John DeFilippo

John was born in Caserta, Italy on January 13, 1939. He attended school in Italy and served in the Italian Army prior to immigrating to America in 1962.

John began his American adventure with his wife in Schenectady, NY after marrying in Italy. After briefly working for General Electric, he decided he would be his own boss. He purchased a white Ford truck and began what would become a successful masonry and construction career, never looking back. John worked with several business partners over the years building beautiful homes throughout the tri-city area. Ultimately, he and his business “brother” began Tri-City Masonry and grew it to be a successful corporation. He retired in the early nineties and moved to Hollywood, Florida which had already become a second home to his family by this time. Here, he lovingly took care of his elderly parents until the Lord called them home.

John is survived by his wife, Maria (DiCaprio), and two children, Paul DeFilippo, and Carla Gload and her husband, Raymond Gload. He is also survived by his only grandchild, namesake, and pride and joy, John Gload. John is predeceased by his mother and father, Paolo and Carolina DeFilippo, who met him on his journey home.

The list of cousins John had is numerous, and he loved each and every one of them dearly. He made it a point to travel back to NY often after moving to Florida to stay as close to them as possible. As a child, John grew up with some of those cousins until his father returned from being held prisoner of war. He regarded these cousins as sister and brothers, and his aunt and uncle as another set of parents for the remainder of his life. John was ever so grateful for the part all of his extended family played in his life.

John enjoyed the autumn months. This is when he returned to NY to can tomatoes and make homemade wine, to be enjoyed for the rest of the year. Whenever he could, he got into a good game of bocci or cards. He often did this at the Italian American Club where he was a member in Hollywood. Although he was not competitive by nature, these games could fire him up. On the flip side, he also loved the peacefulness of sitting at his beach apartment smelling the salty air, listening to the waves, and taking a nap. And, he loved doing anything with his grandson.

John lived life for his family. Everything he did was done in an effort to instill love and security to those he cared about. He made sure things were taken care of so that everyone else could rest easy. This was true not only for his immediate family but for his extended family as well as his many, many friends. If someone needed help, they knew who to call. John would always be there to help in any way possible. He had a knack for just showing up when you needed him.

There was something about John’s quiet, knowing nature that drew people to him. He did not use words lightly. When he spoke, it was because he had something to say. And everyone listened. From New York to South Florida, people respected him. Being part of John’s life was a blessing no matter if you were family or friend. He was simply a great man. We all thank him for adding color to our world and we send him our love until we meet again.

John’s family will host a funeral service on Wednesday, March 29, 2023. The ceremony will take place at Forest Lawn 2401 Southwest 64th Avenue Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33317. Calling hours will be from 11:00 A.M-1:00 P.M. and the funeral ceremony will begin at 1:00 P.M. Burial services will be immediately following. A hot buffet will be served at the premises for all guests.

A memorial service will be held in Schenectady, New York at a later date for the many family and friends that cannot attend the funeral in Florida. An announcement will come when those plans are finalized.