John A. Kempson, 66, of Highlands, passed away surrounded by his family Sept. 15, 2023. John was born Oct. 21, 1956, in Long Branch, a son of the late Margaret and Donald Kempson. He was raised in Belford and lived in the Bayshore area his entire life before settling in Highlands in 1993.
John was a jack of all trades. There was not anything he could not do with his hands. He was a craftsman, a fisherman, a painter and a tree cutter. John worked for Seastreak Ferry for several years and was one of the first responders during 9/11 who helped rescue people from Manhattan. He was always willing to lend a hand where needed.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing, driving around, surfing and spending time at the beach. John was happiest when he was spending time with his family and friends.
John is survived by his wife of 28 years, Kathleen Kempson, and their daughter Ariel Kempson, wife of Zachary Flesch. John also leaves behind two sisters, Deborah Healey and Jean Wagner, and a brother, Donald Kempson, and many nieces, nephews and extended family members. He was especially close to his nephew Gregory Kempson and niece Samantha Kempson.
John was predeceased by his brother Greg Kempson.
A Memorial Gathering will take place from 5-8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 29 at Scott & Kedz Home for Funerals, Belford.
This article originally appeared in the September 28 – October 4, 2023 print edition of The Two River Times.
