John Richard Yankowski

John Richard Yankowski, 78, of Highland Lakes died unexpectedly at St. Anthony’s Hospital, Warwick, N.Y. on Monday, July 15, 2013.

Born to John and Rose Yankowski in Passaic, he had lived in Elmwood Park, before moving to the Highland Lakes, section of Vernon Twp., 46 years ago.

John worked as a tool and die maker for many years in Pompton Lakes, before retiring in 2003. John was a Former Fire Chief and Exempt Member of the Highland Lakes Fire Department. He was very active with the Highland Lakes Swim Team and enjoyed fishing, gardening, working on the computer and reading. He was a doting husband, father and grandfather and had a passion for dogs.

Yankowski is survived by his wife of 57 years Joan Yankowski (nee Orin); children Karen Knight of Bridgewater, Gail Oroho (James) of Highland Lakes, Lori Yankowski of Gatlinburg, Tenn. and Jodi Geary (Dan) of Williamsport, Pa.; grandchildren Marietta, Megan, Kelly, Patrick, Justin and Alyssa; siblings Richard Yankowski of Roseland and Margaret Iannaccone of Hawthorne; and 18 grand dogs.

Funeral arrangements by Ferguson-Vernon Funeral Home, 241 Route 94, Vernon are private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be sent to the Highland Lakes Fire Department, 813 Canistear Road, Highland Lakes, NJ 07422.

For information and condolences visit fergusonvernonfuneralhome.com.