John Morrell

John Morrell, 76, with his family and friends around him, returned to his heavenly home on April 21, 2016 after losing a battle with congestive heart failure. His devotion to his friends, family, and his firm belief in God supported him through life, which ultimately gave him peace.

John was born to the late Elizabeth Keller and John Morrell, in New York on September 16, 1939. He grew up in Queens, NY, graduated Cardinal Farley Military Academy attaining star status in track and football. Moved back to Queens NY and entered into an apprenticeship plumbing program and became a journeyman plumber following in the steps of his Grandfather Jack Morrell. He specialized in the design and installation of large projects e.g. as schools and utility plants. He always worked more than one job and held many positions in food service from waiter to chef.

During the early 70’s John was tired of working in the cold N.E. and moved to Florida, and vowed never to go back. His first job in Florida was working for the plumbing contractor developing Century Village in Deerfield Beach. Meanwhile, John with brother- in-law (Alfred) and sister (Linda), put together the Pickle Barrel. Together they ran it for 5 years and sold it around 1980. Then shortly after, John set up the Lox, Stock and Barrel with friend Jay Hanley in Deerfield Beach. There he met the love of his life, Patricia Zurkowski. Finally, along came his dream job at the Adios Country Club. His love of golf earned him the nickname “Johnny one putt”. He was a lifetime member of the Deerfield Golf Club.

John, as a member of AA, had a successful and lovely change of life, believing in the 12 steps guiding him through life. He became a role model for others as he was always kind, usually soft-spoken, and always had time to answer a question or solve a problem for others, no matter how small. He will be dearly missed by his loved ones, and his many friends.

John is survived by his companion of 35 years, Patricia Zurkowski; his sister (Linda Brode); his Brother-in-Law (Alfred Brode) and their children Cindy, Missy, Alfred, and Belinda. He was like a father to Patricia’s son, Larry Sully, his wife Teresa Sully and like a Grandfather to their children Mary, Michael, Elizabeth and Danny.

Visitation Sunday, April 24, from 6pm to 9pm at the Kraeer-Becker Funeral Home, 217 E. Hillsboro Blvd. Deerfield Beach, FL.

Funeral Mass to be held Monday, April 25th 9:30am, St. Ambrose Catholic Church, 380 S. Federal Hwy, Deerfield Beach. John will be buried at the City of Boca Raton Mausoleum with a reception to follow.

The family gratefully accepts flowers, but mainly prayers, condolences and memories are wanted at www.kraeerdeerfieldbeach.com

Donations may be made in John's memory to St. Jude's at www.stjude.org