It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of John Francis Pizzano, beloved husband, brother, uncle, great uncle, and friend, who passed on June 14, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on May 14, 1951, in Newark, NJ to Louis & Frances Pizzano. John grew up in an environment that nurtured his curiosity and love for technology. From a young age, he was known for his knack for taking things apart and putting them back together, a skill that would shape both his personal and professional life.
John's early career began at his father's car repair shop, Cade Stevenson Auto Repair in Newark, New Jersey, where he worked side by side with his dad and brother Gordon from the age of nine. After graduating from James Caldwell High School, he served in the National Guard, and then pursued his passion for electronics at Rets Institute of Technology, earning an Associate's Degree. This led him to a position at Mahaffy & Harder Engineering in Towaco, where he became adept at building and repairing machinery for the meat and pharmaceutical industries.
In 1977, John embarked on a remarkable 39-year journey with Printpack Packaging as a Field Service Technician in Towaco, NJ. His colleagues and clients affectionately knew him as "Mr. Fix It" or "Hands of Gold" for his honest approach and unparalleled skill in servicing packaging machines. His work took him across the country, leaving an indelible mark on both his professional community and the many lives he touched.
Outside of work, John was a masterful cook and the cherished "designated carver" at family gatherings. He loved spending time with family and friends, playing Bocce ball, windsurfing, creating unique cigar box guitars and playing golf. His Harley motorcycle buddies will fondly remember the epic road trips they took from New York to Arkansas, with John riding alongside them on his striking bright yellow Honda Gold Wing. His vibrant sense of humor brought joy to everyone around him, making every moment spent with him feel like a celebration. John will always be fondly remembered as a master prankster, and made everybody laugh. He was affectionately known by many nicknames including "LaRue", "Big Bird" , "Johnny Possum Cat", and "Swamp Ass Johnny".
Devoted husband of Cathy (nee Hoeflinger) Pizzano. Dear brother of Carol Lembo and the late Butch, Gordon and Roman Pizzano. Cherished uncle of many nieces, nephews and great nieces & nephews. He is also survived by his beloved cats, Bowie, Stella, and Ziggy. His warm spirit and the laughter he shared will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A Memorial Mass to honor John's life will be held at St. Mary's R.C. Church in Denville, New Jersey on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 10AM. Family and friends are invited to join in remembrance of a remarkable man whose legacy of kindness, humor, and love will live on in our hearts.
In lieu of flowers, donations in John's honor can be made to:
American Diabetes Association
P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023
American Heart Association
P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692
Rheumatoid Arthritis Foundation, Help Fight RA
8815 Conroy Windermere Rd. Suite 309, Orlando, FL 32835
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