John Apel

John T. Apel

John T. Apel 72, was born on July 28, 1948 and passed away on November 15, 2020.  He grew up in Ringwood NJ, the oldest of 5 children born to John and Marlene (née Johannemann).

John loved life. He was an avid fisherman and hunter. He enjoyed surfcasting on Island Beach with his beloved wife, Sonia.

In 1974, he met his wife Sonia while he wrote her a ticket for speeding. Shortly thereafter, they were engaged to be married. John loved his Sonia and she adored her John.  When times got tough, their love never faltered. The love was an unwavering kind of love that as a couple they were blessed to have.

John was a detective sergeant for the Port Authority of NY & NJ and retired in 1998.  He joined the Port Authority at age 23 and it was there that he made many of his lasting friendships. John absolutely loved his job. He was a one-of-a-kind officer.

John always had the affection and admiration of those around him. He was beloved by family and friends alike. For his friends, he was a larger-than-life figure whose stories and accomplishments captivated those around him. John was a selfless man, always giving to those who needed help.   John had a quick wit and an exceptional dry sense of humor. His smile was infectious and everyone who knew him loved him.

For his children, he was a loving father who loved unconditionally and who always took the time to truly listen and understand their interests. He was proud of his children, always showering us with compliments and affection. John was blessed with 9 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.

John is survived by his adoring wife Sonia (née Parra) of 45 years; he is greatly loved and dearly missed by his 3 children, Carla Kaufman and her husband Jamie, Jeffrey Apel and his wife Laura, and Heather Lynn. He is also survived by his mother, Marlene Apel (Johannemann) and his four siblings, Chris, Peggy, David and Susie.

Funeral from the Galante Funeral Home 2800 Morris Ave. Union on Friday at 9:30AM

Visitation on Thursday from 2 - 4 & 7- 9PM

Funeral mass at St. James Church in Springfield at 10:30 AM

Interment at Fairview Cemetery in Westfield NJ