is a reason why this is first in my mind. When Jeanette and John received some terrible news regarding this illness it was clear that John had only one thing on his mind: "Is Jeanette going to be OK". The concern for her was the only thing that I could see in his face and I don't think I will ever forget that.

John is a great brother and I love him very much and will do my best to have his back and take care of those he loves.
Love, Rob

I have so much respect and love for John and it has been a true blessing and privilege to have him be a part of my life these past 20 years. I know without a doubt that I am a better person for knowing him. When I think of John I think of a young boy who was faced with so much adversity in his young life who grew up to be one of the most compassionate people I know. Besides being charming, kind, a great listener, funny, and honest, just to mention a few, he is one of those people who is always so willing to give of himself and help someone out. Back in 2007 when things got tough for us financially, we were stuck with a house that required a tremendous amount of work. With Rob and I working as much as we could to just pay our basic bills and trying to deal with our 4 kids we had no time to fix up the house, especially on the inside. The paint in every room was a mess; the walls were all dirty and stained. Shortly after we moved in John came over and without asking painted almost every room downstairs in our house. He did it from his heart knowing we were going through a tough time, not expecting anything in return. It was so refreshing to see a fresh coat of paint on the walls that were previously dirty and ugly. I don't know if John ever realized how much that truly meant to me!

John is one of those rare individuals who gives of himself always. Even as he is facing a devastating illness he is constantly worried and concerned about others. I will forever be thankful for all the love and kindness John has always shown to me. I will cherish all the wonderful memories we have shared together these past 20 years. I truly believe in my heart that I will never meet a person who processes all the amazing qualities he does…he truly is one in a billion.
I love you John!
Donna

Dear John;
You were never an outlaw
Unlike Tom and I you just always fit in
Tom brought the Bronx, I brought the Heehaw
You topped that with the New Jersey grin

We all watched as you wined her and dined her
We were sure you were from heaven sent
Then came the question, the bling, and the blur
In sickness and health were truly meant

You gave her the caddy's and only the best
While the outlaws were so very amazed
Very grateful you had passed Jeanette's test
More bourbon, more wine, more drunkenly dazed

Dear John you were never an outlaw and I can truly say I am so very glad I have the honor to be an in-law to you.
Love Nancy

A few words about John:

I remember meeting the extended Richwalsky/ Andris family for the first time. Stephanie and I had not been dating for too long and I was brought to the gathering. It was a little overwhelming and, I must admit, I was a little intimidated by the whole thing. It wasn't long before a comforting voice was talking to me. John came over and struck up some small talk about the situation and meeting all “these” people for the first time. He made me feel at ease and very welcomed to the group. It was a foundation for many more conversations at family gatherings to come.

It seems at every gathering afterwards, John and I find each other (usually by the grill) and talk. He is always inquisitive about what is going on in my life as well as in my family. He has a genuine interest in what Steph, the kids and I are up to. Our conversations turn to cooking, food, lawns, and painting. Recently it has included baseball. John asks about how Brady's team is doing. No matter what the occasion we end up talking about making sausage and grilling.

The best part about talking to John is the stories he tells. He is one of those people that you listen to no matter what he is saying. He can hold your attention when you are alone with him or he can get an entire room to listen. His stories always are filled with love, his stories make you laugh, and leave you feeling good. Of course, his stories are a direct reflection of his personality. John is one of few people you want to be like. His quiet yet attention- grabbing demeanor is a rare trait. It is a pleasure to watch him and Jeanette interact. They both share so much love for each other and enjoy life together. I hope as I grow older, and hopefully much wiser, I can take on the traits he displays on a daily basis.

When I sit back and think about the first time we met, I sometimes wonder….. Did John come up to me because he was an outsider that joined this crazy family and wanted to tell me: Run while you can. You have no idea what you are in for. No, I think it was to say: Hey, I know how it is to join this crazy group. Stick around, relax, sit back and enjoy all of this - I did and I do……
It is the best thing that has happened to me!

Love, Brett

When I think of John…

When I think of John - this verse plays in my mind...."I'm easy...easy like Sunday morning." And you have to sing the tune and feel the chill comfortable vibe that comes with it! John has always been easy for me....easy to talk to, easy to be around, easy to visit in both Oradell and Charlottesville. He's all no-problems and anytimes and okays. I mean I'm quite sure he can be demanding and high maintenance. I've heard some snippets about not wasting food and John-doesn't-want to... or John-wants-to....OF COURSE! Jeanette knows the true real raw John. But the John I know is simply a sweetheart and we all know that being a sweetheart is not so simple. No matter what he's always all smiles at the many parties, always offers to help, always has a positive comment, a compliment, a funny story about a black bear or a painting project. Whether I would show up with Nakina and my mom in Oradell for a Cousin's Weekend or with Brett to pile furniture into a U-Haul, John was always there with hugs, cheese and crackers, rides to acquire a dining room table, and muscles to haul a dresser into a truck! Or when the Goynes pulled up as part of a caravan (even toting a toddler) to walk around the early structure of the Charlottesville mansion or when we all crowded in to celebrate Uncle Bob's birthday, John has always been a calm gracious giving host! And even when we arrived to cry and give sympathy kisses and stand around feeling stupid after John's diagnosis, he still smiled his same John smile and quietly added peace to the room. John is still peaceful and positive while he continues to grow in his love and appreciation for his family and for God. I've heard about his baptism and his poetry! John is just John...and that equals an easy-going, huge-hearted, what-you-see-is-what-you-get, ready-and-willing, giving and generous GREAT GREAT GUY! And the last guy that anything bad should be happening to. Not John. It's not fair or right in any way and I'm trying to keep this clean and upbeat so will curb my sailor-jargon and leave it at that for now.


