Michael John Haider

Michael John Haider, born on November 1, 1950 in Philadelphia, PA, to Norman and Claire (Watson) Haider, passed away on November 14, 2025 at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital. He fought a courageous battle against cancer for many years before reluctantly surrendering, surrounded by his family offering their love and giving thanks to all Michael had given to each of their lives.

Michael's zest for life had no boundaries. From an early age, it was apparent he was a gifted musician. He played the piano and organ with exuberance, bringing joy to others in schools and churches, at special occasions for families and friends, and at nursing homes. He also played the keyboard and in the 1960s joined a rock band, the Twelfth Night.

His deep passion for music of all types, from the Beatles to Sinatra, extended to his love of musical theater. He also was a huge supporter of community theater.

Beyond music, he was a creative film-maker and videographer, starting with original Super 8 productions he developed with a team of friends and moving on to more elaborate video projects with students at Council Rock High School. He also was always willing to make personal videos for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, celebrations of life, and even season-in-review productions for high school sports teams.

Professionally, he was a skilled salesperson, a high school educator, and lastly, worked in contracting for the United States government at Fort Dix. He also was a veteran with the U.S. Army.

One of Michael's favorite pastimes, spanning decades, was walking in Rancocas Woods. His family lived there in a log cabin for eight years, beginning just after his birth. He was a graduate of Glassboro State College. Michael cared deeply for his pet cats, of which there were many.

Michael is survived by Kathy (Farrow), his loving wife of 43 years, his daughter Sarah and her family (husband Derek and grandsons Derek and Justin), his son Michael John II and his family (wife Danielle, grandson Miles, and granddaughter Evelyn), his brother Ted Haider and his wife Carol, his sister Aimee Dalton, and is pre -deceased by his parents and his younger brother Jeffrey David. He is survived by many of his aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The extraordinary accomplishments of Michael's children brought him great joy and pride. He was just as proud of his meaningful relationships with both his son-in law and daughter-in law.

Michael was forever grateful to Sarah for the donation of one of her kidneys in 2017, helping to prolong his life.

Michael and Kathy enjoyed get-away weekends to the Poconos and Jersey shore and, for a time, whiled away summer evenings, drifting in their boat down the Rancocas Creek and Delaware River.

Michael treasured moments with his grandchildren, reading books together, watching movies, discussing history, playing pretend, watching their many sporting events and even helping to coach flag football.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, November 19 at the Calvary Presbyterian Church, 300 Fourth Street, Riverton, NJ. Doors will open at 5 p.m., followed by the service at 6, refreshments provided.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Calvary Presbyterian Church or a charity of your choice supporting the rescue of animals, the Arts or education.