John J. Harrington, 63, of Fogelsville, died Nov. 13, 2016, in Lehigh Valley Hospital, Salisbury Township. He and his wife Joan (Tanner) Harrington celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary on Aug. 16.

Born in Providence, R.I. he was a son of John J. and Frances (O’Neil) Harrington Jr. of Maplewood, N.J.

He worked most of his professional career in the toy industry, and his children were often able to take on the role of unofficial focus group for new products and ideas.

In his younger days, he was an avid runner and athlete, was a true and loyal fan of track and field, and a competitor in many marathons.

He loved to learn, to examine how the world worked and never stopped being curious.

He and his family were enormously proud of his executive master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania.

Though his personal accomplishments were many, his true vocation in life was to be a father and husband, and at this he was unmatched.

He cared and loved for his wife and children untiringly with every ounce of himself, and every minute of his day.

When it came to his family, there was no journey too far, no task too great, no mountain too tall.

The proof of his impact in their lives is the crater now caused by his absence.

His example will always be a guide, he will never stop being loved, he will never be forgotten.

His family is of the opinion he was, objectively, the greatest father who ever lived.

They will gladly review any data to the contrary but have not seen any evidence suggesting otherwise so far.

In addition to his wife and parents, he is survived by sons Andrew of Rohnert Park, Calif., and Eamonn of Fogelsville, daughter Emily of Fogelsville; brothers Patrick and wife Barbara, Stephen and wife Margaret; sisters Frances, wife of Jim Robson, Keyne, wife of Jerry Taylor, several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by a brother, James.

Condolences may be offered at kellerfuneralhomes.com.

Contributions may be made to the American Heart Association Lehigh Valley and NE Division, 968 Postal Road, Suite 110, Allentown, PA 18109 or online at donatenow.heart.org.

Arrangements were made by Keller Funeral Homes Inc., Fogelsville.