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John Amabile Obituary
AGE: 73 • Spring Lake Heights
John Amabile, 73, of Spring Lake Heights, passed away Sunday, April 22, 2012, at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune, with his devoted family at his bedside. He was born and raised in Jersey City and moved to Spring Lake Heights in 1968, where he has resided for the past 44 years. He played baseball and football at St. Peter's Prep and Boston College, where he received the Scanlon Award as well as being an honorable mention All-American quarterback. John started his career as a math teacher and head football coach at Lincoln High School and Dickinson High School in Jersey City. He also coached football at Belleville and Middletown before becoming the head coach at Wall High School in 1977, where he had Central Jersey Group III championships in 1982 and 1983. While coaching track and field at Wall, he coached his sons to state championships in the javelin. He coached Neptune from 1985-2000 in which time he earned three state championships in 1995, 1997, and 1998. After Neptune, he coached at St. John Vianney, Allentown and most recently at Long Branch. In recent years, he was also a scout for the New York Giants. In his career, he had more than 260 wins. He was a positive role model for all of his players and students. He truly cared for the people he coached and helped them on and off the field. John was a loving husband of 50 years to his wife, Sue. They met when they were just 14 and 15 and shared a romance that lasted a lifetime. They were true soul mates. Sue never missed a football game and supported him in his career every step of the way. They enjoyed going for long walks and cooking together. John was the quintessential family man. He always had words of encouragement for his children and supported them in all of their endeavors. His greatest enjoyment was being with his family. He travelled around the country coaching his sons to be All-Americans in the javelin.
His parents, John and Marie Caccapardo Amabile; and his sister, Ann Marie Eknoian, predeceased him. He is survived by his wife, Suzanne Brady Amabile; his sons, John C. Amabile of Marlboro, and Robert N. Amabile of Neptune; his daughter, Nicole and husband Matt DeMaio of Spring Lake Heights; his grandchildren, Samantha DeMaio, Andrew DeMaio, and Joseph Amabile; and his brother-in-law, Richard Eknoian of Wall.
John faced his battle with heart disease and his recent diagnosis of cancer with courage and tremendous fight. His positive outlook never waivered and he was always optimistic. In keeping with his caring and charitable nature, the family specifically requests donations to the Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research, 1111 Stewart Ave., Bethpage, NY 11714 (Envelopes provided by the funeral home).
Relatives and friends are invited to call from 3 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 25 at the O'Brien Funeral Home, 2028 Hwy 35 at New Bedford Rd., Wall. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, April 26 at St. Catharine's R.C. Church, 215 Essex Ave., Spring Lake, NJ 07762. Entombment in St. Catharine's Cemetery, Sea Girt. For further information or to send condolences to the family please visit www.obrienfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Amabile
May 10, 2012
To the Amabile family,
Most of the entries in this Guest Book come from proud members of the "extended" Amabile family; those of us who knew "The Coach" or were blessed and honored to have played for him. We will all miss him, but none of us as much as you will. I pray that cherished memories and time will eventually ameliorate your pain, but I hope you can take some solace in these entries that document impact your Husband and Father had on so many people. He demanded excellence and inspired levels of individual performance and teamwork, and he always had a way of keeping things light. He touched and transformed many lives, and helped many boys become men. We thank you for sharing him with us in his "too short" time on this Earth.
God bless you.
Gary Holst
Middletown Township HS '73
U.S. Naval Academy '77
Dr. Gerald L. Hamel
May 1, 2012
To the Amabile Family:
Knew Johnny at BC. Marvelous athlete, ebulient personality, loved life. Everybody knew when John was present. Had some wonderfull experiences with John that I'll never forget.
My sympathies for your loss.
Gerry and Mary Jane Hamel, BC '61
Rodney Garner
April 28, 2012
Coach Amabile gave so much to our high school and community in Neptune. I had the honor of playing for him at Neptune High 1985-1987 and I am grateful for the inspiration he gave to me personally and all he gave to us as players, that shaped us into men. My condolences to the family, he will be missed and never forgotten.
Rodney Garner #57
April 27, 2012
John Amabile was one of a kind. He lit up every room he was in with his enthusiastic presence. He loved people and he loved life - most of all - he loved Sue. I will always treasure our times together at B.C. and in Boston as college kids.
