John D.

Funk

John D. Funk June 8, 1962 – November 10, 2026 

Tough on the outside, tenderhearted on the inside, John Funk was a man who loved his family deeply, worked hard, and never pretended to be anyone other than himself.

John D. Funk, 64, of West Penn Township, New Ringgold, Pennsylvania, passed away unexpectedly at home on Tuesday, November 10, 2026.

Born on June 8, 1962, in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, John was the son of Marilyn M. (McCleary) Funk-Kennedy and the late Rev. Clarence R. Funk. He was also preceded in death by his stepfather, Dr. Wilbur D. Kennedy.

A 1980 graduate of Tamaqua Area High School, John began his career with United Parcel Service (UPS) at the Hometown Depot while attending college. Even then, his strong work ethic was evident. Eager to work, John often asked his father to pick him up on weekends from college to take him to UPS so he could load trucks. Recognizing the opportunities UPS could provide for him and his future family, John transitioned to a full-time position, beginning a dedicated 41-year career.

John was a hardworking, devoted family man who showed his love more through his actions than his words. He could be tough on the outside, but those who knew him best understood that beneath that exterior was a heart of gold. Though naturally quiet, he was always present for the people he loved. Nothing brought out his softer side quite like becoming "Pap-Pap" to his four cherished grandchildren, a role he embraced with immense pride and love.

An avid outdoorsman, John enjoyed hunting and fishing and appreciated life's simple pleasures. A die-hard Philadelphia sports fan, he passionately followed his teams and was always up for a friendly wager, often repeating his favorite motto: "Take the over." In retirement, he looked forward to his weekly trips to the casino, where he enjoyed playing three-card poker, always sticking to his self-imposed limits.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, Sandra D. (Badger) Funk; his son, Cole M. Funk, and his wife, Maurisa; his daughter, Jodi Heisey, and her husband, Jon-Luis; and his four cherished grandchildren, Matthew R., Asher J., Ryker A., and Callie J. He also leaves behind his sisters, Stephanie A. Funk and Rebecca S. Campbell, wife of John; his brother, David E. Funk, and his wife, Marti; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Celebration of Life

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 655 East Broad Street, Tamaqua, Pennsylvania 18252. (570) 668-2550.

John's life will be celebrated on Tuesday, November 17, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Friends and family are encouraged to dress casually, just as John would have wanted. His favorite attire was a comfortable flannel shirt and his beloved Eagles jacket.

Memorial Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in John's memory to: Tamaqua Blue Raiders Foundation: 109 West Broad Street, Tamaqua, Pennsylvania 18252

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com.