John Kassa

John Kassa, of Toms River (formerly of Clifton), New Jersey, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2025, just five days shy of his 90th birthday. Born in Passaic, New Jersey John lived a full and meaningful life defined by hard work, kindness, and a deep devotion to his family.

In his early years, John worked as a car mechanic and partnered with his father in construction. With determination and skill, he built his family’s first home and later helped his brother Eddy build his. In 1962, John began a long and dedicated career at Hoffmann-LaRoche in Nutley, where he started as a chemical operations operator and later transitioned to Pharmaceutical Operations as a Pharmaceutical Maintenance Mechanic. He retired in 1991 after 29 years of service.

John was known affectionately by the Kassa side of the family as Pudgie.” John was skilled in many crafts, a real “Mr. Fix It,” and could repair just about anything. He was generous with his time and always willing to help family, friends and neighbors with projects they needed assistance with. A creative spirit with a broad imagination, he delighted in building and fabricating things for his children to enjoy as they were growing up.

John had a great sense of humor and was a bit of a prankster. His playful nature, warm heart, and many skills made him a cherished presence in the lives of those who knew him. He was a devoted husband to the late Joan (Rembis) Kassa, the love of his life, and a loving father to his daughters, Doreen and Lynn. He also leaves behind his beloved dog and loyal companion, Ally. John is predeceased by his parents, Andrew Kassa and Emily (Krzal) Kassa Anderson, his sister, Helen Kroll, his two brothers, Andrew and Edward, and a stepbrother, Donald, along with his in-laws Joseph and Nellie Rembis.

A memorial service will be held at the Presbyterian Church of Toms River on May 2, 2026, at 11:00 AM, followed later by a celebration of life where family and close friends will gather to share stories and fond memories of John’s talented, humorous, and loving spirit.

In lieu of flowers, you are invited to plant a tree in remembrance of John. 

Services are entrusted to Jersey Shore Cremation Service, 43 Taylor Avenue, Manasquan, NJ - JerseyShoreCremation.com