John Memmelaar, Sr.

John Richard Memmelaar Sr. passed away peacefully on July 22, 2026, after a long battle with dementia. He was 91 years old. In his final hours, he was surrounded by his loving family, who made certain he knew how deeply he was loved and how much he meant to everyone whose lives he touched.

John's life was defined by his devotion to his family, his integrity, his leadership, and his passion for American manufacturing. Born and raised in Wayne, New Jersey, he later moved to Pompton Lakes as a teenager. There he met the love of his life, Ellen, whom he married and shared 60 wonderful years with. Together they built a family, raising two children, Ellen Luise and John Jr., who were among his greatest sources of pride.

Nothing brought John greater joy than his grandchildren, Olivia Ann and Ava Lily Memmelaar. He cherished every moment spent with them, from playing together during their early years to encouraging their individual passions as they grew. He proudly shared Olivia's interest in CNC machining and engineering while she worked summers at Royal Master, and he never missed an opportunity to attend Ava's plays, always listening with pride as she spoke of her dream to become a physician and dedicate her life to helping others. His love, encouragement, and unwavering belief in them will remain with them always.

Those who knew John remember a man of exceptional character, unwavering integrity, and strong principles. He believed that a person's word mattered and that success was measured not only by accomplishments, but by how one treated others. These values were passed on to his children, grandchildren, and countless others whose lives he influenced. They remain a lasting part of his legacy.

Professionally, John was affectionately known as "The Boss" within the walls of Royal Master Grinders. His remarkable career spanned more than six decades and reflected a lifetime of dedication, hard work, and continuous learning. Beginning as employee number 14, he drove the company van before entering a six-year machinist apprenticeship while attending evening classes at Fairleigh Dickinson University.

His talent and determination led him through nearly every level of the company. He advanced from machinist to engineer, then to sales engineer. In 1964, he was appointed Sales Manager; in 1975, Vice President; and in 1987, President of Royal Master Grinders.

During his more than 60 years with the company, John's leadership helped shape Royal Master into a respected name in the manufacturing industry. More importantly, he cared deeply about the people who worked alongside him. He celebrated their successes, supported them through life's milestones, and stood beside them during difficult times. His leadership positively impacted hundreds of employees and their families, and his influence will continue to be felt for generations at Royal Master.

John's contributions extended well beyond the company. As an advocate for American manufacturing, he participated in numerous international trade missions promoting U.S. industry, traveling to countries including China, Poland, and the Czech Republic. He had the honor of meeting President George H. W. Bush and proudly served on the Board of Directors of the Association for Manufacturing Technology (AMT), where he worked to strengthen and advance manufacturing throughout the United States.

Outside of work, John embraced life with the same enthusiasm that defined his career. Together, he and Ellen traveled extensively throughout the world, visiting China, much of Europe, and countless destinations across the United States. Their shared passion for antique automobiles created many unforgettable adventures. They proudly toured Europe for three weeks in their 1913 Ford Model T, traveling through four countries, and celebrated the 100th Anniversary London-to-Brighton Veteran Car Run in their 1902 Oldsmobile. John was an active member of several antique automobile organizations, including the Horseless Carriage Club of America (HCCA), the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA), the Model A Ford Club of America (MAFCA), and the Model T Ford Club of America (MTFCA).

John's greatest accomplishments were not measured by titles or achievements, but by the lives he touched. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, leader, and friend. His kindness, wisdom, integrity, and generosity will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

His legacy lives on through his family, the company he helped build, the people he mentored, and the countless lives he enriched. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in John's memory to The Webster House or The Franciscan Breadline. 

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