John L. Neri

Born on July 16, 1932, John spent his early years in Brooklyn, New York, before moving to Connecticut, where he built a life marked by hard work, dedication, and service to others.

He is survived by his beloved wife and best friend, Diane, his stepdaughter, Debbie, his brother-in law, James, brother, Glenn and wife, Maureen, his sister-in-law, Helen, and many nephews, nieces, cousins, and their families. He was predeceased by his brothers, Joseph, Seldon, Alan, and Carl, and his sisters, Josephine, Eva/Theresa, and Rosanna.

John enlisted in the United States Army in 1952 during the Korean Conflict, served two years on active duty, and six more in the Army Reserves. His commitment to country and community guided his life.

A devoted member of the Clinton Volunteer Fire Department for 37 years, John helped bring emergency medical services to the shoreline, trained EMTs, served as secretary of the Clinton Emergency Medical Service, and spent countless hours driving the ambulance and aerial truck. He also served for many years as Post Commander of American Legion Post 66 in Clinton.

In the 1980s, John joined the newly formed Clinton Housing Authority, helped plan the town’s first affordable housing community, and served as its Chairman for 40 years, working to ensure safe and affordable housing for elderly and disabled residents.

John never truly retired and believed in honest work. Over the years he cut wood, landscaped, worked at Burr Dairy, built homes with Joe Roller, tended buffaloes, drove the Pallenberg Bears, owned and operated John’s Refuse, and worked as a shareholder and laborer for Neri Brothers Construction Company and later New England Road, Inc. For fun he enjoyed shoveling snow and riding his lawn mower.

John will be remembered for his work ethic, quiet generosity, and steadfast commitment to helping others. His family will cherish his love, wisdom, humor, and example of a life well lived. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of kindness and service in John’s memory. Donations may be made to The Clinton Volunteer Fire Department or American Legion Post 66, Clinton, CT.