John Buttermark

John Buttermark, 91, a lifelong Staten Island resident, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2025. Born on April 11, 1934, John lived a life defined by devotion—to family, to service, to community, and to the many passions that brought him joy.

John was the beloved husband of the late Lucy, who passed away in 2021. Married on February 20, 1954, at St. Theresa Church, they shared 67 years of unwavering partnership. Together they built a family and a home filled with warmth, humor, and love.

He was a devoted father to Michael (Peggy) and John, and the adoring grandfather of Briana Buttermark, Caitlin Almodovar (Josh), and Lauren Accardi (Giuseppe). Of all his accomplishments, nothing brought him greater pride than his three granddaughters. He never missed a cheerleading competition, recital, play, sporting event, birthday, graduation, or report card—he celebrated every milestone with joy and a full heart.

A talented athlete from an early age, John excelled in multiple sports. He played basketball, football, and baseball in numerous Staten Island leagues. As a halfback on Curtis High School’s football team, a player for Mo Cohen’s Blue Jays, and a standout at P.S. 45—where he held the record for scoring 33 points in a single game against St. Peter’s—John left an indelible mark on local athletics. He also played baseball with the American Legion’s All Stars at Ebbets Field.

John was drafted by both a minor league baseball team and the U.S. Army at the same time. With characteristic honor and humility, he chose to serve his country. From 1957 to 1959, he proudly served as a corporal and VIP driver at Fort Benning, Georgia.

Family and service were deeply intertwined in John’s life. He was a founding parent of Eden II, established to ensure his son John and other autistic children in the tri-state area received the education and support they deserved. The school was the first of its kind, and John took on numerous roles within the organization over the years. Later, he coached his son John’s Special Olympics weightlifting team, guiding with patience, pride, and a coach’s heart.

A lifelong Staten Island plumber—part of a long line of Buttermark plumbers—John took immense pride in his work and in bringing his son Michael into the trade. Known for his steady hands and big heart, he was the kind of man who showed up early, stayed late, and always had a cigar in his mouth and a smile on his face.

In his retirement, John delighted in the simple pleasures: maintaining a perfectly kept backyard, manning a well-fired grill, and caring for his impeccably curated pool—so expertly that neighbors often sought his help for their own. He loved sitting by the fireplace with a Yankees game on, or standing outside admiring the home and life he had built. He was a proud usher at Holy Family Church, serving his parish with humility and faith.

A lifelong Yankees and New York Giants fan, a lover of good pranks and great stories, John embodied warmth, humor, and resilience. Diagnosed with cancer in 2019, he faced his illness with dignity, strength, and an unwavering love for his family. He fought valiantly until the end, often saying that when God needed a plumber, He would call him home. On November 29, 2025, God made that call.

John’s life was one lived fully, joyfully, and generously. His legacy will continue in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held on December 2, 2025, from 2:00–4:00 PM and 7:00–9:00 PM at Casey Funeral Home, 350 Slosson Ave, Staten Island, NY 10314.

Funeral Mass will take place on December 3, 2025, from 10:30–11:30 AM at the Church of the Holy Family, 366 Watchogue Rd, Staten Island, NY 10314.

May he rest in eternal peace.