John Peak

John Dyer Peak (Jack), aged 78, died peacefully on September 29th, surrounded by his loving family. Jack was born on November 12, 1931 as the youngest of nine children of Harry J. (Knute) and Catherine C. Peak, and is survived by sisters Eleanor Zane of Carneys Point and Margaret (Peggy) Carney of Tucson, AZ. He was predeceased by his parents, brothers Harry, Leo, Tom and Larner, and sisters Mae and Beatrice. Jack graduated from Penns Grove Regional High School in 1950 where he played football. He continued his football career at Shippensburg University after three years of service in the Marine Corps. It was at Shippensburg where he met the love of his life, Ann. His professional life began in Harrisburg, PA at the YMCA and the Jewish Community Center. In 1964, Jack and his family returned to Penns Grove where he started working at the YMCA. In 1969, Jack created the Parks and Recreation Department in Pennsville and developed a program that was modeled across the state. It was with his guidance and leadership that the Riverview Beach Park was reclaimed after years of neglect and turned into a community treasure. Jack retired after 21 years with the Recreation Department. His hobbies were volunteering at the YMCA, woodworking, golf and his church, The Church of Our Merciful Saviour. Jack was a member of 0181 Servicemen’s Home, The YMCA Board of Directors and the Sakima Country Club Board of Governors. He is a member of the Penns Grove High School Personal Achievement Hall of Fame. He is the only man ever selected Man of the Year by two different Chambers of Commerce, after being honored by Penns Grove and Pennsville. One of his greatest pleasures was pursuing any activity in which his grandchildren were involved. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 54 years, Ann, his children John Jr. “Dusty” (Lisa) of Tucson, AZ, Kellie (Bob) and Kristin, both of Sewell, NJ, his grandchildren Krissy, Bobby, and Casey, and many close friends. He was a good man who served his country, his community, and his family with pleasure and pride and will be remembered fondly. A visitation will be held at the Church of Our Merciful Saviour, 110 E. Maple Ave. in Penns Grove on Monday, October 4 from 6 to 8 pm. The memorial service will be held on Tuesday morning at 11 am at the church, followed by interment at the Salem County Veteran’s Cemetery in Pilesgrove. Friends may also visit one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the YMCA of Salem County or the Church of Our Merciful Saviour. Arrangements are under the direction of the Ashcraft Funeral Homes, Penns Grove and Pennsville. www.ashcraftfuneralhomes.com

John Peak

November 12, 1931 - September 29, 2010