John "Jack" Fazio

John J. Fazio

John "Jack" J. Fazio, 95, of Ruckersville, passed away on Tuesday, February 16, 2010, surrounded by his children.

He was born on February 7, 1915, in Palermo, Sicily, the son of the late Salvatore Fazio and Bianca Baudo Fazio. He was also preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Catherine Fazio; and his sister, Anne Fraser.

Jack emigrated at age four and entered the United States through Ellis Island. He worked for Fairchild-Hiller on Long Island, as a mechanical engineer in Avionics and Hydraulics. He was one of the original engineers who worked on the design of the first space suit. He also helped design the F-14.

Dad was a loving father and husband who worked hard and unselfishly sacrificed for his family and church. A man with a strong spirit and faith in God as well as an unfailing sense of humor, Dad was a friend to many and dearly loved by all who knew him.

Survivors include his children, James J. Fazio, Suzanne M. Sheridan, Patricia M. Field, Christine M. Erskine, Lorraine M. Haney and Karen F. Trickett; seven grandchildren, Benjamin Field, Brian Field, Tina Fitzpatrick, Justin Trickett and Ian Haney, Mallory Trickett and Carrie Trickett; and one great-grandchild, Jacob Field.

Funeral services will be held 10 a.m. Friday, February 19, 2010, at the Hill and Wood Funeral Home Chapel with Father Terry Staples officiating. Interment will follow at Holly Memorial Gardens.

The family expresses their sincere gratitude for the compassionate care given to Dad by Dr. Kurt Elward, Dr. Jonathan Evans and Legacy Hospice. Special thanks to his friends and caregivers for many years, Kitty Stever, Bunny Morris, Debbie Gregory and Jim Mathis.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, 8001 Franklin Farms Drive, Richmond, VA 23229 or to Legacy Hospice, 675 Peter Jefferson Way, Suite 180 Charlottesville, VA 22911.

Friends may send their condolences to www.hillandwood.com.


This obituary was originally published in the Daily Progress.