When I think of John - I think of Jeanette and John, of course, because from my perspective John comes with Jeanette. He's her husband, the love of her life, her best friend, confidant, all that cliché crap that's actually true! We have clichés for reasons, right? John, with Jeanette, has actually become a model for the boyfriends and husbands that have come after him. I have found myself saying to my mom about a new guy a friend is dating something like: well, he's no John. And that's because John has always been perfect for Jeanette. Jeanette is perfect for John. Jeanette and John are perfect with each other. It's not a fit like a puzzle because both individuals are strong and independent and shine beautifully alone. Jeanette will shop a day away while John is happy to hang with the men. It's not that one completes the other. It's more like yellow and blue make green; or daffodils and heavens create a seafoam sunrise. It's a combination that is splendid and serene and inspiring: two amazing individuals who value and enjoy each other and intertwine their lives to create something new and spectacular by being blessed enough to be together, Jeanette and John. And I couldn't feel more blessed or more sprinkled with springtime to have them both in my life as part of my family.


When I think of John…I know nothing I could ever write could be good enough to encompass all that is John or all that is Jeanette and John. I know you are reading this together and just want you to know that I love you both so much.

Steph

When I was a yougnen, written words came easy to me, now in my golden years it's become a struggle. However, I will find words that dwell deep within my heart because knowing you has been such a joy. Your love, sweetness, and friendliness toward your wonderful Jeanette,family and friends is the greatest attribute a man can have! Having said that, please know you are loved and will always and forever be in my heart and prayers!

God bless you John,
Much love,
Aunt DoDo

Growing up Andris, each family member has different memories and recollections of experiences over the years. Since no one's memory is one hundred percent accurate, we have coined the phrase that family members with similar memories of stories growing up “grew up in the same house.”

The one common theme in Uncle John's “house” was family comes first. Most family members would disagree with me and probably say food, but in the house I grew up in Uncle John always put family member's needs and happiness ahead of his own.

Growing up, Uncle John never missed a special dance recital, school music performance, or graduation. He was always there to support us with a big smile on his face … even if that meant driving six hours to drop me off at sleep away camp in Vermont.

Uncle John is always very patient with my sister Megan and I. He would let us play nail salon where we would paint his finger & toenails in crazy colors. He would even let me take away the cotton build up between his toes (just do not ask me why I loved cleaning in between his toes!).

And yes, Uncle John always makes sure we are always well fed. He would always have dinner waiting for us after a long day or night of shopping. But the best meal is Uncle John breakfast. To this day no one else can make fried eggs & toast as perfectly as Uncle John; I think his secret was the love he added in the process.

Growing up, my sister and I always wanted to marry a man with similar qualities as Uncle John. Megan found a man who could have been a distant cousin to Uncle John because of the similarities between the two men. Her husband is loving, affectionate, patient, driven, funny and even a good cook. But again, the strongest similar quality they share is family comes first. I hope to find a man Uncle John would be proud of. And one day (if I am lucky), Uncle John will be looking down with my Grandmother as I walk down the aisle of my wedding day.

Love, Natalie

My thoughts of John in one word:
lovedJeanettedevotedfuncalmhomefriendfunny
sincerestronghardworkingcookstorytellerqualityunassuminghumblepleasanthusbandkind
givingdistinguisheddignifiedquietlyverysmart
selfdepracatingcleancarefulChristian
thoughtfulconsiderateconversationalistprotector
inquisitiveandmostofallloving

That's probably not a word but that's the John I know. I love that guy. Always have. Always will.
Stephen

What's in a name?
J…is for the joy you give to everyone around you.
O…is for the only man Jeanette will ever love.
H…is for the home that everybody loves to come to.
N…is for never doubting how much you're truly loved
by all of us here on earth and Our Father up above.

I love you, John!
Tina

Dear John,
"The Easter Bunny Is Coming Town" ring a bell? When Natalie was a little girl she loved to watch that movie over & over & over again. We called it the Gadzooks movie and you watched it with her many, many, many times. One day you and JP came over to spend the day, you said a fast hello and asked, ”Where is the Gadzooks movie?" As a joke you took the movie and hid it. When Natalie saw you she ran to give you a big hug hello and asked " Uncle John do you want to watch the Gadzooks movie with me?" You of course answered Sure! We all had a great laugh and Natalie never did find the movie that day. That was a great day and a fond memory I will never forget!

