John Joseph Rada, Jr.

John Joseph Rada Jr., of Woodridge, New York, passed away peacefully at Garnet Health Medical Center in Middletown, New York on Friday March 28, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on December 19, 1946, in Somerville, New Jersey, to the late John Joseph Rada Sr. and the late Jean Jankowski. John was exposed to Agent Orange while serving in Vietnam as a young Army officer. His many serious health issues from this deadly herbicide started surfacing in recent years as is still happening with our aging Vietnam Veterans.

John pursued a degree in Psychology from Rutgers University, which led him to a career as a nursing home administrator. His dedication to his profession and the care of others was evident throughout his career. In addition to his work, John was a proud member of the Rotary Club of Liberty, New York, where he contributed to the community with integrity and commitment. John also enjoyed his time selling real estate in Roscoe, New York as well as driving for Rolling V Bus Company in South Fallsburg, New York.
John proudly served his country in the United States Army with the 1st Cavalry Division and is a Vietnam Veteran. While at Rutgers University, he enrolled in the ROTC program and after college graduation, he served with distinction as a Second Lieutenant, and then First Lieutenant, ultimately achieving the rank of Captain before being honorably discharged. His military service was a source of immense pride for him throughout his life.

John had a love for nature and enjoyed walking and hiking, especially around his home. He enjoyed an occasional round of golf with his family. However, it was the time he spent with his grandchildren, Emma and Claudia Silverstein, that truly brought him the most joy. He absolutely enjoyed watching football games and especially loved the rivalry when his alma mater of Rutgers University, played against his granddaughter Claudia’s university, Penn State.

Known for his quiet and reflective nature, John was always observing his surroundings, yet he expressed his love for his family in his own special way. His honesty, warmth, and steady presence will be deeply missed by those who knew him. A lover of animals, John, had a special place in his heart for his stray cats, especially Baby and Smokey Shadow. He also enjoyed the antics of his two dogs – Toffee Lew and Freckles Wild Petunia.

John is survived by his wife, Christine Lewandowski Rada; his two daughters, Suzanne Rada-Yates and her husband Randy, and Dr. Kara Lynn Rada-Silverstein and her husband Joseph; his cherished grandchildren, Emma and Claudia Silverstein; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law Cathy and Bill Petrics; his brother, Tom Rada and his wife Eileen; his sisters Dr. Mary Ellen Rada-O’Connor, and Joanne and her husband E.B. Nuckols. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews. John was predeceased by one sister, Rozanne Rada.

Visitation will be held at Colonial Memorial Funeral Home, 396 State Route 52 Woodbourne, NY 12788 on Friday, April 4, 2025, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. A funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial with full military honors will take place at the Sullivan County Veterans Cemetery in Liberty, New York.


Arrangements were under the care of Colonial Memorial Funeral Home. For further information please call 845-434-7363.