John Phillip Getz

The family of John Phillip Getz are deeply saddened to announce his passing on June 17, 2025 at the age of 87.

John is survived by his sons, John P. Getz, Jr., Chris R. Getz and his wife Elizabeth, grandchildren, Meaghann, Gabriella, JC, Kyle, Madison and her husband Matt, Sarah, as well as being blessed with great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Ruth Gunkel and her husband Lou. Ruth and John have been thick as thieves since they were children. Never a single argument between them. Lou and John were brothers at heart who shared the love for a good martini. John also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who adored him. 

John is preceded in death by his mother, Bessie Getz, brother George Getz, known to all by "Skip", and nephew Mike Getz. Our family takes comfort knowing he is reunited with them.

John was better known as "Pop" by his children and grandchildren. His granddaughters, Madison and Sarah, were always kidding around with him. They made up several nicknames such as, "Poppanichols", "Popcorn", "PopTART" and "Eugene", anything to get a rise out of him. They loved him so. 

Some of our fondest memories are the annual vacations to Ocean City with the Getz and Gunkel clans. Pop baked chocolate chip cookies for his grandchildren every Christmas. Madison and Sarah had weekly sleepover with Pop. They would wake up and sing Christmas Blue before heading to Denny's for breakfast and always taking Pop into a spaceship cup filled with chocolate milk.

Sarah's boys, Braxley and Bryer, were a highlight in Pop's life. Braxley's 3rd word was John as he was learning to talk. Braxley loved playing ball with Pop and sharing his toys. 

To know Pop was to love Pop. He had the exterior of a tough Marine, but inside, he was as soft as a marshmallow. He never had daughters, although her referred to Elizabeth as the daughter he never had. 

Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. 

A burial of ashes will take place at the Maryland Veteran's Cemetery 1122 Sunrise Beach Road Crownsville, MD 21032 on July 8, 2025 at 10:45 am