In Memory of Coach John Stalker

John Stalker – a dedicated family man, beloved coach, and selfless friend – passed away in his sleep at the young age of 41. So many hearts are broken because John was taken too soon and that his two children, who he adored most of all — Tommy and Sophie — lost their dad.

Those of us who knew John affectionately called him Stalker, which raised some eyebrows due to his stature. But this man’s heart was equal to his size. He would embrace you with his big bear arms, sometimes even planting a mushy kiss on your head.

He loved being the fun guy, who snuck into the rodeo with the cowboys, and chuckled at the shenanigans of the boys he coached, reliving his good old days. But mostly, he loved his children. He talked about them all the time, in that proud dad way, never bragging, but always so proud, so loving.

Stalker would give you the shirt off his back. So many people have shared stories since his passing of ways he helped them through a tough time, even when they didn’t ask. He was thoughtful and kind, and never expected anything in return.

And then there was John the protector, strong and ready to defend those he loved, in any situation. But it was the softer side that shone the brightest, especially when he interacted with children. John loved babies and they seemed to love him back. He was a natural, from the way he scooped up the littlest ones to the gentle joking and fist bumps as the grew.

He also loved coaching and spent about 9 months of the year braving early morning travel, frigid ice rinks, and questioning penalty calls, as a coach with Millbrook Youth Hockey Association. With a deep and boisterous voice that echoed from goal post to goal post, John famously would proclaim: “I’m not yelling, I’m coaching,” on many occasions.

A Clinton Corners native, John settled down near his own mom and dad in Verbank. When his dad passed away, he took the news hard. John’s dad was his No. 1 fan. That’s a tradition that John carried on with his own children, taking Tommy hunting and Sophie to sports, the mall, or as his sidekick.

Tragically, on July 5, 2023, John went to sleep and never woke up – his heart was just to big for this world. This devasting loss has left a void that will never be filled for so many youth hockey and Little League players and coaches, for the greater Millbrook community, for his mother who he looked after, and for his children.

On behalf of John’s friends, we invite you to honor his memory and support his grieving children and their grandmother. All funds raised will go directly toward supporting Tommy and Sophie. By donating, you will support Tommy’s love of hockey and baseball, and Sophie’s interest in lacrosse, as well as alleviate other financial burdens as the children work toward their bright future. If you cannot donate, please hold this family in your prayers and help us ensure Tommy and Sophie know how truly loved they were by their dad.