John Francis "Jack" Xavier

Loving Father, partner, friend, exemplary human John Francis Xavier, or Jack as we know him, passed away on Dec. 1, 2021 at the age of 75 after a courageous battle with mesothelioma, surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives with grace, generosity and kindness.

Jack graduated Lourdes High School in 1964. After servicing 4 years as an Aviation Electronics Technician in the U.S. Navy, he joined the Local 21 Plumbers & Steamfitters working as a Forman at C.B. Strain and Son for the next 50 years, meeting fellow co-workers who would become life-long friends. Jack's work ethic was only matched by his compassion for others. A member of the Oddfellows Lafayette Lodge #18 of Wappingers Falls, Meals on Wheels, and Habitat for Humanity - he gave passionately to others in need. He had nothing but a kind word for all, and would give the shirt off your back, and quite literally when his teenage daughter would steal his shirts.

The simplest pleasures in life brought great joy to Jack. He loved a good book, Sunday dinners with his kids, spending any moment with his grandson, a beautiful glass of wine, a handsome cocktail and an even better pour of Whiskey. Traditions were everything, from visiting the tree at Rockefeller Center, to annual events at the Pirate Canoe Club, Basketball Games at Marist College, to hiking at Mohonk, skiing at Okemo with friends who are family, camping with the crew, making Easter baskets for his kids who were much too old but loved it nonetheless, having "boat drinks" at every summer holiday, making stuffing the night before thanksgiving - carefully documenting where it should go, aka "where the sun don't shine," bike rides with friends, walking over the Hudson, traveling, bringing flowers every Wednesday night to his girlfriend, adding purpose and meaning to every moment of his life and making everyone around him feel special and seen. He had an uncanny ability to find happiness in his daily activities. His pleasant personality was contagious to everyone he met. Jack is survived by his long-time partner, Linda; a son, Sean; a daughter, Jaime; Daughter-in-law, Jen; Grandson, Zack, and an ex-wife turned dear friend Linda and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by her sister, Ann Marie Riedinger and his parents John and Grace Fallon.

Calling hours will be held from 3-7 pm, Wednesday, Dec. 8, at Delehanty Funeral Home in Wappingers Falls, New York.

A funeral Mass will be held at 9:30 on Thursday, Dec. 9 at Saint Martin De Porres Church in Poughkeepsie, followed by interment at St. Peter's Cemetery.

You may send flowers or donate to the American Cancer Society in his name.