John 'Jack' Schaaf II Dies at 68: Served in Army National Guard

John "Jack" Schaaf II died Oct. 29 in Morristown surrounded by family and friends, according to a notice on the website of Goble Funeral Home.

Born in Paterson, Schaaf lived in Newton until moving to Sparta Township 34 years ago. 

He served in the U.S. Army National Guard before being honorably discharged. His military stint was followed by a 35-year career at Sears & Roebuck Co. that ended with his 1991 retirement. Schaff was also an entrepreneur, collaborating with cousin Jack Buckley over 37 years in operating several Sussex County businesses.

Schaff was a charter member of UNICO National Sparta Chapter and formerly served as vice president, treasurer, and sergeant at arms for many years. He loved to read mysteries and thrillers, enjoyed watching NASCAR races, adored boating and going on vacation. 

He is survived by his wife Patricia, son Michael of Sparta, daughter Jessica of Rutherford, brother James, brother in law Philip Finamore and his wife Sheila and their children Brian and Kelly.

Family and friends are invited at 10 a.m. Saturday to a gathering followed by a celebration of life at First Presbyterian Church of Sparta, 32 Main St.  Arrangements are being handled by Goble Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions in John "Jack" Schaaf II's name may be made to American Cancer Society P.O. Box 22718 Oklahoma City, OK 73128 or American Diabetes Association 19 Schoolhouse Road Somerset, NJ 09973 or Sparta UNICO PO Box 328 Sparta, NJ 07871.see: www.goblefuneral.com