John "Pat" Joseph Napolitano

Lt Col (ret.) John J., or as his friends called him, “Pat” Napolitano was born, April 21, 1939, in Scranton, Pennsylvania, to Josephine and John Napolitano. Pat passed away on March 21, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas, at the age of 85.

After graduating high school, Pat answered the call to serve his country, joining the United Stated Air Force. He began his career as a B52 navigator, flying in Operation Chrome Dome during the Cuban Missile Crisis. After numerous assignments around the world, he concluded his 28-year career as a strategic nuclear planner in two joint commands. In retirement, he continued working in this capacity with a civilian contractor for the Air Force.

He married the love of his life, Mary Kay Matthews, in 1987, with whom he shared his remaining years. They enjoyed traveling to many places around the world, skiing, going to dinner with friends, and just being together.

During the late 70’s, Pat took up skiing and tennis, activities he enjoyed until late in his life. He won several base tennis championships and the Leukemia Society “Stars and Stripes” tournament, and was on the San Antonio City Championship 4.0 winning team. As a member of the San Antonio Tennis Association, he volunteered to work many tournaments. In Hawaii, during the early 80’s, he also enjoyed sailing as the 1st mate aboard the Bushido sailboat. During this time, he and his team won five races, and finished second in two and third in one. Pat became a car guy as a teenager while working in a car repair shop, a love that continued all his life. His first car was a 1949 Mercury, but he eventually owned multiple sports and high-performance cars. He loved to compete in time trials and road rallies, and go on fun rides in the hill country.

Pat is survived by his wife of over 37 years, Mary Kay Napolitano; and his daughter, Lysa Napolitano.

Pat will be remembered for his sharp mind, competitive spirit, deep love for his family, and more importantly, as an all around good guy. During his later years, when medical problems entered his life, he still had a smile on his face and didn’t let his challenges ruin the occasion.

The family will receive friends from 7:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M. on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at Porter Loring Mortuary North, 2102 North Loop 1604 East. One of his good friends will give a eulogy at 8:00 P.M.

A graveside service, with full military honors, will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery (Shelter No. 1), 1520 Harry Wurzbach Road.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Pat’s name to a charity of your choice.