John James McQuade Sr.

John James McQuade Sr., 79, of Oakland, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2025, surrounded by family.

Born in the Bronx, New York, on September 16, 1945, John was the eldest of three children. He was the son of John James McQuade, an immigrant from Armagh, Ulster, Ireland, and Elizabeth O'Connor, the daughter of immigrants from Derry, Ulster, Ireland. John was immensely proud of his Irish heritage, which gave him strength throughout his life. Equally, he was proud to be an American and raised his family with deep respect for faith, freedom, and country.

A devout Roman Catholic and lifelong member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Ridgewood, John served as an altar boy in his youth and once considered taking vows as a Christian Brother. His path changed, however, when he met the love of his life, Linda Scheck-his beloved wife and best friend-who preceded him in death following a courageous battle with cancer.

John spent his career building a company he loved deeply-ECC Industries in Manhattan, New York, where he served as Vice President. Through decades of dedication, he cultivated not only a successful business but also lifelong relationships. Many of those professional connections turned into treasured friendships. He was known as a man of his word; a handshake from John meant more than any contract. He was truly one of the last of the greats in his industry, and when he retired, his absence was deeply felt by many who respected and admired him.

Together, John and Linda raised three children: John James McQuade Jr. and his wife Lauren, Deirdre Lynn Medallis, and her husband Christopher, and Jeannine Diane McEllen and her husband Craig, with whom he resided and who lovingly cared for him during his final years.

John was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren and was predeceased by his grandson, Brandon Casey McQuade. His surviving grandchildren include Cade Christopher Vasvari, Stefan Romaniuk, Tyler Derek Mruczinski, Jack Paul Mruczinski, Angelina Lynn McQuade, Adelyn Skye McQuade, Liv Marie McEllen, and Ella Grace McEllen.

He is also survived by his sister, Maureen McSherry, and her husband Terrance; his niece, Kahla Childers; and his nephew, Daniel McSherry. He was predeceased by his baby brother, Kevin McQuade.

John's life was marked by quiet strength, deep faith, and unwavering devotion to his family. He was a man of few words, but every one of them mattered. His words were his bond, and his love was constant. He will be remembered always for the integrity he lived by, and the legacy he leaves behind, and the immeasurable love he gave.

There will never be a greater "Poppy" to walk this earth.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in John's honor to the Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA), to support research and care for families affected by this disease.