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John Scharf Obituary
At a family reunion in Manorville, N.Y., this summer, John G. Scharf got sprayed in the face from a watergun-waving posse of young, giggling cousins. A former Marine Corps sergeant, Mr. Scharf couldn't let them get away with that. "It wasn't just retaliation, it was double retaliation," said his sister-in- law, Kim Scharf. "He wouldn't let the kids win." At 29, Mr. Scharf was the second oldest of five children, but he remained the "big kid" of the family. His encounters with life constantly earned their laughter, and inspired their awe. A favorite tale is the one about how he tangoed with a squirrel while trying to place a birdhouse in a tree in the backyard. He dangled back and forth from a limb, with the squirrel on his face, before finally getting the birdhouse just right. The squirrel survived, too.
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Stuart Camp
September 11, 2024
I only met John via his daughter Momo, years after 9/11. I've thought of him and his family every year on this day. He is not forgotten.
Rob Olinger
September 11, 2024
John was a great coworker I got to meet during our training time for work in Columbus. You couldn't forget this guy or forget that he was a Marine. He was the center of the class and contributed his all in his work. He talked a lot about his daughter Momo and her picture was the screen on his work laptop. You could tell she was the center of his world. This guy was larger than life and has been sorely missed by everyone that got to know him. Prayers to his family and friends. John won't ever be forgotten. RIP 5225
Robert Herlan
September 11, 2024
I spoke to John when he was in tower 2 before the plane hit. I will always remember you. Rest in peace John.
John Christie
September 11, 2024
Another year and the sadness of a life cut short doesn't get easier. You were so full of life and just so gentle in spirit. I think of you often and we will meet again. Hug your Dad, Mom, and David. Please let my Dad and sister know I love them.
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Mike Grieco
January 1, 2022
I´m so sorry for your loss. I met John in 6th grade at N. Coleman Road Elementary school. Mr. Carl was our teacher. Me, him and a kid named Eddie became fast friends and bonded over wrestling. Mr. Carl kept track in a marble notebook of how many books we read throughout the course of a school year. John and I had a friendly competition, and we were always running neck and neck with who read more books. Long story short he beat me. I believe I read 88 books that year and he was over 100. At 6th grade graduation John won what I remember being a prestigious award. I was happy for him. Unfortunately, he went to Selden jr high and I went to Dawnwood. Social media didn´t exist, and our paths never crossed. I never forgot about him nor Eddie. We were all great friends. Been looking for John on social media for some time now. Just found him through a Google search. As a 6th grader he was a polite and kind boy. Never saw him lose his cool or temper. Was an outgoing friendly soul. The world lost a special person. I´m sorry we never reconnected and more importantly, I´m sorry he´s no longer with us.
PJ
September 14, 2021
Hitchhiking from Speonk train station at midnight to your house in Manorville, I'm grateful that the last time we spoke was filled with laughter--that was December 1990
Bryan Newell
September 11, 2021
I knew John only briefly from when he attended a week-long product-specific power class that I taught in Columbus. He had the same job in NYC that I used to have in Boston, so he must've lugged his old-school toolbox through many high-rise buildings, gotten yelled at by many angry data center managers who just lost power, and fixed many problems. It takes a certain kind of tenaciousness to perform that work well, and John definitely had it.
John Christie
September 4, 2021
Nearly 20 years. Your gentle spirit will never be forgotten.
Mary Ratner
September 11, 2020
Sorry it took so long to write something but I didn't know this site existed. I recall John fondly as it was his job to train me when I was new on the job and he was there for me when I needed assistance. RIP John.
September 12, 2018
I never knew you but I promise for as long as I live I will never forget the victims of this tragedy.
P. Peterson
September 9, 2016
One of many bright lights that went out that horrible day. You are greatly missed by your family but never, ever, forgotten.
Betty Collins
September 7, 2016
You are always thought of with love and happy memories.
Eileen Losee
September 19, 2014
So many years have passed and yet it feels like yeaterday you were playing flashlight tag with the girls and Wayne. The Losee family will always miss you. I know you are still with us and thinking of you always brings a smile to my face. Every year on 9/11 I watch as they read your name and wish we could have had more time with you. One more day, one more dinner, one more laugh. You are and always will be a light in our life's. We love you and will miss you always. We will never forget.
