The Reverend John J. Senkewich

Let us remember with thanksgiving the life and ministry of Rev. John J. Senkewich, 82, of Newburgh, NY, who went home to the Lord on Sunday, October 9, 2022 while in the comforting presence of his loving family.

John was born in Manhattan, NY on June 7, 1940, the son of John and Mary (Panko) Senkewich. He completed his undergraduate studies at Fordham University and earned his master’s degree from Pace University. John was an executive with the New York Stock Exchange and retired after 30 years of work in that business.

Following his retirement from the NY Stock Exchange, John found his true calling, tapped by the Lord to serve others. He was licensed to preach in June 2007 and began his career as pastor at the New Milford-Edenville UMC. In 2012 he was called to serve the Town of Esopus UMC in Port Ewen, NY. John retired from the New York Conference in June 2021.

Throughout his life, John enjoyed reading and spending time with his family. He had a passion for old movies and radio shows, especially westerns. His true weakness was ice cream. I ran into him several times when we were both getting ice cream cones! 

He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Marisa (Gargano) Senkewich; his children, Nicholas (Dawn) Aniello, Danielle (Brian) LeClair, Alan (Tracee) Senkewich, Christie (Stephen) Brown, and John (Cristina) Senkewich; and by his many beloved grandchildren.

Rev. Bob Milsom will officiate the funeral at 1:30 pm on Friday, October 14, 2022 at the Town of Esopus United Methodist Church, West Main Street, Port Ewen, NY. The family will receive friends at church, prior to the service, from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm.

Memorial donations may be made in John’s name to Town of Esopus United Methodist Church or Port Ewen Food Pantry and can be sent to church at PO Box 699, Port Ewen, NY 12466.