John Chyko, Former Toms River Elementary School Teacher, Mourned

TOMS RIVER, NJ — A former Toms River elementary school teacher is being remembered by his family for his love of the outdoors and his love for his family, as they mourn his passing.

John Michael Chyko, who taught at Washington Street Elementary School, died March 14, 2024, in Maryland, his family said. He was 82.

He helped create an elementary school basketball league within the district that thrived for more than 30 years, according to a 1997 Asbury Park Press article.

Chyko, who was born April 1, 1941, in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, was a 1959 graduate of Bloomsburg High School and attended Bloomsburg University, and later in his life earned a master's degree in environmental education, according to his obituary on the Allen Funeral Home website. He also was a member of St. Columba Catholic Church, Bloomsburg.

Chyko taught in the Toms River Regional School District for 38 years, retiring in 1998.

He married his wife of 52 years, the former Leslie Rauh, on Nov. 20, 1971. They lived in Toms River until moving to Lutherville, Maryland, 5.5 years ago.

Chyko enjoyed spending time with his family and his grandchildren, and was a St. Louis Cardinals mega-fan. he enjoyed hunting with family and friends and staying at the hunting cabin that he and his dad built. He also enjoyed attending high school reunions; surf fishing in Island Beach State Park; growing tomatoes and solving word search puzzles.

Survivors include his beloved wife, Leslie; his daughter, Magan Chyko Leigh and spouse Angela Euculano Leigh of Lutherville; two grandchildren; Calvin Leigh and Sadie Leigh; four siblings, James S. Chyko and spouse Diane of Bloomsburg; Charles Chyko and spouse Lana of Bloomsburg; Christine Haldeman and spouse Michael of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania; and Barbara Tosi and spouse Charles of Westerville, Ohio, and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service was held at Allen Funeral Home in Bloomsburg on March 22.

Friends can reach out to the family via Allen Funeral Home of Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania.

Memorial contributions in John's name are suggested to the Alzheimer's Association, at act.alz.org.