John McHugh

John “Buck” McHugh, 86, passed away on August 31, 2025. Born in Washington Heights, NY, John was the fourth child of Peter and Annie (Goodwin) McHugh. John graduated from Cardinal Hayes High School in the Bronx and enlisted in the Marine Corp at the age of 17. He served his beloved country for four years after which he embarked on a long career in the insurance industry. John joined Equitable Life Insurance Company in 1962, where he dedicated himself for over 30 years. He attended Pace University at night and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance. John married the love of his life, Constance “Connie” (Tuzeo), whom he was married to for 61 years. Together they raised three children in Ringwood, NJ. John and Connie spent many years in their favorite place, Hawaii, where John became famous for his “Aloha” greeting.

John enjoyed the outdoors. He was an avid gardener and loved the beach. He was a sports enthusiast and longtime Yankees and Rangers fan. John coached his son’s baseball team for many years, where they enjoyed capturing a New Jersey state Little League championship in 1982. Later, John (“Pop”) loved nothing more than spending time with his grandchildren. Pop attended many baseball, basketball and soccer games, traveling near and far to encourage his adored grandchildren. Everyone knew when Pop was at a game; he had a unique way of “encouraging” from the sidelines.

John found his unique calling and devoted many years to Alcoholics Anonymous. He attended many meetings and helped countless people achieve and maintain sobriety. The fellowship of AA was something John held very close to his heart.

John is survived by his beloved wife Connie. Loving father of Susan Devlin (Donald), Edward McHugh (Tracie) and Erin Schouten (Eric). Devoted grandfather to Riley Castino, Matthew Devlin (Samantha), Finn McHugh, Derek Schouten, Nicole Devlin, Alexa Schouten and Madden McHugh. Great grandfather to Tommy Castino, Luke Devlin and Amelia Devlin. Dear brother of Ann Maloney and Peter McHugh and uncle to several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, brothers Patrick and Charles McHugh and nephews Johnny and Steven Duffy.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, September 7 from 2:00 – 6:00 pm at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home, www.vpfh.com, 257 Godwin Ave. Wyckoff, NJ.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Catherine of Bologna Church, 112 Erskine Rd. in Ringwood, NJ on Monday, September 8 at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Valley Home and Hospice Care. 

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