John G. Masella, age 77, passed away peacefully in Arizona on September 7, 2024. John was the dearest son of the late Stella and Dominic; beloved brother of the late Dominic, Jr., the late James "Jimmy" and the late Michael Masella; dear cousin of Candace, Toni, the late Felicia ("Sugar"), Suzanne, Susan, Dominic, Ernie, and the late Jerry, and cousin in-law of Larry (Candace), Julian (Suzanne), and the late Bill Beckett (Toni) and Ilene Ciccone (Ernie); cherished friend of Gene, Gerry, Angelo, Angelique, Faith, Rose, Charlie and many others.
A charismatic guy, people were easily drawn to John. Those close to him reluctantly went along with some of his antics, such as being members of John's police squad (John was Captain, of course). Although he and his brothers had challenges from birth, John lived his life to the fullest—and then some! He was a devoted fan of Elvis and Tom Jones and made sure that everyone knew they were his idols. Even during hospice, John was mouthing the words to their songs.
John was proud of his Cadillac scooter, “Blackie”, which he tricked out, and was well-known by the Melrose Park Police for driving on North Ave. He never got picked up. He loved singing karaoke and performing like Elvis, eating, especially Italian food, and “admired” the ladies. When he moved to AZ from Melrose Park, he missed his dear friends and cousin Toni a great deal and gave Candace and Larry a run for their money.
His closest family members and friends picked up on John’s phrases and specialized signoffs. And, so, with hearts full of love, we say, “A Big 10-4, John. Over-and-out. Out.”
Visitation Tuesday, September 17, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Cumberland Chapels 8300 W. Lawrence Ave., Norridge, IL. A funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home, and we will proceed for Interment at Mt. Carmel Catholic Cemetery in Hillside. For more information call (708) 456-8300.