John Schick Sr., a dedicated veteran, law enforcement officer, and devoted family man, passed away on March 26, 2025. He was born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana, where he spent his childhood until joining the United States Navy at the age of 18.

Throughout his distinguished naval career, John began his career as a cook and was honored to be part of the National Honor of Arms in Washington, D.C., where he met his cherished wife, Mary Lee. Together, they built a loving family with three children: John, Tammy, and Dawn.

John’s 30-year naval service took him around the world and into remarkable roles, including serving on submarines and in the Vietnam War. He made history as the first Master-at-Arms in the Navy stationed in San Antonio, Texas, eventually becoming the Senior Master-at-Arms. One of John’s most significant achievements in the U.S. Navy was making history as the first enlisted sailor to command the brig at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, where he served for eight years. After a long and honorable career, John retired from the Navy at the Naval Weapons Station in Yorktown, Virginia.

Following his military service, John continued to walk an honorable path joining the Gloucester County Sheriff’s Office. He began his career as a road officer and, driven by his love for animals, became a K-9 officer and was paired with his loyal companion, Jack. Known for his love for animals, John spoiled Jack a little too much, and Jack’s well-fed belly eventually led to an early retirement from K-9 handling. John then found his true calling as a school resource officer at Page Middle School, where he made an impact on countless students’ lives with his kindness, support, and “teddy bear”-like traits.

John retired from the Gloucester County Sheriff’s Office in 2014 and spent time with his family and his beloved wife prior to her passing away in 2015.

John was preceded in death by his father, Alfred Schick; his mother, Joanne Patterson; his daughter, Dawn Ellen; his wife, Mary Lee, and his beloved K-9 partner, Jack.

John Sr. is survived by his son, John Schick Jr. and his wife Eve; his daughter, Tammy; his grandchildren, Alex (Preston), Logan (Sandra), and Grace (Trevor); his great-grandchildren, Carolina and Raleigh, and his beloved dog, Jack the 2nd, better known as One-Eyed-Jack.

John Schick Sr. will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his country, and his community. His legacy of service and kindness will live on forever through the many lives he touched.

John’s family invites family and friends to gather for a viewing and funeral service on Thursday, April 3, at St. Therese Church, Gloucester, at 11 a.m., followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for a donation to Gloucester County Shop With a Cop. https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=PMPUC68K33SPQ or bring the donation to Gloucester County Sheriff’s Office.

Andrews Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.