John R. Holst

John Holst Sr. (83) of Long Beach NY peacefully passed away on Sunday May 19th.

Devoted husband of Laura. Cherished by his sons John Jr, Troy, Dennis and Timothy, and his daughters-in-law Yvette, Meaghan & Angie.

Loved by his grandchildren John III, Sevana, Skylar and Chloe.

John born June 29, 1940 in NYC to Betty & Rudolf, grew up on 87th Street and proudly attended Stuyvesant High School.

After graduating CUNY with his Bachelor’s degree of Political Science & Government, he continued to Queens College for his Masters of Supervisory Education.

For more than 2 decades he influenced thousands of young lives as Science Teacher and Assistant Principal at P.S. 257 Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

His passion for science, education and leadership collided for many fond memories.

In the 1970’s he spent weekends and summers at the Hall of Science, Corona NY, teaching “Science Adventures” at the Little Red School House and curating exhibits.

Finally, in 1984 his dream of becoming principal was realized when he was appointed principal of P.S. 186 the Castlewood Elementary School, in Queens NY. There he spent 18 years challenging the children & teachers to “Reach Higher!”

After retiring from the NYC Board of Education, he immersed himself in golf, treasure hunting and spending time with his grandchildren, whom he adored. Eventually his passion for science and gardening led him to the Marine Nature Study Area in Oceanside in April of 2008.

Where he spent his days giving nature tours, gardening, curating exhibits, and bird watching.

He will be missed dearly by family and friends.

In memory of John a Visitation will be held Thursday May 23rd, 4-8 p.m.

Tower’s Funeral Home

2681 Long Bead Road Oceanside NY 11572

TowersfuneralhomeNY.com

There will be a service at 7 p.m.

To honor John’s passion for gardening and the Marine Nature Study Area (MNSA) in Oceanside NY

In lieu of flowers please send a living plant to the Funeral home.

After the service they will be added to the gardens.