Obituary of John Joseph Priestner

John Joseph Priestner passed away peacefully on February 8, 2025, at  home in Boonton, NJ at the age of 94.  Born on September 23, 1930, in Paterson, NJ, John led a life marked by dedication to family, service to others and a strong work ethic.

Family was central to John’s life.  He is survived by his wife, Dorothy, two sons, Jack and his wife Karen of York, Pa. and Scott and his wife Joanne of Lancaster, Pa.  He also leaves behind three stepchildren, Scott Weisz of Clifton, NJ,; Debra Campanello of Hopatcong, NJ along with her fiance’ , Glenn Silfies and Todd Weisz and his wife, Kim of Manahawkin, NJ.  John was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.  Additionally he is survived by four brothers and four sisters as well as many nieces and nephews.  As the eldest boy in a family of fifteen children, John held a special place among his siblings. 

He was predeceased by his daughter, Barbara Priestner Werte, his first wife, Ruth, his parents William and Anna as well as three brothers and three sisters.

John served two years in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War, demonstrating courage and commitment to his country.  Following his military service he embarked on a long and successful career with AT&T Long Lines in New York City where he worked as an Area Staff Manager until his retirement in 1982.  However retirement did not mark the end of his contribution to the workforce to his community.  He later found meaningful work with Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Paterson at the Gruenert Adult Training Center and group homes for disabled adults.  In these roles, John made a lasting impact on  many lives through his kindness and dedication.

In his younger years, John enjoyed planning camping trips with the family, loading up their popup trailer and traveling the United States.  One of his favorite spots in the Country was Maine.

John also had a passion for cooking-especially during the holidays.  His famous mashed potatoes, made with generous amounts of heavy cream, sour cream and butter, became a cherished tradition among family gatherings.  Along with his love of cooking, music and anything chocolate, he did a lot of reading.  He was an avid reader of history books spanning from the Civil War through World War Two.  Throughout the years there wasn’t a Priestner family reunion he and his brothers didn’t gather together for one of their singalongs.

A funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church, 454 Germantown Road, West Milford, NJ.  Following the service John will be laid to rest at St Joseph’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in John’s name to St. Joseph’s Food Pantry or a charity of your choice