WILMINGTON — John Miastkowski, age 92, a beloved resident of Eastwood Village, Wilmington, NC, and formerly of Levittown, NY, passed away on Tuesday, September 17, 2024. Born in Floral Park, New York, to Stanley and Catherine Miastkowski. John lived a life deeply rooted in love, family, and hard work.
He served proudly in the Korean War for two years. Following his honorable discharge, John married the love of his life, Joan DeCesare in 1954, and together they built a warm and nurturing home filled with love, raising four children and creating countless cherished memories. They called Levittown home, where John became an integral part of the community, leaving an unforgettable impact on all who knew him.
John dedicated 36 years of his career to Super Sash Millwork in Mineola, New York, where he worked his way up to a supervisory role, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues. His commitment to service extended beyond work, as he took pride in being a Boy Scout leader, baseball coach, a role that reflected his dedication to mentoring youth and fostering a sense of community.
John had a zest for life and a wide range of hobbies. He loved golfing, bowling, gardening, and traveling, always enjoying life to its fullest. A former catcher for the New York Yankees Binghamton farm team, he remained passionate about baseball and the Yankees, a topic he could chat about for hours. His favorite time of year was Christmas, a holiday he celebrated with unmatched joy—attending Mass, spending time with family, watching children open presents, and reveling in the warmth of togetherness.
A natural handyman, John was known for his ability to fix just about anything. His love for tinkering was emblematic of his patient and thoughtful approach to life.
John is survived by his devoted wife of 69 years, Joan, who stood by his side through every chapter of their life together. He is also survived by his sister Jean and her husband Cesare, as well as his loving children: Jean Anne Studer and her husband Gary, Janet Chetti and her husband Salvatore, John Miastkowski and his wife Elizabeth, and James Miastkowski and his wife Grace.
He was a proud grandfather to Jackie and her husband Christopher, Jennifer, Salvatore and his wife Elizabeth, Michael, Katy and her husband Joe, Christine and her husband Dan, Brian, and Lauren. His legacy continues through his adoring great-grandchildren, Joseph, Ryan, Joe, Vinny and one on the way as well as his nephew Christopher Shea and cousins and friends whose lives he touched with kindness and generosity.
John was predeceased by his brother Edward and his sister Joan. Though his passing leaves an irreplaceable void, his memory will continue to live on through the love and laughter of those he left behind.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects and celebrate John’s life on Monday, September 23 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Wilmington Funeral and Cremation, 1535 South 41st St. Wilmington, NC 28403.
A Funeral Mass will be held in his honor at St. Mark Catholic Church, 1011 Eastwood Rd. Wilmington, NC 28403 on Tuesday, September 24 at 10 a.m. Reception to follow in the Parish Hall following the Mass.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Veteran Affairs in Fayetteville, NC (565).
Please leave memories and condolences for John’s family here.
