John A. Bihlmier, Korean War Veteran, Southern Regional High School Teacher, Dies At 85

Courtesy of Maxwell Tobie Funeral Home

John A. Bihlmier of Manahawkin passed away on July 2 at the age of 85 surrounded by his loving children.

John was an amazing father, teacher, coach, mentor, Philadelphia sports fanatic and small business owner who positively touched many during his life. He was born in Philadelphia in 1932 and raised in Ventnor, NJ. He attended St. James grammar school and graduated from Holy Spirit HS where he was a star left-handed pitcher. He attended LaSalle University briefly to play baseball before enlisting in the US Navy in 1951.

He served his country during the Korean War and was honorably discharged in 1955. After the service, he graduated from Villanova University with a degree in education. He spent his entire 33-year teaching career at Southern Regional HS as a history teacher, making great impressions on several generations of students and building lifelong friendships.

A Ram for life and proud to be Black and Gold, he was inducted into the Southern Hall of Fame in 2008 for his coaching achievements. During summers, he ran a local family business - The Big Dipper Ice Cream Store in Surf City - with his children.

He had a great last chapter in life enjoying retirement, playing golf with his buddies, being mayor of the neighborhood, suffering through his beloved Eagles and Phillies games, traveling with his family and being the best Pop Pop to his 6 grandkids.

He was predeceased by his parents Aloysius and Marie (McCormick). He is survived by his 4 children: John T and wife Tara of Manahawkin, Joseph M. of NYC and Manahawkin, Jennifer Helias and husband Sean of Flemington and Jessica Troy and husband Ed of Westwood; Six grandkids: Morgan, Kenna, Bode, Rowan, Kellan, and Jack.

A celebration of his life will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.on Friday, July 14, 2017 at Maxwell-Tobie Funeral Home in Manahawkin. In lieu of flowers, a scholarship fund has been established in his honor. To donate, please send checks to John A Bihlmier Memorial Scholarship Fund, 9 Sea Breeze Court, Manahawkin, NJ 08050. For directions and online condolences, please visit www.maxwelltobiefh.com.

Image: Patch file photo.