John Neary Point Pleasant, NJ, Death, Obituary — The community mourns the loss of John “Muskrat Jack” Neary, a beloved animal control officer and founder of Muskrat Jack Animal Services Inc., who passed away on January 12, 2025. Known for his unyielding dedication to wildlife and his invaluable contributions to the towns he served, John Neary’s legacy is one of compassion, commitment, and service.
A Life Dedicated to Wildlife and Community
John Neary, affectionately known as Muskrat Jack, discovered his passion for animal control at the remarkable age of 12. Crawling through attics to help neighbors remove unwanted animals, he realized early on that this was his calling. Over the decades, his skills and dedication grew, leading him to establish Muskrat Jack Animal Services Inc., a cornerstone of animal control services in Point Pleasant and its surrounding communities.
Neary’s work extended beyond Point Pleasant to towns like Point Pleasant Beach, Bay Head, and Mantoloking. From raccoons in attics to possums in basements, he addressed every animal control complaint imaginable with courage and expertise. Known for his fearless approach, Neary faced countless scrapes, cuts, bruises, and even bites over the years, all of which he handled with resilience and a deep respect for the animals he encountered.
“John wasn’t just an animal control officer—he was a lifeline for the community,” said a spokesperson for the Point Pleasant Police Department. “To us, he was more than a colleague; he was a friend, a mentor, and an inspiration.”
A Beloved Figure in Point Pleasant
John Neary’s impact on the community was profound. Residents knew they could rely on him for any animal-related issue, no matter how challenging or unusual. His kind heart and unwavering commitment to helping both people and animals made him a cherished figure in the towns he served.
Friends, family, and colleagues describe Neary as someone who radiated warmth and humor, bringing joy even in stressful situations. Jennifer Osborn, a family member, shared her gratitude for the memories he left behind. “Rest easy, Uncle John. Thank you for all the laughs and for instilling in us a love of wildlife and nature. Ireland, here we come—I love you,” she wrote.
Neary’s nickname, “Muskrat Jack,” became synonymous with reliability, courage, and expertise in animal control. It was a name that inspired trust and admiration across generations of residents in Point Pleasant.
A Legacy of Hard Work and Passion
John Neary’s career was a testament to hard work and passion. Over the years, he became a fixture in the community, responding to countless calls and forging lasting relationships with residents and local authorities alike. The Point Pleasant Police Department considered him not just an expert in his field but an integral part of their team.
“John’s dedication went far beyond the call of duty,” said a Point Pleasant Police Department officer. “His love for wildlife and his respect for nature were evident in everything he did. He wasn’t just solving problems; he was making a difference.”
Neary’s work ethic and generosity extended to mentoring younger generations interested in animal control. His expertise and willingness to share knowledge ensured that his influence would live on in those he inspired.
A Community in Mourning
The news of John Neary’s passing has left the Point Pleasant community and its neighboring towns grappling with a profound sense of loss. Tributes have poured in from residents, colleagues, and friends, each sharing stories of his kindness, humor, and bravery.
“John was more than an animal control officer; he was the heart of our community,” said a local resident. “He treated every call, no matter how small, with the same level of care and respect. His passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill.”
Social media platforms have been flooded with heartfelt messages celebrating his life and contributions. Many posts include fond memories of Neary’s tireless work and his genuine care for the people and animals of Point Pleasant.
Memorial and Legacy
Details for a memorial service to honor John “Muskrat Jack” Neary’s life and legacy will be shared in the coming days. His family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time, urging the community to continue cherishing and protecting the wildlife that Neary so passionately served.
In his memory, Muskrat Jack’s Animal Services will continue its mission of humane animal control, reflecting the values of respect and compassion that John Neary embodied throughout his life.
Remembering John Neary
John Neary’s legacy is one of dedication, compassion, and an unwavering love for nature. His work as an animal control officer touched countless lives, earning him a reputation as a hero in his community.
As Point Pleasant remembers its beloved Muskrat Jack, his story serves as a reminder of the impact one person can have through passion and service. John Neary’s life was a testament to the idea that even the smallest acts of kindness can leave a lasting impression.
He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Rest in peace, Muskrat Jack. Your legacy lives on in the community you so lovingly served.
