John J. Tetla

John “Terry” Tetla, age 92, formerly of Saddle Brook, beloved husband, father, and dear grandfather, died peacefully on Sunday, May 24, 2026.

Terry (John) was the son of the late John August and Irene Tetla. He was born in Passaic and raised in Garfield, NJ. He attended Garfield High School and was inducted into the Garfield High School Sports Hall of Fame as part of the 1952-1954 Basketball Championship Team. Terry (John) was a Specialist in the US Army and served in the Korean War. In his early years, Terry worked at his parent’s restaurant, Terry’s Place in Garfield. He later worked as a fork lift operator for Garden State Paper, where he retired from in 2001.

Terry (John) was the cherished husband of his late wife, Lillian. Lillian predeceased Terry in 2005. They shared many years full of love, family and travel together. They traveled to Hawaii, Italy, and around the states for skiing and golf outings. Their favorite time was their annual vacation with their children and grandchildren to LBI where many fond memories were made.

Terry was the proud father of his sons, daughter, and daughter-in-laws. He is survived by his son John Tetla and his wife Mary, his son Paul Tetla and his wife Angela, and his daughter Maryann Schuck and her late husband, Brian.

Terry was over the moon with love for his granddaughters for whom he had a nickname for each, Alison (Tiger), Michelle (Buddy), the late Nicole (Boo) Schuck, Carli (Doc), and Jennifer (Scooter)

Terry loved to watch his granddaughters sporting events, where he was affectionately known by the whole team as “Grandpa”. He had an undying faith as a NY Mets, NY Giants, and NJ Devils fan.

Terry leaves behind his many friends for which he shared Sunday morning breakfasts, and monthly birthday dinners. His family is eternally grateful for their friendship.

Services from the Kugler Community Home For Funerals, Saddle Brook NJ. Visiting hours will be held at the funeral home on Friday, May 29, 2026 from 4-8pm. A funeral mass will be held at St. Phillip’s R.C. Church in Saddle Brook on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at 9AM. Interment in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Saddle Brook.