John T. Surless

John T. Surless, the heart and soul of the family (born June 26, 1936 and passed away on October 15, 2021); born in Brooklyn, NY. Beloved husband of Graciela Surless (nee Sanchez); happily married for 61 years; leaves 5 children; Victoria Kissane (nee Surless); John Surless; James Surless; Michael Surless; and Robert Surless. 8 beloved grandchildren, James Jr., Amanda, Shannon, Collin, Courtney, Veronica, Gabrielle, and Isabella. Loving Father-in-Law to Lisa, Teresa, Roxanne, John, and Jennifer. Proudly served in the United States Army; former Grand Knight of the Knights of the Columbus (St. Gabriel’s Parish); Knight Commander of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. Faithful parishioner of St. Gabriel’s parish family since 1977. Married to his beloved wife for 61 years. Born to John T. Surless and Hazel (nee McCracken) Surless. American Civil War enthusiast and proud NY Yankees and NY Giants fan. Loved his family and gave as much of his personal time as possible by retiring at an early age to spend time with them. Former President and CEO of Transammonia and Continental Grain companies. With Transammonia, opened and established international offices in Chile and then London. Loved to travel, take cruises, and vacations. He was a mentor and inspiration to many as well as motivated people to be their best. Recorder of his grandchildren’s lives through video which they will always cherish. Horse racing and breeding enthusiast with Surless Stables. Lived in Saddle River for 23 years and moved to Mahwah and resident since 2000.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 19, 2021 from 3 - 7 PM at St. Gabriel's RC Church, 88 E. Saddle River Rd, Saddle River, NJ 07458. A funeral mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 20, 2021 at 10:30 AM at St. Gabriel's RC Church in Saddle River. The mass will be live streamed. Interment will follow at Maryrest Cemetery in Mahwah, NJ. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of John to Villa Marie Claire Hospice, https://www.holyname.org/foundation/donation.aspx or Tomorrows Children's Fund, https://www.tcfkid.org/About/Mission

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