John A. Wittekind Sr, 82 of Hillsdale NJ succumbed to Leukemia on the 19th of May 2024. John was born in Elmhurst, New York to Anthony and Virginia Wittekind. John graduated from Loughlin High School in 1960 and Seton Hall University in 1964. Marrying the love of his life, Grace, they moved out of Astoria, Queens to Hillsdale NJ in 1976 to give his young children a house with a yard. John is survived by his loving wife, children and grandchildren.
John dedicated his entire teaching career to PS 167 Wagner Junior High School in Manhattan, New York. Spanning 35 years, he started out as a Physical Education teacher before entering into administration as Assistant Principal and then as Principal. As Principal, he proudly elevated his school towards excellence in making it one of the most competitive and desireable schools in the city for roughly 10 years until his retirement in 1999. His most enjoyable memories were in that school with the many life long friends he made and with the many kids that walked those halls. He was passionate about enhancing the education system, giving teachers the tools and techniques they needed to teach, and giving kids the best opportunity to be successful in High School and life.
He loved to coach any sport, watch his beloved NY Yankees, meticulously tend to his lawn, hang out with his grandkids, and play golf.
The wake and prayer service will take place at Becker Funeral home in Westwood NJ on Wednesday, 22nd of May 2024 from 4 to 8 pm. Funeral Mass will be at Our Lady of Mercy in Park Ridge NJ on Thursday, 23rd May 2024 at 10 am and interred at Maryrest in Mahwah NJ immediately following.
In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to St Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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