John J. "Jack" Brogan, 92, of Exeter, passed into eternal life early Saturday morning, Nov. 27, 2021, at the Mountain View Care and Rehabilitation Center, Scranton.
Born June 19, 1929, in Pittston, Jack was the son of the late Simon and Marcella Walsh Brogan.
Jack was a graduate of Exeter High School, Class of 1946, and after graduation, he enlisted with the U.S. Navy, serving his country on a minesweeper from 1946-1948.
Following in the footsteps of his father, he joined the business his father started on Main Street in Pittston, Sime Brogan's Clothing Store, eventually becoming the owner of the store and operating it until his retirement in 1988.
Retirement was not a word in Jack's vocabulary. Following the closing of his family business, he worked as a courier for Cefalo and Associates Law Firm, and also for the Gubbiotti Funeral Home LLC, Exeter, working there for over 25 years, most notably as the official hearse driver.
Active within his community, Jack was a member of many organizations, including the American Legion Post 833, Exeter; the Exeter Lions Club, with whom he held many posts throughout the years; the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, being given the distinct honor of "Man of the Year"; the Knights of Columbus, John F. Kennedy Council 372, Pittston, and its Fourth Degree Assembly 948; and the Naval Mine Warfare Association.
Jack was known for his passion for music! He was a member of the American Federation of Musicians, Local 140, Wilkes-Barre; was the alto saxophone player and manager of Cino Paci Band; and a member of the Catholic Choral Society.
A faithful Catholic, Jack was a member of St. Barbara's Parish, St. Cecilia's Church, Exeter, singing in its choir for many years.
In addition to his parents, Jack was preceded in death by his beloved wife, the former Louisa Altoe, with whom he shared 62 years of marriage; and his sister, MaryAnn 'Nancy' Flood.
Jack is survived by his three children, Marguerita Mutarelli and her husband, John, Woodbridge, Va.; John Simon Brogan, Exeter; and Michael Brogan and his wife, Bridget, West Pittston; his grandchildren, John Mutarelli and his wife, Victoria; and David Mutarelli and his wife, Rachel; and Colleen Campbell and her husband, and Ryan; his seven great-grandchildren; as well as his nieces, nephews, and countless friends.
Relatives and friends are invited to Jack's viewing which will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday in St. Barbara's Parish, St. Cecilia's worship site, 1670 Wyoming Ave., Exeter.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. Friday in St. Barbara's Parish, St. Cecilia's worship site, 1670 Wyoming Ave., Exeter. Jack's dear friend, the Rev. Paul McDonnell, O.S.J., will serve as the celebrant.
Interment will follow in Mount Olivet Roman Catholic Cemetery, Wyoming, where military honors will be offered by the United States Navy.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the care of his friends at Gubbiotti Funeral Home LLC, 1030 Wyoming Ave., Exeter.
To send an expression of sympathy or a condolence, please visit www.gubbiottifh.com.
Memorial contributions may be made in Jack's memory to the Exeter Lions Club, P.O. Box 4201, Wyoming, PA 18644.