John Joseph Sahlberg, III

John Joseph Sahlberg III, 64, passed away peacefully at Valley Hospital with his daughter by his side.

In 1958, John was born in Ridgewood, New Jersey. He is one of four children, born to John and Cathleen Sahlberg. He grew up in Ridgewood and attended high school there. After graduation, he followed in his father’s and grandfather’s footsteps of the fire service and became a 3rd generation firefighter. He was previously married to Ann Marie’s mother, Toni Ann Pastre (Gallo).

John’s passions in life were volunteering in his local fire department, learning new trades, attending Church, and spending time with his family.  John had a love for constructing and painting small models.  These models varied from military planes, sports cars, or ships, but he was always up for the challenge.  He even constructed a large doll house for his daughter to play with in lieu of buying one.  John was not only devoted to his family and friends but also his Christian faith. John was a Deacon at Living Water Tabernacle.

John volunteered proudly and honorably for the Lodi (Rescue Truck Co 1, Truck 611, and Truck 613), Little Falls (Great Notch Co. 4), and Pompton Plains (Company 1) Fire Departments.  John also attained the ranks of Lieutenant and Captain while in Lodi and in Pompton Plains. He received many lifesaving awards while serving his communities. 

He was predeceased by his mother, Cathleen Mary and father, John Joseph.

He is survived by his daughter, Ann Marie Cottrell (Sahlberg) and her husband Daniel of Pompton Lakes, his two grandchildren, Danny and Maddie. Daniel’s mother, Diane and Daniel’s sisters, Christine Cottrell and her boyfriend Lloyd, and Jacqueline Heyman (Cottrell) and her husband Keith Heyman with their children, Zachary and Brooke. John’s sister, Tracy Lewis (Sahlberg) and her husband Scott, John’s brother, Doug Sahlberg and his wife Judy, and John’s brother, Robbie Sahlberg and his wife Olga, along with his Uncle Chuck Sahlberg (father’s brother). He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

John was a fun loving and laidback person. John was truly a special person and loved to make everyone laugh. He enjoyed discussing politics and new construction projects.  John was kind and generous with everyone he met. He will be immensely missed by all. He will forever be remembered as a loving father, caring friend and brother, and cherished grandfather.

Those wishing to make a donation in John’s memory are asked to please consider the NJ Firemen’s Home, 565 Lathrop Avenue, in Boonton, NJ, 07005.