Paul J. John, Sr., age 85, longtime resident of Chalfont, PA, and Stone Harbor, NJ, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on August 23, 1940, in Philadelphia, PA, he was the son of the late Herman and Hazel (née Thomas) John. Paul grew up in the Olney section of Philadelphia and went on to graduate from North Catholic High School in 1958. He continued his education at Temple University, graduating in 1962.
Paul proudly served in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Captain. Following his military service, he went on to build a long career as Business Manager for Asplundh Tree Expert Company. After retirement he worked as the Business Manager for Mary, Mother of the Redeemer Catholic Church.
He was the loving husband of Kathleen (née O’Grady) for 64 years; devoted father of Paul Jr. (Ann), Bill (Laurie), Kathleen Toften, and Linda; and Pop Pop to Christopher John, Caitlyn (John Stevens) John, Shannon John, and Ryan Toften.
Paul played football in high school and college. He coached football, softball, and basketball for Parkwood Youth Organization and Lenape Valley Recreation Council.
In retirement he enjoyed daily two-mile walks in his neighborhood or at Peace Valley Park, fishing, watching sunsets at their home in Stone Harbor, spending time with family in his backyard “bier garten,” and trips to Disney World.
He loved his trains, and his many cats and dogs over the years.
Family and friends are invited to attend a Visitation on Thursday Evening, May 21, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Simcox-McIlvaine Funeral Home, 532 East Main Street, Lansdale, PA (across from Saint Stanislaus Roman Catholic Church); or Friday morning, May 22, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. at Saint Jude Church and Shrine, 321 West Butler Avenue, Chalfont, PA. Paul’s Mass of Christian Burial will follow beginning at 11:30 a.m.
Interment will be at Saint John Neumann Cemetery in Chalfont.
In lieu of flowers, donations can made in Paul’s name to Saint Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA; Stray Cat Blues, Colmar, PA; or Peace Valley Nature Center, Doylestown, PA.