- Date Of Birth: January 4, 1944
- Date Of Death: April 6, 2021
- State: New Jersey
John R. Dempkowski, 77 of Red Bank, NJ died peacefully surrounded by his family on Tuesday April 6, 2021 at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital.
Born in Bayonne, NJ he lived in Pine Lake Park for many years before moving to Red Bank.
John worked as a Block Operator for New Jersey Transit Railroad for 40 years.
Predeceased by his parents Richard and Wanda and his brother Stephen.
He is survived by his companion Elaine Welby, his daughter Elena and her husband Paul Matino, his daughter Michele and her husband Ken Hess, their mother Mary Ann Dempkowski, his former spouse and dear friend, three grandchildren Kellen, Alison and Maren Hess and his brother Thomas.
John often spoke fondly of growing up in Bayonne playing billiards, racing his GTO, imbibing in a glass or two of Chivas Regal Royal Salute and running the table during family card nights. He was known to travel back to Bayonne to Pride Bakery just to get a cheese Babka.
John was devoted to his family. He lived for time with his grandchildren, family gatherings and friends. He created many treasured family rituals like the race for the call to wish a Happy Day before your birthday, Monday bagels and dinner, ¨Hey Lolly¨ and ¨How are my Hess Children?” to name a few. He never missed an activity involving his grandchildren and would travel forty-five minutes for a two minute school ceremony. John and Elaine enjoyed a full social life with their community of friends.
John enjoyed ¨going on a mission¨ to research anything technology-based to help find the best gifts to make everyone happy. His favorites included iPads, computers, book lights, flashlights, lanterns, and LL Bean coats. John particularly enjoyed Pete & Elda´s Pizza and a Red Lobster dinner. He will be missed by all who had the opportunity to know him.
