Born April 26, 1946, in Sussex, NJ, he was the beloved son of John P. & Marjorie L. Wyker.
John devoted 37 years of hard work to the New Jersey Department of Transportation in Branchville, serving as a crew foreman before retiring in 2002. His career reflected the kind of quiet dependability that others counted on, built on pride in doing the job the right way.
In 1997, John married the love of his life, Sandra Wyker, (nee Sliker), and together they blended their families into one. They made their home in Branchville, creating a life rooted in commitment, care, and the enduring strength of being there for one another.
John’s interests were as spirited as they were sincere. He enjoyed deer hunting and was a member of the Deep Hollow Hunt club. He was also a member of the Montague Hunt Club, where Sunday nights often meant a good hand of cards, and the easy camaraderie of friends.
He loved racing stock cars, bringing his car—number 111—to Lake Moc-A-Tek, setting up camp, and then racing at Moc-A-Tek Raceway on Saturday nights. He was also an avid motorcycle rider and a member of the North Jersey Riders and the Old Coots Bike club, embracing the open road with the same confidence and resolve that marked so much of his life.
Above all, John loved his grandchildren dearly and took great pride in watching every sporting event they participated in. Even when he could not be there in person, he would watch the livestream from home, making sure they knew his encouragement was constant and his pride unwavering.
John also held a special place in his heart for his 1939 Farmall Tractor that once belonged to his Uncle Bill. It was his pride and joy, and he cherished the time he spent driving it in the Sandyston Tractor Day Parade, marking moments that spoke to his appreciation for tradition, family ties, and the simple satisfaction of time well spent.
A proud, dedicated member of the Branchville Fire Department for 53 years, John served his community with steadfast devotion. His long commitment reflected a life shaped by responsibility, courage, and a sincere willingness to show up when others needed help.
John was predeceased by his beloved parents, John P. & Marjorie L. Wyker; his brother in law, Stephen Paugh; and his beloved dog, Brody.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Sandra Wyker; his sister, Lynn Wyker; his sister & brother in law, Lois and Arthur House; his sister and brother in law, Debora and Bill Radmore; and his sister, Carol Paugh. He is also survived by his children, Dawn and Jay Christiano; Tracy Drake; Jessica and Brian Mizerek; and Robert and Stephanie Keegan; and by his beloved grandchildren, Kayla, Brianna, Baron, Aubrey, Robert, Hunter, William, and Harlee. He is further survived by Hudson, his great-grandson on the way. John also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, whom he loved dearly.
Visitation will be held on May 14, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A Fireman’s Service will be held on May 14, 2026, at 7:30 pm. A Graveside Service will be held on May 15, 2026, at 11:00 am at the funeral home with interment to follow at Frankford Plains Cemetery, 100 Plains Rd, Augusta.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Branchville Fire Department, P.O. Box 2425, Branchville, New Jersey 07826, or to the Blue Ridge Rescue Squad, 350 US 206, Branchville, New Jersey 07826 (https://www.blueridgerescuesquad.org/about).
