John Joseph Kusmanick

John Joseph Kusmanick

John Joseph Kusmanick Jr., 73, passed away peacefully at home on February 7, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. A devoted husband, protective father, proud grandfather, and loyal friend. John was known for his incredible sense of humor, willingness to help family and friends, and his passion for fishing and collecting his “treasures” through the years.

John was born in Woodbury, New Jersey, to the late John J. Kusmanick Sr. and Annamae Kusmanick. He was a devoted and loving husband to his late wife, Joanne Kusmanick, with whom he shared a life rooted in commitment and family.

A proud veteran, John served in the United States Navy and was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia aboard the U.S.S. Puget Sound. His service to his country was a source of pride that stayed with him throughout his life.

After returning home, John became a successful business owner, owning several gas stations where he employed many family members and friends—always giving opportunities to those he cared about. He also worked for 322 Plumbers Union for many years upon retiring. Fridays were sacred in the Kusmanick household, spent playing pinochle with friends and family, surrounded by laughter and friendly competition.

To his children, John was the fun dad—the one every kid in the neighborhood wanted to be around. Growing up with him meant adventure: sledding in the winter, nature hikes, turtle hunting, and tubing. He made childhood feel magical and full of possibility.

John’s greatest passion was fishing, especially the ocean he loved so deeply. An exceptional fisherman, he always had a boat and spent countless weekends flounder fishing in Brigantine once the season began. He proudly participated in the Elks Fishing Tournament every year, winning several trophies—though for him, being on the water mattered just as much as the wins.

He was a fiercely loving and protective father to John Kusmanick III (Jamie) and JoElla Kusmanick (James) and a caring, proud grandfather to Jonas, Jada, JoAnna, and Jean, each of whom brought him immense joy.

John is also survived by his siblings Bob Kusmanick (Diane), Ed Kusmanick (Gayle), and Debbie Kusmanick, along with many extended family members and friends who were lucky to know him.

John’s legacy lives on through the memories he created, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Come celebrate 73 great years Tuesday February 17, 10 am to 11 am at Daley Life Celebration Studio, 1518 Kings Highway Swedesboro Where there will be an 11 am service.

4 Comments

  1. Joan & Tim ORourke says:

    Debbie and family so sorry for your loss. Please know that we are praying for you and your family.

  2. Charles Durr says:

    John was one of a kind. He had such a affable demeanor that disarmed everyone he met. His unique laugh and sense of humor made every fishing trip enjoyable.
    He was truly one of the biggest influences on my most passionate hobby of fishing and my choice of careers. He will be missed.

  3. Jenine Peters says:

    I am ao sorry for your loss. I loved growing up in the neighborhood with your dad from swinging from the roof, sledding behind K-Mart, snow tubing behind his car, swimming in the backyard tarp pool, to hot chocolate with your mom. I will miss his smile & his always being reafy for sweets & good food, as he got older. I am so sorry I can’t be at his service. You are all in my thoughts & prayers.

  4. Kathleen Olszewski says:

    I have just learned of the passing of John, and my heart is heavy. I have known John for 20 years while selling outdoors at the Berlin Flea Market. John was the nicest and funniest guy I have ever known and I cannot believe I will never see him again. He had so much positive and playful energy. My heart goes out to his family and I pray for their comfort and strength in the coming months. John will never be forgotten and he will live on in my heart.

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