John M. Pepe, Sr. Superintendent of Recreation Plainfield - John M. Pepe, Sr., 74, died on Monday, May 19, 2008 at his home. A Plainfield High School graduate, John attended Wyoming Seminary Prep and later graduated from Penn State University. While attending college, John was participated in NCAA wrestling and was an Eastern Wrestling Champion and a member of the Delta Upsilon Fraternity . John was an avid sports fan and gifted athlete. He enjoyed college boxing, stock car racing, handball and golf and played semi pro football for 14 years. As a Physical Education teacher for the Plainfield High School, John also served as the school’s wrestling & golf coach. He later became the Superintendent of Recreation for the City of Plainfield and was the WERA Radio Sports Director and a familiar voice on air. He served as the State Recreation Commissioner and also served as the Union County Parks President. In addition, John was a member of many local civic organizations including, the Jr. Chamber of Commerce, Unico, Kiwanis, Flying Eagles the Maddolonesse Club and was a member of the Plainfield West Nine golf Course. Predeceased by his son, John "Chip" M. Pepe, Jr. and by his brother Frank. Surviving are his wife, Helena Cecilie (Franke ) Pepe, his two daughters, Lee Cecilia DelGuercio and her husband, Vincent and Michelle Pepe-Vasile and her husband, Leonard. His daughter in law, Nancy Adami and his twin sister, Jeanne Baker. Also surviving are his six grandchildren, Jennifer Lee, Ashley Marie, Marie Cecilia, Helena Ann, Elizabeth Grace and Angelica. Funeral services will begin on Thursday, May 22, 2008 at 9:00 AM in the McCriskin - Gustafson Home For Funerals, 2425 Plainfield Avenue,South Plainfield, followed by a 10:00 AM funeral mass in St. Bernard’s Clairvaux & St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, 368 Sumner Ave, Plainfield, NJ. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 21, 2008 from 2-4 & 7-9 PM in the funeral home. Cremation services will be private. Donations in his memory may be made to the National Parkinson’s Foundation, 1501 North West 9th Avenue, Miami, FL. 33136.