John Richard Reinhartsen

John Reinhartsen, a man of immense character, common sense, and genuine kindness, passed away February 7, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer. Born May 29, 1947, at Mather Hospital in Port Jefferson, New York, he was the son of the late Charles Anderson Reinhartsen and Jeanette (Savorina) Hanson Reinhartsen.

Though his family’s roots were firmly planted in Brooklyn, John was raised in Selden, where he developed the sharp wit and neighborly spirit that defined his life. Even in his final days, John’s focus remained on those he loved. He faced his illness with a quiet strength, often hiding his discomfort behind his signature compression socks—a look many friends fondly mistook for a bold fashion statement.

John enjoyed a long and distinguished career with Florida Public Utilities Company.

He was a sports enthusiast through and through, John’s loyalty to the Miami Dolphins was unbreakable. Mostly. While he stuck with them through every high and low, his legendary common sense always won out in the fourth quarter. If the Dolphins couldn’t find a way to beat their opponents, John was at least going to find a way to beat the stadium traffic. To this day, his friends remain uncertain if John ever actually saw the clock hit zero at a home game.

John’s joy for adventure took him across the globe. He was a seasoned traveler who believed two things defined the best journeys: a great travel companion and a good deal on the tickets. John was known for his infamous sports weekends, packed with energy, friends, and his unshakable team spirit.

John was a caring and helpful volunteer at the local food pantry. While he preferred working behind the scenes, his greatest joy came from knowing that his efforts made a real difference in people's lives.

John is survived by his son, Brian and fiancé, Kristen; his brother, Jim and wife, Leona; and his lifelong partner, Mary Wollney. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Jeanette. He will be deeply missed by everyone who was blessed to be his friend. He was, quite simply, one of the genuine good guys.

Service Information

Memorial Service: Thursday, February 12th at 10:00am-12:00pm at Dorsey-E. Earl Smith Funeral Home, 3041 Kirk Road, Lake Worth, FL 33461.

Reception: A toast and celebration of John’s life will follow at Dave’s Resort and Bar.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in John’s memory to the Holy Name of Jesus Food pantry, 345 South Military Trail, West Palm Beach, FL 33415. You can donate online by sending your gift via Zelle to: [email protected] In the memo, include your full name and John Reinhartsen-food pantry.