John Phillip Porcari

John was a beloved neighbor at Windemere Farms, longtime friend to Candy Hammack, father to his son John, and grandfather to Isabella, Domenic, Sophia and Alanna Porcari. He was preceded in death by his daughter Deborah.

Born and raised in Lakeview, Long Island, New York, John developed a love for the water and left High School at 17 to join the US Coast Guard where he was in active service during the Korean War (He would go on to finish his GED in 1982). John’s love of being on the water continued throughout his life in the form of cruise ship vacations, which he enjoyed greatly.

Following his Coast Guard years, John worked as a furniture salesman on Long Island, NY. He then transitioned into a long career as a builder and contractor. John played a key role in the growth of the Bonanza Steakhouse and Bobby Rubino’s Ribs restaurant chains in Florida during the 1970’s and 80’s. He then moved to North Carolina, and worked for many years at 109 Lumber-Southside Building Center where he ultimately ran the Paint Department until his mid 80s. Even at that age, you could still find John hauling around 5-gallon drums of paint and helping to stock lumber. John also enjoyed going to the YMCA to work out often, and strategically got there early in the morning to make sure he was first on his favorite machines. He was a fan of WWII era films and documentaries and watched them on a daily basis. He loved and took great care of the home he built and owned in Windemere Farms and was blessed to be in the company of so many wonderful neighbors who looked out and cared for him.

John loved a good bargain, and, when he found one, he bought in volume. Neighbors, if you were wondering if he was wearing the same pair of blue workpants every day for years- the answer is no! Actually, he had more than a dozen pairs (with matching blue workshirts!) During his last days, John was still making plans to go to the flea market and buy some new sizes in the blue workpants. John also loved his trips to “WalmartS” and was busy cornering the market on generic brand Corn Flakes- often having 6-8 boxes in back-up in the pantry!

John had a soft spot in his heart for animals. He had a deep love for Shetland Sheepdogs and owned 10 during his lifetime. His last canine companion, Mr. Cooper, preceded John to Heaven in February. John also helped to care for award winning champion Shelties with his good friend, Candy.

After an unfortunate fall and hip replacement in January, John’s health gradually declined until his recent passing at Mountain Valley Hospice in Yadkinville, NC. He will be remembered fondly by all who knew and loved him.

A Military burial will take place at The National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, in Pittsburgh PA (date pending).

In lieu of flowers, we would be so blessed if you would send a donation to Mountain Valley Hospice Care Center: https://www.mtnvalleyhospice.org/ways-to-give/donate/.

Their care for John Sr. was paramount in helping his son John to be fully present with his Father during the last days. These are God’s Angels on Earth serving in a way that is truly extraordinary.