Dr. John Louis Setaro

Bel Air - It is with a heavy and broken heart that the Setaro family announces the sudden passing of Dr. John Setaro.

Above all else, John was a man of deep faith, boundless generosity, and profound compassion. His spiritual life was not quiet or passive-he wrestled with the big questions, leaned into mystery, and lived his beliefs through action, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to others.

He is survived by his deeply devoted wife, Kathy; his siblings, William Setaro and Debby McNish; and his children, Keri Setaro and her partner Lee Mars, Michael Setaro and his wife Tara Brite and Gina Perry and her husband Scott Perry. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Tucker Perry, Luna Mars, Chase Perry, Phoenix Perry, Isla Perry and Phoebe Brite-Setaro, who brought him immense joy and laughter.

John left a lasting impression on every person he encountered. As a psychologist, he carried a rare and genuine empathy, dedicating his life to helping others find peace in the midst of struggle. He didn't just listen-he truly saw people. As a high school science teacher, he made it his mission to reach the students who felt overlooked or out of place, making sure they knew they mattered. He built community wherever he went, especially among his fellow teachers, always leading with an open heart and a willingness to connect.

And then there was John's unmistakable spirit-funny, delightfully weird, and completely himself. He was the kind of person who never let a moment pass without finding the humor in it. There was no prank too small, no joke too soon, and absolutely no laugh left on the table. His humor wasn't just entertainment-it was how he connected, how he comforted, and how he brought light into every room. If you met John-"Johnny" to many-you remembered him. Always.

In a final act that reflects the life he lived, John donated his body to science-one last gift of generosity and service to others.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph Fullerton, 8416 Belair Rd., Baltimore, MD at 10:00 AM on April 1st . A repast will follow at Looney's Pub Perry Hall, 8706 Belair Rd., Nottingham, MD from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM.

He lived a life of purpose, of service, of laughter, and of love. His absence leaves an immeasurable space, but his impact-on his family, his students, his patients, and his community-will continue to ripple outward.

He will not be forgotten.

"Life and death are but phases of the same thing, the reverse and obverse of the same coin. Death is as necessary for man's growth as life itself."

- Mahatma Gandhi