OBITUARY

John V. Modafferi

July 17, 1943 – January 6, 2021

John V. Modafferi, 77, passed away January 6th, peacefully in his Huguenot home surrounded by his family after a lengthy battle with pulmonary fibrosis.

John was born on July 17, 1943, in Port Richmond. After serving in the US Army as a medic, John became a firefighter in 1968 serving in the FDNY for 25 years.

He grew up fixing cars, which became his lifelong passion. An avid antique car enthusiast, John collected and restored hundreds of cars over the years.

He is survived by his wife of fifty years, Jean (nee Wilday) and his two daughters, Barbara Pollio and her husband Ray with their two children Emily and Ryan and Keri Ostrander and her husband Thomas with their two children Colin and Aidan, as well as his three brothers Anthony, Michael and Paul.

A visitation for John will be held Friday, January 8, 2021 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Casey McCallum Rice South Shore Funeral Home, 30 Nelson Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10308. A funeral Mass will occur Saturday, January 9, 2021 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Holy Child Church, 4747 Amboy Road, Staten Island, NY 10312. A committal service will occur Saturday, January 9, 2021 from 11:30 AM to 11:45 AM at Resurrection Cemetery, 391 Sharrott Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10309.

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  • Visitation

    Friday, January 8, 2021

  • Funeral Service

    Saturday, January 9, 2021

  • Committal Service

    Saturday, January 9, 2021

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John V. Modafferi

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Jay Hirsch

January 18, 2021

John

Thank you for all the good times

Jay

Jay Hirsch

January 18, 2021

Three words describe John " great human being"
John always had a smile on his face even when we had "arguments" about cars.

Gerry Adkins

January 8, 2021

My deepest heartfelt condolences to the Modafferi family. I think of all the fun times we shared together. You are going to good company as Richard is waiting with a beer. I will keep you in my thoughts until we meet again. Rest in peace John.

Jim McCarthy

January 8, 2021

It seem like yesterday we were on the avenue having fun me ,you Paul and Mike.We. could have made a movie ,we could have called it happy days.It was a great time back then and being your friend was even better.Im gonna miss you pal .Me and Monica send our prayers and love to you Jean and the family

Al Somma

January 8, 2021

We would like to offer our deepest sympathy to Jean, Barbara, Ray, Kerri, Thomas and all the grandchildren and to brothers Tony, Mike and Paul. John was an incredible friend. He was always there to help anyone in need. I will miss our daily morning coffee and our weekend meets at 7-11. I will always remember the projects we shared and the many many laughs and discussions we had.
He will be greatly missed and never forgotten.
So grateful for our friendship.
Al

Eddie Orlando

January 8, 2021

I will always remember the fun times I had with UNCLE John . Whether it was his 4th of July BBQ (especially his RIBS) , Monday nights at Manny's Diner, Lunch at the Garage, Our Annual Christmas Dinner or breakfast on the way to Carlisle, Macungie and Hershey. There was never a dull moment with John.

My heart felt condolences to the entire family. Especially Aunt Jean, Barbara , Ray Kerri, Tommy and the kids as well as his brothers Mike, Paul Tony and my buddy Mike.

RIP "Uncle John" Roaming Wheels 2021

Eddie Orlando

Michael Modafferi

January 8, 2021

I will never forget my brother John. When we were kids and I was the bad boy on saturday mornings and refused to clean our room and would "run away from home" only to return in a couple of hours to face the wrath of our Mother. Who came to my rescue and pleaded on my behalf that I would change my ways? John. This occured quite frequently on saturdays and he always came to save the day.
I can't count the times we were out riding in one of his cars and ran out of gas and had to push. His idea of putting gas in a car was $1 and off he went. Also how many times he fixed Paul' and Anthony's cars?
John was a soft hearted guy who would do anything for you especially if it was to fix your car. I'm sure he has set up a shop in heaven. God rest his soul and I'm sure his hands have automotive grease on them.

victor coiro

January 8, 2021

John is a wonderful Friend, Family man, Husband, Father ,Grand Pa, Uncle, Theres a hole in the hearts of all that knew him. His quick wit. Out spoken personality.Always willing to help when someone was in trouble.I met him when I was 17 and have been enjoying his company with the Antique Car Hobby ever since. Countless trips to Carlisle, Hershey, Charlotte, Macungie, Pamona etc .Even when I would buy "JUNK" He knew i loved it and would help me keep it going. Our world will never be the same. I was lucky enough to have a 2nd great father in my life . Love and Thanks , Till we meet again. Victor.

Leo Sandomierski

January 7, 2021

one of the most nicest and decent persons I have ever known he will be sorely missed He was also an excellent firefighter who always spoke his mind and was very much admired by those he
worked with . A really good friend

Carmella Modafferi

January 7, 2021

To my brother in law John. Whenever we had a problem with our cars , I would call you & you were always there for us. I will always remember the good times we had with the family. You will be missed. May you rest in peace.
Love you Carmella , Dawn & Roseann