John M. Falla

While we were on opposite sides of the rink, after all, I grew up in New York, when it came to how to live a life, Jack was an all-star, a Hall of Famer. Nothing, not even a Stanley Cup ring, meant more to him than his family. He was so proud of all of you. RIP...xo

While we were on opposite sides of the rink, after all, I grew up in New York, when it came to how to live a life, Jack was an all-star, a Hall of Famer. Nothing, not even a Stanley Cup ring, meant more to him than his family. He was so proud of all of you. RIP...xo

It was around 1994 when the long Stanley Cup drought ended here in the NY/NJ area and I was lucky enough to catch the Bacon Street Omni feature on NESN including Jack Falla and his crew. They seemed to make magic happen right in their own backyard. I was not long before I got to work in my own backyard and often referred to my "NESN backyard rink instructional tape" for assistance. The results were beautiful and my pal Dom and I skated night after night and season after season together. And...

Jack, we will remember you always. You were always ready with conversation and insight. I only got to see you about once a week and not as a classmate; as most, but you enriched my life more than you can imagine. The most enriching memory I will carry is when a friend of my older son was inquiring about journalism. You didn't know my son or his friend but you still gave him your cell number and even printed out information for him. I know the two of you did talk a few times and it has helped...

Tracey & family,

I first heard about your father's passing on the Fox news and then in Sports Illustrated. I'll never forget when he came to talk to our St. Mike's senior class at the Boston career seminar and couldn't help mentioning the backyard skating rink he was about to open for the season. I remember thinking what an absolutely AWESOME guy your father was and how I wish I was a kid living in his neighborhood!! You and your family will be in my prayers. I can't imagine what it...

Brian,

We are sorry to hear of the loss of your father.

- Mike Hardman and Roseanne Felago (from CNC)

My first memories of Jack go back to the summer of 1968 when I started in the Worcester Telegram & Gazette's Spencer bureau. Jack had begun only three weeks before me but already knew so much more. And even though he soon decided that daily journalism was not for him, he generously took me under his wing and gave me the encouragement I could not have made it without. My heart goes out to Barb, Tracey, Brian, and the rest of their wonderful family. My wife Jean and I are so sorry we cannot be...

I was deeply saddened to learn of Mr. Falla's passing. My sincere condolences go out to his entire family. I grew up in the neighborhood on Bacon St and remember when the backyard rink was first being built. My brother Billy and I often reminisce about what a special time and place that was. I remember Jack being so kind and friendly to all of the kids. Those are some of the best memories of my childhood. He had a special family and they created a safe haven there for all of us to enjoy....

Dear Patrick and family,

I want to extend sincere and heartfelt condolences to you all in this terrible loss you have suffered. I have fond memories of a very clever, supportive and kind Jack Falla from all those years ago. May his memory and the celebration of his wonderful life help you through the pain of his loss. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

So sorry for your loss. I know he will be missed.
Sincerely,
Andrea Shamon Pickersgill