John Edward Ofalt

John Edward Ofalt (UJ), 76, passed peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, August 14th. John resided in Jacksonville, FL where he had lived for the past 20 years with his longtime companion, Barbara Ramming.

John was born in Jersey City on September 16th, 1948. He was born at Margaret Hague hospital to Joseph and Stephanie (Smus) Ofalt, along with his twin brother Joseph Stanley Ofalt, who tragically passed on June 28, 2011, which was the same day his grandchild, Sawyer Ofalt was born.

John obtained a bachelor’s degree from St. Peters College and spent his career working as a consultant for various banks and institutions. During his career John got to travel to many places across the United States as well as a few places overseas including Saudi Arabia, and Hong Kong. Growing up, John spent many summers on his family’s farm in Pennsylvania, where he helped with all the daily chores which helped develop his strong discipline and work ethic. He was mentally and physically strong and enjoyed being active through running, working out, and loved playing football, as well as watching his favorite team, the Giants, on tv. He was also a fan of watching good movies and shows, with “Kill Bill Vol. 1 and 2”, and “Ted” being a few of his absolute favorite movies. He always had a work hard / play hard mentality and loved to travel and explore new places. He was rugged and tough but also a generous and kind soul. He loved to laugh and anyone who knew him knows he had the best sense of humor and could have you laughing days after making a single funny comment. He loved to sip Grand Marnier, smoke cigars, and eat ridiculously spicy foods, especially while hanging out with his two sons. He also remained a great friend and co-parent to his ex-wife, Miriam Ofalt through the years.

He is survived by his beloved big sister Mary Jane Ofalt, and two sons, Shawn and Ryan (Nicole) Ofalt. He has six grandchildren: Bailey, Sawyer, Johnny, William, Henry, and Josie and many nephews, nieces and other extended family members.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 4th, 11AM – 3PM in Safety Harbor at Crooked Thumb Brewery 555 Tenth Ave. S. Safety Harbor, FL 34695.

***This is a celebration of life so please come ready to share stories, laugh, cry and have a good time. Casual attire preferred; Hawaiian shirts and baseball caps encouraged***