John Joseph Hurld

John Hurld passed away peacefully into his afterlife on November 11, 2024, at the age of 79.  John passed into his afterlife surrounded by the love of Patricia Anne Hurld (née Lepping), his loving wife and best friend, his children Kathleen Hurld and John Hurld, and the spirit of his daughter Donna Pettorossi (née Hurld) who preceded him in death. He is also survived by his children's spouses Andy Pettorossi, Marcus Zobrist, and Beckie Taub, as well as his beloved grandchildren Michelle, A.J., Theo, and Adriana, who knew him affectionately as "PopPop." Preceded in death by his parents and sisters Judy and Mary, John leaves behind numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews who were dear to his heart.

Known for his playful spirit and mastery of dad jokes, John was the consummate prankster and proud president of the Lepping “outlaw club”.  He never hesitated to lend a helping hand, clearing neighbors' driveways of snow or fixing a light. His reputation as "Mister Fix-it" was well-earned - as he spent 15 years volunteering with Habitat for Humanity in Buffalo, NY, built Little Libraries and benches for Leisure World in Maryland, and constructed his famously over-engineered deck that will surely stand the test of time.

John spent most of his professional career with IBM repairing mainframes in Michigan and as a project manager in New York's Hudson Valley. His commitment to community service was exemplary: he served as School Board President and on the Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) in Ulster County, NY; volunteered with AARP preparing tax returns for seniors in NY and MD; and led gardening initiatives as a member of the Leisure World Mutual 10 Board. He received the prestigious “Thanks Badge” from the Girl Scouts of America, the highest award for adults. He was active as a coach of his kids' soccer teams and a fan of his kids' and grandkids' activities.  A history buff, he loved to travel.   

Throughout his life, John made his home in Michigan, West Hurley and Buffalo, NY, and most recently, Leisure World in Maryland where he continued to touch lives with his generous spirit and warm humor.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, November 16, 2024, at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, 15661 Norbeck Blvd, Silver Spring, MD, at 11am, with Visitation from 10am - 11am.  

In lieu of flowers, please send any donations to Habitat for Humanity (https://www.habitat.org/); or to the charity of your choice.