John D. Claehsen

John Dean Claehsen, 67, of Butler, NJ, passed away on May 21, 2026, in Chilton Hospital, hand in hand, and surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Rochelle Park, NJ, John lived in Clifton, NJ, and River Edge, NJ before moving to Butler, NJ where he was known to sit on the side porch with a comfort-cigar and his best German Shepherd, Sandy. A devoted husband to Susan Claehsen; John built a family-centered life, valued tradition and loyalty above all, and held tight to the simple joys those foundations brought him.

He was a proud and loving father to Peter Claehsen and Andrew Claehsen. Nothing made John happier than being “Grandpa” to Gryffin, Scarlett, and Nathan, who were the light of his life and his wellspring of countless smiles and cherished memories.

John gained peace and fulfillment in the outdoors. He could be found regularly fixing cars or gardening. He adored fishing most, dropping a hook in any lake or river he and his boys could find, especially the Navesink River down the Jersey shore, where countless “fishing stories” evolved with friends. Whether by the water, under the hood of a car, or simply surrounded by family, he was happiest in life’s genuine moments.

He had an eclectic work history, including auto body and his favorite, the Glen Rock DPW, where he was known to be continuously busy, beautifying the grounds.

Those who knew John knew he had a stubborn streak that was impossible to miss. He stood firm in what he believed, did things his own way, and rarely let anyone change his mind once it was made up. But beneath that stubbornness was, once again, a loyal heart and a deep gratitude for his family.

Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort imagining a joyful reunion in heaven between him and those pre-deceased including: his parents Harry and Barbara Claehsen, his in-laws Rashid and Dorthea Dahabsu, and his furry best friend, Sandy.

John is survived by his wife, Susan; his sons Peter and Andrew, and their wives, Tori and Robyn, all his grandchildren, his sister Debbie Pinto, and her husband Frank Pinto, and his niece and nephew, Jennifer and Frankie Pinto.

John’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

The Claehsen Family will receive friends and family Tuesday, May 26, 2026 from 3:00 - 6:30 PM followed by a Funeral Service at 6:30 PM at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home, 257 Godwin Ave, Wyckoff, NJ.

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