As time went on, our meetings were far and few between but, when we met it was just like old times.
Johnny Amabile " Uncle Nutsy "- we will miss you and treasure our memories. Sincere sympathy to Sue and the family.
Love,
Mary Jane Semcer
Khalid McLeod
April 26, 2012
To the Amabile Family,
Coach Amabile was more than a coach to so many of his former players and students. He was a father to some of us, who didn't have a male influence in the home , he was a disciplinarian, he was an unbelievable leader, he was a great motivator, he was what a role-model should be and parents were fortunate to have this man instill in all of us life-long values and our unforgetable Motto: Pride, Tempo, Intensity, that we will always remember for the rest of our lives.
To the Amabile family you opened up your home to so many of us with love and trust for support and pre-game meals, along with the speeches that coach gave will be remembered for a life time, and the epitome for what he stood for as a man. He has moved on to a better place, but he will never be forgotten. He was legendary!...Thanks Coach Amabile
Khalid McLeod #3 (90-92)
heather ballin walsh
April 26, 2012
I am truly sorry to hear of Mr. Amabile's passing. He was a wonderful, caring man and I always enjoyed time spent with the Amabile family. My thoughts are with all of you, and I wish for strength and peace for you in this difficult time.
April 25, 2012
I am so sorry for your loss.John was such a dynamic force in the lives he touched. I only met him a few times with Vic but he had a way of making me feel like we were friends. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Sharon Kubu
April 25, 2012
My love and Gods great love will always be their for him ,we were neighbors on COLGATE STREET in JERSEY CITY, see you in heaven, pray for us here on earth. In His great love! PAUL FINORIO
Matt Tomo
April 25, 2012
Dear Sue & Family,
Our sincere sympathy at this most difficult time. It was an honor to coach with one of the best coaches in the shore and thanks for all the memories after the games at your home. You will truly be missed.
Our deepest condolences
Matty & Sue Tomo
Jim Maywalt
April 25, 2012
"John Amabile showed countless young men in the shore community what it takes to prepare yourself for not only the challenge of your next opponent but what it takes to win in life."
Teamwork, Intensity & Toughness
My condolences to the Amabile family. Thanks for sharing your home, your husband and your father with some motley kids from Wall during the 70's and 80's. We will be forever in your debt.
Claudia Cacopardo
April 25, 2012
I have the fondest memories (growing up) during the holidays and the summers in Seaside Heights. There was always a smile on John's face when the family was together. I loved how he and my dad talked sports and fitness and how he tried helping my dad's business using his connections within the schools. He was a GREAT man and I'm sad for everyone who knew him because he will be missed!
April 25, 2012
My condolences to the Amabile family. Coach Amabile came into my life back in 1985 and forever change me as a man.His Pride,Tempo and Intensity is the way I approach life. He gave me way more than just footbaal, he gave all of us life lesson. He is by far the best coach Neptune has ever had. He will greatly be missed. Im thankful that Coach Amabile came into my life when he did for he really had a major impact on me. Thanks for all the great times at the High. PRIDE, TEMPO AND,INTENSITY. 21Fast was my play, Thankyou for evertything coach love... #24
April 25, 2012
My condolences to the Amabile family. Coach Amabile came into my life back in 1985 and forever change me as a man.His Pride,Tempo and Intensity is the way I approach life. He gave me way more than just footbaal, he gave all of us life lesson. He is by far the best coach Neptune has ever had. He will greatly be missed. Im thankful that Coach Amabile came into my life when he did for he really had a major impact on me. Thanks for all the great times at the High. PRIDE, TEMPO AND,INTENSITY. 21Fast was my play, Thankyou for evertything coach love...
