John Francis Wojdyla

He was born in Lipnica Gorna, Poland on Jan. 4, 1945. John graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University – Metropolitan Campus and received a BSME, Engineering – Polymer Science, 1971-1975. He married his love, Teresa Kazimierczak, at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, in Irvington NJ, on June 5, 1971. This past June, they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, inspiring everyone with their enduring love for each other. After retiring, they moved from NJ to AZ to enjoy an outdoor lifestyle and made many new friends.

John began his career in the Army, earning the rank of Sergeant before completing his service. After college he had an illustrious career path, 25 years as Sr. Research Scientist for Union Carbide, 2 years as Research Leader for The Dow Chemical Company, 2 years as a Financial Services Associate for Prudential Financial, and lastly 7 years as GWIM Senior Operations Representative for Merrill Lynch, after which he retired in 2013.

John had a heart too big to keep to himself and loved to volunteer. He was Past Nest President for the Polish Falcons of America for 53 years, Member of the Board of Trustees for the Polish Cultural Foundation for 16 years and participated in the annual 400-mile Bike Tour Fundraiser for Ocean’s Harbor House Foundation for 19 years. He would also care for any stray animals that would wander into their yard as if they were his own.

John was a fascinating character who always enjoyed living life. A lifelong football (soccer) player, skier, and longtime cyclist…he loved the outdoors and going fast. An avid skier, he would hit the slopes with his best friend George, and both our families. We skied with him on most of the mountains in the northeast, our favorite being Grey Rocks in Canada. Once he moved out west, he skied with Jennifer in Colorado, Flagstaff, Whistler Blackcomb, and recently Heavenly in Lake Tahoe. He was so inspiring on skis, he even taught Jenn’s friends a few tricks. It was a challenge finding a ski resort he hadn’t been to before. We would laugh every time he told us the story of learning to ski in Poland by strapping 2x4s to his feet. Growing up, we have wonderful memories of living in Europe, including meeting family in Poland. Derek remembers dad always cutting the neighbors’ grass by the curb at their old Jackson, NJ home. When he asked dad why, his answer was a testament to his character, “Because it’s the neighborly thing to do”. John was many things, a loving husband, Father, Grandfather, Son, Brother, and Veteran. He always stayed true to his heart, his faith, and his values. He was a kind soul that welcomed everyone as family rather than friends. Forever leaving a memorable impression on everyone he met, he will be missed greatly.

John was survived by his wife, Teresa; son, Derek; daughter in-law, Kathleen; daughter, Jennifer; son in-law, Neal; and grandson, Ethan.

A funeral mass for John will be held Thursday, November 4, 2021 at 10:30 AM at St. Thomas More, 6180 W Utopia Rd, Glendale, AZ 85308.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.valleyofthesunfuneralhome.com for the Wojdyla family.