John J. Witz, 69, of North Cape May, passed away Thursday, April 16, 2026 at Cooper University Hospital Cape Regional in Cape May Court House, New Jersey. He leaves behind a family who adored him and a long list of friends and acquaintances who will always remember his laugh, his stories, and his generous heart.

Born in Philadelphia on August 22, 1956, John was the son of William and Mary (McShane) Witz. He spent his early years in Southwest Philly, lived for a time in North Wilmington, Delaware. In 2009 moved to Lower Township, New Jersey where he resided most recently in North Cape May. As John often said, he would have lived anywhere - even in a cardboard box - as long as it was with Tracy, his beloved wife of 26 years. They started out as friends and became much more; devoted to one another ever since.

John lived with honesty, humor, and heart. For 35 years he was a proud Friend of Bill’s; Living Sober was his touchstone and he carried its message with gentle determination. Through AA he made deep, lasting friendships - especially with his sponsor Jim and the group he loved, the “Grateful Geezers.” Those relationships sharpened his kindness and kept his wit warm: if you met John for even a few minutes, you likely walked away smiling.

Tall at 6'2", John was larger than life in presence and delightfully self-aware in his clumsiness. He was a natural storyteller - legendary around a campfire - unbeatable at the game “two truths and a lie,” and forever ready to laugh at himself. His tales were a mix of inappropriateness and mystery, and they always pulled everyone in. John’s personality showed up in everything he did, including his style. If you saw neon or bright pink, it was probably him. He never left the house without first using shower to shower which usually was all over the bathroom and later, a very generous splash of cologne.

John once saved a woman from jumping off the 65th Street Bridge in Southwest Philly and was later recognized by the mayor of Philadelphia for his bravery. Loyal to the Daily News long after it went digital, he loved to grumble about modern life with affectionate exasperation. He loved good food - everything from fine steakhouses to roadside hot dog stands - and chocolate ice cream was his steady indulgence. His clams casino were a family favorite, and he showed his love through his cooking. Affectionately called “Johnny G” during his Delaware days for his loyalty to Super G, he loved music (especially alternative and indie), the open road with no destination in mind, and fishing - where catching anything was optional but the company was not.

Above all, John adored his family. He had a rare gift for making every child feel special; he didn’t merely spend time with his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews - he became one of them. He played, danced, teased, and hugged with a childlike joy that earned him the title “The Best Pappy in the World.”

John was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mary Witz, and his brother, Francis Witz. He is survived by his wife, Tracy Witz (née Hoey); his children Jaime (Dan) Tanner, John Witz Jr., and Rachel (Sean) Skvasik; his siblings Mary (Kenny) Bartlett, Billy (Jane) Witz, Peggy (Bill) Sullivan, Mickey (Anne) Witz, and Betty (Joe) Witz-Clarke; and his cherished grandchildren Daniel, Joshua, Alexis, Jessica, and Scarlett. He also leaves many nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends who will always carry a favorite “John story.”

A Memorial Gathering will be held Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30PM. at Evoy Funeral Home, 3218 Bayshore Road, North Cape May, NJ, followed by time for family and friends to share memories. In true John fashion, guests are encouraged to wear bright clothing. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the General Service Office, P.O. Box 2407, James A. Farley Station, New York, NY 10116-2407.

If you knew John, you know this much is true: life was never boring with him in it - and it was a whole lot brighter.