Frankie Richardson
April 25, 2012
My condolences to the Amabile family. Coach Amabile came into my life back in 1985 and forever change me as a man.His Pride,Tempo and Intensity is the way I approach life. He gave me way more than just football, he gave all of us life lesson. He is by far the best coach Neptune has ever had. He will greatly be missed. Im thankful that Coach Amabile came into my life when he did for he really had a major impact on me. Thanks for all the great times at the High. PRIDE, TEMPO AND,INTENSITY. 21Fast was my play, Thankyou for evertything coach love...#24
CHEF CEE
April 25, 2012
My heart goes out to the Amabile family we all lost a great person that will always be a part of our lives. Everyone that know him will always have his name in there mouth...I CAN HEAR HIM NOW YELLING JUST RUN IT AGAIN UNTIL U DO IT RIGHT I HAVE ALL NIGHT.. COACH I LOVE YOU!! YOU ARE NEPTUNE FOOTBALL FOREVER.. CHEF CEE
April 25, 2012
Peace to one of the great Coach's of the Shore. Neptune will never forget you. John H Chambers Jr. PEACE!!
ROBBIE WHITE
April 24, 2012
To the Amabile family I am sorry for your loss. Coach AM will be truly missed. Coach AM taught me many things but most importantly it was how to work hard, discipline which gave me success in the Army and in Life. The community of Neptune misses him alone with former players, cheerleaders, and students. Most of all Coach I miss you I wanted you to see me retire from the Army in Feb 2013 but I know you will with Coach Mayo. Love You Robbie White #23. PRIDE, TEMPO, AND INTENSITY. 32 OUTSIDE WAS OUR FAVORITE PLAY.
Jeremy Carcich
April 24, 2012
To the Amabile Family,
It's so hard to say goodbye to a coach that gave his life to the sport he loved so dearly and lives he touched along the way. Coach showed everyone the dedication it takes to be champions on the field but most of all showed us how to be true gentlemen off the field to our families.
When I heard the news, my life took me back to the years at Neptune High School playing for the best coach a young man could play for. Coach helped me become the husband and father I am today with the discipline, respect and heart he gave to each of us. I am so grateful to have been part of the Amabile Family.
Their are two words that I would like to say to Coach..
THANK YOU
Sincerely,
Jeremy J. Carcich
April 24, 2012
Dear Sue,
I was with you when it all began, and I am with you in spirit, thought and prayer as you say goodbye. John was very special, and you knew that from the start. May the precious memories you hold dear give you great comfort and help you in your loss. Kevin and I send our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Love,
Mary Ann Spatz
Christopher Cella
April 24, 2012
To the Amabile family i am truly sorry for your loss. Coach AM lives on through all of us former players by the lessons he taught us . He was tough and always wanted perfection from us as players and i am thankful for this cause these lessons carried on into my adult life. I was blessed to have him in my life and he will be truly missed by all of us ! (R.I.P COACH) "PRIDE,TEMPO and INTENSITY"
Flier, Family, Forever!
Justin Cella
April 24, 2012
To the Amabile Family,
Coach Amabile believed in me at a time when I did not believe in myself. He showed me how to use my talent to be successful on the football field as a player and as a coach. But more importantly, he showed me how hard work, discipline, and sacrifice will help me be successful at life!
Thanks Coach Am, The Cella family loves you and will miss you.
April 24, 2012
Dear Sue and family,
I send my deepest sympathy for your loss. I remember both you and John fondly, and will keep you in my prayers.
Sincerely,
Jane Micucci Rainis
Truddy Tartis
April 24, 2012
Rob and family, Wish you and your family much love and peace in the loss of your father. God Bless!
Paul Reed
April 24, 2012
To the Amabile family i wish you the best in this sad time. he will be missed! (R.I.P Coach)
Virginia Lines
April 24, 2012
Whether it was in the boiler room or faculty lounge, he loved to share stories about his beloved students and players. Touched by his spirit, these men and women have inspired other young people with the same love, dedication and enthusiasm they experienced from Coach Amabile. His light will never be extinguished.
Dr.and Mrs.Lewis E. Williams
April 24, 2012
I feel honored to have known, John, for more than 50 yrs., since 'THE PREP'. His talent as a player should have taken him to the big leagues...their loss....In spite of that disappointment he left the GAME and those in his charge with a quality and discipline that will serve them well in life...That will be his LEGACY, forever..
Our deepest condolences to Suzanne and the family...
Dolton Douglas
April 24, 2012
My condolences to the entire Amabile family.
Coach was a great man as we all know, he did more than just coach, he stepped in as a an adoptive parent he instilled a lot of things in his students and athletes that can never be forgotten. I am more than grateful for him for he is the reason I am where I am today. Coach Am took the time after I decided college wasn't for me to get me refocused and today i can say it helped my life. Thanks Coach you will never be forgotten.
