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John F. Vorrasi, of Chicago and Rochester, NY; died February 23, 2015, after a courageous battle with leukemia. John co-founded the Wiliam Ferrris Chorale of Chicago and served as the ensemble's Artistic Director. John enjoyed a long and respected career as a concert soloist, cantor and liturgical music specialist, holding positions at Chicago's Holy Name Cathedral, Congregation Solel in Highland Park, KAM Isaiah Israel, and Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church. He is also known for his work as a librettist, essayist and program annotator. A widely respected tenor, John has been featured at the Aldeburgh Festival and the Spoleto Festival: USA and his recitals have been broadcast by the BBC and Radio Vaticana. John has appeared on numerous occasions with the Chicago Opera Theater, Rochester Chamber Orchestra, the Chicago String Ensemble and the Virginia Philharmonic. For those of us who knew John, he was all Joy, Passion, Loyalty and Love. He is survived by sisters Annemarie House, Rita DeLucia (James) brother Ferdinand (Darlene) and cousin Linda Iacelli of Rochester. Memorial gathering Thursday, Feb. 26, 10am (mass 11am), Mt. Carmel Church, 708 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Northwestern University, Attn: Rohan Barrett, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 420 E. Superior St. 9th floor Chicago, IL 60611. (Memo line: "In memory of John Vorrasi"). Arrangements by Cremation Society of Illinois, 773-281-5058 or www.cremation-society.com.
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Bill and I had studios next to each other when we were on the faculty of the American Conservatory of Music and John was the Secretary-Assistant to the President. I heard John sing on many occasions, most notably when the Conservatory Chorus performed John La Montaine's wonderful cantata "Wonder Tidings" and John sang the tenor solos - such a gorgeous voice. I remember spending a nice evening at john and Bill's apartment sitting on the couch with Bill and the (very large) score of Bill's "Acclamations for Organ and Orchestra" (commissioned by the Chicago Symphony) propped up on our 4 knees, listening to the recording of the Premier performance. I miss them both and think of them often. Thanks be to God that their beloved Chorale is still going strong.
Roger Greene
Friend
February 19, 2020
Here, now, today, 11/3/2019 I learned of John's passing 4 yrs ago. I've been away from the Chicago area for so many years. I was devastated to learn of Bill's passing in 2000, but I thought John would go on forever taking wonderful care his and Bill's wonderful creation. John sang one of my songs for me once, just as beautifully as he sang for the rest of his audiences. Heaven is so enriched by John's wonderful voice and Bill's wonderful music. I hope to go there one day and renew our friendship. May long live John and Bill's beloved Chorale!
Roger Greene
November 3, 2019
John, your soul is still with us and will never die as long as you are remembered.
Claire
Friend
February 20, 2019
I totally concur with Pam's message. The years I had the honor of singing with John and Bill are the most cherished; these precious memories will be with me forever. I'll miss you both. John, you are the best.
Claire Yashar
February 28, 2015
So many memories. Beautiful music, great parties, laughter and love. Such a wonderful man, with an amazing heart. Love you John. Say hi to Bill for us!
Martha Sutton
February 26, 2015
TO ANNMARIE, RITA, AND FRED, MY HEARTFELT WISHES JOHN WAS ONE OF A KIND.MY LOVE TO ALL
JOSEPH GEAGLONE
February 26, 2015
John's beautiful voice , wonderful personality, wit and sense of humor will live with me as long as survive.
My condolences to his friends and family.
John Nelson
John Nelson
February 26, 2015
Cherubim and Seraphim have gained a new and great member. Until we meet again my friend.
Tom Kucinski
February 26, 2015
Hearing John's voice and feeling his warm, loving, joyous presence is something I'll always treasure. Ruht wohl, Generous Man! XOXOPatrice
February 25, 2015
Rest in peace, pan Jan. Rest in peace. :(
Eva Bednar
February 25, 2015
My heart was saddened to hear of John's passing. I met William Ferris back in our De Paul University days in Chicago and through him I met John. They were a spirited, intelligent, friendly and musically well matched couple. I now miss "both of them" and Christmas Mass will never be the same.
James OMalley
February 25, 2015
An angel changing location whose job now is to lead the choir above. I will always treasure the warmth of our friendship.
Marilyn Fumagalli
February 25, 2015
I was fortunate to work with John for 13 years in Chicago, even at some of the same places. He was always so kind to me, I will always remember how much I learned from his talent.
Gordon Ward
February 25, 2015
I consider it an honor to have known John, for his wisdom, intellect and sense of humor, his sense of duty and honor and steadfast support of his partner as the wind beneath his wings. The world has been a better place for John being in it.
Pamela Jacob
February 25, 2015
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