John LaMarca

John LaMARCA, 90, of River Vale, NJ, passed away on Friday, March 19th, 2021 due to covid complications. John is survived by his beloved wife Georganne; his children John LaMarca, Mary & husband Neil Gregory, Virginia & husband David LoBello and George & wife Lisa LaMarca. Grandchildren, Jesse & wife Jamie Donaldson, Kelly & Gianna LoBello, Ryan & Christopher Gregory, Dahne Menzel and Kristi Margadonna. And many precious nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, Joe LaMarca and Anna Iosa, sisters Antoinette & Edith and brother and best friend, Genero.

John loved his God, family, friends and lived his life with passion and joy. He enjoyed good company, sparked up conversation and was fond of athletic competition. He valued community and gladly involved himself with the Elks Club, American Legion and Knights of Columbus; he was an active parishioner of Our Lady of Mercy Church since he moved to River Vale in 1964.

John attended and loved Cliffside Park High School where he achieved personal athletic honors, played on championship teams and served as the senior class VP. On a full basketball scholarship, John went to St. Johns University and earned a bachelor of science degree.

John served his country during the Korean war and received the Korean service medal, two bronze stars and a UN service medal. After service to his country, he earned a masters degree and teaching certificate from Montclair. He happily spent his career at Fort Lee High School where he counseled and encouraged students to find their best paths for success. John fortunately was able to spend summers with his family at his much-loved lake house in Vermont which he continued to do throughout his life.

The family will receive guests at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ on Thursday, March 25th from 9-1030AM. A Mass celebrating his life and faith will be held at Our Lady of Mercy R.C. Church in Park Ridge, NJ at 11AM with private cremation to follow. Memorial contributions can be made in John's name to the Make-a-wish foundation.