John Rochette Corbett Jr.

John Rochette Corbett Jr., a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2025, at the age of 87 in Punta Gorda, Florida. Born on April 17, 1937, in New Haven, Connecticut, John's life was marked by dedication to his family, service to his community, and a legacy of warmth and generosity.

John is lovingly survived by his wife of 69 years, Barbara Yocher Corbett, his daughter Deborah Corbett, his son James Corbett and wife Jeanne, daughter-in-law Joan Corbett and his adoring seven grandchildren: Alison Baker, Christopher, Steven, Robert Errato, James (Jay) Corbett, Amanda Peck, and Kelly Jakubisyn. His legacy continues through his five great-grandchildren, who will carry forward the stories and memories of their beloved great-grandfather. Also mourning his loss is his brother-in-law Robert Yocher and wife Jodie. John was preceded in death by his dear son, John (Bear) Corbett III, whose memory remained a guiding light in his life.

After completing his high school education, John began a career that would be defined by both skill and service. He dedicated 13 years to the New York, New Haven, and Hartford Railroad Company as a brakeman and trainman, a job that reflected his love for the intricate workings of locomotives and the open tracks. Following his time with the railroad, John served his community as a firefighter for Hamden, Connecticut, for 25 years. His bravery and commitment to the safety of others earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the community he protected.

John's leadership skills shone brightly as he served as the president of the Local 2687 Union for 15 years, where he advocated for the rights and well-being of his fellow firefighters. His passion for community involvement followed him to Punta Gorda, Florida, where he became the past president of the Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association (PGICA), as well as the past president of the PGICA Fishing Club. His love for the water was further exemplified in his role as the past commodore of the Port Charlotte Florida Yacht Club, where he enjoyed the camaraderie and the serene beauty of the sea.

Those who knew John will remember him as a man of great integrity and kindness. His loving, caring, and generous nature touched the lives of many, and his presence was a source of comfort and joy to his family and friends. John's sense of humor, his hearty laugh, and his ability to tell a captivating story will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

John's life was a tapestry of hard work, dedication to loved ones, and a commitment to the service of others. He will be remembered not only for the roles he held but for the way he lived his life—with honor, compassion, and a boundless love for his family. His influence will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.