June 6, 2014
God Bless John and his family. Visited the memorial and saw a flower in his name. I wrote his name down and read a little about this young man. Our sympathies
A Kentuckian
September 11, 2012
Peace to John's family on this day. We remember.
John Scharff
September 11, 2011
I never knew John but share the name, i servered in the service and deployed after the event, I discovered his name after visting ground zero. Ill carry him in my heart forever.
John Scharff
Frank Kozlowski
September 11, 2011
I knew John, John was a co-worker and asked a favor from me ,I did a job for him on 9/6/01 so that he could see a Priest with his fiancee about marriage, he had a wonderful future plan, I miss John
Rick Griffith
September 4, 2011
I never knew John, but I knew his parents for over 40 years, so he must have been well loved by his family. Very sorry to hear about him and his mother. Think about you frequently Gene. Semper fi !
Sharon
May 16, 2011
Glad I was able to get to know John personally -- a kind and honorable man. My heart goes out to Marie, Christine, and Debbie...and to all of his other loved ones.
Rob Kolsin
May 14, 2011
I remember John from highschool. I didn't know him personally, but I do remember when I first started attending Eastport Highschool, he knew I was new and he took time to talk to me and made me feel comfortable in a new school. He had a kind heart and didn't prejudge anyone. He will defitnitly be missed.
Patricia Scharf
May 2, 2011
I know Osama Bin Laden's death will never ease your terrible loss. But I just wanted you to know that I thought of John and his family today. God bless you.
Kathleen Cotter
September 10, 2010
Rest in Sweet Peace my Cousin, My friend. Know that you are thought of and loved every day of every year. We miss you , we love you. Please smile that amazing smile of yours down on us.
Ginny Fox-Fey
September 10, 2010
Dear John,
I have thought of you often over the years and wanted to let you know that I still remember as clear as day, that beautiful glowing smile. Your face lit up a room with those shining eyes, terrific personality and good heart. It seems like just yesterday we were all kids... Remember the time you mooned me and Christine? That was hysterical. You always teased me! Everytime I hear Metallica's "One" I think of you, how you loved that song and how you lent me the single.
I never had the priviledge to know you as a man, but only as a teenage boy. I have no doubt you ARE one helluva Marine and Father. In my mind your family is still 7, and always will be. Thank you for allowing all of us to share in your life... your legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of those who loved you, as well as in your beautiful daughter.
Be at Peace my Friend, and I will see you on the flip side! XOX
Semper Fidelis
September 10, 2010
John,
You are loved and remembered by so many people. Blessings for you and your family as we keep your memory going. You are missed everyday.
oh, the prom!! :)
Dawn Ward
September 10, 2010
Dear John,
This is hard, as I have not fully dealt with this. You are, and always have been so very special to me. You were my first real boyfriend, and an exceptional man. Not too mention I hear you have super amazing daughter! I think of you every day, and keep your family in my prayers. I sometimes have dreams with you in them, and i love them so much, though I am sad when I wake up, I go through my day as if you are with me. I am sure my Dad loves you, just as I told you he would if he could have ever met you !! Please tell him I said hi, and love him! XOXO
John Christie
September 9, 2010
Hey John,
Thinking of you alot. Loren and I know that your spirit was influential in my new position. Your daughter is beautiful. Her smile lights up a room, it is the same smile you have. We miss you terribly. You are never far from my heart. Love, John, Loren, Jake, Maggie, and Aidan
March 12, 2010
Take care of my mother along with yours; my godmother. They're together with you.
MAUREEN WILKINS
February 19, 2010
I AM SORRY FOR YOUR LOST. MY BROTHER USE TO TELL ME STORIES ABOUT JOHN AND HIM WHEN THEY WERE IN THE MARINES. HE WAS A WONDERFUL PERSON AND A WONDERFUL FATHER AND HE IS IN OUR HEARTS. JUST REMEMBER HE IS IN A WONDERFUL PLACE AND LOVED SO MUCH..
chelsie torres
October 11, 2008
although i never met him befor i do know his family and he will be in alot of peoples hearts forever.
