Waldwick Ambulance Corps' John Papendick Dies In I-287 Crash

John Papendick, 58, who served 11 years on the Waldwick Volunteer Ambulance Corps, died in the Wednesday, Aug. 14 crash along Route 287 in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey State Police Sgt. Jeffrey Lebron said.

Papendick was heading south in a Dodge Charger when he veered off the road to the right, striking the guardrail around 9:25 a.m., Lebron said.

He reentered the roadway across all lanes and struck the concrete traffic barrier. While Papendick's injuries were considered non-life-threatening at the time, he died at the hospital that evening.

"John’s 11 years of service to the ambulance corps, town and community are immeasurable," Waldwick VAC said, noting he served as president, captain, and in various other line officer positions.

His obituary on the Vander Plaat Memorial Home site says he was born in Queens, NY and is survived by his three sons and his wife.

A GoFundMe page for his wife, Jodi, had raised more than $23,000 as of press time.

"John's commitment to helping others was evident in his years of service as a volunteer EMT with the Waldwick Volunteer Ambulance Corps," the campaign says.

"He was always the first to offer a helping hand and dedicated his life to ensuring the safety and well-being of others. John's selflessness and kindness touched the lives of everyone who knew him."

"John was the definition of a class act in everything he did. He was a selfless leader, a mentor, and loved by everyone around him," his obituary says.

"John’s unwavering dedication and compassion touched countless lives throughout his years doing what he loved most, serving and helping others. His selflessness will be encapsulated in our minds and shared to spread the memory of the beautiful life he lived."

to follow Daily Voice Northern Highlands and receive free news updates.