Ty and I were heartbroken beyond words to hear of John’s passing. We were lucky to call John not only our friend, but family over the past 12+ years and we have wonderful memories of times together with John, Laura and our children.  John was always one to greet you with a big smile and a hug and he always made you feel special. We will miss him dearly!

I am eternally grateful for John being in my family’s life for over 10 years. The warmth by his presence in every interaction, paired with the biggest smile and infectious laugh is what I’ll remember fondly. I am especially thankful to him and Laura bringing and raising two incredible human beings to the world, and for their relationship with my sister Stephanie; welcoming her into their own from the beginning. John, you will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know you. 

This world will miss a very genuine, happy, encouraging and most approachable friend in John Strys. I was taken back by the news but I can only assume God  needed him at this time. I was always inspired by that “Strys Smile” and warmth he conveyed to all in his sphere. I was lucky to have him as a DKE fraternity brother and football teammate at RU. I can only hope that some of that has worn onto me. To his family I pray that you can heal and to know his fan base is huge. And his essence  will always live on. 

Mark Debes

John was a teammate of mine at Rutgers as well as a fellow offensive lineman.  A true gentleman and the consummate teammate - John's  supportive nature endeared him to all.  Although close to 50 years have passed since our gridiron days, the name of John Strys to this day evokes the fondest of memories.  Fortunate are those that can say they knew John Strys.

The Family Man | John has made my family feel like a part of his for over 10 years. I am forever indebted to him for how at home my entire family has felt under his roof. — with The Strys, The Seuferlings and The Hastings