John William Kroeze passed away surrounded by family on Resurrection Sunday, April 20, 2025, after a brief, but courageous battle with cancer. He was 77 years old.
Born on October 6, 1947, in East Orange, NJ, Jack was the son of the late Herman and Roberta Mae (Lloyd) Kroeze. He graduated from West Orange High School, he received his BA at Houghton College and his MDiv at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and he completed all his classes for a Doctor of Divinity. Jack’s education aligned with his first and deepest love of Jesus Christ. He embodied unwavering devotion to his Savior, with a deep commitment to the Word of God.
Jack dedicated his life to ministry as a pastor of Trinity EFC of Windsor, VT for 12 years before moving to Blairstown Evangelical Free Church, where he shepherded the congregation for 25 years. After retiring from full-time ministry, he continued to serve the EFCA – East as a pastor to pastors and was often called upon to fill the pulpit at churches throughout the northeast.
His second great love was Eva, his faithful partner in life and ministry, to whom he was married for 54 years. Jack was a devoted father and a proud “Pop Pop.” His greatest joy was being present in the lives of his children and grandchildren, never missing a chance to support them at sporting events, performances, and life milestones.
Jack cherished his experiences at Camp Brookwoods in Alton, NH as both a camper and counselor. He found joy in following up on the latest sports knowledge and attending to his stamp collection. He took pride in his well-kept yard and was a widely-read, avid reader.
He is survived by his devoted wife and children: Jennifer Mae Rosario (Edwin), Elizabeth Faye Witkowski (John), and Jesse Fleetwood Kroeze (Andrea). He is also survived by his ten adored grandchildren and his dear sister, Nancy Jean Kroeze.
Pastor Jack was a true example of Christlike humility and servanthood. He will be remembered for his faith-filled life, compassionate spirit, and gentle strength. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched in ministry, in family, and in friendship.
Arrangements are entrusted to Newbaker Funeral Home, Blairstown, NJ. Visitation will be held Sunday, April 27th, from 1–4 p.m. at Evangelical Free Church, Blairstown, NJ, with a Celebration of Life service to follow at 4 p.m.
Contributions in Jack’s honor may be made to Touch the World (Allendale, NJ), reflecting his heart for global missions and equipping the next generation to live for Christ.