John A. Collaretti

On September 1, 2022, of Washington Twp. Age 92. Beloved husband of Arlene (nee Nadeau). Devoted father of Julia Collaretti (Dave), Maria Elfreth (Rick), Paula Hart (Bill), and the late John C. Collaretti.  Also survived by his daughter-in-law Linda Collaretti.  Loving grandfather of Christian (Joanna), Matthew (Jess), Maria (Derek), Andrew (Christina), Rick (Marissa), Nick (Dominique), Michael (Mikaela), Julianna (Jake), and Gregory. Proud great-grandfather of Olivia, Sam, Johnny, Ben, Grace, and Talia. Dear brother of the late Teresa Cline and the late Bertha Malesich.

John was the devoted son of Canzano and Marie Collaretti. He was born and raised on Viola Street in Camden, NJ, surrounded by many relatives and life-long friends. He served in the US Navy from 1951 to 1955. While stationed at the Naval Air Station Brunswick (Maine) he met and married Arlene, who would be his “Sweetheart” for the next 68 years. John loved his work at the Philadelphia Naval Ship Yard, where he began as an apprentice electrician in 1955 and rose, through numerous promotions, to the position of Group Superintendent of Mechanical, Electrical, and Electronics. He retired in 1994 and has remained close friends with a group of former co-workers.

Above all else, John was a loving and devoted family man. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the joy of his life. He loved nothing more than a big family dinner with lots of noise and laughter. He was a Philadelphia sports fan, but his favorite games were those in which he watched his grandsons play. He took great pride in his children’s and grandchildren’s academic, athletic, professional, and personal accomplishments.

John was a devout Catholic who spent time reading his prayer books and praying each day. But, more importantly, he truly lived his life as though he was walking in the light of Christ. He was always happy, eager to lend a hand, and welcoming to everyone he met. He has, no doubt, joined his son, John, his family, and his old friends that passed before him in a wonderful celebration with the Lord.

Family and friends are invited to attend his viewing Tuesday 6:00 – 8:00 pm and Wednesday 8:15 – 9:15 am at the Egizi Funeral Home, 119 Ganttown Road, Washington Twp.  Mass of Christian Burial 10:00 am at the Church of The Holy Family, 226 Hurffville Road, Washington Twp.  Interment St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Chews Landing.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Veterans Helping Veterans, P.O. Box 337 Woodbury, NJ 08096.

“A Life Well Lived Is Worth Remembering”