John Christie
September 25, 2008
John,
I miss you so much. I remember walking to Selden Junior High (late to school) after playing "quarters" at 9 am. Not the best behavior for 8th graders. When my Dad died and I was shipped out to your house for the weekend being with you and your friends made a difference. I can't believe it has been so long, we grew up together, you were a great friend and cousin. No one had the market on blow pops like you in school.
Love Always,
John
rosalie scharf
August 14, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
kristine
May 21, 2007
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
March 3, 2007
In remembrance....
Martin Scharf
December 13, 2003
I am sorry to hear of your loss. I am sure that by the previous comments that John was a dear person. My condolences to your families.
We may be distant relatives if you are a relation to Howard Scharf.
Glenn Paulson
September 11, 2003
To John's family and friends;
I worked with John very briefly as I was leaving Liebert Global Services as he was joining Libert.
On this day I send a prayer and a Good thought to all his Relatives and Friends that been Mourning his loss. Take care.
Katie Bobka
September 11, 2003
It has been two years since the tragic event. It seems like it was only yesterday. You will never be forgotten.
Ken Nordt
February 11, 2003
We were at the wedding of Kenny Mahoney 02/08/03 and learned of the passing of John. Although we haven't been in touch for awhile, we remember all always and fondly and send our love, prayers and thoughts to all.
Mary and Ken Nordt and The Nordt Family
Jana Maple
January 16, 2003
We're all in this together, We're all here for a reason,Our life is the journey to find that reason. Friends and Family will show you this through laughter and tears.Their words will help you discover a whole new world, The world in which we all deserve to live in forever, without each others help it is seemingly impossible... God Bless You and Your Family, our thoughts are with you!
Timothy Scharf
January 12, 2003
May you find piece in the fact your death wasnt in vain. And to the family as I head to overseas you will be MY MOTIVATION.
Kristen Russ
December 18, 2002
I am so sorry Aunt Judy and Uncle Joe and family that he isnt here with you anymore.
Kathleen Christie Cotter
December 12, 2002
Merry Christmas in Heaven Dear John.
We miss you terribly.
When Dad was in the Hospital & everyone came in one by one - and we were all there - my thoughts were only that something or someone was missing - then I realized it was you - and it became real all over again. But you were with us -You tapped me on the shoulder that day ; I know you did, And told me to not wait but to go to the hospital now; and I did; Thank you for that. Michael has joined the Marines and I am convinced it is for you- He will make you proud - or I'll kill him :) Merry Christmas Dear John..There's a sentence in a Christmas Book I bought for your Mom & Dad that reminds me of you..."God dances admist the common - And that night he did a waltz". You being with us for your short time was a Waltz.
PS - John STILL sucks at basketball
Pat Scharf
September 16, 2002
I just want you to know that I am praying for you and your family. My husband, Harold also was a Marine sergeant during the Vietnam era. Semper Fi.
John Paine
September 11, 2002
Although I never met John personally, I work with his friends and colleagues, and I can sense the void he left. This is the best legacy anyone can have, that they be missed by those around them. I wish I had met him and become a friend of his.
Charlene Scharf Whiteaker
September 10, 2002
On the eve of the first anniversary of the day that changed our lives, I ran across John's name in a list of all those we lost. From the entries written about John, I feel he indeed must be a distant relative; as he is described also describes my cousins, nephews and brothers. My prayers and thoughts go to John's family and friends as we once again shed our tears of love and of sadness and commemorate all those we have lost.
Giacinta Pace
September 6, 2002
I went to Eastport High School with John. I found it difficult to adjust to school that year I attended, but I remember John being a friend to me. My most vivid memory of him is him putting his arm around me to give me an encouraging hug. I never saw him after 1991 but I've thought of him often this past year and I wish I could see him one last time to tell him that I always appreciated his friendship. I want his sister Christina to know she is in my prayers.
ESKIMO
September 4, 2002
John was a true and great friend to many. He had a wierd sense of humor, but that is what made him fit in with the crew. He will be missed by all of his friends and family. John will always be in our hearts and memories.
