John James Tatooles

Palm Beach - John James Tatooles, 66, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2025, in Palm Beach, Florida. A man of remarkable intellect, compassion, and charisma, John left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. Born on April 8, 1959, in Oak Park, Illinois, John was the beloved son of Aphrodite (Didi) Tatooles and James E. Tatooles. He grew up with a keen mind and an insatiable curiosity that would shape his lifelong pursuit of knowledge and justice. He graduated from New Trier East High School before earning his Bachelor of Arts from DePauw University. His academic journey continued with a Juris Doctor from Washington and Lee University, a Master in Tax Law from New York University, and further enrichment through the University of Chicago's Basic Program. John dedicated over four decades to the legal profession, practicing law with distinction at Gardner, Carton and Douglas and later at Hogan, Marren, Babbo and Rose LTD in Chicago. His legal acumen was matched by his integrity and forthrightness-qualities that earned him the respect of colleagues and clients alike. Beyond his professional life, John was deeply involved in civic and philanthropic endeavors. He served as Treasurer and Board Member of Palm Beach Hospice and as a Trustee for the Town of Palm Beach United Way. A proud member of The Order of St. John and a Voting Member of the Town of Palm Beach Planning and Zoning Commission, John brought wisdom and dedication to every role he undertook. His love for the arts found expression in his role as a Broadway producer for the 2024 revival of *Once Upon a Mattress*. John's social world was as vibrant as his professional one. He was a cherished member of The Sailfish Club of Florida, Carriage House Club, Club Collette, and Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity. Whether hosting elegant dinner parties or engaging in spirited conversations over backgammon or books, John had a rare ability to captivate any room he entered. In 1990, John began his life with Victor E. Moore-the love of his life. Their bond deepened over decades and culminated in marriage in 2015 following the Supreme Court decision that made it possible. Their story began long before they met: unbeknownst to John, Victor first saw him in 1975 when John purchased his first car-a 1956 Continental Mark II-from Victor's father, Floyd Moore. Fate had already begun to weave their lives together. John's family was central to his heart. He is survived by his devoted spouse Victor; his loving parents Aphrodite (Didi) and James (Jim) Tatooles ; his sisters Paula E. (Thomas) Brown and Lea M. (D. Peter) Dunbar; nephews Thomas J. Brown, Nicholas J. Dunbar, Joseph (Joey) K. Brown; nieces Hannah Dunbar (William) Zervos, Amelia E. Brown, Faye A. Dunbar (fiancé Connor Zordan); and his most important grand nephew William Dunbar Zervos; his sister-in-law Debbie (Steve) Davidson; brother-in-law Eric (Marcia) Moore; nephews Evan (Katie) Moore, Greg Davidson, Mark Davidson, Brent (Jo) Davidson; and many cherished cousins, Godchildren and friends. He also leaves behind Albert and Vivian-his and Victor's furry children. John was predeceased by his baby niece Marrisa E. Brown. Those who knew John will remember him as kind-hearted yet direct, wickedly smart yet humble-a sage mentor with an intuitive sense for people's needs. He was frugal but generous where it mattered most; perceptive yet playful; devoted to those he loved; proud of his Greek heritage; and always ready to lend a hand or share a laugh. His passions were many: cars-especially classic ones-history, reading voraciously, lively conversations over meals or games of backgammon, travel across continents, gym workouts that kept him energized, and orchestrating the lives of his nieces and nephews with loving guidance-even now from above. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Palm Beach Island Hospice or the Town of Palm Beach United Way-organizations close to John's heart. May John's memory be eternal and bring comfort to all who were touched by his extraordinary life. A Funeral Service will be held on May 19, 2025, from 02:00 PM to 03:00 PM at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church 211 Trinity Pl.