Love, Tom

There are a lot of memories of Pop Pop that I can remember but a few stick out to me going back to when I was just little. I remember how much I loved his home made apple sauce and the spaghetti with sauce he made, it was so good, every time we spoke on the phone I would ask him to send more apple sauce because I ate all of it! I can also remember how he could always make us laugh, we would be having a conversation then he would just fall asleep in a big chair he was sitting in. I remember that when he fell asleep me and Claudia would play jokes on him and put stuff on his head and he would have a smile on his face when he was half asleep, he was always able to make us laugh. Whenever we visited in Virginia he would make the effort to take me out fishing because he knows that is what I love to do. I remember one time he took me, Bobby and Brian fishing one day through all these woods and everything, he carried a big knife and was chopping through the trees like it was nothing so that we could pass through and get to a spot to fish. This one spot I caught one of my biggest fish and that means a lot to me, fishing is my life and I would not have achieved this goal without him bringing us out fishing that day. I also remember going to the Sparta house with him and dad years ago. The job we did was to cut down a lot of trees in the front yard and we spent mainly the whole day doing some yard clean up, this was really fun because now having recently visiting dad at the house, I can see just how nice it has come out to be and its nice knowing that I was apart of Me, Dad and Pop Pop putting some work into that house. Finally I have his Dog Tags from the war and I still have that little green case that they were sitting in all this time and there is even a little article in there when Pop Pop was a real estate agent and I have a picture of him with the Jet black hair from back then. I will never let these go and it feels really good to me knowing that I have something in my possession that keenly gives me the memory of Pop Pop everyday. The dog tags stay hanging on my lamp on my bedside and the green case stored away in one of my drawers. Even though we didn't exactly get to see each other that often we had great times visiting and seeing each other and I will remember those times forever and I will hold on to the physical memories for the rest of my life as well.

Love you guys

DJ

It was snowing as we pulled into the parking lot, Nanny in the front seat, Jeanette in the back. We were here to meet some guy Jeanette had met the night before at the Palisadium. And as that guy in a suit and overcoat approached us Nanny said “Very handsome, but not too tall!” And she was accurate but not right fore if you measure a man by his integrity, decency, goodness and achievements then she was looking at a Giant.
Stories are difficult to remember which is probably why we should all keep a book of those precious moments that we think we will never forget but always do. After all these years there are probably hundreds of John stories that I can't remember but live in my heart. His sense of humor and timing is rare, he is a natural storyteller. His stories about his youth and the Navy and life in general were not always meant to be funny but John always finds the humor in life.
There was a time when I lived with Jeanette and John in what John always referred to as his “little house” in Oradell. It was during that time they decided to re-model and renovate the kitchen. Now every home owner who has ever undertaken a major construction job knows there are lots of decisions and compromises to be made. We also know that there is threshold, a breaking point in each of us. So John was fine with all of Jeanette's wants. The granite counter tops, the Porcelanosa floor tiles; the Viking stove top and the sub-zero refrigerator! All ok. What became John's breaking point was the green line! Jeanette had selected a white backsplash with a green “line” tile accent – perfect up to this point but she made the unfortunate mistake of suggesting a second green line. That was it, John went a little crazy. Now keep in mind it was a “little” kitchen and we are talking probably an additional 20 tiles but John stood his ground and won the battle! It quickly became our defining green line and whenever there is a situation that has the potential of crossing the line it is always a green line and we laugh every time.
Some of our most memorable moments of course involve food. Because if you know anything at all about John, you know don't mess with his food. We have spent 30 years tormenting each other about “weird” food and spices…. John likes normal, me not so much. Right John?!?!?! I also tease him on the phone. After all these years he still has a difficult time distinguishing Jeanette's and my voice on the phone. So for 30 some odd years I have been the other “babe”, a title I cherish!

Love, Linda

I got to know John and Jeanette through my sister and brother-in-law. They had forged a friendship over the past several years that was meaningful, beautiful and lasting. This became more apparent when John was diagnosed with cancer and was in need of care. Jeanette, I am so sorry for your loss...it will not be easy, but please know you have many friends who care and are with you in spirit and sincere love. He is at peace- safe in the arms of love. My prayers are with you and your family

My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Sorry for your loss.

I worked as a real estate salesman at Four Star Real Estate back in the 80s along with Jim (can't remember his last name), Maureen Flannery, Hy Schwarz and others. Charlie Scheibe was my mentor, but John was the boss. He was a good, decent guy, fair in all respects. I am sorry to hear that he has passed. My prayers are with all who he has left behind.

Kenneth Stevens,
Bogota, NJ

I knew John when we were growing up in Dumont. He worked as a butcher and made the best Italian hot sausage. He was a good looking guy then and throughout his life as the photos show. Rest in Peace. Too young

May god be with and comfort you.