Bob Henninger
September 4, 2002
John was more then a friend he was a brother to me and an Uncle to my children. On Sept. 11 John and I were suppose to go out to dinner because he alway's took me out after court to find out what was going on with my divorce. He never got tired of listening and was alway's there when I need him most. My life has been very empty since John has left us, My children alway's ask about Uncle John Because when ever he came over which was everyday he would play with them before we even got to say hi to each other.Every time I think about him my eyes start to tear up. I have never had a friend who would put everything in there life on hold just to be a shoulder for someone. Well that's what John did for me many time, And would do for anyone he Knew. I'm sure John was doing that very thing that day think how can he help someone else get out to safety before worrying about himself. May God Bless John and his family.
April 22, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL YOUNG MAN...JOHN G.SCHARF AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS LOVING FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK...MAY JESUS AND ST.JOHN GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Robert Jones
April 15, 2002
John was an Engineer who worked for me at Liebert Global Services New York District. He was always there when you needed him and often volunteered to make himself available. We all feel the burden and loss of John and pray for him and his family all the time. John often talked about his daughter (Momo) who lives with her mom in Japan. He would often mention how he was looking forward to going over to Japan and spend time with her. We will miss you my friend, it's not the same around here seeing your wonderfull smile and your careing concern for others. You are giant and an Icon who will be missed. We all Love you John and you will always have a special place in our hearts.
Jerry Gross
March 28, 2002
John was a great friend as well as a coworker of mine. We had alot of fun times after work and also during work. We sometimes would have to meet at 12:00AM and pull some overnighters for Cablevision. We didn't mind cause we were working with the "A" team. John there is not a day that goes by where the team doesn't think about you. You are greatly missed!
Maureen Adams
March 19, 2002
I have been greatly affected by your death and moved to do a better job of mine. I have spent many hours praying for you and others and have begun a new phase in hopes of letting the world know you are not gone just on a higher plain and watching over all those how needs you. (your dad's cousin)
Gary Ross
March 19, 2002
John was a gentleman who carried out service for us in the New York City area. He was dependable and from what I understand, a man with potential to advance within our company. I cannot tell you a lot about John’s personal life but I do know this. We will miss him. Out of more than 100,000 Emerson employees, John is the only associate we lost. He is an icon and a treasure of remembrance for a day that changed many people, many companies, and many nations. I did not know John, but I love him. I miss him. We miss him.
Kathleen Christie
March 11, 2002
The WTC Flag - Torn apart and in disarray; like the families of Sept.11; I watched as that flag was marched into a stadium in Salt Lake City. I listened as an unearthly silence hushed the crowd. That flag; a symbol of loss and heartache beckoned to the world & spoke for every victim of Sept.11-
"Look at me." "I had a life, I had a family, I was loved - I had a name" For my family; that name is John Scharf. I think of you every day John - today especially; six months after you have left us. The last time I saw you; the last summer the cousins would all be together our reunion-"A celebration of Family" it was called. How glad I am I was there with you; reliving the times we had; the plans yet to come; I still smile when I think of how Christa got hurt and you trying to make her laugh -Her telling me to get the Big Kid away & me laughing so hard I could barely try & get the splinter out. How little we knew what was to come. You are forever in our hearts. "Semper Fi" to the Marine in you & "Wheres the Water gun & Basketball" to the kid in you. By the way ; you WERE always better than my John in BBall - but I won't tell.
Terry M
February 12, 2002
I never met John personally, but working with his Mom, Marie, I've heard lots of stories. At his memorial all the good words spoken of John, especially from his Guidance Counselor, made you feel like you knew John personally. My heart and prayers go out to Gene and Marie and the rest of the family who have suffered John's loss.
I will keep you all in my prayers.
Always,
Terry
Amanda Bowers
January 29, 2002
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Cyndy Yantz
January 25, 2002
I knew John from the time he was little, hearing about is exploits as he grew into a man from his parents always brought a smile to me. He grew up to be a very loyal man to both his family and country. It was very sad day for all on 9/11, especially the family and friends that John had in his life, but John has left us all with wonderful memories of his free spirit and a beautiful little girl who will know that her father loved her and was a good, funny and kind man. Gene and Marie my prayers are always wth you.
Teresa Jahn
December 13, 2001
Thank you for sharing some of John's stories with the world. The one about the squirrel really was funny to me so he touches lives in a positive way even now. We are so very sorry for your loss of John. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
November 19, 2001
Semper fi
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