John J. McAleavey
11/05/1934 - 06/05/2015

~~John J. McAleavey, 80, of Short Hills, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 5, 2015, at home, surrounded by his loving family. Born and raised in Newark, John graduated from Seton Hall Preparatory School. He served in the US Navy aboard the USS Leyte, before earning his degree from Rutgers University.

John’s career in the produce industry has encompassed sales, marketing, merchandising, and consulting for the California Pistachio Commission, Chilean Fresh Fruit Association, the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets, as well as several regional produce commodity groups. Most recently John represented the New York Apple Association as well as the T. Marzetti Co. He passionately served as the Executive Director of the Eastern Produce Council for the past 25 years being inducted into its Hall of Fame in 2008.

John was an avid fan of all sports. He was a successful little league coach for many years, never missed a game his daughter or son played, and was a fixture at Millburn High School athletic events especially the basketball games coached by his son John. He delighted in cheering on his grandchildren in their athletic endeavors and was loyal to his favorite teams –the New York Giants, his children’s alma maters (Boston College and Providence College) and his beloved Boston Red Sox.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Joann; children Susan Sarlund and her husband Chas; son John McAleavey; grandchildren Meghan and Charlie Sarlund; brother Tom and his wife Mike of Florida; and cousin Nancy Roberts and her husband Mike of Connecticut.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, June 11, 2015 at 10 a.m. at St. Rose of Lima Church, Short Hills. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Westfield. There will be a visitation on Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Bradley, Smith & Smith Funeral Home, 415 Morris Avenue, Springfield.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to The John McAleavey Jr. Fund to help continue its 20-year tradition of providing services for individuals and families affected by spinal cord injuries. P.O. Box 514, Short Hills, NJ 07078


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