John J. Dembeck

John J. Dembeck, "Jack", passed away on November 22, 2024, at the age of 80, after a courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his daughters, Michelle Ovington (Scott) and Christina McCollum (Mike), along with his grandchildren: Jessica (John), Carla, Olivia, Michael, Jiana, and Mia; as well as his late son John's children, Timothy and Amanda. Jack is also survived by his great granddaughters Finley and Collins, his brother Frank Dembeck, his sister Honey Greco and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 29 years, Giancarla; his son, John Dembeck; his twin brother, Joseph; and his sister, Alice.
Born and raised in the East Oak Lane section of Philadelphia, Jack graduated from Cardinal Dougherty High School. Following high school, Jack worked as a printer before dedicating 25 years of his life to the City of Philadelphia as a police officer. He served in the 9th and 17th Districts, the Narcotics department, and spent a significant portion of his career in the Anti-Crime Team. Jack was a decorated officer and came from a dedicated police family. Jack was also a proud U.S. Army veteran, serving his country with honor.
After retiring, Jack lived for 10 years near North Wildwood, New Jersey, where he enjoyed daily walks along the seawall, fishing, and spending time on the beach. He later returned to Philadelphia, settling in Delaire Landing, where he became active in various social groups and the Pennypack Ecological Restoration.
An avid gardener and sports fan, Jack also had a love for music, dancing, and watching Jeopardy. A devoted family man, Jack was known for his strength, kindness, and generosity. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to friends, neighbors, and loved ones. He loved Italian food and family dinners, where he could be surrounded by those he loved.
He enjoyed spending time with his friend Isabelle at Peace Valley Park where he would often walk and watch the birds. Jack spent his Tuesday mornings with the guys having breakfast reminiscing about the days on the job, "pumping iron with the young guys" at the FOP and enjoyed his coffee along the Delaware River watching the boats each morning.
Jack will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, uncle, brother and friend, whose legacy of devotion to his family and community will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He always spread love and happiness. He was everyone's Poppy Jack, a title he loved the most.
Family and friends are invited to Jack's Life Celebration on Thursday, December 5th at the John F. Givnish Funeral Home, 10975 Academy Rd., Philadelphia, PA 19154 from 6:30 – 8:30 PM. A small gathering will be held from 10:30 – 11 AM at St. Katherine of Siena Church, 9700 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19114. A funeral mass will follow at 11 AM. Interment services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jack's name to the FOP Survivor's fund, fop5.org/Donate