John Frederick Slyster Jr.

John Frederick Slyster, Jr. left us too soon this February 28th, 2023 in Orlando, Florida.

He was born in Lockport, New York on August 21, 1959 to the late John F. Sr. and Gloria (Lamaspi) Slyster.

John found the love of his life early, marrying his beloved high school sweetheart, Donna Schumacher Slyster, and thoughtfully cared for and partnered with her all their days.

John leveraged his Mechanical Engineering degree to innovate developments for both Moore Research Center and General Motors on a global scale. He holds three patents.

John humbly set it all aside to be a devoted father when his daughters arrived. He applied his skills to dippy eggs, ballet buns, excellent cooking and grilling, endless Universal and Disney Park experiences, and of course encouraging school and sports. With good grades, Paige earned the dog she wanted. Mulligan McDivot Slyster became John’s adopted “son” and the two were inseparable here on earth until Mulligan passed February 8, 2021.

John also pursued a new venture in the pool industry, which enabled him to balance family and work. The business thrived until the market turned. He chose to bow out gracefully and, he and Donna even assisted other struggling businesses in the interim.

But John’s creativity continued to thrive and serve. He loved building things and insisted on perfection with his engineering mind. He renovated homes for multiple family members, and their very own dream home in Wilson, New York outside of Buffalo. This became their favorite getaway, and their retirement plan, right on Lake Ontario with a beautiful view of Canada, and complete with a “Garage Mahal”, every man’s dream.

John was a generous person, who was willing to share his talents, treasures, and support. He was always willing to drop what he was doing and help someone in need. Many will remember the “yellow house” on Brookline, which was on the 4th tee box at Bay Hill and everyone was welcome. Some of the backyard parties included the annual Bay Hill Invitational, the annual Niagara University cheerleading events and their children’s parties. Even the pro golfers and their caddies felt their special touch as they rounded the corner and their favorite snacks were waiting for them at the tee box.

John loved golf. He was thrilled to win his flights at the various Bay Hill member events, winning at other tournaments and of course winning skins put a smile on his face regularly. He was blessed to have the opportunity to play with notorious giants such as Gary Player and play courses around the world. One of his fondest memories was receiving a compliment for one of his best shots directly from Mr. Palmer.

With all of these adventures, John would still always consider himself a private man, and would always value family above all else. He cherished his friends and family, most tenderly his three girls.

John and his bride had traveled to many exciting places and planned many new travels with her pending retirement. But now, they turn their eyes to Heaven.

He was preceded in death by his parents and father-in-law.

John is survived by his dear wife, Donna; daughters Paige (Trevor) Allyn Slyster, Destiny Slyster and grandson Elijah; siblings Joanne (David Austin) Slyster and Ann (Edward) Rice; mother-in-law Claire (Donald) Schumacher; brothers-in-law Donald (Mary) Schumacher and Lawrence (Jennifer) Schumacher; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Services will be held in the Wilson area this summer. In lieu of flowers, the Slyster Family invites you to make a donation in John’s name to a charity of your choice.

Condolences may be offered in the online guest book below.