John Michael Dorso

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Mary Strunk Dorso; daughter, Cara Dorso Moran; son-in-law, Lawrence Moran; and grandsons, Ian Moran (Kimberly) and Sean Moran (Renee).

John was born in Derby, Connecticut, and graduated from Derby High School before enlisting in the U.S. Navy at age 18. He served on various ships and stations, including a tour of duty in Vietnam, where he was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal with Combat “V” for meritorious achievement. John retired from the Navy after 23 years of service, having advanced from Seaman to full Lieutenant—one of his proudest achievements.

Upon retiring from the U.S. Navy, John continued working with the Navy as a contractor. In his spare time, he volunteered with the American Cancer Society for over 40 years. A cancer survivor himself, John felt it was his duty to help fellow survivors cope with diagnosis, early detection, and prevention. For his many years of volunteer work, he was presented with the prestigious St. George National Award in 2006 by the South Atlantic Division of the American Cancer Society in “recognition of outstanding contributions to the control of cancer.”

John often expressed how proud he was of his service in the U.S. Navy and his work with the American Cancer Society. He believed his mission was to help cancer patients cope with their initial diagnosis. His lifelong commitment to helping others dated back to his high school years, when he was recognized by his classmates and teachers in the yearbook as the “Lord of Human Kindness.”

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.