John J Ficarra

John “Jack” Ficarra, age 77, of Elizabeth and Little Egg Harbor, NJ, passed away peacefully at his home in Little Egg Harbor on June 12, 2025, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. He was surrounded by his wife and loving family.

Jack was the devoted husband of Josephine “Cookie” (née Gomulka) for 53½ years, and the beloved father of Jason (Kim) of Garwood, NJ, and Kenneth of Elizabeth, NJ. He was predeceased by his son, Jason. He is also survived by his siblings Karen Zuczek (Ed) of Westmont, NJ, and Joseph Addotta (Millie) of West Rotunda, FL.

Jack was a proud grandfather to Elaina, Lily, and Oliver Ficarra of Garwood, NJ, and a cherished uncle to numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins who will miss him dearly.

Born and raised in Elizabeth, NJ, Jack graduated from St. Mary’s High School. He served proudly in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1969 as a Medical Photographer during the Vietnam War. Upon his honorable discharge, Jack furthered his education at the Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, NY, where he earned his degree in Photography. He later received a Master’s degree in Medical Media from Seton Hall University in South Orange, NJ.

Jack worked for 30 years as a Biomedical Photographer at the VA Medical Center in East Orange, NJ. After his retirement, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, linked to Agent Orange exposure during his military service in Vietnam. He battled the disease for 14 years with remarkable strength, supported by the unwavering love and care of his wife, Cookie.

Jack lived a full and active life, enjoying photography, family, and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Family and friends are invited to attend visitation at the Krowicki McCracken Funeral Home, 2124 East Saint George Avenue, Linden, NJ 07036, on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Hedwig Roman Catholic Church, 600 Myrtle St., Elizabeth, NJ 07202. Private cremation will follow.