passed away, just shy of his 86th birthday.
John was born and raised in Dongan Hills, Staten Island. He is predeceased by 3 siblings Frank, Alfred and Jerome. He is survived by three children Luann Teetsell, Lauren Scharfenberg and John Thomas Borrell. He is loved by his grandchildren Gregory and Sabrina and as well as two estranged grandchildren Brianna and Nicole. He also leaves behind many loved nieces and nephews.
John lived life to the fullest, where he proudly served in the Navy and then worked for 54 years as a broker on Wall Street. After retiring, he wanted to remain active, so he worked part-time at Colonial Gas Station to be productive and make people smile. He was an officer and member for many years of the Beachcombers and Zimmer Club Fish & Game. He was also an amateur poet, where he authored Feelings of Poetry.
John’s passion didn’t only include poetry, his primary passion was singing -- partaking in various church choirs, including, but not limited to St. Rita’s and the latest St. Anthony’s. The church choir singing branched out to Karaoke where he was known as “Gentleman John.”
“Gentleman John” absolutely loved to sing Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Perry Como, Elvis Presley and the like. Two of his favorites songs to sing were also how he lived his life “My Way” and “It’s a Wonderful World.”
“God Bless” John, Dad, Grandpa, Uncle and Gentleman John…you will surely be missed by many.
In Lieu of Flowers Donations would be greatly appreciated to one of the charities of your choice:
Patient Advocate Foundation
Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
or Meals on Wheels
Thank You
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