John Francis Auwerda, retired educator

John Francis Auwerda, 85, of Rehoboth Beach, passed away at his home Thursday, Nov. 26, 2015, surrounded by his loving family.

John was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. and spent summers with his family in Awosting, Hewitt, N.J. John spent 30 years in Sparta, N.J, before moving to Rehoboth Beach 19 years ago. He was a proud member of the U.S. Navy, serving from 1951-55. He received his bachelor's of education from Mt. St. Mary’s College in Emmitsburg, Md., and his master's in education from Montclair State College and worked on his doctorate in education from Lehigh University.

John started his teaching career as an English teacher at Newton High School and retired as principal at Lake Hopatcong High School.

John is predeceased by his children: Thomas Joaquin Auwerda and Patricia Marie Auwerda. He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Adelaide deLyra Auwerda; devoted children: John Christian Auwerda and his wife Wendy, James Vincent, Terrance Auwerda (Carmen), Jean Louise Bennett and her husband Gary, Adelaide Wilmot and her husband Christopher, Gary Francis Auwerda, Robert Peter Auwerda, and Andrew Auwerda. John is also survived by 15 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. If you couldn’t find “Jack” on the golf course, he could be found tinkering in his workshop.

A Catholic Mass will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 2, at Our Lady of the Lake Church, 294 Sparta Ave., Sparta, N.J. Burial will follow at Sparta Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to Catholic Charities. The Goble Funeral Home, Sparta, is in charge of arrangements.