John Ferritto

Our sympathies to the family. We knew John during the time we attended CIM.

Don & Rose (Kocina) Slogar

my condolences to the ferrittos.

i remember hearing john ferritto blast piano music from his childhood house on Laclede Road in South Euclid, Ohio. You could hear him from quite a distance.

his mother didn't like our firecrackers -- too loud -- but she did like john's music.

she had good taste. his dynamics were better than ours.

Marcia and Annie,

We lost track of each others families over the years, but recently Marcia performed with Andrew in Hudson (Elissa is Andrew's manager), so was able to receive an update (albeit small) on the family.

I am SO sorry to find out about John. Stephen used to love visiting him when we lived in Stow; I just remember how kind and gentle he was to a 3 year old. Please know John will be missed by all of us.

Cindy, Michael, Stephen, Elissa Courtright

I am so sad to hear this news from my good friend and colleague, David Taggart. He and I like sharing remembrances of our Springfield days and all that you, Marcia, and John meant to us. I loved the one time that I came in to Springfield during my CIM days to play with Springfield Symphony. I thoroughly enjoyed the maestro and his wonderful way with the music and the musicians. You all were a true gift to Springfield, and loved by many.
Andrea Wagoner

Love and blessings to you, Marcia & Annie. My awakening as a performer really began with my association with your family, and it's hard to imagine the void John's passing will leave for you. I'm grateful for the gifts I have received from all of you. John's irreverent reveling in music, and his generosity, will not be forgotten.

Marcia and Annie, I send my deepest sympathy to you and your family on the death of John. He was a fine person and a dedicated, fine musician. I am thinking of you and wish I could have been present at his memorial service, but I am in Florida for the winter.

Lola Rothmann

John was such great person and so gracious. When he conducted the Heights Chamber Orchestra he never said anything about my mistakes and still got a great sound from the orchestra. He always treated me respect and kindness which were his trademarks. I am truly sorry for your loss.

Bill Hufnagle

Sincerest condolences to the family of John Ferritto. He was a great musician and brought great music to Springfield. I will always remember his smile and the way he could make others laugh or smile. May God bless his family with strength, courage, peace, and comfort.

Marcia and Annie,
This was a terrible shock. So much of what I became as a musician was due to his influence. He was one of those rare humans who was both willing and eager to share everything he knew. He never taught me conducting "officially" but I learned more from him than anyone else I ever worked with.
Sunny and I will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.