John Sproat, 70, died peacefully at his home in Howell, N.J. on June 16th, surrounded by his loving family. John was born in Brooklyn, NY, in 1948 to John and Muriel Sproat, and landed on Staten Island where he grew up and graduated from Curtis High School in 1965. He studied at Staten Island Community College, then joined the US Air Force, where he proudly served as a Weapons Mechanic in the Vietnam War.
Shortly before serving his country overseas, he met his bride to be, Carol Martin, a Staten Island girl who was working as an RN at St. Vincent’s Hospital. They married in 1970 and moved to Griffiss AFB, Rome, NY, where John was completing active duty. Eventually, they would start a family and in 1986, move to Middletown, NJ, where they spent the next 30 years.
John owned and operated Oak Hill Graphics, Inc. in Midtown Manhattan for over 35 years. His success in the printing business came as the result of a strong work ethic and an ability to maintain long term trust from his customers and colleagues.
The thing that John treasured most in life was his family and he truly was our selfless giant. He focused all of his love and attention on the people he loved, no matter the challenge. John was a golfer, a music lover, and an amazing cook! Road trips to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park were his and Carol’s happy place. But nothing was greater than the joy that his grandchildren infused in their Pop. His generosity was boundless with them.
He is survived by his wife Carol, Howell, NJ, son, John (Jennifer) Sproat of Howell, NJ, son, Bryan (Patty Hennessy) of New York, NY, sister and brother-in-law, Catherine and Thomas Coohill, and his adoring grandchildren Norah, Owen, and Maggie. Also survived by many loving in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends.
Visitation will take place at O’Brien Funeral Home, 2028 Hwy. 35, Wall, on Wednesday, June 20, 2018, from 4-8 P.M. The funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. William the Abbot Church, Howell, on Thursday, June 21, 2018, at 11 A.M. Committal will take place at the N.J. Veteran’s Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hackensack Meridian Hospice or National Kidney Foundation. Condolences may be sent via www.obrienfuneralhome.com.