John Joseph O'Connell Jr.

John Joseph O'Connell Jr. obituary, Newton, NJ

John Joseph O'Connell Jr.

John O'Connell Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Iliff-Ruggiero Funeral Home on May 13, 2025.

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O'Connell. John J. age 71 of Andover Township, NJ passed away unexpectedly Saturday evening May 10, 2025 in the Beth Israel Medical Center Newark, NJ. Born and raised in West Haven CT, John had also resided in Bergenfield and Teaneck, NJ before moving to Andover Township in 1983.
Son of the late John J. and Priscilla (nee Perkins) O'Connell, John was a graduate of the Bergenfield High School class of 1972, and later earned his degree in Business Administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University as well as working towards his graduate degree. John had a long career in the telecommunications industry, working many years with New Jersey Bell, Bell Atlantic and Verizon before his retirement.
A kind and thoughtful man, John was always available for his family friends and his community. Mr. O'Connell had served as Andover Township Mayor as well as a longstanding member and past Chairman of the Township Land Use Board and a Township Committeeman. Throughout his years of service, John was always dedicated, honest and fair to his community.
John was also a dedicated member of the Sussex County Republican Committee as well as an avid reader. He enjoyed travel especially his many trips to Mexico.
Mr. O'Connell was predeceased by his brother in laws Richard Pommerencke and Robert Karol. Survivors include his beloved wife of forty-four years Darlene M. (nee Nauss), his sister Erin Pommerencke, his nieces Stacy and her husband Damian Fryer and Shannon Pommerencke, his nephew Christian Pommerencke as well as his great niece Ava Fryer and his sister-in-law Dr. Cheryl Karol.
Visitation will be held Thursday May 15, 2025 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM in the Iliff-Ruggiero Funeral Home 156 Main Street (Rt. 206) Newton, NJ. Graveside funeral services will be held Friday May 16, 2025 at 12 PM in the Saint Lawrence Cemetery #280 Derby Ave. West Haven CT 06516. In lieu of flowers memorials in John's memory may be made to the Byram Animal Rescue Kindness Squad BARKS PO 593 Stanhope, NJ 07874 Online condolences through online condolences through www.iliff-ruggierofuneralhome.com
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1 Entry

Peter Struble

May 17, 2025

Sorry to hear of John's death.
Had the privilege of working with him every week at the County Food Pantry as we unloaded pet food that was being donated.
A truly delightful gentleman

Pete Struble

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Iliff-Ruggiero Funeral Home

156 Main St. (Route 206), Newton, NJ 07860

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