John R Tengowski

John R. Tengowski, 81, of Waretown, NJ, peacefully passed away on October 15, 2022, surrounded by his loving family.  John was born and raised in Elizabeth, NJ. In 1971 he moved to Lanoka Harbor with his wife Barbara to raise a family, eventually retiring to Waretown.

John was employed by General Motors and also owned and operated Harbor Building Maintenance. John served in the Army National Guard for 6 years. John served his community when he felt he could make a difference.  In 1977 he held a seat on the Lacey Township board of education and was a charter member of the Lacey Elks Lodge 2518.

John enjoyed traveling with his family, taking care of his property and driving his tractor. He enjoyed country music and going to concerts. He always looked forward to an annual trip to Vero Beach with his two sisters and brother-in-law.

John was blessed to have the opportunity to be involved with his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed working on projects with his kids, always having his tool box ready to go! John was most proud of his role as pop pop to his 6 grandchildren, supporting them in every way possible. Simple things in life made him happy, having the family over for a casual dinner just to be together and have fun.

John fought a courageous battle with his illness and lost, but during that time he never let his sense of humor die. Life will be different without him but his memory will live forever.

John was predeceased by his parents, John and Elizabeth and stepfather Edward Gorzelnik. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years Barbara (Gorzelnik); daughter Laura Kopack and her husband Peter, son John and his wife Tara Bernardini, son Robert and his wife Beth (Grike), his precious grandchildren, Lilianne, PJ, Benjamin, Anna, Brody and Dean; his sisters Patricia Morris, Elizabeth Ziobro and her husband Michael, many nieces and nephews and life long friend Sal.

In lieu of flowers the family would be grateful for donations in his name to 

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (giving.mskcc.org)

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