John J. Gazzerro

John Joseph Gazzerro, Jr., age 72, peacefully passed away from complications of leukemia, surrounded by his loving family, on September 10, 2024.
John was born in West Chester, PA and grew up in Downingtown. Although Downingtown held a special place in his heart, he ultimately settled on "The Farm" in Warwick, Maryland. Those who knew him knew John could accomplish anything he put his mind to. He was the first in his family to earn a bachelor's degree and had a 40+ year career at DuPont in finance.
John's true passion was harness racing, where he built a community of friends and a successful business. He enjoyed all aspects of the sport, and served as driver, trainer, and blacksmith. John raced trotting horses for many years but decided to purchase a pacing mare named Shaker Rei in 2012. They were a successful pair, winning several accolades at their home track, Rosecroft Raceway, and even won a race at the Meadowlands in a come-from-behind win – starting last and finishing first. John actively raced until his diagnosis in January.
John was a devoted husband, an amazing dad and Pop-Pop, and a devout Catholic. Through his battle with leukemia, his faith never wavered. John fought his illness every day for his family but told them he was at peace with going to the Lord because he lived the life he'd always wanted.
John was predeceased by his parents, John Sr. (Todd) and Madeline Gazzerro.
John leaves behind his loving wife of 44 years, Debbie; his children, Lauren (Matt), John III (Leidy), Michelle (Dan), and Rachel (Alex); his grandchildren, Jordyn (Cody), Cameron, Roman, Madelyn, Johnny IV, Lilyan, Arianna, and Finley; and his great grandchildren, Avery and Carter. John will also be remembered by countless cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends.
John's family would be honored for all relatives and friends to attend his services. A viewing will take place Thursday, September 19, 2024, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Daniels & Hutchison Funeral Home, 212 N. Broad Street, Middletown, DE 19709. Mass of Christian Burial will happen Friday at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Parish, 371 E. Main Street, Middletown, DE 19709. Interment will follow at St. Old Bohemia Cemetery, 1690 Bohemia Church Road, Warwick, MD 21912.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to support Catholic education in honor of John Gazzerro through the "Share in the Spirit" campaign. Donations can be sent by check to: Share in the Spirit Catholic Dioceses of Wilmington P.O. Box 2030 Wilmington, DE 19899-2030 or online at: https://www.cdow.org/catholic-diocese-of-wilmington-offices-and-ministries/development-office/development-share-in-the-spirit/letter/.