John Michael Haedo

John Michael Haedo, 78, of Catawissa Township, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 8, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family.

Born Juan Miguel Haedo in Havana, Cuba, to Gloria Georgina Haedo e Ibietatorremendia and Juan Miguel Ramón Constante Guadalupe, John lived a life that was full of remarkable experiences and deeply connected to the people he loved. At just 14 years old, he immigrated alone to the United States during the early Castro era after his family made the difficult decision to protect his future, safety, and freedom. After arriving in America, he adopted the name John Michael as he began building a new life in the country he would proudly call home, intentionally waiting until the symbolic Bicentennial year to finalize his citizenship.

John graduated from Lower Merion High School and went on to earn his degree from Temple University on a full academic scholarship. Through hard work, resilience, and an unstoppable spirit, John became the co-owner of a successful insurance company, building a life and legacy that embodied the American dream he believed in so deeply.

John was also an award-winning wildlife photographer whose love for nature and adventure showed through his incredible eye behind the camera, combined with a talent for digital photo editing. Earlier in life, he raced Porsches, competed in racquetball, and collected enough stories for several lifetimes.

Though he often claimed to be shy, John never met a stranger. He could talk to anyone, anywhere, and somehow leave them feeling like an old friend. He was wise, open-minded, and delivered what may have been the greatest lectures of all time — lectures his children would come to appreciate more and more as adults. He was a hands-on father and grandfather who was always ready to play a game, tell a story, or take his grandchildren to see the latest blockbuster at the movie theater.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Wendy (Patterson) Haedo; his children, Jocelyn, wife of Marc Williams, of Catawissa and Matthew Haedo, of Chicago, Illinois; his grandchildren, Joey Williams, Charlotte Williams, Marissa Williams, Robert Williams, Lucas Haedo, and Jackson Haedo; his great-granddaughter, Scarlett Williams; and his sister, Gloria Haedo, of Miami, Florida.

He leaves behind countless stories, unforgettable memories, and a family who will continue laughing at his jokes, repeating his advice, and telling his stories for generations to come.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday May 17, 2026 at 2 p.m. in the Dean W. Kriner Inc. Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 325 Market St., Bloomsburg, with Rev. Gordon E. Smith, of St. John Lutheran Church, officiating. The family will greet friends from 1-2 p.m. 

The family invites anyone whose life was touched by John to share a favorite memory or story that can be read aloud at his service. Memories may be shared at: www.krinerfuneralhomes.com