John Joseph Stassi

John J. Stassi, 99, passed away at home with his niece Nancy Shallcross, her husband Ken Shallcross, and his caretaker and friend Valerie Alexander by his side. He was married to the late Maria (Rotondo) Stassi for 52 years before her passing in 2008.

Mr. Stassi was born in NYC on January 25, 1918. He was raised in Easton, Pa and attended schools there. He was a Navy veteran of WWII stationed in the Aleutian Islands and later on the USS Dour, a Mine Sweeper off the coast of Japan. He attended the University of Arizona and was awarded a Bachelor of Science degree in 1955. He married Maria in 1956 and in 1961 they embarked on an 18-month journey throughout Europe and the Middle East. Upon returning to the US, John and Maria lived in Rhode Island for several years before moving to Chula Vista in 1965 where they would spend the rest of their lives.

Mr. Stassi held several positions in industry before becoming a Social Worker for San Diego County. He held that post until retiring in 1980.

Mr. Stassi was a communicant at St. Rose of Lima Parish. He was a Eucharistic Minister for over 20 years and a volunteer for many of the church’s charities. He was a Charter member of the Italian Catholic Federation, Branch 229, and its first President. He held numerous positions at the ICF including Branch President for more than seven years. He was a Knight in the Fourth Degree, Knights of Columbus, and holds the title of Sir Knight Emeritus for Balboa Assembly. He and his wife were volunteers for Meals-On-Wheels for over 30 years.

Mr. Stassi enjoyed life and the many surprises each day would bring. He enjoyed listening to music and playing his harmonica. He enjoyed interacting with other people with his unique sense of humor that always put a smile on the faces of the people he encountered. He was also very generous to numerous charities throughout the country.

Besides those by his side at his passing he is survived by his sister-in-law Anna Rotondo of RI, niece Judy McConaghy of RI, niece Barbara McCaffrey and her husband Patrick McCaffrey of RI, numerous grand nieces and grand nephews. He was the godfather to Patricia Chieffo of NY, Mary Perry of Hawaii and Catherine Shallcross of NY.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you donate to the following programs that were important to John:

-- St. Rose of Lima CCD Program, St. Rose of Lima Parish, 293 H St, Chula Vista, California 91911, or

-- The Sister Dolores Social Outreach Program, St. Rose of Lima Parish, 293 H St, Chula Vista, California 91911, or

-- San Diego Rescue Mission, PO Box 80427, San Diego, CA 92138.