Obituary of John F. Killmeyer

John “Jack” Francis Killmeyer II passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at St. Clare’s Hospital in Denville, NJ. He had shared 95 years of unconditional love, infectious laughter and jokes, and unforgettable memories with family and friends.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY to the late John F. Killmeyer I and Margaret Lenze, Jack was one of two sons to bless the Killmeyer household. He truly broke the mold when he was born; he was funny, courageous, smart, and present. After graduating from Brooklyn Technical High School in 1947 he went on to earn his BA from City College of New York. Jack furthered his education at Fordham University where he obtained his MBA. Jack proudly served our country in the United States Army during the Korean War. He married his soulmate and best friend, Joanne Marie Zwergel on December 22, 1979. He had a very successful career as the Audit Director for Con Edison in Manhattan, NY for many years before retirement. He left the corporate world and went to work! Jack was able to stay home and raise the children as “Mr. Mom” and he did not stop there. He was a doting husband and the best father anyone could ever wish for. He also was a Substitute Teacher at Lakeview Elementary School in Denville, NJ. He was always active in the classroom and even became the first man in Morris County to take on the title of Troop Leader for the Girl Scouts. He truly did it all.

Jack was a jokester; he made up his own language to make you laugh. He was known as a social butterfly at the Oaks in Denville, where he enjoyed all the activities and friends that he made there. He was always seen with his best buddy Russ - so much so that together they were called the famous “Jack Russell,” like the terrier. He was playful and silly and knew exactly what to say to brighten any day. He volunteered as a coach in Denville for baseball, basketball, soccer, and bowling in Rockaway. He also worked as a bowling coach at Rockaway Lanes while being “retired”. He was an active member of the Denville VFW Post 2519. At Union Hill Presbyterian Church, Jack held the title of Clerk of Session and was an active and loyal member for 30 years. He was an integral part of starting the Union Hill Church Preschool. We will never forget the way he made us feel and how he loved to exclaim “Wrong Word!” when someone greeted him with a “Hi Jack” just to get a reaction. We will also remember all the priceless experiences we shared together. Although we are deeply saddened by his passing, we take comfort in knowing he is now reunited with his beloved wife, Joanne, his daughter, Lynnelle Mahtociqala, his parents, John and Margaret, his brother, Ralph James Killmeyer, and his “lifelong dance partner” and closest friend Ralph Schocher.

His legacy will live on in the hearts of his adored children, John F. (Kathleen) Killmeyer, III, Jodianne Alise Killmeyer, and Todd John (Jordan) Killmeyer; his loving son-in-law, Ronald Mahtociqala; his cherished grandchildren, Jenny Vieira and Danny McManus, Katielynn Mahtociqala, Lxs Mahtociqala, Hudson John Killmeyer, and Beckett Austin Killmeyer; his treasured great-grandchildren; his selfless caregiver, Stephen Washington; and many dear nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family and friends. His legacy includes being known as many different titles by friends and family alike, such as Mr. Mom, Class Dad, Silly Uncle Jack, Opapa, Grandpa, Umpire, Scorekeeper, Substitute Teacher, Taxi Driver, Coach, Neighborhood Bus Driver, Girls Scout Leader, and the Originator of the chant “Fly Like An Eagle!” before the Morris Knolls Marching Band Performances.

Relatives and friends are welcome to pay their respects on Monday, August 5^th from 6 – 8 pm at Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville. Funeral Service will take place on Tuesday, August 6^th at 10 am at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Restland Memorial Park in East Hanover. Memorial Donations are being accepted to either Union Hill Presbyterian Church, 427 Franklin Rd, Denville, NJ 07834 or Denville VFW Post 2519, 85 Cedar Lake East, Denville, NJ 07834. Please leave a condolence, light a candle, and share your favorite memory of Jack here to continue to celebrate his life and let his light shine.