His Pride Tempo and Intensity motto will forever live on i know it works for I am an Amabile product...
Rip Coach Amabile
April 24, 2012
Sue & Family: Our sympathies. We had many good, cold & rainy times. He was one of a kind.
Sue & Rich Powers
Indian Rocks Beach, Fl.
MR. FRAZIER
April 24, 2012
MY REMEMBERANCES OF COACH AMABILE WAS WHEN HE USE TO BRING HIS TWO GREAT DANES TO FB PRACTICE, ALSO WHEN HE USE TO WEAR HIS STRAW HAT, T-SHIRT, & SHORTS. MOST OF ALL WHEN WE RAN PLAYS IN PRACTICE & WHEN EVER SOMEONE DIDN'T GET IT RIGHT HIS FAVORITE WORD WAS "CHRIST"!!! U WILL BE GREATLY MISSED!!!! MY CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY. C/O 94 MR. FRAZIER
Lynn Freer
April 24, 2012
Amabile Family you are in our prayers, The Freer Family.
April 24, 2012
Dear Sue and Family,
My family and I are very sorry for your loss. I will always be indebted to Coach A, as he was the one who gave me a chance to coach. I know he was a great competitor and football coach but an even better person. My time spent with him at Neptune is filled with great memories. I will miss seeing him during the season.
Gerard O'Donnell and Family
Tamiko Childs-Crocker C/O93
April 24, 2012
R.I.P. Coach Amabile,You was my math teacher for 2yrs.But I can't remember anything about math class with you what I can remember is the game of football.You were the greatest coach.Neptune has lost a true legend.I still bleed Red& Black!!!
Joe Taylor & Family
April 24, 2012
Amabile Family,
You have our deepest sympathy. Coach A was a very special man. As I have grown and become a coach myself I realize how much I really learned from him and what a big influence he is to me. Thank you for all the sacrifices you made as a family so he could help us make our wildest dreams come true in 1995. He will be missed.
Kysee (keysay) Bartee
April 24, 2012
My first memory of Ami (our special name for him) was when I was in 8th grade and had to walk past the football practice going home I would hear him yelling and think OMG he's mean!! When I got my schedule for HS and he was my future teacher I was horrified! And my brother who played football reassured me that I would be fine! And I was!!!!! He was an awesome teacher and a great coach! I even went on to become manager for the team the rest of my HS years! Ami will NEVER be forgotten! God blessed us with a wonderful spirit and I am honored to have known him! I am praying for the peace and strength of the family! God Bless!!! c/o 94
April 24, 2012
Dear Sue:
I'm so sorry for your big loss. I always remember you and John being the perfect couple troughout high-school.
May you find comfort in each beautiful memory that you shared over the years.
Love to you.
Ann LaRovere Radossich
April 24, 2012
Dear Sue,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Sincerely,
Jane McLaughlin Dalton
JOHN CARDINAL
April 24, 2012
MY DEEPEST REGARDS AND PRAYERS ARE SENT TO ALL THE FAMILY AT THIS TIME.
JOHN CARDINAL
Scott Harley 44
April 24, 2012
coach you mean the world to me and im happy that you were in my life. thank you for the many lessons.
April 24, 2012
Sue and Amabile Family No words can describe how sorry Richie and I are to hear of John s passing. John Amabile was a one in a million coach. The Neptune Football Years were the greatest years of the Cella Family history. When you think of JOHNNY A you think FOOTBALL. Our sincere condolences Terry and Richie Calabash,N.C.
April 24, 2012
Dear John and Family,
Deepest sympathy to you and your family. May your memories bring you comfort during this difficult time.
Sheila Morrissey (Maliff)
Mike Dunaj
April 24, 2012
R.I.P. Coach Amabile. You were a good Math Teacher but an even better Coach. You were the example of Neptune Pride. The greatest Coach Neptune has ever had. You will be missed. Pride,Tempo, and Intensity. Red and Black Forever.
Lilian Clarke
April 24, 2012
With deepest sympathy. Lilian Clarke and family
Cecelia Truax/Basilotto
April 24, 2012
May you rest in peace and your family carry on.
Classmember of MTHS1972
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